Suddenly she thought of Miss Balquidder .-- She might send a message.

No, not a message--for the family misery and disgrace must not be betrayed to a stranger--but a letter to Kensington.

With an effort Elizabeth composed herself sufficiently to write one--her first--to her dear Miss Hilary.
"HONORED MADAM,--Mr.Leaf has got himself into trouble, and is taken away somewhere; and I dare not tell missis; and I wish you was at home, as she is not well, but better than she has been, and she shall know nothing about it till you come .-- Your obedient and affectionate servant, ELIZABETH HAND." Taking Ascott's latch-key she quitted the house and slipped out into the dark night, almost losing her way among the gloomy squares, where she met not a creature except the solitary policeman, plashing steadily along the wet pavement.

When he turned the glimmer of his bull's eye upon her she started like a guilty creature, till she remembered that she really was doing nothing wrong, and so need not be afraid of any thing.

This was her simple creed, which Miss Hilary had taught her, and it upheld her, even till she knocked at Miss Balquidder's door.