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diff --git a/5843-h/5843-h.htm b/5843-h/5843-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5c77820 --- /dev/null +++ b/5843-h/5843-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,29066 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=UTF-8" /> + <title> + The Young Step-mother, by Charlotte M Yonge + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Step-Mother, by Charlotte M. Yonge + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Young Step-Mother + +Author: Charlotte M. Yonge + +Release Date: June, 2004 [EBook #5843] +Last Updated: October 13, 2016 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE YOUNG STEP-MOTHER *** + + + + +Produced by Sandra Laythorpe and David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + THE YOUNG STEP-MOTHER + </h1> + <h2> + or, A CHRONICLE OF MISTAKES + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Charlotte M Yonge + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <blockquote> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Fail—yet rejoice, because no less + The failure that makes thy distress + May teach another full success. + + Nor with thy share of work be vexed + Though incomplete and even perplexed + It fits exactly to the next. + ADELAIDE A PROCTOR +</pre> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI. </a> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + ‘Have you talked it over with her?’ said Mr. Ferrars, as his little + slender wife met him under the beeches that made an avenue of the lane + leading to Fairmead vicarage. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes!’ was the answer, which the vicar was not slow to understand. + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot say I expected much from your conversation, and perhaps we ought + not to wish it. We are likely to see with selfish eyes, for what shall we + do without her?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear Albinia! You always taunted me with having married your sister as + much as yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So I shall again, if you cannot give her up with a good grace.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If I could have had my own way in disposing of her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps the hero of your own composition might be less satisfactory to + her than is Kendal.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘At least he should be minus the children!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I fancy the children are one great attraction. Do you know how many there + are?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Three; but if Albinia knows their ages she involves them in a discreet + haze. I imagine some are in their teens.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Impossible, Winifred, he is hardly five-and-thirty.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thirty-eight, he said yesterday, and he married very early. I asked + Albinia if her son would be in tail-coats; but she thought I was laughing + at her, and would not say. She is quite eager at the notion of being + governess to the girls.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She has wanted scope for her energies,’ said Mr. Ferrars. ‘Even spoiling + her nephew, and being my curate, have not afforded field enough for her + spirit of usefulness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That is what I am afraid of.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Of what, Winifred?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That it is my fault. Before our marriage, you and she were the whole + world to each other; but since I came, I have seen, as you say, that the + craving for work was strong, and I fear it actuates her more than she + knows.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No such thing. It is a case of good hearty love. What, are you afraid of + that, too?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I am. I grudge her giving her fresh whole young heart away to a man + who has no return to make. His heart is in his first wife’s grave. Yes, + you may smile, Maurice, as if I were talking romance; but only look at + him, poor man! Did you ever see any one so utterly broken down? She can + hardly beguile a smile from him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘His melancholy is one of his charms in her eyes.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So it may be, as a sort of interesting romance. I am sure I pity the poor + man heartily, but to see her at three-and-twenty, with her sweet face and + high spirits, give herself away to a man who looks but half alive, and + cannot, if he would, return that full first love—have the charge of + a tribe of children, be spied and commented on by the first wife’s + relations—Maurice, I cannot bear it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is not what we should have chosen,’ said her husband, ‘but it has a + bright side. Kendal is a most right-minded, superior man, and she + appreciates him thoroughly. She has great energy and cheerfulness, and if + she can comfort him, and rouse him into activity, and be the kind mother + she will be to his poor children, I do not think we ought to grudge her + from our own home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You and she have so strong a feeling for motherless children!