The Argosy — page 351: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

330 Lady Valena. ‘You must come, Mrs. Damien. Beatrix will burn my sketch- book and throw my paint-box out of the window if I have nobody to support me. Now with you and Montrose —” Mrs. Damien turned away sharply, almost rudely. “What do you think of the conservatory, Hester? Did you ever see the lilies so fine—though, of course, the best have gone to St. Fridolin’s.” “The best of everything goes to St. Fridolin’s, of course. My dear, that is just what all your friends are beginning to complain of,” spoke Lady Monchalsea, unexpectedly, in a tone of iced spite. Mrs. Damien flushed hotly, and gave her a haughty, defiant glance. “Don’t let St. Fridolin’s keep you, Rose,” eagerly interposed Hester. You know we can get someone to take your lectures. Miss Coutell is disengaged and would be only too glad to come. The parish could very well spare you for a few weeks. I cannot see why you should not go.” She spoke even more emphatically than was needful, keeping her eyes away from her friend’s face till the last words, when she broke short off, startled at the miserable, half-imploring look in Mrs. Damien’s lovely eyes. It vanished before she fairly caught it; and Rose was laughing a mocking, hard little laugh. ‘There is independent testimony to the value of my exertions! Quite trustworthy too; so I may as well decide at once. When do you want me, Lady Monchalsea? The last week in June? Yes, that will suit me perfectly.” ‘“‘ Have I done wrong?” Hester asked herself anxiously ; but she had no chance of even guessing, for the Lepells departed and were replaced by others, friends of Hester’s, to whom Mrs. Damien abandoned them as others succeeded. Aunt Mamie’s bowl was running low before the room cleared again and Hester could approach her friend. Are you angry with what I said, Rose? Of course we all want you dreadfully. It will be hateful without you, and no one can really take your place.” ‘‘Ffush, dear. It is all right, and the question 1s settled.” ‘Then, as if to change the subject: “I am rather worried about my poor Birdie. Mr. de Cressy came early, and says she is very unhappy and longing to see me. That unlucky brother has actually enlisted, and the old man is furious. JI know what she will have to bear, poor child. I promised to go to her this evening, but Lady Monchalsea Is going to stay to dinner, so I must wait till to-morrow.” “Tll go!” cried Hester, springing to a sudden decision. ‘I’ve nothing to do here. I shall be better than nobody. At all events I can tell her why you didn’t come. Do let me!” “The City—this blazing day—and it’s getting late,” Mrs. Damien exclaimed. Then, seeing Hester was resolved: “‘ You must drive. I GOmiGdooksnico im