The Pillars of the House; Or, Under Wode, Under Rode, Vol. 2 (of 2)

by Charlotte M. Yonge

  CHAPTER XXXVIII.

  K. T.

  'So black of hue, With orange tawny Bill.' _Midsummer Night's Dream._

  The town-hall at Ewmouth was a good fifteenth-century building. Thecommon herd sat on chairs and gazed at the speakers behind the tableon the dais. There were the Lord Lieutenant and the local peer (hewith whom Clement would not dine), Sir Vesey Hammond, and Mr. Welsh,together with Geraldine's old acquaintance, Lord de Vigny, who was sureto turn up at every sort of _dilettante_ gathering in the kingdom,made words on the benefits of local research, and compliments on localhospitality; and then some wise man gave an excellent compendioussketch of the history of the city and neighbourhood, notifying theconnection of the spots it was intended to visit, beginning with theCastle that very afternoon. Meantime there was not much opportunity forgreetings; people were all in rows on the same level, looking into thefabrics on the crania of their neighbours in front.

  'That's the way with ladies,' said William Harewood; 'they'll goanywhere to see one another's bonnets. That's the real point, whateverthe excuse may be.'

  The remark was made in all good humour. Everything had been smoothall these ten days. Had not Robina copied out his whole essay in herbeautiful clear script, and tied it up with purple ribbons? Had shenot toiled early and late at effective shaded diagrams of his father'sseals? had she not listened intelligently to his own supplementallecture on the unconscious poetry those queer devices expressed?and had she not rescued an important letter of his from the slit inClement's S.P.G. box, which he was always taking for the post?

  The lecture over, there was a dispersion to lunch at various houses orhotels. The Underwoods were of Mrs. Welsh's party, where Geraldine wasmade much of under Lady Hammond's kind protection, and Robina remainedin enviable obscurity at a side-table. Lady Hammond's age obliged herto ascend to the Castle afterwards in her carriage, and she insisted ontaking her lame young friend with her. Every one else walked--Robinawith her brother and Will, for both the Major and his father had fallenin with old acquaintance and gone their own way.

  Other parties debouched from other streets; and as Robina climbed theCastle hill, she was aware of Lord Ernest de la Poer in the act ofgreeting her.

  'You here!' she exclaimed.

  'I am at Eweford with Milwright.'

  'But your reading!'

  'Here I am, improving my mind.'

  'Hardly in the needful manner.'

  'Nay, but why is this holiday month to be all play and no work to everyone but dis here unlucky nigger?'

  'You've not earned the right to play.'

  'Nor ever shall at home. You know what a farce it is to "call it eitherwork or play."'

  Felix did not wholly like the tone of this dialogue, but just then abrother of the press entreated a few moments' conversation. It was toask for a recommendation, which he was now in a condition to give; andhe was obliged to leave his sister to Will's care, intending speedilyto overtake her.

  Meanwhile, Lord Ernest went on, with somewhat less of reserve, 'NowI put it to you, which is which under the K.T. influence--Greek orcroquet?'

  'The last is not her influence.'

  'No, nor her nature, but her uncle's drill into complaisance. She is avictim to filial piety, and drags me to the same shrine.'

  'Just what she does not want to do.'

  'No, but now you are gone, the games would never end if one didn't gether through a hoop occasionally.'

  Robina averted her head, for there was a general halt and a silence,and a voice made itself heard, explaining that here was the Romanmasonry.

  The Castle was a large place, containing the county hall, and havinglikewise a small garrison of artillery to take care of the seadefences, on which modern science had of late been busy. The lecturerled his flock literally from pillar to post, stopping to expound allpoints of interest, and handing round drawings and photographs. Therewas nothing to do but to follow, and hope to fall in with some of theothers. Of Geraldine there was no hope; old Sir Vesey had tucked herunder his vigorous arm as soon as she stepped out of the carriage; Lordde Vigny had claimed her as an acquaintance, and her lameness gave her_brevet_ rank for the nonce, for she was thrust into the forefrontamong the dames of high estate, and had a near view of everything.Felix had vanished; and Will, whose arm would have been very convenientto Robina in the throng, hung a little aloof, wearing an almostquaintly desperate air of surliness, while Lord Ernest hovered close,speaking to her at every pause in the lecture.

  This uncomfortable trio were far in the rear, and a good deal jostledabout, without very clear ideas where they were going or what they wereseeing. Now it was along a moat; now out on a rampart with a greenslope open to the sea, a very living looking cannon in the embrasures;now gazing up to a machicolated turret, then dragged up its spiralstair to be handed out on a leaden roof, and get a grand view, anda general impression that one of the King Henrys had done somethingthere; then diving down to a doleful dungeon, where somebody had beenstarved to death, but as it was not true, it did not signify who itwas. Such were all the ideas that Robina or either of her cavalierscould have given of their perambulation of Ewmouth Castle. It was luckyfor the Pursuivant that they were not its caterers.

  By the time she had ascended a dusky stair into the great hall ofcolumns, which had never been a chapel, Robina found that the tour wasended, and moreover that Will--as well as all the rest--had been lostin the throng, and that no one was near whom she knew but Ernest de laPoer.

  'I wonder where they all are!'

  'We had better stand near the door,' he answered; 'they must pass thisway.'

  They waited while the stream of people flowed past; and when anacquaintance came, who was going to shake hands with Robina's companionas one of the many brothers, she piteously asked for tidings of herparty.

  'I saw Miss Underwood in Lady Hammond's carriage at the other door.'

  'That accounts for it,' said Lord Ernest; 'I saw there was an eddy inthe flood. Shall we go across?'

  The move was a relief, and Robina hoped to find Felix waiting forher at the other door, for the hall was emptying fast, and they werethe last to make their exit by the opposite porch. Not only werethe carriages gone, but the foot-passengers; and the policemen wereshutting the doors behind them, so that there was no returning acrossthe hall.

  'I will go round to the High Street again,' said Robina. 'Some of themwill be sure to come back to look for me.'

  'Where did you have luncheon? Will not they be there?'

  'At Mr. Welsh's; but I don't think we were to go back there. We wereto get in at the inn where the carriage was to be put up, only I don'tknow the name of it. My brother drove there after setting us down.'

  Lord Ernest applied to a policeman for the name and locality of theprincipal stables. 'The Antelope,' he said; but it proved to be in theopposite direction to Mr. Welsh's, and so distant that Robina doubtedwhether Felix could have gone thither. She begged not to delay hercompanion; and he answered, as she knew he would, that he was quiteat her service; indeed, she was quite at her ease so far as he waspersonally concerned, and if it had been any other town in the kingdomexcept perhaps Bexley, Oxford, or Minsterham, she would sooner havetrusted to him in a difficulty than to any one whose name did not endwith wood. He was too considerate to worry her with talking duringthe quick walk, and with some difficulty he caught a busy ostler, whoaverred that Mr. Underwood's carriage had not been there at all--no,not the horse, which he knew perfectly well. He evidently thought thenew Squire's family rightly served for deserting their ancient haunt,and he ran away instead of answering whether there were other yardsnearer Mr. Welsh's.

  Nothing remained but to retrace their steps up the steep High Streetthat climbed the Castle cliff, meeting many a load of happy people whohad found their carriages. Presently they came full on Mrs. FulbertUnderwood, who had been one of the callers in the last week, but whowould have passed without recognition, but for Robina's despairingentreaty, 'Could you tell me
where our carriage can be put up?'

  'What! Rosina Underwood! I am surprised!'

  'I have missed the others in the crowd at the Castle. I thought Ishould have met them at the Antelope, but our carriage has not beenthere.'

  '_We_ always put up at the Antelope,' said Mrs. Underwood; 'there maybe inferior stables, but I do not know them. I have not been to allthis lecturing--I don't like such things for ladies; but I can go roundby Vale Leston, and set you down.'

  'No, thank you. I could walk if that were all, only I must find theothers, for they will not go without me.'

  'Oh! if you are better off--I did not see that you had a beau. Mr.Harewood?'

  'No,' said Robin, in her fiercest straightforwardness, 'Lord Ernest dela Poer. You know I am his sisters' governess. He is kindly helping meto find my brother and sister.'

  'Oh! I leave you in good hands. Good-bye. If I meet any of your party,I will mention that I have seen you.'

  Robina had been reddening all the afternoon. She was crimson now, butshe was resolved not to make things worse by visible discomposure.

  'Who was that obliging lady?' asked Lord Ernest.

  'The last Mr. Underwood's daughter-in-law,' said Robin, so angry as todisclaim connection as much as possible; 'perhaps one is well off tohave only one odd sort of relation.'

  'I see a man who dined with Milwright yesterday,' exclaimed LordErnest. 'He may not be above all inns but the Antelope.'

  He charged across the street, and brought back intelligence of a Fox'sBrush in Castle Street, and of a short cut through a narrow alley andthe churchyard; but there seemed risk of another miss, and besides,something like a waggonette was discerned near the top of the hill. Itproved to be a break full of strangers; and by that time Robina, thoughbravely breasting the hill, was so tired and breathless that LordErnest offered his arm, but was refused with a certain weary sharpness.

  At last the corner of Castle Street afforded a view of another hopefullooking vehicle a good way down; and at the same moment, Felix, verypink, hurried up from one quarter, and Will Harewood, fiery red, dasheddown from another.

  Felix had been to the Antelope by the by-street, and had met Mrs.Fulbert, then had posted after to overtake them; Willie had been allround the Castle, trying every gate in vain; Mr. Harewood was on thequest in another direction.

  Robina thanked her escort, Felix did so more coldly, Willie gavea savage little bow, and they parted. Cherry was waiting in thewaggonette, with the Major, who might not be overwalked, sitting onthe box, holding the horse; and as Will was about to plunge after hisfather, Cherry called, 'Pray put on your hat! you look like a madhatter instead of the March hare.'

