“He appeared to be in his senses,” returned Bella, tossing her head, “and he had plenty to say for himself. I told him my opinion of his declaration and his conduct, and dismissed him. Of course this has all been very inconvenient to me, and very disagreeable. It has remained a secret, however. That word reminds me to observe, Sophronia, that I have glided on into telling you the secret, and that I rely upon you never to mention it.”

“Mention it!” repeated Mrs. Lammle with her former feeling. “Men‑tion it!”