CHAPTER XX.
"It rains--what lady loves a rainy day?
She loves a rainy day who sweeps the hearth, And threads the busy needle, or applies The scissors to the torn or threadbare sleeve; And blesses God that she has friends and home." ANON.
"Mary, where is your cousin?
I have not seen her since breakfast," inquired Mrs.Carlton, as the two friends sat conversing in the chamber of the latter.
"She laid aside her book just now, declaring it was so dark she could scarcely read.

This gloomy day has infected her spirits; she is probably in the dining-room.

I will seek her." And rising, Mary left the apartment.
For two days the rain had fallen in torrents, and now on the third morning, the heavens were still overcast, and at intervals of every few moments the heavy clouds discharged themselves in copious showers.
The despondency induced by the unsettled times was enhanced by the gloomy weather, and many an earnest wish was expressed that sunshine would soon smile again upon the town.
Weary with pacing up and down the dining-room, Florence had stationed herself at the window, and stood with her cheek pressed against the panes, gazing dreamily out upon the deluged streets.

She was roused from her reverie by Mary's entrance.
"Florry, I have come in quest of you.

Pray, how are you amusing yourself here, all alone ?" "Communing with my own thoughts, as usual.