  'Enough to drive one mad,' muttered Will, sharply, pulling his hatnearly down to his eye-brows, and disappearing just as his father camesoberly back from inquiry at Mr. Welsh's.

  This time it was decided to drive down the High Street--always a slowoperation, since it required a drag; and Felix left the reins in John'smore practised hands, through the difficult navigation. They drewup at sight of Will in confabulation with Mrs. Fulbert, not much tothe improvement of the serenity of his manner as he bestowed himselfwithin the vehicle. Geraldine begun taking all the blame on her own badchaperonage, and pitying Robina for being heated and tired.

  'Well she may!' said Will, 'after galloping all over the place withthat donkey.'

  'A four-legged donkey might have been convenient,' said Cherry,laughing; 'but how came you to be left to him? I thought you safe withthe Squire.'

  'The Squire was called off to speak to some one,' said Robina.

  'And I am afraid you were remiss, William,' said the Librarian.

  'She seemed well satisfied,' he growled.

  'I think you forget yourself,' said his father, gravely, as if hisfirst-class son were still a little boy. The most courteous of menhimself, he was always trying to teach manners to his family, but hadegregiously failed excepting with the Major.

  That Robina's adventure was relished by no one, might be gathered fromthe fact that none of the five alluded to it, and no objection wasmade when she came down the next morning in a stay-at-home garb, andannounced her intention of remaining to assist in preparing for 'thespread' of Wednesday.

  Cherry could not help remembering Wilmet's allegation that Robina wasapt to attach much importance to ordinary attention; but at least ifthere were an error, it was on the side of precaution; and Cherry hadso many qualms of conscience at taking her pleasure and devolving thetrouble on Wilmet, that she was glad to leave so effective an assistant.

  The day's entertainment was Mr. Harewood's lecture and another in themorning, and then a sort of picnic at the Roman villa. Lord Ernestfound the Vale Leston party out, and Cherry thought he looked a littleblank; but he took to cultivating her, and in the absence of hermore distinguished cavaliers, made himself very pleasant, though shediscerned that he cared not a rush for its baths and mosaic pavements;but she liked him so much, and thought him so genuinely kind andattentive, as to acquit him of all but humane courtesy to his sisters'governess, only hoping Robina so understood it.

  That night Felix was dutifully writing his summary of the proceedingsof the day, when a knock came to his study door, and as his boding soulanticipated, it was the prelude to Robina's entrance. With a solemndirectness, not unlike that when she had dealt the death-blow to hisearly dream, she thus addressed him: 'Brother, are you very busy, orcan you speak to me?'

  He felt a cold dismay, and only said, 'Well!'

  'It hardly seems right even to tell you, but I have this letter, and Iwant you to help me.'

  'A letter!'

  'Troublesome ass!' was at the tip of his tongue, but he was thankful ithad gone no further, when Robina answered, 'Yes, from Lady de la Poer,and from Grace. You brought them from the second post.'

  'You are in no scrape, I trust?' he said, somewhat relieved, but notenough for warmth or encouragement.

  'Not that I know of,' said Robina, 'though I don't know whether I shallbe able to go back after this.' And the tears came into her eyes.

  'And what is _this?_' said Felix. 'Don't be afraid to tell me, my dear;I know you mean honestly.'

  She seemed to have some difficulty in beginning, and finally put a notewith a coroneted cipher into his hand. He read--

  MY DEAR MISS UNDERWOOD,

  I hope you are in full enjoyment at home. I believe Grace keeps you fully informed of the doings here, so I will not waste time over the wherefore of the inquiry I feel constrained to make--among other reasons, to satisfy myself of the children's truth. Cecil has told Lady Caergwent, on Susan's authority, that his brother Ernest told you that K (or C) T were the two most troublesome letters of the alphabet, an unmitigated bore except in cricket. As you know, Susan always holds fast to Cecil; and for their sakes we trust to you to tell us what was said or misunderstood. We should, of course, apply to Ernest himself, but he went on Thursday to the Ballford cricket-match, and we do not know how soon he will return: otherwise I should not disturb your holiday. Susie and Annie seem lost without you; and I rather suspect that idleness was in this case the mother of mischief, though some foundation there must have been, and I am sure you will let me clearly understand what it was.

  Yours very sincerely, FRANCES DE LA POER.

  Felix drew a long breath; then smiled, and asked, 'What does it allmean?'

  'Don't you see? K T. Katie--Lady Caergwent.'

  'And did you really receive this extraordinary confidence?'

  'Not quite like that.'

  'Is this your Countess in her own right, who was said to be engaged toone of the De la Poers?'

  'To Lord Ernest, yes;' and to Felix's satisfaction, there was noshrinking from his eye--she looked clear and innocent. 'The slip yousent me from that paper was altogether impertinent and premature. T
hereis no engagement yet, but there is to be.'

  'In spite of this opinion about the letters of the alphabet?'

  'That is no more than one of Bear's growls. You must know, LadyCaergwent is an odd girl. She is only twenty, very clever at anyheadwork, but curiously childish about anything real. Her uncleand aunt, with whom she lives, were obliged to go abroad with Mrs.Umfraville's sick brother; and she is a ward in Chancery, and could notgo, so she has been at Repworth all the summer. I believe the eldershave settled it. Colonel Umfraville says if she does not marry youngshe will never marry at all.'

  'Are you in his confidence too?'

  'No, but Lord de la Poer talks to Lord Repworth, and he tells Grace.They are all open-hearted; and, except Lady Fanny, none of them canhelp talking.'

  'Well, I didn't know _mariages de convenance_ went on still.'

  'No, indeed; they really like each other. No one could doubt it sometime ago, when they were not thinking about it; and there is a sort ofunderstanding that it will be, though it is not to come on formallytill he has done with Oxford. Well, that understanding has spoilt everyone's comfort.'

  'I should think so!'

  'Will you not see, Felix, that they really care for one another, onlyhe is a little ashamed of the good match, and its all being made upfor them. Then this summer has been unlucky: he was to read with Mr.Crichton, the Curate, a very clever man, a friend of Lord Repworth, whoteaches Cecil and some of the girls Latin.'

  'Is he married?'

  'Oh dear yes!'

  'Then he is a K T?'

  'Twice over, by name and nature. It would have done very well for LordErnest to read with him, as he did last year, if they had been letalone. Not that Lady Caergwent wants to interrupt. Her uncle has taughther a good deal of those kind of things; indeed, she spurred Adelaideup to it, and only wanted to work with her and her brother.'

  'Spurring leads to recalcitration--eh?'

  'If you would only understand. She is not at all what you are fancying.She is a sort of intense child. She is slight and feminine, a greatcoward, as nervously excitable as Cherry, and showing it more, sothat her eagerness quite overdoes people. Then, she is very shy, andso much hates to take the initiative, that people think her proud andungracious. I soon found the only way to set her at her ease was tobehave as if we were two girls on equal terms. It is so provoking, whenshe has just been the life of the whole schoolroom, to see her shrivelup as if a stranger was a blight--especially a shy one. And the moreshe makes a conscience of being agreeable, the worse it is, for thenervous fright paralyzes her. There never was any one with so littlepresence of mind. She can't get on without being under somebody's wing.And another unlucky thing is that she has no dexterity of hand, andhates all games that turn on it, like croquet. There's no keeping outof them, for there is a garden-party at Repworth to all the neighboursevery Tuesday in the summer; and there would be quite a fuss among thenatives if Lady Caergwent did not show herself. I believe her uncle puther under a solemn promise not to sit in the pollard in the park withAddy all the afternoon. So she plays like a martyr, infinitely worsethan among ourselves, and some one always has to get her through to endthe affair. The last day before I came home I had stayed in with littleSusan, who was upset with the heat, and had been naughty enough to bekept in as a sort of sedative penance. I thought she was asleep on herboard when Lord Ernest came in. Now, Lady Caergwent had been all themorning poking out some dates and marking some books she knew he wouldwant; and she had left them with me for him to take when he came in forthe two hours' reading he always was to take before dinner, and which_she_ never let him off. If I had seen at first how hot and fuminghe was with the bother first of her croquet and then of her hints, Ishould have put off executing my commission; but unluckily I gave mymessage, and he broke out, "Crichton, croquet, (pronouncing the t,) KT for ever--the most intolerable conjunction in the alphabet--nothingtolerable spelt with them." I laughed, and said, "Is cricket in that_cate_gory?" and he answered, "The only one that is not an unmitigatedbore."'

  'But, Robin, what would Wilmet say to your having him gossipping inyour schoolroom?'

  'It is not my schoolroom, it is Miss Oswald's, and the brothers are alltame about her like their sisters. Indeed, this was a mere accident;and when I found he meant to stay and grumble, I made an excuse aboutlooking for Annie, and left him. Now hear what Grace says:--

  "We have an awkward mess just now, and I hope you can help us out of it. You know how Papa dislikes that cricket mania which makes playing at a match a sort of public duty, to which everything is to be sacrificed; and how the boys say he would not mind if Colonel Umfraville had not worked him up. At any rate, as it was understood that Ernest was reading, and could not play in matches, the Breretons need not have summoned him fiery-cross fashion to their Oxford eleven. Kate broke out in the middle of breakfast, that it was a great shame, and she hated bondage; and he was provoked to answer, 'So did he.' Mamma hushed it down; but Kate's blood was up, and she never knows when to let a thing alone, so she hunted him into a corner after breakfast, and argued with him; and you know no man could stand that."

  'No, indeed,' said Felix. 'It is quite enough to have to marry aCountess!'

  'Don't, Felix! If you could only see the slight clinging thing! Itall comes of her eager faith in her uncle. It is imploring, notdomineering.'

  'Well, go on; was that what drove him here?'

