Cannot Maude assist you?
If so, I rely upon her in the present dilemma," said Guy, turning in playful appeal to Maude Bereford.
"Your surmise is groundless, _mon frere_," returned Fanny, in childish glee, "Maude is entirely in the dark, (pardon the vulgarism.)" "I will pardon you in everything, provided you gratify my curiosity," said the other.
"Fanny, it is unjust to treat Guy in this way," said Maude, by way of intercession.
"Two against one," cried Fanny, with a demure smile upon her face.

"The majority has it.

I am placed in a difficult position," said she, turning to her friend, adding, "Maude only for your suggestion I might have been able to extricate myself.

Well, I shall try my best to maintain peace by compliance to your united wishes." "By telling us one of the seven wonders," interrupted Maude.
"Yes," said Fanny, "I have often wondered why it was that Guy could remain so long in the companionship of Mary Douglas or Lady Rosamond and come back heart whole to Trevelyan Hall." Captain Trevelyan had received a home thrust, yet he betrayed no feeling and showed no reason for suspicion, at least in the eyes of his sister and her companion.

A quiet laugh greeted the remark.