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thinking of Kendal as I do, I have but one fear for her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have many—the chief being the grandmother.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mine will make you angry, but it is my only one. You, who have only known + her since she has subdued it, have probably never guessed that she has + that sort of quick sensitive temper—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice, Maurice! as if I had not been a most provoking, presuming + sister-in-law. As if I had not acted so that if Albinia ever had a temper, + she must have shown it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I knew you would not believe me, and I really am not afraid of her doing + any harm by it, if that is what you suspect me of. No, indeed; but I fear + it may make her feel any trials of her position more acutely than a placid + person would.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oho! so you own there will be trials!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Winifred, as if I had not sat up till twelve last night laying + them before Albinia. How sick the poor child must be of our arguments, + when there is no real objection, and she is so much attached! Have you + heard anything about these connexions of his? Did you not write to Mrs. + Nugent? I wish she were at home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I had her answer by this afternoon’s post, but there is nothing to tell. + Mr. Kendal has only been settled at Bayford Bridge a few years, and she + never visited any one there, though Mr. Nugent had met Mr. Kendal several + times before his wife’s death, and liked him. Emily is charmed to have + Albinia for a neighbour.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Does she know nothing of the Meadows’ family?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing but that old Mrs. Meadows lives in the town with one unmarried + daughter. She speaks highly of the clergyman.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘John Dusautoy? Ay, he is admirable—not that I have done more than + see him at visitations when he was curate at Lauriston.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is he married?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I fancy he is, but I am not sure. There is one good friend for Albinia + any way!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And now for your investigations. Did you see Colonel Bury?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I did, but he could say little more than we knew. He says nothing could + be more exemplary than Kendal’s whole conduct in India, he only regretted + that he kept so much aloof from others, that his principle and gentlemanly + feeling did not tell as much as could have been wished. He has always been + wrapped up in his own pursuits—a perfect dictionary of information.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We had found out that, though he is so silent. I should think him a most + elegant scholar.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And a deep one. He has studied and polished his acquirements to the + utmost. I assure you, Winifred, I mean to be proud of my brother-in-law.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What did you hear of the first wife?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was an early marriage. He went home as soon as he had sufficient + salary, married her, and brought her out. She was a brilliant dark beauty, + who became quickly a motherly, housewifely, common-place person—I + should think there had been a poet’s love, never awakened from.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The very thing that has always struck me when, poor man, he has tried to + be civil to me. Here is a man, sensible himself, but who has never had the + hap to live with sensible women.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘When their children grew too old for India, she came into some little + property at Bayford Bridge, which enabled him to retire. Colonel Bury came + home in the same ship, and saw much of them, liked him better and better, + and seems to have been rather wearied by her. A very good woman, he says, + and Kendal most fondly attached; but as to comparing her with Miss + Ferrars, he could not think of it for a moment. So they settled at + Bayford, and there, about two years ago, came this terrible visitation of + typhus fever.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I remember how Colonel Bury used to come and sigh over his friend’s + illness and trouble.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He could not help going over it again. The children all fell ill together—the + two eldest were twin boys, one puny, the other a very fine fellow, and his + father’s especial pride and delight. As so often happens, the sickly one + was spared, the healthy one was taken.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then Albinia will have an invalid on her hands!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The Colonel says this Edmund was a particularly promising boy, and poor + Kendal felt the loss dreadfully. He sickened after that, and his wife was + worn out with nursing and grief, and sank under the fever at once. Poor + Kendal has never held up his head since; he had a terrible relapse.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And,’ said Winifred, ‘he no sooner recovers than he goes and marries our + Albinia!