color was deeper on her cheeks, and the brightness of half-dried tears
glistened in her eyes; her step was more hasty, all her movements were
quicker than usual.

"I bring news, my dears, which will surprise you," she said, addressing
her daughters. "Your father and I are going to London to-morrow."

Magdalen caught her mother by the arm in speechless astonishment. Miss
Garth dropped her work on her lap; even the sedate Norah started to her
feet, and amazedly repeated the words, "Going to London!"

"Without us?" added Magdalen.

"Your father and I are going alone," said Mrs. Vanstone. "Perhaps,
for as long as three weeks--but not longer. We are going"--she
hesitated--"we are going on important family business. Don't hold
me, Magdalen. This is a sudden necessity--I have a great deal to do
to-day--many things to set in order before tomorrow. There, there, my
love, let me go."

She drew her arm away; hastily kissed her youngest daughter on the
forehead; and at once left the room again. Even Magdalen saw that
her mother was not to be coaxed into hearing or answering any more
questions.

The morning wore on, and nothing was seen of Mr. Vanstone. With the
reckless curiosity of her age and character, Magdalen, in defiance of
Miss Garth's prohibition and her sister's remonstrances, determined to
go to the study and look for her father there. When she tried the door,
it was locked on the inside. She said, "It's only me, papa;" and waited