Page:Lesbia Newman - Dalton - 1889.djvu/99



autumn came round, and would no doubt have passed in the same pleasant mode of life, had not Letitia Blemmyketts been wanted back by her people at home. Lesbia was the first person to whom the letter was read, then Lady Humnoddie, who had shown Letitia much hospitality. The next day Lesbia met Rose Dimpleton at a quiet luncheon at Letitia’s lodging, the only other person present being the landlady Miss Skimpsalt. Here they discussed their plans how to make the most of the remaining short time, although pleasure-seeking on the eve of separation is rather a half-hearted affair, and the two girls really thought more of spending the time together than of going out.

‘I guess you’re more fortunate than we are, Rose,’ said Letitia; ‘we shall soon be parted for some time at least, while you'll have the pleasure of looking forward to become Mrs Lockstable.’

‘Your parting will be worse than a divorce, I’ve no doubt,’ answered. Rose, looking at Lesbia, ‘but depend upon it, Letitia won’t leave you for long.’

‘I hope not, Miss Dimpleton,’ said Miss Skimpsalt. ‘My little house will be void and desolate when she is gone.’