  'Gracie goes on--

  "They must have been very near a quarrel, for she rushed off, and unluckily came full pelt upon Papa. She did not speak, but he had seen tears in her eyes, and that brought it to a crisis. He accused Ernest of trifling with her, and amusing himself with everybody else; and Ernest made some answer that I am afraid was very foolish, and went off to Ballford. I met him in the hall, and he said things were past endurance, he should like to enlist as a private soldier, and he did not know when he was coming home, but I thought he only meant whether it would be Saturday or Monday. Kate was vexed, but would not show it; and when she found Cecil dawdling in a fit of the nothing-to-does, she suggested some sensible employment, and that exasperated him into telling her Ernest had gone away because he said that all K Ts were horrible. I don't think Kate would have mentioned it; but she turned white, and Addy was there, and was furious with Cecil, and it came to such a row that Mamma came in. Cecil stood out that Susie heard him say it to you, and Susan added that it was because Kate is so tiresome at croquet, and set him such a long lesson. Mamma thought she should have it out with him if she went to fetch him home from Ballford and had him all to herself; but when she came there, he was gone, and none of the Breretons could tell where. I fancy it may be to Eweford, for Mr. Milwright wanted both him and Repworth for his ecclesiological meeting. If you see him, pray talk to him and send him home, for Kate has been in great trouble about it, laying the blame on herself, (as well she may,) and she has actually written to her other uncle, Mr. Wardour, to propose going to him. It is very horrid. Papa feels keenly that she has been--what he calls insulted in his house by his sons; and yet we can't do much, because--oh why is she not only Kate Umfraville? The light is gone out of her brown eyes, and she looks as she did before the Colonel came home. She wants to be too proud to show it to us, but there is no pride in her, and she can't act it. If you could only get at that boy and send him home, it would all come right. There's the whole story: I hope it will not spoil your pleasure; but if you have a scrap of time, write, and comfort your poor loving

  G. DE LA P."'

  There was an odd look in Felix's face as he said, 'Poor young man!'

  'It is too bad of him!' said Robina, hotly.

  'And are you armed with a long w
hip to send him back to his Countessand his book?'

  'Please, Felix, be in earnest! It is a serious matter.'

  'Because it concerns such exalted personages.'

  'No,' said Robina, the tears burning in her eyes, 'because Grace is myfriend, and Kate Caergwent a dear bright girl, who must not have herlife spoilt--nor he either. Felix, you never were unfeeling before!'

  'Have you let them know where to find their truant?'

  'I had begun a letter this morning, but had no time to finish.'

  'But you can give your evidence on the K T case by to-morrow's post.'

  'Yes, if you can get my letter to Ewmouth before nine o'clock.'

  'I will take care of that; and then you will have done all that oughtto be expected of you.'

  'Oh! I must speak to Lord Ernest.'

  'Really, Robina, I am so thankful to see you so well out of the scrapethat I don't see why you should thrust yourself into it. Surely, whenthe boy's parents know where to find him, they are competent to act.'

  'Don't you see, they will not get my letter till the day afterto-morrow, and by that time Lady Caergwent will have gone. Now, if hewould only go back to-morrow of his own accord, it would have a muchbetter grace. Why do you laugh, Felix?'

  'I profess not to understand lords and ladies,' said Felix, recoveringhis gravity; 'but I doubt the effectiveness of the remonstrance, and Igreatly fear your burning your own fingers.'

  'There's no fear of that,' she said, with dignity. 'It is a duty tofriends who are dearer and kinder to me than any one here believes!'And the tears started on her cheeks.

  'Of your duty you are the best judge. I see you must have beendiscreet, to have earned so much affection and confidence. I own Ishould have thought the fewer who meddled in such a concern the better!and that--though I daresay it is very shocking--there was somethingrather wholesome in the poor boy's exertion of free will.' He was nearlaughing, the whole affair struck him as so ludicrous, especiallyRobina's look of dismay.

  'Oh! His sisters! Lady Caergwent! His mother, and all! Oh no! If Idon't try my utmost to get him home, I should feel treacherous--as if Iwere encouraging him here.'

  'Honestly, do you think your being here has anything to do with hiscoming?'

  'N--no! At least, I think the sight of you all so bright and pleasantat the station put it into his head. He is very much amused withAngela; but--oh no! I am certain he does not come after any one--leastof all me!'

  'There is one person who seems to think otherwise, if I may judge fromhis manner,' said Felix, tentatively.

  'It is very unjust and unfair!' cried Robina, flaming up. 'He oughtto know and trust me better. I will not heed such unworthy fancies. Ason of the house, indeed! He ought to know that if there were no otherreason, I should think it dishonourable.'

  'Yet was it not on that account that you stayed at home to-day?'

  'Yes,' she said more softly; 'but that ought to content him. I cannotgive up a duty for unworthy suspicions.' And her neck bridled, and hereyes shone with hurt dignity through her tears.

  'Well, Robina, you know best. You understand your own affairs, Isuppose, and I see you are really trying to act rightly and honourably.I will give you any opportunity I can of speaking to this youth,though, for your own sake, I should strongly advise your only givinghim his mother's letter, and letting it speak for itself.'

  Robina shook her head. It was useless to argue it further. Like awoman, and a young woman, she was resolved to run all risks in herfriend's cause, deeming it ignoble to make any concession to William'sunfounded jealousy, and not appreciating Felix's doubts of any youngman, especially one in a chafing refractory mood, going back to theyoke at the behest of his sisters' governess.

  Felix did not like it at all, but he was always slow to act where hedid not understand his ground; and the tone of the two letters showedsuch confidence in Robina, that he felt that her prudence might betrusted; while as to William Harewood, an unrecognised engagement didnot deserve consideration from the family.

  So he kept her counsel, and let things take their course, on the busyconfused morning that preluded the first attempt of the family at anentertainment.

  Breakfast was enlivened by a discussion whether precedence was to berespected, and next what that precedence was. 'Ought the Baron, or theMarquis's younger son, to come first and take Miss Underwood?'

  'The Baron, I hope,' said Cherry. 'Old men are twice as nice as youngones, though your friend is very pleasant, Bobbie. Which is it to be?You are the experienced one.'

  'Not I,' said Robina. 'Of course I don't dine late, and they go intoluncheon nohow, as I should say was the best way here. Let Felix takeLady Hammond, and leave the rest to settle it. Depend upon it, theyknow their places better than we do.'

  '"Ladies and Gentlemen, sort yourselves," as the parson said, when hehad married five couple all at one go,' said Bernard.

  'Don't they sometimes stick in the door-way curtseying? They do inbooks,' said Cherry.

  'Not out of them,' said Robin. 'If there is a choice, I think age getsit more than actual rank.'

  'There's nothing Lord Ernest hates like dowagers,' cried Angela, 'whenall the jolly girls are out of reach.'

  'What do you know about it, Angela?' said Felix, rather sharply.

  'I've heard him say so twenty times. We are prodigious allies, and itwas very sly of Robin never to tell me he was coming. Bear and I wouldhave got up Dobby for his special edification.'

  'You will do no such thing, for him or any one else!' broke forth indispleasure from Felix.

  Angela shrugged her shoulders. 'Our Squire has grown very peremptorysince he came to his kingdom,' she said; and perhaps he thought so, forhe said to her at a quiet moment, 'Angela, perhaps I should have givenyou credit for not meaning what you said. You must know the improprietyof playing tricks on our guests, more especially when concerned withthe world of spirits.'

  The words appealed to the more accessible side of her nature, and shewas silent. He considered whether to warn her about Lord Ernest, butwas deciding that it would only excite her to further mischief, whenhe was summoned to admire the preparations that had absorbed the homeparty all the previous day.

  The screen, a high wooden carved one, entirely cut off the end ofthe long room appropriated to the household prayers. The long tablewas laid with the fine old damask, the wealth of plate, glass, andold china, to which the substantial cold viands, and the jellies andcreams, compounded by Wilmet and her ingenious Krishnu, were now to beadded. The only failure had been in the unlimited lobsters, which hadbeen all absorbed by Ewmouth itself; but then, Marilda, hearing allabout it from Lance on his way through London, had actually sent themlast night two venison pasties and a grouse pie, ready made, besides agreat deal of her best fruit.

  All stood admiring except Geraldine, who cried, 'Oh, that bigepergne! Oh, those dahlias! They are just like a pincushion, orProtheroe's window! Stella--Bear--Bobbie--for pity's sake get me somefuchsias--traveller's joy, Bougainvillia--anything trailing--and I'llget a little of the stiffness out before Wilmet comes, and then she'llnever find it out! And where's my salt-cellar? Oh for Lance!'

  When Wilmet came upon the scene, she found Cherry seated as thecentre-piece on the table, contending with the difficulties of adorningwithout concealing the curious old salt, the table-cloth bestrewn withgreen leaves and fallen fuchsia bells, and the epergne, the triumphof her art, the subject of her distant admiration at the last dinnerparty of the olden time, (Clement's christening feast,) relegated toa much inferior station, its formal glories of purple and crimsonquilled dahlias obscured by loose streamers of passion-flower and hoaryclematis.

  Other people besides Robina had something to bear that day, but therewas nothing in which John's influence was more shown than in the mutualforbearance of Wilmet and Geraldine. The latter took the initiativewith a torrent of thanks and apologies; and Wilmet, remembering whosehouse it was, submitted with a good grace, and concealed her vexationby hurrying to the kitchen to take
the jellies out of their moulds.There at least she was supreme. Martha was only too glad to have her tosympathize with her new glories, and for her sake could even bear with'that there blackamore chap.'

  Robina, in a nearly sleepless night, had decided on giving William aword or two of explanation as to her having a message from home forLord Ernest; but in the rush after flowers, Angela had carried Bill offto rob a wisteria of its second bloom, and by the time they came back,Felix was hurrying his party into the waggonette.

  Only the gentlemen went; the ladies had enough to do at home, since itwas only too true that Cherry's improvements had doubled their work,and she felt herself the more graceless that she could not run aboutto supply the labour she had created. Indeed, all were watching lestshe should overtire herself; but she was one of those who never feelweariness while excitement lasts.

