enough to find Mr. Parslewe at home and to enjoy the benefit—just so, just so! And I—am unfortunate."
"Mr. Parslewe went away this morning," remarked Madrasia, in matter-of-fact tones. "He may return to-morrow; he mayn't. He mayn't return for a week; he may. He's uncertain. But I'll certainly tell him you've called, Sir Charles."
"Thank you, thank you!" said Sir Charles. "Much regret—and I don't know how long I shall remain in these parts. Delightful, romantic situation—most romantic! You have been here long?"
"Ever since we came from India," replied Madrasia, forgetting our compact. "Some few years ago."
"Ah, Mr. Parslewe came from India, did he?" asked Sir Charles eagerly. "But you?—you were surely not born under those burning skies?"
"I was!" answered Madrasia, with a laugh.
"Of English parents, of course," suggested Sir Charles. "Of course!—the English rose!—ah, the English rose! No one, Miss Dur-
