"Lucy is my darling, beloved, and only child. You must not say a word against her. I cannot stand it."

Rosamund shrugged her shoulders.

"Is Lady Jane Ashleigh within?"

"If you will not have me here, I will not go with Mrs. Brett. I will go to Lady Jane; for there is one person who wants me, although you will not believe it!"

"Oh, bother your friend!" said Irene; and then she dropped off asleep, and Rosamund sat and thought things out.

"Then please yourself; but I grieve to tell you that after your recent conduct I cannot receive you again at the school."