CHAPTER V.

“Tell me, Sophy, my dear, what do you think of our new visitors ?” Y Vicar of Wakefield,
Mrs MERTON and her daughter were already in the middle rawing-room, seated on either side of Mrs. Leslie. The former woman of quiet and pleasing exterior ; her face still handsome, d if not intelligent, at least expressive of sober good-nature nd habitual content. The latter a fine dark-eyed girl, of decided countenance, and what is termed a showy style of beauty,—tall, _ -self-possessed, and dressed plainly indeed, but after the approved
ashion. The rich bonnet of the large shape then worn; the hantilly veil; the gay French Cachemire ; the full sleeves, at hat time the unnatural rage; the expensive, yet unassuming robe de soie; the perfect chaussure ; the air of society, the easy nner; the tranquil but scrutinizing gaze—all startled, dis- composed, and half-frightened Evelyn.
Miss Merton herself, if more at her ease, was equally surprised yy the beauty and unconscious grace of the young fairy before er, and rose to greet her with a well-bred cordiality, which at ‘once made a conquest of Evelyn’s heart.
Mrs. Merton kissed her cheek, and smiled kindly on her, but d little. It was easy to see that she was a less conversable d more homely person than Caroline.
When Evelyn conducted them to their rooms, the mother and ughter detected at a glance the care that had provided for heir comforts ; and something eager and expectant in Evelyn’s yes taught the good-nature of the one and the good breeding f the other to reward their young hostess by varicus little slamations of pleasure and satisfaction.
too. so well placed ;’ over the keys. soa retired, covered with smiles. ana) b And then Mrs. Merton ponies herself to say to the we dressed Abigail :—
“Do take away those flowers, they tnake me quite faint.”
when the lady’s lady withdrew with the condemned “How “And I see no Psyche—however, the poor. people have i their best.” a “Sweet person, Lady Vargrave!” said Mrs. Mertonae interesting !—so beautiful—and how youthful in appearance “No ¢ournure—not much the manner of the world,” Caroline. “No; but Shine better.” a Heth !” said Caroline. “The girl is very pretty, though small.” “Such a smile—such eyes—she is irresistible aa whi fortune !—she will be a charming friend for you, Caroline.” “Yes, she may be useful, if she marry Lord Vargrave 5 indeed, if she make any brilliant match. What sort of a r is Lord Vargrave ?” “T never saw him; they say, most fascinating.” “ Well, she is very happy,” said Caroline, with a sigh,
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