  The last jelly was scarcely in its place, the last wine-glass adjusted,when Angela announced a carriage turning over the bridge; and the longapproach up the lane, and down the drive enabled Cherry, by the unitedefforts of her sisters, to cast her housewifely slough, don her whitedress and mauve ribbons, and seat herself in the drawing-room, withClement as her supporter.

  Luckily Cherry had never been afraid of people, and she faced theinroad with great composure. This proved to be only the advanced guard,namely, Mr. Milwright, bringing Lord Ernest and a fellow ecclesiologistwith whom he wanted to hold a private discussion over the fragmentsof a shrine in the south transept; and Clement went to show hisdiscoveries.

  So cruelly were opportunities wasted, that Robina was in the far endof the west wing, dressing herself and Angela, while Lord Ernest washaving a twenty minutes _tete-a-tete_ with Cherry, whom he consulted asto joining Will Harewood's reading party, and told her that the ValeLeston choir was renowned as the best in the neighbourhood; and thatold Milwright, being unable to go in out-and-out for the mediaeval, letthings alone, and was content with two fiddles and a flute. Whereforehe should walk from Eweford on the ensuing Sunday, to this--simplythe most charming place he had ever seen. Whereupon Miss Underwoodinnocently invited him to luncheon between the services.

  Robina could only come down just as Felix returned, immediatelyfollowed by the whole multitude, exceeding the expectations of thefamily so much, that Marilda's pasties were a comfortable reflection,and Wilmet's imagination fell to reckoning knives and forks. Places atthe table must be hopeless for many; and when Felix, in desperation,offered an arm to Lady Hammond, he left a chaos behind which he hopedwould, as Bernard said, 'sort itself.'

  People must have been quite as curious about the Underwoods as abouttheir Priory, for the most improbable guests had come, even theundesirable peer, whose earldom complicated matters. He assumed,however, that the eldest and handsomest bonnetless lady must be herof the house, and accordingly gave his arm to Mrs. Harewood; Lord deVigny, who knew better, took his old acquaintance, Miss Underwood, anddipped her once more in the dear old world of art; the others pairedsomehow, and, as Robina had foreseen, Lord Ernest left himself behindwith the common herd, who, after the seats at the long table wereoccupied, betook themselves to the cushioned embrasures of the windows,and to catering for themselves at the side-board, where, happily, therewas no lack of supplies. It was great fun, and Angela agreed with LordErnest in pronouncing it so much jollier than a wedding-breakfast, asthere were no wretched victims to be turned off. If there were anyvictims, one was Robina, who was penned up in a corner by Mr. HenryShaw, doing his best to be polite; and the other was Will, who hadon his hands two ladies, a gushing mother and daughter, who had justdiscovered him to be the author of those delicious songs, signed MarchHare!

  The discourse, the occasion of all, began in the long room, Mr.Milwright taking up station after station, while people herded round tolook at what he pointed out. This tour must be Robina's opportunity.There were a good many stragglers from the troop of listeners; andamong them was Angela, keeping close to Lord Ernest, and delighted totake him on a counter round, displaying all the charms of her new home.

  This Robina had expected. She knew that it might be said that thetwo young Miss Underwoods were running after that young man, and shewanted to speak as soon as possible, to put an end to the pursuit. Sowhen Angela had led him to a shed where resided an owl captured in thechurch tower, she took the bull by the horns. 'Angel, I have a messagefrom Repworth to deliver. I must ask you to leave us a little while.'And she opened the door leading into the walled kitchen garden. Angelashrugged her shoulders, but fell back.

  'And so you have betrayed me? Could not you let a poor fellow breathe alittle free air for once in his life?'

  'Read that!' was all her answer.

  The effect of his mother's letter resembled that on Felix; he burst outlaughing, much more unreservedly exclaiming, 'Well done, Cecy!'

  'But it is not what you said!'

  'Wasn't it? Then my words fell short of my thoughts. What was it theKing of France said when he had got away from captivity or Catherine deMedici (his K Ts, you see)--"I am yet a man and a brother."'

  'Please don't make light of it. Grace is in such distress.'

  'There generally is a commotion when a prisoner breaks loose. I thoughtbetter of you, Miss Underwood, than to suppose you a detective indisguise.'

  'I only want you to realize how wrong it is that you should be here.'

  'I assure you it is all for the family honour. _Tout est perdu forsl'honneur_.--That was the fellow's sentiment--wasn't it?'

  'I don't see the application.'

  'Don't you? Sha'n't I be ploughed to a dead certainty if I go on tryingto carry this on at home!' said Lord Ernest, much more seriously. 'Howabout _l'honneur_ then?'

  Robina could not deny the danger, and knew not how to answer. Hesaw his advantage, and pursued it. 'Was not reading, under thecircumstances, a delusion? You won't speak treason? Never mind, I seeit in your eyes. You know that between all the K Ts within and withoutdoors, it was providential that I retained sufficient combination ofideas to effect my escape before I was quite distracted.'

  'I don't think you guess the distress you have caused,' said Robina,gravely.

  'What, Gracie has written you a deplorable letter? Gone to the badentirely, am I? My mother weeping, my father wailing, my sistersobbing, our K T wringing her hands--' Then, as she moved decidedlyaway, with a gesture expressive of deep displeasure, 'Nay--I declarethey are re-assured. Even if you haven't--I have written to my father;and they know by this time that the vortex I have rushed into isnothing worse than a conglomeration of antiquarian old fogies.'

  'Oh! if you have written--' she began, feeling that Felix had beenright, and she herself more or less of a goose.

  'Yes. I have written to explain that my brain won't stand beingbeset within doors and without, and to propose joining Harewood'sreading-party.'

  Robina fairly started. 'Do you know if he will have you?'

  'I hope he can. He is a crack coach, you know, little as he looks it.Wonderfully able man when he makes the most of himself.'

  'I think he has as many pupils as he has room for,' said Robina, highlygratified, but hoping to avert what might drive Will beyond all bounds.

  'I hope not. Your sister seemed to think it might be managed.'

  'What, Angela?'

  'No; Miss Underwood--is she not? The one who was in the room first.What a delightful countenance she has, by-the-by, it strikes me morethan Mrs. Harewood's. It is a rare thing to meet so much beauty afloatin one family.'

  However complimentary, he must not be allowed to run on in this way;and his monitor returned abruptly to the charge. 'I allow that it ishard to read at the Towers; but before you make any other arrangements,I think you ought to go home this very evening and explain things.There is a train at 4.11, at Church Ewe.'

  'Have you got a policeman outside to give me in charge to?'

  'No,' she answered, with some anger; 'but Lady Caergwent is going awayto-morrow!'

  His first impulse was a little whistle of dismay; but h
e caught it up,and coolly said, 'Joy go with her, a K T clasm! You have not let Gracecram you with all _that?_'

  By this time Robina was thoroughly sensible of the false positionshe had got herself into, and had only to get herself out of it asfast as she could, so she took the path between the espaliers andscarlet-runners which would soonest lead back to public haunts, sayingdecidedly, 'I do not want to hear anything about it.'

  'It seems to me,' said her companion, with more of the man than hehad yet assumed, 'that having entered on this, you should allow me toremind you that this _is_ a free country, and these are not the days offamily compacts. I will not go home, to be badgered whatever I say ordo. I will strike out my own line, and work for myself.'

  'But your father--!'

  'If I know my father, he will like me the better for it. The Colonelhas a way of making him see things in his point of view, and it was atidy little plan; but there are not so many men in this world born forprince-consorts, and they have not got hold of one of the sort. There,now, you have discharged your duty! You may tell Grace what I say--thewhole houseful, if you like.'

  'Very well,' said Robina coldly, glad to have nearly reached a dooropening upon a laurel path. 'It is of no use to say any more. You havewritten, and I have no more to do with it.'

  'I didn't think you were on the enemy's side!' he proceeded, as ifpleading with her displeasure. 'I know you are one to like a fellow themore for having a spark of independence. Come, you may as well say so;it is in your nature, I've seen it, and you owe me compensation for allthat you have rehearsed to me in the spirit of the K Ts.'

  This was in a tone between warmth and raillery, that made it verydifficult to know how to reply; and all she could think of was, 'Youcan be the only judge of what is right and manly.'

  'There then!' as if he had done with the subject. 'Oh! don't open thedoor. Let us have another turn. I want to tell you about my plans. Thisis almost as good as losing ourselves.'

  'I can't,' said Robina, with much repressive displeasure, 'I am wanted.I only came to show you your mother's letter;' and she plunged into thelaurel-walk.

  'Then I am much obliged to my mother's letter,' was the reply, in atone that conveyed more than the words.

  Therewith, at the other end of the path, were seen Mrs. FulbertUnderwood, Miss Martha Hepburn, and Mr. Harry Shaw. They met; Robinashook hands; Lord Ernest moved his hat; but though 'Jane' made a lowcurtsey, her observation was marked--'Oh! so you have lost yourselfagain, Rosina!'

  'My name is Robina, if you please,' she exclaimed, glad to havesomething to contradict.

  'Ah! I never can remember! It is so peculiar!'

  'Peculiarly pretty,' said Lord Ernest. 'It puts one in mind of allsorts of pleasant associations.'

  'It is Scottish, after Miss Hepburn,' said Robina, severely turningfrom him.

  'Yes,' said Miss Martha. 'It is a very old name with us, but we nevercalled my sister by it; we call her by her name of Elizabeth, it isless romantic but more sensible.' And Miss Martha, frightened atspeaking so like Isabella, laughed a little to diminish the sterneffects.

  Robina hoped to shake off Lord Ernest by joining them, and saidpolitely, 'I did not know you were here.'

  'Harry and I thought we would just come over to see what the learnedmen think of the poor old place; but after all, it is only Mr.Milwright, and one can hear him any day, so we came round just to havea look at the old conservatories, which I used to dote on.'

