Never surely were lovely blossoms so badly treated; and
yet Isabelle was excessively fond of them; but she feared that if she
even allowed them to remain a little while in her room, their donor
would presume upon the slight concession. She had scarcely resumed her
seat by the fire, after disposing of the obnoxious bouquet, when a maid
appeared, who had been sent to wait upon her. She was a pretty, refined
looking girl, but very pale, and with an air of deep melancholy--as
if she were brooding over a secret sorrow. She offered her services
to Isabelle without looking up, and in a low, subdued voice, as if she
feared that the very walls had ears. Isabelle allowed her to take down
and comb out her long, silky hair, which was very much dishevelled, and
to arrange it again as she habitually wore it; which was quickly and
skilfully done. Then the maid opened a wardrobe and took out several
beautiful gowns, exquisitely made and trimmed, and just Isabelle's
size; but she would not even look at them, and sharply ordered that they
should instantly be put back where they belonged, though her own dress
was very much the worse for the rough treatment it had been subjected to
on the preceding day, and it was a trial to the sweet, dainty creature
to be so untidy.
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