CONVERGING COURSES

II In spite of all this, the spirit of revelry was wanting In the atmosphere of the house. Such a thing had never been attempted before by its owner, and it was now done as by a wrench. Intended gaieties would insist upon appearing like solemn grandeurs, the organization of the whole effort was carried out coldly, by hirelings, and a shadow seemed to move about the rooms, saying that the proceedings were unnatural to the place and the lone man who lived therein, and hence not good.

Bathsheba was at this time in her room, dressing for the event. She had called for candles, and Liddy entered and placed one on each side of her mistress's glass.

"Don't go away, Liddy." said Bathsheba, almost timidly." I am foolishly agitated-i cannot tell why.

I wish I had not been obliged to go to this dance; but there's no escaping now. I have not spoken to Mr.

Boldwood since the autumn, when I promised to see him at Christmas on business, but I had no idea there was to be anything of this kind."

"But I would go now." said Liddy, who was going with her; for Boldwood had been indiscriminate in his invitations.

"Yes, I shall make my appearance, of course." said Bathsheba." But I am THE CAUSE of the party, and that upsets me! -- Don't tell, Liddy."

"O no, ma'am, You the cause of it, ma'am?"

"Yes. I am the reason of the party-i. If it had not been for me, there would never have been one. I can't explain any more -- there's no more to be explained.