’What is there wicked in it?  If you have been fool enough to become fond of the man, it is only right you should be told.  He is engaged to marry Mrs Hurtle, and she is lodging with one Mrs Pipkin in Islington.  I know the house, and could take you there to-morrow, and show you the woman.  There,’ said he, ’that’s where she is;’—­and he wrote Mrs Hurtle’s name down on a scrap of paper.

‘It is not true,’ said Hetta, rising from her seat, and standing upright.  ’I am engaged to Mr Montague, and I am sure he would not treat me in that way.’

‘Then, by heaven, he shall answer it to me,’ said Felix, jumping up.  ’If he has done...