Page:The Fate of Fenella (1892).djvu/79

 "I do not ask for your interference, Helen," said her brother. "I merely ask you to let me introduce you to Lady Francis, and I should like you to be kind to her."

"Why are you interested in her?"

"Because I think she has been badly treated, and because she is an impulsive, reckless little woman who will benefit much from your advice."

"I dislike impulsive, reckless little women," said Helen, "and I would much rather not know her."

"You are very unkind, dear, and quite unlike your usual self. Lady Francis has got herself into a fix, and you must really get her out of it—to please me."

"What fix has she got herself into?"

"Well, I will tell you. Her husband is here, as of course you know, and immediately after his arrival Mme. de Vigny appeared on the scene. Poor Lady Francis, who is naturally outraged at his conduct, telegraphed to De Mürger to come down, and this will, of course, make things look black for her if you do not give her your help and moral support. She does not know any ladies here, and of course she has acted imprudently."

"Yes, she has acted imprudently and stupidly. It only confirms my impression that I would rather not know her," said his sister.

"But, Helen, she is very young, and she has no one to advise her."