"Well," she cried, when she had taken her seat, and saw that Ellis could find no further pretext for employing herself in the little apartment; "what garb do you bring me? How am I to be arrayed?"

Ellis begged to know what she meant.

"Is it a wedding-garment?" replied she, gaily; "or . . . ." abruptly changing her tone into a deep hoarse whisper, "a shroud?"

Ellis, shuddering, durst not answer. Elinor, catching her hand said, "Don't be frightened! I am at this moment equal to whatever may be my destiny: I am at a point of elevation, that makes my fate nearly indifferent to me. Speak, therefore! but only to the fact. I have neither time nor humour for narratory delays. I tried to hear you; but you both talked so whisperingly, that I could not make out a sentence."

"Indeed, Miss Joddrel," said Ellis, trembling violently, "Mr. Harleigh's regard—his affection—"