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"Lorton," replied the countess "So stupid of ht it was

Norton, and I addressed the invitation so; but Mrs Hawksley tells me

that it is Lorton The brother comes from Bardsley & Bardsley"

Drake nodded He needed no confired to this Mr Falconer?"

"Oh, yes," replied the countess "There can be no doubt of it Mrs

Harksley says that his attentions to her last night--at the ball, I

ether arm in arm I

really must call on her They say she is extremely pretty"

"No need to call, I think," he said "I mean," he went on, as the

countess looked surprised, "that--that they will be gone directly"

"Oh, but I thought he ineer"

"No, I think not," said Drake, alleford nodded, and went into her roo her

"Will you wear your diamonds, my lady?" she asked

The countess nodded absently, and took the key of the safe from her

purse; but when the maid placed the square case which held the ed her ht It is only a house party Put them

back, please"