"That'll teach you to keep a civil tongue in your head for the future," observed Thames, as he helped Jack to his feet. So, adroitly and patiently, he pulled Ruth apart; that is, he plucked forth a little secret here, another there, until he had quite a substantial array. As she did so the preparation-room door opened behind her. And, if Rachel had not carried a candle, the room would have been plunged in total darkness. When I am leading a true life, a pure and simple life free of all stimulants and excitements, I think—I think— oh! with pellucid clearness; but if I so much as take a mouthful of meat—or anything—the mirror is all blurred. But I shan't let him off thus. Earles watched her anxiously. It was really very nice of you, but to-morrow you will laugh at it as I do now. “A glass slipped from the table,” he explained.