did. Kate would rather die than ask you, but if you will, I'll run up

at once and tell her."

"Oh, I would with pleasure," said Molly, "only--only for Cecil."

"Who, in the name of fortune, is Cecil?"

"My greatest, best friend. She is coming here, I trust and hope, in a week or two."

"Your greatest, best friend!" repeated Hester. "I give you up, Molly Lavender; your enthusiasm quite crushes me."