  'You have had some luncheon?'

  'Yes, thank you, we got some cold pigeon pie. My dear, what a pity yoursister did not apply to me! I could have recommended her to Patakake,who always did things for us. Whom could you have had?'

  'Kerenhappuch,' said Robina solemnly, for, in spite of all her trouble,she was awake to the fun of the thing, and she greatly tickled LordErnest by the tone and the name.

  'Well, so Miss Martha said, but I could not believe it. Done entirelyat home?'

  'Yes.'

  'Excuse me, my dear Ros--Robina, but it was a mistake in a positionlike yours.'

  'I am sorry if anything was not good.'

  'Oh! that's not it. It is style that is the _thing_, especially in yourposition. It will not do to fall short of it!--You agree with me, myLord, air is everything.'

  'I much prefer good food,' he answered; at which Harry Shaw broke intoa hearty laugh, and Robina could not help joining. Perceiving, perhaps,that his dictum would go for something, Lord Ernest gravely added, 'Ifgood food and good taste combined are the right thing, I am sure we hadit to-day. I never saw a more thoroughly pretty or graceful set out--sowell appointed too.'

  And though the two ladies agreed that the poor young man was veryfar gone, and that there was something artful about that girl, yetit silenced the lamentations for Patakake. Mrs. Fulbert declared itwonderful how those girls had managed it--but, of course, they had beenbrought up to such things; and Miss Martha--more good-naturedly--madeit known that 'that young nobleman had never seen anything equal to itfor style and good taste!'

  'Of course, simplicity was a relief after the jaded life of a man offashion,' added Miss Isabella.

  'What, the Earl was there! What a pity those young people should getinto such a set!'

  By the time the lawn was reached, the discourse was ended, and peoplewere scattered about on the garden-chairs, partaking of furtherrefreshments handed by Krishnu, who had assumed his white and scarlet,and had an imposing effect, leading forth sundry footmen in diverseliveries as his assistants. Lord de Vigny had detected Geraldine'sstudio, and insisted on seeing her portfolio. She had somewhat flaggedsince her object had been attained, and among the excitements ofthe last year; and the old gentleman gave her a real scolding forwasting such powers in little desultory half-finished memorial kind ofsketches. It was impossible not to laugh at the exaggerated feelingof the kind old courteous amateur; but after all, the stimulus wasgood for her. She did not exactly accept the assurance that it wasthe first duty of her life to produce something every season for theExhibition; but the fresh eye, and the criticism, which had realityin it, though it was complimentary, stirred her up; and she felt thatit was not doing justice to the gift of which she was a steward,to shrink, as she had done of late, from the train of attention anddetail which the maturing an original subject cost her, besides thatcontributions to the housekeeping were really felt by all that couldwork for themselves to be almost due to him who toiled so freely forthem and for his conscience. As to the neighbours, they only then andthere discovered that the little lame Miss Underwood was an exhibitorat the Royal Academy, and that the queer old nobleman, with the loosegrey hair, raved about her drawings. They regarded her the more or theless according as they most esteemed genius or gentility; and as MissMartha Hepburn said, 'No one would ever have found it out.' 'As if theyexpected me to go about in a white turban and a palette on my thumb,like the pictures of Angelica Kaufman!' said Cherry, laughing, asAngela reported this speech while the home party stood under the porch,after seeing off their last guests.

  There was plenty of indulgence in self-gratulations, and a universalcontribution of the observations each had received, almost allresulting in declaring their house-warming a great success. In themidst, some correspondence of eye between Robina and her eldestbrother, brought the colour into her cheek as she drew nearer to him.He held out his hand to her, and when the others dispersed to theirrooms, they began to walk together under the wall.

  'You spoke to him?'

  'Yes. Oh! I wish I hadn't. You were right. He had written to hisfather, after all!'

  'Then it is off your mind?'

  'Yes. No--it would be--' She fell into a terrible tangle of hesitationand broken words, out of which he thus interpreted,

  'You found the situation awkward?'

  'Oh! I ought not to complain, for it was my own doing when you warnedme, and I don't believe he meant it; but--but--it just amounts to this,that I can never freely say again that he never said, or tried to say,a word like flirting--to me. And I s
uppose it is my duty to tell,and--give them all up--'

  'I suppose you had rather not tell me what he really said?'

  'It was not words so much as manner--assuming that I was on his side atheart, and half laughing at me all the time. Then, when he had toldme quite seriously that the family compact was all nonsense, he grew alittle more like that--wanted me to hear his plans, and stay away fromthe rest--said it was as good as our being lost.'

  'Is that all?'

  'Yes; except that, when I said why I began, he answered, "Then I ammuch obliged to my mother's letter."'

  'Then, if there is no more, you had much better let things alone. If hehas written to his father, a post or two will decide his recall; and inthe meantime, such a confession, though quite conscientious, would onlymake you ridiculous.'

  'Yes, I see that. I had much rather not. Wilmet thinks I am alwaysfancying such things--but you don't, Felix! I only wish it were--'

  'I don't think you so silly, my dear,' said Felix. 'No one can judge ofmanner without seeing it; but so little as you have to tell seems to menothing to cry out about, and your confession might be misunderstood.'

  'Of course I don't want to do it; but to keep it back when I writeseems treacherous.'

  'Don't write!'

  'Not to Grace?'

  'She knows you are much occupied; and even if she do think you a littleremiss, really even such a dreadful idea seems to me preferable to anyfresh reports coming between this young man and his family, at what maybe the turning-point of his life.'

  'I should not send a false report!'

  'You could not help sending an excited one; and if it were the actualshort-hand notes of what passed, word for word, what could it do butgive all the ladies something more to talk about? If Lord de la Poerbe the same man in private life as in public, he and his son willunderstand one another much better without the interposition of anywomen's tongues, or pens, however kindly-intentioned.'

  'So he said--that his father would understand, and like him the betterfor being independent.'

  'For my part, I could not understand what you told me!'

  'He is so fond of Colonel Umfraville, and would be glad to see one ofhis children like a son to him. I can't help hoping it will come right,for poor dear Lady Caergwent's sake.'

  'Then, once more, let it alone!'

  She obeyed, with a sigh. It was a quiet evening, Felix and theHarewoods went to the soiree; and the next day was that of theexcursion to Stoneborough, for which Robina had not much heart, butthat dreadful imputation of being apt to make a fuss about nothingprevented her from backing out. She did not understand William, whohad dropped his surly petulant manner, and was only exceedingly graveand quiet, keeping out of the way, and looking dejected and subdued.She longed to speak to him, but he specially avoided her, and thistime Felix made her his special charge, transferring Cherry to JohnHarewood's guidance. Both understood, almost without even a glance,that he wished to be free; and Cherry could not have had a more devotedcavalier than her brother-in-law, who never left her, except when theascent of the Tower made Gertrude May hang back, declare she had hadenough of that, and beg to take Miss Underwood under her protection, torest in her sister's drawing-room.

  And there Gertrude, in one of those curious accesses of confidence thatcongeniality sometimes produces, poured out a great deal of what wasmost individual to herself. Daisy had never set up a friend before,and had always been rather contemptuous of intimacies; but this was acase of love at first sight. Geraldine was about six years her elder,and not in the category of 'tiresome girls,' and while her sister'sbeauty was talked of, no one said much about her; so Daisy fancied thisa discovery of her own, and became devoted to her, especially whenshe began to touch on Felix, and found that for hero-worship nothingcould rival the sister. Geraldine had her reserves, but to find such alistener to the achievements of Felix was enough to open all her heart.And when the interruption came at last, all Gertrude thought of waswhen and how to meet again.

  Nothing worth note befell Robina; and on the Saturday the only eventwas Mr. Harewood's departure, and his son's disappearance immediatelyafter. It turned out that he was walking to Penbeacon to make his finalarrangements; and when regrets were expressed that he had not borroweda horse, John warned the proprietors against trusting a beast inWill's hands; and Wilmet declared that, in mercy to his pupils, sheshould drive over next week and see whether the rooms were fit foranybody. Clement spoke well of them, but she had little faith in him.

  On Sunday, just as the church bells were calling, and the Priory ladieswere proceeding to the bench they had placed in the south transept,when leaving the chancel to the choir, there appeared the not verywelcome outline of an aquiline young profile, with loose shining brownhair, peering about over the big oaken boxes that fenced up the centralaisle; and it was Angela who popped up her head to guide him to a localhabitation.

  If it were true that Vale Leston rejoiced in the best choir in theneighbourhood, Ewshire could not be well off, thought those who wereused to the Bexley organ and choir under Lance's presidency. Clementhad done a good deal in the past year with his boys, and had a goodschoolmaster as organist; but the best voices did not appertain to thebest men, and those best men, being the most imbued with Hepburnism,viewed the gallery as a much more honourable place than the chancel,and would infinitely rather have sung in a dissenting chapel than ina surplice; but though they were little cultivated, and were still inwhat their vicar called motley, his voice, with the Squire's practisedone, and Will's with its old chorister training, told enough to makethe general effect far above the country average, and to merit theadmiration with which Lord Ernest replied to Angela's exaggerateddespair at the dissonances.

  On the way through the Cloister he contrived to say to Robina, 'I'veheard from Papa--it is all right.' She could only reply, 'That iswell!' with a real look of congratulation, though she felt that the useof the strictly domestic appellation was another dangerous implicationof familiarity. After dinner she crept up to her own room, resolved togive neither encouragement to him nor offence to William, thinking ithard that the latter's last Sunday should be spoilt. The school would,she knew, keep Angela out of mischief, and Cherry would look after theguest if he deserved to be entertained. What had become of poor LadyCaergwent?

  Perhaps the sun was too hot in her southern room, for Robina grewrestless over her books, and wandered into Cherry's painting room,gazing listlessly from the windows. Then she saw a sight that surprisedher--Will and Lord Ernest under the cedar, in a conference that lastedtill the smallest bell began to ring.

