the whole affair, and was not to be gainsaid or evaded, especially by her outspoken self.
Finally she turned philosopher, and reasoned wisely and well, if life could be reasoned out instead of lived. It was altogether best she should never be married, since it was so hard for her to submit to the trials she must be prepared to meet in assuming the responsibilities of such a relation. But what had that to do with Ernest, or what she wished to say to Walter? Ah! instinct was more powerful than reason. Her whole soul's being was stirred and no incidental phrase could meet it's demands in such a crisis.
Then she decided to put all scruples aside and ask him simply if he knew what had become of Ernest that he did not come to see them as formerly. Here arose a choking in her throat as if that were an imposition not to be thought of, for of course she knew. Then she thought of a picture he had given her which might be laid carelessly on the table to attract Walter's notice, when she could remark naturally enough that he had not been here lately. How could she be so heartless as to treat lightly what had cost her so much agony? No, she would do no such thing, and tolerate no disguises, but manage the point some way to get information of him which did not, of necessity, demand an explanation. The ice once broken, possibly she might proceed without embarrassment.
The day was very warm and sultry, and she felt languid and depressed. Walter was going to be at home that afternoon, and she was determined to ask
