One day Graham, on the occasion of his birthday, had some friends⁠—lads of his own age⁠—to dine with him. Paulina took much interest in the coming of these friends; she had frequently heard of them; they were amongst those of whom Graham oftenest spoke. After dinner, the young gentlemen were left by themselves in the dining-room, where they soon became very merry and made a good deal of noise. Chancing to pass through the hall, I found Paulina sitting alone on the lowest step of the staircase, her eyes fixed on the glossy panels of the dining-room door, where the reflection of the hall-lamp was shining; her little brow knit in anxious, meditation.

“What are you thinking about, Polly?”

“Nothing particular; only I wish that door was clear glass⁠—that I might see through it. The boys seem very cheerful, and I want to go to them: I want to be with Graham, and watch his friends.”

“What hinders you from going?”

“I feel afraid: but may I try, do you think? May I knock at the door, and ask to be let in?”