"
"I am sure, Mary," said Sepia, speaking for the first time since
Hesper's entrance, "that your mistress has no intention of
accusing you."
"Of course not," said Hesper; "only, what am I to do? I must have
my ring. Why did you come, if you had nothing to tell me about
it?"
"How could I stay away when you were in trouble? Have you
searched everywhere?"
"Everywhere I can think of."
"Would you like me to help you look? I feel certain it will be
found."
"No, thank you. I am sick of looking."
"Shall I go, then?--What would you like me to do?"
"Go to your room, and wait till I send for you."
"I must not be long away from my invalids," said Mary, as
cheerfully as she could.
"Oh, indeed! I thought you had come back to your work!"
"I did not understand from your letter you wished that, ma'am--
though, indeed, I could not have come just yet in any case."
"Then you mean to go, and leave things just as they are?"
"I am afraid there is no help for it. If I could do anything-.
But I will call again to-morrow, and every day till the ring is
found, if you like."
"Thank you," said Hesper, dryly; "I don't think that would be of
much use."
"I will call anyhow," returned Mary, "and inquire whether you
would like to see me.--I will go to my room now, and while I wait
will get some things I want."
"As you please," said Hesper.
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