Isabel placed herself on the sofa, by Mrs. Denison, far out of Clarence's reach. She took up her work, and sate grave and embarrassed.

Clarence was absent and pre-occupied, and Emmeline and Mr. Denison tried in vain to support the conversation.

Wearied at last, Mr. Denison saw he must help them.

"Go and sing, Isabel; sing my

favourite song, 'No, not more welcome.'

you know it, Clarence?"

Do

Happy to be employed, Isabel hurried to the pianoforte, and began at once. As she ended

"I'd live years of grief and pain

To have my long sleep of sorrow broken,
By that benign, blessed voice again,"

Clarence, unable any longer to contain himself, rose, and went to the pianoforte.

66

Now, Emmeline, read me this speech," said Mr. Denison, giving her a newspaper.

The speech was finished, and Mr. Denison glanced round. "I think you must begin it again," he said, with a smile, to his wife; but,

as he spoke, Isabel came towards him, kissed him, and glided away.

Over the brightness of that hour, there hovered a shadow from the mournful eyes of Herbert Grey.

END OF VOL. I.

F. Shoberl, Jun., Printer to H. R.H, Prince Albert, Rupert St., Haymarket.