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 confusion that I must go back to my solitary home."

Mrs. Hopkinson looked consternated at the view presented to her of her conduct, and professed her willingness to go instantly to Marble Hall, and make herself of use, a concession that Willis accepted simply with a sigh—the true Willis sigh, to be had only of the inventor. The girls, who did not at all approve of his selfish management of their mother, said that as she had already refused, she could not go now unless a new request were made for her services.

"It has been made through me. I told Miss Monteneros I should go and fetch her."

"And who, upon earth, is Miss Monteneros?" said Rose.

"Baron Sampson's niece, a very rich heiress and a charming girl."

This was said severely, and intended to make his sisters-in-law feel that they were not to be ranked in that category.

"Well, then, she might assist her aunt."

Willis shook his head, murmured, "How