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Two years, my dear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray explain to me, Maurice, why, when people become widowed in any + unusually lamentable way, they always are the first to marry again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Incorrigible. I meant to make you pity him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I did, till I found I had wasted my pity. Why could not these Meadowses + look after his children! Why must the Colonel bring him here? I believe it + was with malice prepense!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The Colonel went to see after him, and found him so drooping and + wretched, that he insisted on bringing him home with him, and old Mrs. + Meadows and her daughter almost forced him to accept the invitation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They little guessed what the Colonel would be at!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You will be better now you have the Colonel to abuse,’ said her husband. + </p> + <p> + ‘And pray what do you mean to say to the General?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Exactly what I think.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And to the aunts?’ slyly asked the wife. + </p> + <p> + ‘I think I shall leave you all that correspondence. It will be too + edifying to see you making common cause with the aunts.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That comes of trying to threaten one’s husband; and here they come,’ said + Winifred. ‘Well, Maurice, what can’t be cured must be endured. Albinia’a + heart is gone, he is a very good man, and spite of India, first wife, and + melancholy, he does not look amiss!’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars smiled at the chary, grudging commendation of the tall, + handsome man who advanced through the beech-wood, but it was too true that + his clear olive complexion had not the line of health, that there was a + world of oppression on his broad brow and deep hazel eyes, and that it was + a dim, dreamy, reluctant smile that was awakened by the voice of the lady + who walked by his side, as if reverencing his grave mood. + </p> + <p> + She was rather tall, very graceful, and well made, but her features were + less handsome than sweet, bright, and sensible. Her hair was nut-brown, in + long curled waves; her eyes, deep soft grey, and though downcast under the + new sympathies, new feelings, and responsibilities that crowded on her, + the smile and sparkle that lighted them as she blushed and nodded to her + brother and sister, showed that liveliness was the natural expression of + that engaging face. + </p> + <p> + Say what they would, it was evident that Albinia Ferrars had cast in her + lot with Edmund Kendal, and that her energetic spirit and love of children + animated her to embrace joyfully the cares which such a choice must impose + on her. + </p> + <p> + As might have been perceived by one glance at the figure, step, and + bearing of Mr. Ferrars, perfectly clerical though they were, he belonged + to a military family. His father had been a distinguished Peninsular + officer, and his brother, older by many years, held a command in Canada. + Maurice and Albinia, early left orphans, had, with a young cousin, been + chiefly under the charge of their aunts, Mrs. Annesley and Miss Ferrars, + and had found a kind home in their house in Mayfair, until Maurice had + been ordained to the family living of Fairmead, and his sister had gone to + live with him there, extorting the consent of her elder brother to her + spending a more real and active life than her aunts’ round of society + could offer her. + </p> + <p> + The aunts lamented, but they could seldom win their darling to them for + more than a few weeks at a time, even after their nephew Maurice had—as + they considered—thrown himself away on a little lively lady of Irish + parentage, no equal in birth or fortune, in their opinion, for the + grandson of Lord Belraven. + </p> + <p> + They had been very friendly to the young wife, but their hopes had all the + more been fixed on Albinia; and even Winifred could afford them some + generous pity in the engagement of their favourite niece to a retired East + India Company’s servant—a widower with three children. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + The equinoctial sun had long set, and the blue haze of March east wind had + deepened into twilight and darkness when Albinia Kendal found herself + driving down the steep hilly street of Bayford. The town was not large nor + modern enough for gas, and the dark street was only lighted here and there + by a shop of more pretension; the plate-glass of the enterprising draper, + with the light veiled by shawls and ribbons, the ‘purple jars,’ green, + ruby, and crimson of the chemist; and the modest ray of the grocer, + revealing busy heads driving Saturday-night bargains. + </p> + <p> + ‘How well I soon shall know them all,’ said Albinia, looking at her + husband, though she knew she could not see his face, as he leant back + silently in his corner, and she tried to say no more. She was sure that + coming home was painful to him; he had been so willing to put it off, and + to prolong those pleasant seaside days, when there had been such pleasant + reading, walking, musing, and a great deal of happy silence. + </p> + <p> + Down the hill, and a little way on level ground—houses on one side, + something like hedge or shrubbery on the other—a