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238 to entertain the idea, but for one consideration—Alaric was coming. Alaric would learn to know ber friend better, and his prejudices would drop from him.

"You know, dear," she continued, looking up into the English girl's face, "there is nothing would give me such pleasure as to have you with me; but is it right? You have come here to study. The classes have just begun. Won't you repent of your decision if you leave Paris just now? You know you are only coming out of kindness to me."

"I am going because I like it. I have long wanted to see the Riviera. If I am bored, I can come back. On the other hand, if Mr. Baring is called to Paris on business, you will not mind being left alone with me."

"The journey is expensive," observed Baring, without looking at her.

"So I suppose."

"And living at Mentone, I am afraid, will be dear."

"No doubt. But who knows? Perhaps I may sell a pot-boiler there also, and turn an honest penny. At all events, I mean to risk it. And now I shall leave you together to talk over your plans."

As the door closed behind her, Alaric said to his sister, "Is it right to accept this sacrifice at Miss Shaw's hands?"

"She says, you see, it is no sacrifice; and I do want her to come so badly, Ally."

"She seems pretty reckless about money."

"I fancy she has a small independence. It may not be much; but I am sure she is not reckless."

A few minutes later, Elizabeth, thickly veiled, left the