  Felix was still more surprised by Will's address to him some hourslater.

  'I just want to know one thing. Do you want that young fellow lickedinto shape--that young De la Poer?' he added, meeting Felix's look ofblank amazement. 'He wants me to take him in hand at Penbeacon. I toldhim I did not know if there was room--I really don't; but the realquestion is--' and there he came to a dead stop.

  'The real question is--' repeated Felix.

  'Whether you think it a good thing?' continued Will, his head bent overa cat's-cradle of string in which he had tied up his fingers.

  'A very good thing for him, and pecuniarily not a bad one for you.'

  'Botheration! that has nothing to do with it. Can't you see what Imean? Is it good for--her?' and the poor little monosyllable came outwith a sort of groan.

  Felix pitied him enough to help him forward with, 'For Robina, doyou mean? You are under a misapprehension, if you think it makes anydifference to her!'

  'Then you don't approve of it? You don't want to put a stop to it?'

  'There is nothing to put a stop to, that I know of!'

  'Ah! then you don't know!' said Will, lapsing into deep dejection.

  'I know she would consider what you imply as dishonourable andtreacherous!'

  'No, no!' cried Will, vehemently; 'no such thing! Your sister in yourhouse--as well-born a lady as any in England--a match for any man inthe realm!'

/>   'There are other reasons, besides her position in the family, whichwould make her think it treason to encourage what, I believe, has noexistence.'

  'Ah, then--you don't know what--' and again he stopped short betweendismay and oppression.

  'What do you mean?'

  'No, no; you shall not have it from me. I'm only sorry I said a word.'And the poor fellow was going away.

  'Hold, Bill! Tell me what you mean? I believe I can explain it!'

  'There's only one expla--No; what am I saying? She has every right.You'll hear it soon enough!'

  He was turning the handle of the door, when Felix said, 'If you meanthat Robina spoke to him in the kitchen-garden on Thursday, I know allabout that!'

  'Indeed!' His face altered instantly.

  'She had a letter from his mother that she thought he ought to see. Shetold me what she intended.'

  'Queer people, to find such a channel of communication,' said Bill,gruffly. 'And that was all?'

  'The whole.'

  'Well! I never meant to act the spy; but I'll tell you how it was,Felix. I had heard all Milwright's prose, and was sick of all thehumbug; so I went into your study for a little peace, and there I heardTheodore fretting awfully in the next room--'

  'I know. You were so kind as to take him out.'

  'He wanted you, and he wanted to be out; and he was plagued andbothered at so many strangers about, and Sibby was nearly dementedwith having to keep him quiet and wash up the thingumbobs. So thiswatch--it belongs to John, came from his aunt's; but I've got it whilemine is refitting--and it plays all manner of tunes. Theodore will comeanywhere after it; so I got him into the kitchen-garden, thinking therewould be peace there, and into the old root-house, and there what doeshe do but go to sleep on my knee!'

  'Yes; he had had a bad night. I was writing later than was good forhim, and he was excited by the preparations.'

  'So while I was pinned down, I saw--from the little window--those twowalking up and down at the further end of the garden,' and he made agesture of utter despair. 'It was no good showing myself--I was out ofhearing; but--And so,' he added, 'I thought if I could anyway conduceto making him fit for her, it was all I could do for her.'

  'Very kind! but you might have trusted her!'

  'Trust! If I had any right!'

  'She thinks you have!'

  'She!' and the face lighted up. 'You don't mean that she holds to_that?_ Of course you know nothing about it, though? Some childishnonsense passed years ago, but I never durst believe she remembered it.'

  'She knows it ought not to bind you, but--'

  'Bind! What should bind but the love of my whole heart, ever since Iknew I had one? I durst not speak again of it. When I came to perceivewhat I had done, I thought it not fair towards her to renew it, till Ihad the means to keep her as she ought to be kept; for you know I'venot got a preserve of old aunts, like Jack!'

  'Quite right, Will!'

  'And when she had been among all those swells, how did I know what shemight not be wanting to take up with--never being much of a fellow tolook at, any time?' he added wistfully.

  'I think you might have known her better!'

  'You see,' he broke out, 'I don't want her to be held to me only bywhat took place long ago, when she was a child of thirteen. That wouldbe a downright shame, and I never meant to remind her till I had a hometo offer her. There have been times when I made sure we understoodone another; but to this hour I don't know whether she likes me a bitbetter than John, and if she--likes--this young man better--she hasa perfect right!' concluded poor Will, with a great sob from his bighonest chest.

  'That you had better ascertain!'

  'Do you tell me so?' he exclaimed.

  'I am not exactly the person to tell you to do so; but though I honouryour conduct with all my heart, I think the mutual uncertainty iscausing you both much unnecessary unhappiness and anxiety.'

  'I can answer for one! But she? People always preach that longengagements wear out a girl's life.'

  'If you were sixteen and thirteen over again, I should say, "Don't!"very decidedly; but having gone so far, I think you had best go on. Ireally believe that not only would an understanding be a great presentrelief, but that an avowed engagement would be a great comfort andprotection to her.'

  'I'll never let her go back to that drudgery!' cried Will.

  'That you must settle with her,'

  'Then I have your sanction?'

  'Yes; but I'm not your father!'

  'Oh! he'll be jolly and glad! He never interferes with anything inreason! I wonder how Wilmet will look!'

  'That must be ascertained by experiment. We must shut up now, Will, orpoor Tedo will have another restless night. Good-night!'

  'Pah! I should like to go out and halloo!'

  'Write a poem instead, and work off the steam!' said Felix, turningdown the lamp to get rid of that most unpoetical-looking poet.

  Will had announced an intention of walking to Penbeacon in earlymorning, and when rallied by Angela on having overslept himself, thegreat audacious slap-dash fellow proved to have turned as shy asa girl. He kept on blushing up to the ears, looking sheepish, andlosing opportunities from sheer awkwardness. If the space had beenas small, or Felix as punctilious as at John's courtship, the crisiscould hardly have come on; but Felix had put off going to Bexley, tosee the affair through, and was resolved that the mutual inflictionof misery should last no longer. So finding matters in _statu quo_ atdinner-time, he ordered the waggonet, and declaring suddenly that hewould protect Cherry through the visits she had to return, he packedin three sisters, declaring, with a twinkle in his eye, that he knewBobbie wanted to finish her sketch of the church. Clement was gone tothe far end of the village, and Bernard was fishing, so that the coastwas clear.

  But the drawing went on in solitude under the cedar for a quarter of anhour; and when at last a sort of irresolute saunter resulted in a bigloosely-built personage reclining on the grass at the sketcher's feet,a good many more minutes were spent in pulling up tufts, while she wastoo glad to have him there to suggest that he was doing the work ofa dozen chaffer-grubs. Indeed, she soon saw that he was ill at ease,and her painting felt the influence of his restlessness, which beganto alarm her, though she durst not disturb it. He might mean to haveit out with her--he might be composing a poem--to which last opinionshe inclined when he at length lay prone on his back, his straw hatentirely over his face; and she expected either a heroic utterance, ora hasty demand for a pencil and a page of her sketch-book. Instead ofwhich, after a deep sigh, came the portentous words--'Double-distilleddonkey!'

  'Indeed, I don't think he's quite that!' justice compelled her to say.

  'There! I knew how it would be! Nothing but an unmitigated idiot couldhave thought otherwise for a moment!'

  'Thought what?' said Robina--not exactly liking to consider the'unmitigated idiot' meant to apply to herself, the most obviousantecedent.

  'Why, I was ten thousand asses for coming out here!'

  'Indeed!'

  Something in the tone of that 'indeed' raised him to a sitting posture,with his arms embracing his knees, a resolute and deplorable attitude.'I say, Robina, tell me at once, and put an end to it, whether you carefor that sprig of nobility!'

  'I!' she cried, her eyes flashing. 'How can you suspect me!' andindignation made it sound like--'insult me!'

  'Don't be in such a fury with a poor fellow that has been driven nearlyto desperation!' said William, putting an elbow on the chair where herapparatus stood.

  'It was your own fault!' said Robina; she meant it to be sternly, butit was softly. 'I wanted to explain to you, but you never would let me!'

  'I did not know that you--I mean, that I felt that I had no right toask!'

  'O Willie!'

  'Robina! Robin--dearest! Are you thinking of that evening?--Bah! what'sthis?' as his start forward upset the chair against him.

  'The water I was painting with! Let me wipe it. It is making a greenstream over your face!
' at which they both laughed hysterically; andwhat Will tried to do to the hands that were drying his face may beinferred from--'Now, don't! Let me do it properly! Be quiet, let melook!' And as he half sat, half knelt, she turned up his great freckledface with her hand under his chin. 'There's a green drop still in thecorner of your left eye! Let me take it out.'

  'The last drop of the green-eyed monster, I promise you, Robina. Now,don't you know what they always do to good little boys, who have hadtheir faces washed nice and clean?'

  'But you haven't been a good little boy! You were very naughty, makingme ever so unhappy!' and, smiling as she was, there was a tear notgreen in her eye.

  'Ah! You could never have been so wretched as I was; not knowingwhether what was my deepest earnest was child's play to you, and notdaring to ask.'

  'Just like me!' she whispered.

  'And now, is it not like waking out of a horrible dream, or getting outof a mist of darkness, to find that we have had one another's heartever--ever since? my Robin--mine own--mine own!'

  'Oh! indeed it is! I don't think we quite knew what we were doing then,but it has only grown as we have grown older.'

  'And will grow for ever, Robina!'

  'I trust so!'

  'Isn't this rest?' he said presently.

  'After all those worries! Oh! I must tell you about Lord Ernest!'

  'I don't want to hear a word about Lord Ernest, or Lord Anybody! Blessme, I forgot! I was to let the fellow knew if I could have him up atthe farm; and in fact I was waiting to know whether you wanted him madea man of for you!' and Will laughed merrily. 'I'd have done my best,Robin!'

