Ellis entered into the chamber with Elinor; who, equally exhausted in body and in mind, flung herself upon her bed, where she remained some time totally mute: her eyes wide open, yet looking at nothing, apparently in a state of stupefaction; but from which, in a few minutes, suddenly starting, and talking Ellis by the hand, with a commanding air, she abruptly said, "Ellis, are you fixed to marry Lord Melbury?"

Ellis positively disclaimed any such idea.

"What am I to infer?" cried Elinor, with returning and frightful agitation; "Will you be firm to your engagement? Is it truly your decision to refuse the hand of Harleigh, though he were to offer it you?"

Ellis shuddered, and looked down;