Page:Ethel Churchill 2.pdf/231

Rh shining in at the window. What children we are in trifles! what slight things exercise an influence over us! to how much that our reason would be ashamed to acknowledge! nevertheless does it submit. Our whole nature must change; we must be less susceptible, less dependent on "blind accident," before we can shake off hopes and fears, which are almost superstitions. For a wonder, two ladies were actually punctual to an appointment: Lady Marchmont was to her time, and Ethel did not keep her waiting a moment. A woman's first look is at the dress of her friend, and her second word is of it. Each was exceedingly satisfied with the other; which is also saying, that they were exceedingly satisfied with themselves. Lady Marchmont had on a rich flowered damask, and a white chip hat tied down with a pink kerchief: and never had she looked handsomer, for she was one whose variable complexion and mobile features were made to express interest and excitement. Ethel was in mourning: they had judged it the most fitting habit