  'I do want him made a man of, but not for me,' said Robina, strokinghis face, by way of reward for a generosity she could not speak of.'You'll do it, Willie?'

  'He'll be off with it, now!'

  'Nonsense! that had nothing at all to do with it. He had been trying toread at home, and it did not answer.'

  'Never does!'

  'He got bothered, and came to Eweford in a fit of temper. The familydid not know where he was, and I thought I ought to show him theirletters, and let him see how vexed they were. Felix said I had betterlet it alone, and I found after all that Lord Ernest had written to hisfather.'

  'Felix knows about us. How is that?'

  'I was uncomfortable at his not knowing. I once tried to tell Wilmet,when I was afraid I ought not to keep the _nid d'avis;_ but she said Iwas a silly child, and would not listen.'

  'How lucky! What a delicious time we had at Bareges! It is like astream of sunshine in my mind. Won't we go there again some day! Thatwould have settled my business, even if there had been no summerevening at home. I've got your sketches up in my rooms, and this onewill follow them.'

  'If you haven't gone and spoilt it! Look! There's a great dab of blue,that you made me make, half way up the church tower.'

  'Make it Clement, in a sky-blue scarlet vestment, pronouncing abenediction!'

  'For shame, Willie! that's as bad as Angela. Besides, he isn't gone upas high as _that_ yet!'

  'Make it a forget-me-not, then!'

  'Up there! and as big as the window?'

  'Make it something! I won't have it washed out. It marks the primemoment of my life--when I came from darkness into sunshine. You mustcome some day and do our Cathedral from the meads, and I'll show youwhere I cut out our initials and 1861.'

  'No! did you?'

  'Of course; and all the more because you would not break a sixpence.You will now?'

  'With all my heart!'

  'I declare I haven't got one now! Only a three-penny bit, again.'

  'Here's one!' said Robina. 'Give me the three-penny, and then it willbe half from each.'

  'That's not the right arrangement,' said Will, as he frowned horriblyover the difficulty of dividing the coin. 'I say, I'll get you a ringto-morrow, though it won't be such a one as Jack's.'

  'No, it will be much better!' said Robina, taking the scissors at herchatelaine, (from a Repworth Christmas-tree,) and snipping a lock fromhis head, while he was still struggling with the sixpence. 'There, Ishall make that into a ring! Yes it is the only one I will have--theonly gold I care for.'

  'If you call that gold, it is decisive,' said Will, laughing, as shetwined the ruddy thing in her fingers. 'You must have something to setit in?'

  'Yes; I must wait till the chestnut horse comes home, for a few hairsof his mane for a foundation--black would show through.'

  Bill protested in favour of 'a real one,' but without much effect.Was not the sixpence yielding at last? and had she not that preciousbird's-nest, which she had not dared to wear during his displeasure,unwitting that this grieved him the more? They were very earnest overthe old-fashioned ceremony of the sixpence; they scratched a W and anR on each moiety, and made a hole, and Robina undertook the finding acord for each. It was playfully done, but with great depth beneath.

  'It has been the homely token of a great deal of simple trust!' saidWill.

  'And I am sure we are poor enough!' added Robina.

  'But you will never go back to that abominable harness?'

  'Indeed I must! No, Will! Cannot you see how wrong and foolish it wouldbe to be living on Felix, with nothing to do, and no one wanting me?'

  'No one?'

  'Cherry is all the world to Felix, and teaches Stella. Angela takes theparish work; and it would be a sin and shame to waste my education indawdling here. Even dear old Lancey is too much taken up with his musicto want me to keep house for him. I should only be in his way; and I donot want to enter on all the questions about society there!'

  'No; Bexley would not do for you!'

  'And when I am getting one hundred pounds now, and am to have onehundred and fifty after Christmas, when Miss Oswald goes, would it notbe sheer waste and laziness to come and prey on Felix, when I might beearning a nice little nest-egg to furnish our house with?'

  'That's to coax me; but I can't stand your working for me!'

  'I might as well say I can't stand your working for me, you sillyfellow! You don't see me crying at your keeping pupils at Penbeacon.'

  'Yes, but I'm the right one!'

  'I declare you've been learning of my godmothers, who say it isunworthy of a man to let his womankind work. A regular Mahometannotion, isn't it? And I shall get my holidays whenever you areavailable. Don't you see?'

  'I see it exactly in Miss Hepburn's light. Men must work!'

  'And women weep! Eh? I've no intention of weeping! I much preferworking, and I do no more than is wholesome for any person'swell-being. I believe it is Green-eyes again?'

  'No; I'm not afraid of you, my own, own steady-hearted Bird! I neverwould have been, had I known whether you viewed that evening walk asplay or earnest. I've done with that sort of trouble; but I should liketo lift you out of all the drudgery of work-a-day life, and give youall that heart could wish!'

  'The heart of a bird of paradise!' said she, looking into his face;'the heart of a robin red-breast gets much nearer what it wishes whenit is working--working for you, you know! Ay! that's so sweet, that youwant to get it all for yourself!'

  'My sweetest Bird! before you have talked me quite out of my senses,with your poetical way of putting it, let me say that you and I don'twork on equal terms. There's the rub!'

  'Oh! You're ashamed of the governess?'

  'No indeed, dearest; but that you--you--equal to any in birth--shouldbe in an inferior position!'

  'Lord Earnestlypoor!' announced Amelia, in one single word, as sheadvanced on them from the house, with the gentleman following. 'Heasked for Mr. Harewood.'

  Up they sprung, holding out their hands.

  'I thought I might walk over for my answer,' he said, with a sense ofinterrupting something.

  William gave a conscious laugh. 'I'm afraid I've not been up toPenbeacon yet.'

  'I think,' said Robina, rallying her powers, 'we had better make ouravowal at once. Lord Ernest, we want your congratulations. We havebeen engaged this long time, and my eldest
brother has just given usleave to make it known.'

  Good breeding and self-command might perhaps be what prevented all signof aught but frank friendliness. 'Indeed! I wish you joy with all myheart. Does Grace know?'

  'I am going to write to Grace.'

  'She will be very unselfish if she rejoices.'

  'I don't think it will make any difference for some time to come,' saidRobina.

  'You see,' said Will, 'we neither of us have anything; and she willhave it that she is so happy among your sisters, that it is no hardshipto go on as she is.'

  'My mother will say that it is as great a compliment as ever shereceived.--Well, Harewood! when you can think of such sublunary mattersas pupils, will you let me know? I wouldn't have interrupted you, but Ihad no notion anything so interesting was going on!'

  He was so genuinely simple and hearty, that Will was impelled to trywhether he still wished to be his pupil, by asking whether he wouldobject to sleeping at a cottage. 'Not in the least!' he said, 'it wouldbe rather jolly! All I want is for you to work me up. I feel more boundthan ever not to come to grief, now they have let me take my way,' headded, with frankness satisfactory to both.

  Will entered into particulars of the accommodations, and Robinainterposed warnings against his statements till verified by hersister's inspection. These two were really lovers of too long standingto be overwhelmingly engrossed, but were rather like beings lightenedof a heavy load of suspense; and when the question between the twogentlemen began as to the books he should write for from home, hediversified it by saying to Robina--'I brought my father's letter.Would you like to see it?'

  Probably he had meant to read selections, and gave it to her onlybecause this was impossible, and he really wanted to justify his recentwords.

  Lord de la Poer fulfilled the assertion that he would not be displeasedwith his son's independence, provided he should persevere in exertion.There was a kindly expressed but not the less real warning, that theexamination at Oxford would be the test whether this were a manlyspirit or mere restive impatience. Full permission to read withMr. Harewood, or any one he preferred, was given. Mr. Crichton hadperceived that the system of study at home did not answer. 'When theclass-list comes out,' wrote the Marquess, 'it will be time to considerof the future; but I promise that you shall not find yourself withheldfrom any suitable course, by any wishes that may have been prematurelyexpressed. That whole subject may be considered as closed. If yourpresent plans are inspired by any other views, I trust to your treatingme with confidence.'

  That was the only sentence in which any suspicion could be detected.How Robina rejoiced that Felix had prevented the confession that wouldhave been so ridiculous now! Of Lady Caergwent there was not a word. IfLord de la Poer knew of any grief at the defection, he regarded himselfas in honour bound not to betray her.

  Robina was waiting to restore the letter for a pause in the discussionof Greek plays and moral philosophy, which was the prelude to thelicking into shape, though in externals the tutor looked by far themost in need of the process, when Amelia made another incursion,and this time announced, 'Miss Hepburn'--who proved to be two ofthe sisters--Bridget and Isabella; but introductions not being theprevailing custom at Repworth Towers, Robina did not feel called onto make any, and indeed William had been at Vale Leston as long asshe had. But they had never met face to face before, and the ladiesresented the omission, returned the bows stiffly, and when she said,'My sisters are gone out to make morning visits,' the answer was, 'Yes,my sister Martha saw them, and we thought you would be alone.'

  'Thank you. Will you come into the drawing-room, or do you like sittingout-of-doors?--Willie, please ring, and ask for some tea.'

  'No, thank you! We will not disturb you. We did not know you wereengaged!'

  Will took the word technically, and started; Lord Ernest kept hiscountenance with difficulty; but Robina had sense enough to understand,and say, 'I only stayed at home to finish a sketch. These afternoonlights and shades are particularly becoming to the church.' And LordErnest, bringing some chairs to the rescue, applied himself with readycourtesy to make talk, though praise of the choir was hardly a happysubject to start. He did his best with Miss Isabella, while Robinafaltered through ten minutes of cold commonplace with Miss Bridget.

  About a quarter of an hour later, Major Harewood, who was working outthe problem whether prudence would allow him to exchange militaryengineering for high farming as the Squire's agent, looked up at thesight of his wife in hat and parasol.

