"He hints to me that you and he have a secret knowledge of the address of my naughty, troublesome girls." "I do know where they are to be found," said Miss Egerton in her gravest tones; "but before I begin to talk about them I want to transact a little business with you.

I know how kind you are, and how fond of helping people in distress.

At the present moment a lady of my acquaintance is in great poverty; she has got some valuable Spanish lace.

I should like to sell it for her." "I adore Spanish lace," said Mrs.Ellsworthy, her eyes sparkling.
"I thought I once heard you say you did, so I have brought it with me.
May I show it to you ?" "How good of you, dear Miss Egerton; let me see it at once.

Real Spanish lace is of great value.