dear?" said she _sotto voce._

"No, love."

"Is there anything the matter, then?"

"Hush! We have guests: our first duty is to them." With this Mrs. Dodd
rose, and, endeavouring not to look at her daughter at all, went round
and drew each of her guests out in turn. It was the very heroism of
courtesy; for their presence was torture to her. At last, to her infinite
relief, they went, and she was left alone with her children. She sent the
servants to bed, saying she would undress Miss Dodd, and accompanied her
to her room. There the first thing she did was to lock the door; and the
next was to turn round and look at her full.

"I always thought you the most lovable child I ever saw; but I never
admired you as I have to-night, my noble, my beautiful daughter, who
would grace the highest family in England." With this Mrs. Dodd began to
choke, and kissed Julia eagerly with the tears in her eyes, and drew her
with tender, eloquent defiance to her bosom.

"My own mamma," said Julia softly, "what has happened?"

"My darling, said Mrs. Dodd, trembling a little, "have you pride? have
you spirit?"

"I think I have."

"I hope so: for you will need them both. Read that!"