  'Are you going out, my dear? Is it not too hot?'

  'Only to the Priory.'

  'There's nobody at home. Kit saw "Uncle Fee" and all the aunties goingout in the carriage.'

  'Not Robina. Miss Isabella Hepburn has just been here, to warn me thatshe found her sitting on the lawn, alone with two young men!'

  'Bernard and Theodore?'

  'No, no; of course she knows them by sight. I shall go down. I expectit is that young De la Poer; and either Robin does not know how to getrid of him, and will be glad to see me, or else she ought to be!'

  'Those are the ladies that are said to have but one tooth,' said John,taking up hat and stick.

  'There's no need to disturb you. Only I feel it the more expedient tobe near. I am much vexed at this beginning. I never expected it fromRobina. She is worse than Angel!'

  'Poor Robin! There's been something amiss with her all the week, aswell as with Bill. I wonder if there is anything in the Bailey jokeabout them?'

  'Most certainly not,' said Wilmet; 'I am much more afraid of the otherthing. I always thought her choosing to stay at Repworth suspicious!'

  'I don't believe it! I saw them come up after she had been lost atEwmouth, as innocent as lambs! Her manner was perfectly simple andnatural.'

  'I don't understand Robina's manner,' said Wilmet.

  Walking down the hilly slope of the path, they presently were aware ofa pair with arms and hands doubly interlaced, in the fashion peculiarto the circumstances.

  'John!'

  'Wilmet! Was there never a blackberry lane in our lives?'

  'Not without--Robina!'

  They turned, but without confusion, without loosing of arms, or ifRobina had attempted it, it was checked.

  'Oh! there you are, John!' exclaimed Will 'So you see we have settledit at last!'

  'I do not know what you mean,' said Wilmet, gravely.

  'O Wilmet!' said Robina. 'I told you all about it, long ago, atBareges.'

  'If you consider that as any intimation--' she began; but her husbandinterrupted her. 'I suppose Felix has yet to hear this?'

  'Oh no!' both cried; Will adding, 'Felix created this vast solitude onour behalf!'

  'Your father?' added Wilmet.

  'He went away a day too soon; but there's no fear of him, is there,Jack?'

  'You all seem to me demented!' said Wilmet aghast.

  'Nay, Mettie, if you knew it at Bareges, you can't say a word!' saidJohn, much amused.

  'Always sending us up the mountains together!' added Will. 'No one evergave me such a happy time of it!'

  'Giving me leave to keep the brooch!' continued Robina, chiming in withtheir humour.

  'Why, 'tis your doing,' summed up the Major; 'and I trust it is a goodwork for both!' he gravely proceeded. 'I wish you joy, with all myheart, though I fear I must wish you patience too!'

  'And prudence!' put in Wilmet, but softening into sweetness. 'DearRobin--dear Willie--don't think I don't care!' as she gave a sisterlykiss to each. 'It is because I do care so very much for both that I amanxious!'

  'Anxiety was your meat and drink so early in life that you can't shakeit off now!' said John, affectionately; 'and Harewood as I am, I shouldshare it with you, if I didn't know that Bill's choice much resemblesher elder sister!'

  'You may say that!' observed Will. 'Why, she wants to go on in harnessat Repworth!'

  'That is wise!' responded Wilmet.

  'But, halloo!' cried John, 'did your friend see double, Mettie?--orwh
at have you done with your other young man, Robina?'

  'Walked him to the little gate! He came to settle about reading withWillie.'

  'I say!' cried William, laughing, 'did the Graiae go and send Wilmet toput on her Gorgon's head, and charge down on us? I thought they werelooking as sour as verjuice!'

  'You see,' proceeded Wilmet, 'we must all be careful! It won't do tofancy one can do anything in the country. These old ladies don't do itout of ill-nature, like Lady Price, but they are almost worse!'

  'However, Mettie, as these poor things have been subjected already toone Oxonian and two hags, I think you and I had better relieve them ofour presence, and let them finish their walk in peace.'

  Putting things together, Robina thought she had not wholly escapeddoubt at Repworth, for she received no letter between the inquiry intothe K T case, and the answers to her own communication, and these sooverflowed with affection and cordiality, as to suggest that they werea reaction. Lady de la Poer wrote warm congratulations, and spoke ofher eldest son's high opinion of Mr. Harewood; she was rejoiced at MissUnderwood's decision to return to her post, and she gave a few wordsof thanks for the explanation about the children's chatter: 'Susie hasbeen well lectured on Russian scandal!' was her conclusion.

  Lady Grace was rapturous enough to think she had seen the futuredawning at the station. Poor Grace! she certainly was rather gushing,and probably it was the contrast that made her so devoted to thestaid Robina. She let out that she was 'so glad to write again. Mammahad advised her not, for fear of more misunderstandings, till it wassettled about Ernest; and now he must bring Mr. Harewood to Repworthfor her to see. As to Kate, she was still at the Towers; the Wardourshad the small-pox in their parish, and could not have her.' Grace hadevidently been put under some reserve as to the Countess; but therewas a note from herself--quaint and hearty, like all she did, and witha little sadness in it. There was no such intimacy as to render itnecessary, and Robina interpreted the writing of it to mean that therehad once been bitter feelings towards her, and that this was theirrecall.

  MY DEAR MISS UNDERWOOD,

  Gracie tells me you have been well employed. I heartily wish you joy. A university tutor seems to me as mighty a power of influence as any in existence, but I suppose it is your mission to spoil him for that. Lucky girl that you are, to have work and brothers and all! You don't know how much it saves you from. One brother is all I would have asked, if only to prevent me from signing myself,

  Yours affectionately, CAERGWENT.

  The secret history must evidently wait for Robina's return, and beforethat there was a great deal of conscientious hard work at Penbeacon,the tutor resolutely refraining from walks to Vale Leston, exceptwhen, on Sunday, he and his whole party marched down to what he called'prayers and provender,' at Vale Leston. Also there was one, onlyone, picnic given by the Penbeaconites to the Vale Lestonites, duringthe week when the Squire inexorably went to Bexley, and sent Lanceto be the merriest of the merry on the last of August, and to makeacquaintance with the hares and partridges on the 1st of September.

  At the end of that week, in the early charms of September, with thesheaves glorifying the fields, the fruit glowing on the trees, thepears drooping in russet drops, the apples piled in red and goldenheaps, the geraniums and verbenas flaming on the lawn, Felix broughtMr. and Mrs. Froggatt, for what was probably as happy and exultanta visit as ever they paid in their joint lives. To see Felix in hisglory was almost as much to them as if he had been their own child,and they were intimate enough to make it possible to provide for theirentertainment perfectly to their satisfaction. The home-farm, which wasto be let to Major Harewood, with a tariff for the articles needed forfamily consumption, afforded Mrs. Froggatt great amusement in studyingchickens and ducks; and the agent's house, a pretty cottage on theopposite bank, was being improved at John's expense, so as to be readyfor occupation as soon as he could effect his retirement and break upfrom Woolwich; and every one knows the resource house-building is tothe leisurely holiday-maker. Indeed, Mr. Froggatt wanted nothing buthis book and newspaper, and a little talk and garden fancying; andthe petting Cherry and Stella gave him. The tender reverent affectionall the young people showed to both, as to their true friends andbenefactors, warmed their hearts.

  One state-dinner--in spite of his disavowal of dinner visiting--Felixhad always resolved to give, chiefly for the sake of the satisfactionhe knew Mrs. Froggatt would for ever feel in it. He had to pick theother guests, but he secured a sufficiency. Dr. May had promisedhimself and his two daughters. Of Mrs. Staples Cherry was afraid, butMr. Staples came, and Mr. and Mrs. Welsh, which was the more amiablein him because there had been a time in his life when Mr. and Mrs.Froggatt would have been far above him. Lord Ernest came down fromPenbeacon, and thus, with the Harewoods and the large home-party, thenumbers were quite imposing; especially with the display of all theplate, champagne, ices, Krishnu, and even Cherry's abomination, a hiredwaiter in white gloves!

  It was not thrown away. Mrs. Froggatt was indeed a little awed in theBismarck brocade and blonde cap she would have been so sorry not tohave aired; but Dr. May found the way to her heart, even before dinner,by admiring the testimonial inkstand which adorned the drawing-roomwriting-table, and its story and all it led to lasted more than halfthrough dinner, and Gertrude caught echoes even while fraternizingwith Major Harewood over her brother in the engineers. After dinner,good-natured little Mrs. Welsh, to the manner trained, took toentertaining the old lady, and though the style was too electioneeringfor Cherry's taste, it suited the purpose exactly, and made Mrs.Froggatt pronounce her a very pretty and affable young lady.

  Even if there had been less enjoyment at the time, that dinner-partywould have been one of the chief events of Mrs. Froggatt's life. Shenever wearied of dilating on it to all the friends who called on her,on her return. 'She should have thought it a privilege only to see thatdear young gentleman in his proper sphere; but for him to treat the oldpeople as he might any lord in the land, and show himself as attentive,as filial, she might say, as if he still had his bread to earn!' andthere she always began to cry.

  'One effect your dinner-party has had,' wrote Lance to Cherry, 'it haswholly destroyed the small remains of Madame Tanneguy's peace of mind.What she does not believe of the glories of the Priory it would be hardto say. She angled full two half-hours for an invitation last time theSquire was here, between her affection for you--and then poor littleAchille's health. And the effect upon that stony-hearted old Giantwas, that he sent two ten-pound notes to Miss Pearson, with a requestto take lodgings for her and the children at Dearport for a month.Wherewith Miss Pearson trotted confidentially to me, to assure me thatshe could not use them, since nothing on earth ailed Achille. I advisedher to keep and apply them; for not only do I know he would not takethem back, but it is no bad form of intimating that she may change toany air save Vale Leston. And the absurd part of it is, that the moreshe aspires, the more poor Lamb casts his hopeless sheep's-eyes at her!'