ing, the clear blue sky was only broken by large white clouds, whose contrast deepened the azure into purple. The trees lay on one side the road in a rich depth of shadow; on the other the golden light seemed to rain through the chequered boughs: a subtle fragrance floated on the air, and the carols of a thousand birds rose distinct above the deep murmur of the city that they had left behind.
"I cannot help," said Ethel, "feeling in better spirits: it seems absolute ingratitude not to enjoy so lovely a morning!"
"I shall consider them as an omen," replied Lady Marchmont: "it is very becoming to be in good spirits, and I want you to look your best. Really you ought to keep a relay of tenth cousins to die off, for black suits you remarkably well. We shall be such good contrasts; I am so glad that I have left off my mourning!"
"Your mourning!" exclaimed Ethel; "I was not aware that you had been wearing it. Who was it for?"
Lady Marchmont coloured, both with em-
