CHAPTER XVI.
WHAT OUGHT A GIRL DO IF THE MAN SHE LOVES CARES FOR ANOTHER?
"Do you hear me, Gerelda?" repeated Mrs. Northrup. "This marriage must go on! It would be the talk of the whole country if Hubert Varrick jilted you. But let me understand this matter thoroughly; did he give you any sort of a hint that he wished to break off with you? You must tell me all very plainly, and keep nothing back. I am older than you are Gerelda, and know more concerning worldly affairs. I now say this much: there must be a rival in the background. When a man has been in love with one girl, and suddenly cools off, there is a reason for it, depend on it."
"Even if there was a rival in the way, tell me what I could do, mamma, to—to win him back!"
"When a man once ceases to love you, you might as well att
