'
'Then may we really read them, papa?' cried Lily.
'And welcome,' said her father.
This permission once given, the young ladies had no idea of
moderation; Lily's heart and soul were wrapped up in whatever tale
she chanced to be reading--she talked of little else, she neglected
her daily occupations, and was in a kind of trance for about three
weeks. At length she was recalled to her senses by her father's
asking her why she had shown him no drawings lately. Lily hesitated
for a moment, and then said, 'Papa, I am sorry I was so idle.'
'Take care,' said Mr. Mohun, 'let us be able to give a good account
of ourselves when Eleanor comes.'
'I am afraid, papa,' said Lily, 'the truth is, that my head has been
so full of Woodstock for the last few days, that I could do nothing.'
'And before that?'
'The Bride of Lammermoor.'
'And last week?'
'Waverley. Oh! papa, I am afraid you must be very angry with me.'
'No, no, Lily, not yet,' said Mr. Mohun, 'I do not think you quite
knew what an intoxicating draught you had got hold of; I should have
cautioned you. Your negligence has not yet been a serious fault,
though remember, that it becomes so after warning.
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