*< What is the matter with you, Norat Why are you
so thin and so pale, and so miserably out of spirits) " she
asked, surveying me thoughtfully.
'* I am perfectly well, I assure you, Nellie ; the last few
days have been a little warm, that's all I never was a
blooming beauty, you know," I replied with assumed
cheerfulness.
*' You are not the same ^I that you were six months
ago,'' she returned with an air of resolute conviction. Then
suddenly taking my hand in hers she added in a lower
voice : *' I believe this marriage is preying on your mind —
I am sure it is ; I don't believe you care two straws for
Major Percival, and if you don't love him don't marry



d4fi PRETTY MISS I^EVILLS.
