"It is as natural to me to be open and trustful with those I love as it is for you to be the reverse.

Whatever I do you think wrong.

But perhaps some day--and that before long--you will be forced to admit----" At this moment the drawing-room door opened and Colonel Bellairs came in.

He often came to tea at "The Towers," though the meeting seldom passed off without a sharp brush with Lady Blore.
"Draw up that chair, Algernon," said that lady, with grim but instant cordiality.

"The tea will be ready in a moment." Colonel Bellairs looked more floridly handsome than usual.