When they got back to the house, Tom went off to his own den, and when
Rose entered the drawing-room she found Pauline alone.

The latter ran towards her and caught her by both hands. Her eyes were
sparkling joyfully. "My Rose, I have delightful news for you. Now, confess
that I am the cleverest person in the world! I have made your aunt as
anxious as you are about your music. She wants you to spend two months
with me in London. Two whole long, lovely months! Think of it, Rosamunda
mia! And you can come next week. It is far, far more than I ever hoped
for. And, who knows, you might get an extension of leave after that. We
may spend the whole summer together in the flat. Well, why don't you say
something? Aren't you pleased?"

"But, Pauline, I can't go. Aunt Lucy couldn't do without me. I"--

"My dear, she wants you to go," returned Pauline impatiently. "Go up and
speak to her, and you will find it is so. Miss Sampson is to come here as
her companion. She isn't the person I should choose for a companion, but
_chacun a son gout_."

"Did you suggest that she should come here?" asked Rose. "Oh, Pauline,
don't look at me like that! It is so sudden. And Aunt Lucy can't bear
strangers. I don't think it is a good plan at all"

Pauline dropped her hands with one look, and turned away. Her lips were
quivering; her face had the stricken look of one who has received a cruel
blow. She did not speak, but Rose was full of remorse instantly.

"Oh, Pauline, you know I want to come to you. It would be too lovely. But