She did not say to poor old Densie that she acknowledged her as a mother, or that she felt for her the slightest thrill of love.

She was through with deception; and when, at last, she spoke to the anxiously waiting woman, it was only to say: "I wanted to tell you that I have forgiven you; but I cannot call you mother.

You must not expect it.

I know no mother but this one," and the white hand reached itself toward Mrs.Worthington, who took it unhesitatingly and held it between her own, while 'Lina continued: "I've given you little cause to love me, and I know how glad you must be that another, and not I, is your real daughter.

I did not know what made me so bad, but I understand it now.