Slowly, and in evident agitation, she advanced to the door of the picture gallery--and paused, as if she was afraid to open it.

Father Benwell heard her sigh to herself softly, "Oh, how shall I meet him ?" She turned aside to the looking-glass over the fire-place.

The reflection of her charming face seemed to rouse her courage.

She retraced her steps, and timidly opened the door.

Lord Loring must have been close by at the moment.