stop—a gate + opened—a hollow sound beneath the carriage, as though crossing a + wooden bridge—trees—bright windows—an open door—and + light streaming from it. + </p> + <p> + ‘Here is your home, Albinia,’ said that deep musical voice that she loved + the better for the subdued melancholy of the tones, and the suppressed + sigh that could not be hidden. + </p> + <p> + ‘And my children,’ she eagerly said, as he handed her out, and, springing + to the ground, she hurried to the open door opposite, where, in the + lamp-light, she saw, moving about in shy curiosity and embarrassment, two + girls in white frocks and broad scarlet sashes, and a boy, who, as she + advanced, retreated with his younger sister to the fireplace, while the + elder one, a pretty, and rather formal looking girl of twelve, stood + forward. + </p> + <p> + Albinia held out her arms, saying, ‘You are Lucy, I am sure,’ and eagerly + kissed the girl’s smiling, bright face. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I am Lucy,’ was the well-pleased answer, ‘I am glad you are come.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope we shall be very good friends,’ said Albinia, with the sweet smile + that few, young or old, could resist. ‘And this is Gilbert,’ as she kissed + the blushing cheek of a thin boy of thirteen—‘and Sophia.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophia, who was eleven, had not stirred to meet her. She alone inherited + her father’s fine straight profile, and large black eyes, but she had the + heaviness of feature that sometimes goes with very dark complexions. The + white frock did not become her brown neck and arms, her thick black hair + was arranged in too womanly a manner, and her head and face looked too + large; moreover, there was no lighting-up to answer the greeting, and + Albinia was disappointed. + </p> + <p> + Poor child, she thought, she is feeling deeply that I am an interloper, it + will be different now her father is coming. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal was crossing the hall, and as he entered he took the hand and + kissed the forehead of each of the three, but Sophia stood with the same + half sullen indifference—it might be shyness, or sensibility. + </p> + <p> + ‘How much you are grown!’ he said, looking at the children with some + surprise. + </p> + <p> + In fact, though Albinia knew their ages, they were all on a larger scale + than she had expected, and looked too old for the children of a man of his + youthful appearance. Gilbert had the slight look of rapid growth; Lucy, + though not so tall, and with a small, clear, bright face, had the air of a + little woman, and Sophia’s face might have befitted any age. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, papa,’ said Lucy; ‘Gilbert has grown an inch-and-a-half since + October, for we measured him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you been well, Gilbert?’ continued Mr. Kendal, anxiously. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have the toothache, said Gilbert, piteously. + </p> + <p> + ‘Happily, nothing more serious,’ thrust in Lucy; ‘Mr. Bowles told Aunt + Maria that he considers Gilbert’s health much improved.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia asked some kind questions about the delinquent tooth, but the + answers were short; and, to put an end to the general constraint, she + asked Lucy to show her to her room. + </p> + <p> + It was a pretty bay-windowed room, and looked cheerful in the firelight. + Lucy’s tongue was at once unloosed, telling that Gilbert’s tutor, Mr. + Salsted, had insisted on his having his tooth extracted, and that he had + refused, saying it was quite well; but Lucy gave it as her opinion that he + much preferred the toothache to his lessons. + </p> + <p> + ‘Where does Mr. Salsted live?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘At Tremblam, about two miles off; Gilbert rides the pony over there every + day, except when he has the toothache, and then he stays at home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what do you do?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We went to Miss Belmarche till the end of our quarter, and since that we + have been at home, or with grandmamma. Do you <i>really</i> mean that we + are to study with you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should like it, my dear. I have been looking forward very much to + teaching you and Sophia.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you, mamma.’ + </p> + <p> + The word was said with an effort as if it came strangely, but it thrilled + Albinia’s heart, and she kissed Lucy, who clung to her, and returned the + caress. + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall tell Gilbert and Sophy what a dear mamma you are,’ she said. ‘Do + you know, Sophy says she shall never call you anything but Mrs. Kendal; + and I know Gilbert means the same.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let them call me whatever suits them best,’ said Albinia; ‘I had rather + they waited till they feel that they like to call me as you have done—thank + you for it, dear Lucy. You must not fancy I shall be at all hurt at your + thinking of times past. I shall want you to tell me of them, and of your + own dear mother, and what will suit papa best.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy looked highly gratified, and eagerly said, ‘I am sure I shall love + you just like my own mamma.