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smarter dresses, became one of the recognized entertainments at G. House. Strangers were always introduced to her, and she was invariably sent for when any patrician traveller appeared on the scene. In common justice it must be observed that Lizzie always did something for her living—as she herself was fond of remarking—on these occasions, and that she formed an agreeable interlude in the travellers’ pursuit of useful information, or interesting scenery, on the underneath side of the world.

Some of these travellers were very much struck with the profile, and would almost have carried her off, like some beautiful tropical bird, who might be exhibited to the higher circles in London. Others sought to improve her mind; it seemed almost sad that such a lovely head should be given over entirely to the claims of “fast service,” and that the sweet curves of those finely-moulded lips should be employed in making faces at the A. D. C.’s.

But after all, as Lady H——— was wont to observe, if Mr. Austin did not object, surely no one else need do so. The girl was as happy as possible, and really it was keeping her out of mischief to have her round to play with the visitors. There was not the least idea of harm in her, and if she did not enjoy herself at her