I know not whether it was on this occasion or on some other that the conversation had taken the turn I have just indicated she said to Isabel that she would some day a tale unfold. Isabel assured her she should delight to listen to one, and reminded her more than once of this engagement. Madame Merle, however,begged repeatedly for a respite, and at last frankly told her young companion that they must wait till they knew each other better. This would be sure to happen,a long friendship so visibly lay before them. Isabel assented, but at the same time enquired if she mightn＇t be trusted—if she appeared capable of a betrayal of con昀dence.