Page 15 (1/2)

Mabel's roses returned in profusion, when, upon entering the

arbiter's dread presence, she saw Frederic Chilton, standing on the

opposite side of the table froers still idly interlaced, his pale patrician

face emotionless as that of the bust of Apollo upon the top of the

bookcase behind him It was Frederic who led her to a chair, when

she stopped, tre midway in the apartment, and his touch upon

her arards to Winston's countenance

at the sound of his voice

"I have sent for you, Mabel, that Ithe

reply I have returned to Mr Chilton's application for ement--I should say, perhaps, to your reciprocal

attachment The betrothal of a minor without the consent, positive

or iuardian is, as I have just explained

to Mr Chilton, but an empty name in this State I have proe, provided the inquiries I shall

institute concerning Mr Chilton's previous life, his character, and

his ability to maintain you in comfort, are answered satisfactorily

He will understand and excuse my pertinacity upon this point when he

reflects upon the value of the stake involved in this transaction"