partner, that Ruth was infected by the feeling, and had to bend
her face down to conceal the smile that mantled there. But not
before he had seen it; and not before his attention had been
thereby drawn to consider the kneeling figure, that, habited in
black up to the throat, with the noble head bent down to the
occupation in which she was engaged, formed such a contrast to
the flippant, bright, artificial girl, who sat to be served with
an air as haughty as a queen on her throne.

"Oh, Mr. Bellingham! I'm ashamed to detain you so long. I had no
idea any one could have spent so much time over a little tear. No
wonder Mrs. Mason charges so much for dressmaking, if her
workwomen are so slow."

It was meant to be witty, but Mr. Bellingham looked grave. He saw
the scarlet colour of annoyance flush to that beautiful cheek,
which was partially presented to him. He took a candle from the
table, and held it so that Ruth had more light. She did not look
up to thank him, for she felt ashamed that he should have seen
the smile which she had caught from him.

"I am sorry I have been so long, ma'am," said she gently, as she
finished her work; "I was afraid it might tear out again if I did
not do it carefully." She rose.

"I would rather have had it torn than have missed that charming
galop," said the young lady, shaking out her dress as a bird
shakes its plumage. "Shall we go, Mr. Bellingham?" looking up at
him.