First he was going to Rome, and then Venice, and at last he committed himself to a statement that he had to remain at Florence, and so enabled us to get rid of him.

But I know he'll come upon us again somewhere, and then we'll have all the trouble over again.

Oh dear! Well, Minnie darling, do you know the name of this last one ?" "Oh yes." "What is it ?" "It's a funny name," said Minnie; "a very funny name." "Tell it to me." "It's Scone Dacres; and isn't that a funny name ?" Mrs.Willoughby started at the mention of that name.

Then she turned away her head, and did not say a word for a long time.
"Kitty!" No answer.
"Kitty darling, what's the matter ?" Mrs.Willoughby turned her head once more.

Her face was quite calm, and her voice had its usual tone, as she asked, "Say that name again." "Scone Dacres," said Minnie.
"Scone Dacres!" repeated Mrs.Willoughby; "and what sort of a man is he ?" "Big--very big--awfully big!" said Minnie.