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Albinia, kindly; ‘I do not expect that, my dear. I don’t ask + for any more than you can freely give, dear child. You must bear with + having me in that place, and we will try and help each other to make your + papa comfortable; and, Lucy, you will forgive me, if I am impetuous, and + make mistakes.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy’s little clear black eyes looked as if nothing like this had ever + come within her range of observation, and Albinia could sympathize with + her difficulty of reply. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal was not in the drawing-room when they re-entered, there was + only Gilbert nursing his toothache by the fire, and Sophy sitting in the + middle of the rug, holding up a screen. She said something good-natured to + each, but neither responded graciously, and Lucy went on talking, showing + off the room, the chiffonieres, the ornaments, and some pretty Indian + ivory carvings. There was a great ottoman of Aunt Maria’s work, and a huge + cushion with an Arab horseman, that Lucy would uncover, whispering, ‘Poor + mamma worked it,’ while Sophy visibly winced, and Albinia hurried it into + the chintz cover again, lest Mr. Kendal should come. But Lucy had full + time to be communicative about the household with such a satisfied, + capable manner, that Albinia asked if she had been keeping house all this + time. + </p> + <p> + ‘No; old Nurse kept the keys, and managed till now; but she went this + morning.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s mouth twitched. + </p> + <p> + ‘She was so very fond—’ continued Lucy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t!’ burst out Sophy, almost the first word Albinia had heard from + her; but no more passed, for Mr. Kendal came in, and Lucy’s conversation + instantly was at an end.’ + </p> + <p> + Before him she was almost as silent as the others, and he seldom addressed + himself to her, only inquiring once after her grandmamma’s health, and + once calling Sophy out of the way when she was standing between the fire + and—He finished with the gesture of command, whether he said ‘Your + mamma,’ none could tell. + </p> + <p> + It was late, and the meal was not over before bed-time, when Albinia + lingered to find remedies for Gilbert’s toothache, pleased to feel herself + making a commencement of motherly care, and to meet an affectionate glance + of thanks from Mr. Kendal’s eye. Gilbert, too, thanked her with less + shyness than before, and was hopeful about the remedy; and with the + feeling of having made a beginning, she ran down to tell Mr. Kendal that + she thought he had hardly done justice to the children—they were + fine creatures—something so sweet and winning about Lucy—she + liked Gilbert’s countenance—Sophy must have something deep and noble + in her. + </p> + <p> + He lifted his head to look at her bright face, and said, ‘They are very + much obliged to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You must not say that, they are my own.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will not say it again, but as I look at you, and the home to which I + have brought you, I feel that I have acted selfishly.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia timidly pressed his hand, ‘Work was always what I wished,’ she + said, ‘if only I could do anything to lighten your grief and care.’ + </p> + <p> + He gave a deep, heavy sigh. Albinia felt that if he had hoped to have + lessened the sadness, he had surely found it again at his own door. He + roused himself, however, to say, ‘This is using you ill, Albinia; no one + is more sensible of it than I am.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never sought more than you can give,’ she murmured; ‘I only wish to do + what I can for you, and you will not let me disturb you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am very grateful to you,’ was his answer; a sad welcome for a bride. + ‘And these poor children will owe everything to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish I may do right by them,’ said Albinia, fervently. + </p> + <p> + ‘The flower of the flock’—began Mr. Kendal, but he broke off at + once. + </p> + <p> + Albinia had told Winifred that she could bear to have his wife’s memory + first with him, and that she knew that she could not compensate to him for + his loss, but the actual sight of his dejection came on her with a chill, + and she had to call up all her energies and hopes, and, still better, the + thought of strength not her own, to enable her to look cheerfully on the + prospect. Sleep revived her elastic spirits, and with eager curiosity she + drew up her blind in the morning, for the first view of her new home. + </p> + <p> + But there was a veil—moisture made the panes resemble ground glass, + and when she had rubbed that away, and secured a clear corner, her range + of vision was not much more extensive. She could only see the grey outline + of trees and shrubs, obscured by the heavy mist; and on the lawn below, a + thick cloud that seemed to hang over a dark space which she suspected to + be a large pond. + </p> + <p> + ‘There is very little to be gained by looking out here!’ Albinia + soliloquized. ‘It is not doing the place justice to study it on a misty, + moisty morning. It looks now as if that fever might have come bodily out + of the pond. I’ll have no more to say to it till the sun has licked up the + fog, and made it bright! Sunday morning—my last Sunday without + school-teaching I hope! I famish to begin again—and I will make time + for that, and the girls too! I am glad he consents to my doing whatever I + please in that way! I hope Mr. Dusautoy will! I wish Edmund knew him + better—but oh! what a shy man it is!’ + </p> + <p> + With a light step she went down-stairs, and found Mr Kendal waiting for + her in the dining-room, his face brightening as she entered. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sorry Bayford should wear this heavy cloud to receive you,’ he said. + </p> + <p> + ‘It will soon clear,’ she answered, cheerfully. ‘Have you heard of poor + Gilbert this morning?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not yet.’ Then, after a pause, ‘I have generally gone to Mrs. Meadows + after the morning service,’ he said, speaking with constraint. + </p> + <p> + ‘You will take me?’ said Albinia. ‘I wish it, I assure you.’ + </p> + <p> + It was evidently what he wished her to propose, and he added, ‘She must + never feel herself neglected, and it will be better at once.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So much more cordial,’ said Albinia. ‘Pray let us go!’ + </p> + <p> + They were interrupted by the voices of the girls—not unpleasing + voices, but loud and unsubdued, and with a slight tone of provincialism, + which seemed to hurt Mr. Kendal’s ears, for he said, ‘I hope you will tune + those voices to something less unlike your own.’ + </p> + <p> + As he spoke, the sisters appeared in the full and conscious rustling of + new lilac silk dresses, which seemed to have happily carried off all + Sophy’s sullenness, for she made much more brisk and civil answers, and + ran across the room in a boisterous manner, when her father sent her to + see whether Gilbert were up. + </p> + <p> + There was a great clatter, and Gilbert chased her in, breathless and + scolding, but the tongues were hushed before papa, and no more was heard + than that the tooth was better, and had not kept him awake. Lucy seemed + disposed to make conversation, overwhelming Albinia with needless + repetitions of ‘Mamma dear,’ and plunging into what Mrs. Bowles and Miss + Goldsmith had said of Mr. Dusautoy, and how he kept so few servants, and + the butcher had no orders last time he called. Aunt Maria thought he + starved and tyrannized over that poor little sickly Mrs. Dusautoy. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal said not one word, and seemed not to hear. Albinia felt as if + she had fallen into a whirlpool of gossip; she looked towards him, and + hoped to let the conversation drop, but Sophy answered her sister, and, at + last, when it came to something about what Jane heard from Mrs. Osborn’s + Susan, Albinia gently whispered, ‘I do not think this entertains your + papa, my dear,’ and silence sank upon them all. + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s next venture was to ask about that which had been her Sunday + pleasure from childhood, and she turned to Sophy, and said, ‘I suppose you + have not begun to teach at the school yet!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s great eyes expanded, and Lucy said, ‘Oh dear mamma! nobody does + that but Genevieve Durant and the monitors. Miss Wolte did till Mr. + Dusautoy came, but she does not approve of him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Lucy, you do not know what you are saying,’ said Mr. Kendal, and again + there was an annihilating silence, which Albinia did not attempt to + disturb. + </p> + <p> + At church time, she met the young ladies in the hall, in pink bonnets and + sea-green mantillas over the lilac silks, all evidently put on for the + first time in her honour, an honour of which she felt herself the less + deserving, as, sensible that this was no case for bridal display, she wore + a quiet dark silk, a Cashmere shawl, and plain straw bonnet, trimmed with + white. + </p> + <p> + With manifest wish for reciprocity, Lucy fell into transports over the + shawl, but gaining nothing by this, Sophy asked if she did not like the + mantillas? Albinia could only make civility compatible with truth by + saying that the colour was pretty, but where was Gilbert? He was on a + stool before the dining-room fire, looking piteous, and pronouncing his + tooth far too bad for going to church, and she had just time for a fresh + administration of camphor before Mr. Kendal came forth from his study, and + gave her his arm. + </p> + <p> + The front door opened on a narrow sweep, the river cutting it off from the + road, and crossed by two wooden bridges, beside each of which stood a + weeping-willow, budding with fresh spring foliage. Opposite were houses of + various pretentious, and sheer behind them rose the steep hill, with the + church nearly at the summit, the noble spire tapering high above, and the + bells ringing out a cheerful chime. The mist had drawn up, and all was + fresh and clear. + </p> + <p> + ‘There go Lizzie and Loo!’ cried Lucy, ‘and the Admiral and Mrs. Osborn. + I’ll run and tell them papa is come home.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy was setting off also, but Mr. Kendal stopped them, and lingered a + moment or two, making an excuse of looking for a needless umbrella, but in + fact to avoid the general gaze. As if making a desperate plunge, however, + and looking up and down the broad street, so as to be secure that no + acquaintance was near, he emerged with Albinia from the gate, and crossed + the road as the chime of the bells changed. + </p> + <p> + ‘We are late,’ he said. ‘You will prefer the speediest way, though it is + somewhat steep.’ + </p> + <p> + The most private way, Albinia understood, and could also perceive that the + girls would have liked the street which sloped up the hill, and thought + the lilac and green insulted by being conducted up the steep, irregular, + and not very clean bye-lane that led directly up the ascent, between + houses, some meanly modern, some picturesquely ancient, with stone steps + outside to the upper story, but all with far too much of pig-stye about + them for beauty or fragrance. Lucy held up her skirts, and daintily picked + her way, and Albinia looked with kindly eyes at the doors and windows, + secretly wondering what friends she should find there. + </p> + <p> + The lane ended in a long flight of more than a hundred shallow steps cut + out in the soft stone of the hill, with landing-places here and there, + whence views were seen of the rich meadow-landscape beyond, with villages, + orchards, and farms, and the blue winding river Baye in the midst, woods + rising on the opposite side under the soft haze of distance. On the other + side, the wall of rock was bordered by gardens, with streamers of ivy or + periwinkle here and there hanging down. + </p> + <p> + The ascent ended in an old-fashioned stone stile; and here Sophy, standing + on the step, proclaimed, with unnecessary loudness, that Mr. Dusautoy was + carrying Mrs. Dusautoy across the churchyard. This had the effect of + making a pause, but Albinia saw the rector, a tall, powerful man, rather + supporting than actually carrying, a little fragile form to the low-browed + door leading into the chancel on the north side. The church was handsome, + though in the late style, and a good deal misused by eighteenth-century + taste; and Albinia was full of admiration as Mr. Kendal conducted her + along the flagged path. + </p> + <p> + She was rather dismayed to find herself mounting the gallery stairs, and + to emerge into a well-cushioned abode, with the shield-bearing angel of + the corbel of an arch all to herself, and a very good view of the cobwebs + over Mr. Dusautoy’s sounding-board. It seemed to suit all parties, + however, for Lucy and Sophia took possession of the forefront, and their + father had the inmost corner, where certainly nobody could see him. + </p> + <p> + Just opposite to Albinia was a mural tablet, on which she read what + revealed to her more of the sorrows of her household than she had guessed + before: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘To the memory of Lucy, the beloved wife of Edmund Kendal. + Died February 18th, 1845, aged 35 years. + + Edmund Meadows Kendal, born January 20th, 1834. + Died February 10th, 1845. + + Maria Kendal, born September 5th, 1840. + Died September 14th, 1840. + + Sarah Anne Kendal, born October 3rd, 1841. + Died November 20th, 1843. + + John Augustus Kendal, born January 4th, 1842. + Died July 6th, 1842. + + Anne Maria Kendal, born June 12th, 1844. + Died June 19th, 1844.’ +</pre> + <p> + Then followed, in the original Greek, the words, ‘Because I live, ye shall + live also.’ + </p> + <p> + Four infants! how many hopes laid here! All the English-born children of + the family had died in their cradles, and not only did compassion for the + past affect Albinia, as she thought of her husband’s world of hidden + grief, but a shudder for the future came over her, as she remembered + having read that such mortality is a test of the healthiness of a + locality. What could she think of Willow Lawn? It was with a strong effort + that she brought her attention back to Him Who controlleth the sickness + that destroyeth at noon-day. + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Dusautoy’s deep, powerful intonations roused her wandering + thoughts, and she was calmed and reassured by the holy Feast, in which she + joined with her husband. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal’s fine face was calm and placid, as best she loved to look upon + it, when they came out of church, and she was too happy to disturb the + quiet by one word. Lively and animated as she was, there was a sort of + repose and enjoyment in the species of respect exacted by his grave silent + demeanour. + </p> + <p> + If this could only have lasted longer! but he was taking her along an + irregular street, and too soon she saw a slight colour flit across his + cheek, and his eyebrows contract, as he unlatched a green door in a high + wall, and entered a little flagged court, decorated by a stand destined + for flowers. + </p> + <p> + Albinia caught the blush, and felt more bashful than she had believed was + in her nature, but she had a warm-hearted determination that she would + work down prejudices, and like and be liked by all that concerned him and + his children. So she smiled at him, and went bravely on into the matted + hall and up the narrow stairs, and made a laughing sign when he looked + back at her ere he tapped at the sitting-room door. + </p> + <p> + It was opened from within before he could turn the handle, and a shrill + voice, exaggerating those of the girls, showered welcomes with such + rapidity, that Albinia was seated at the table, and had been helped to + cold chicken, before she could look round, or make much answer to + reiterations of ‘so very kind.’ + </p> + <p> + It was a small room, loaded with knicknacks and cushions, like a + repository of every species of female ornamental handiwork in vogue for + the last half century, and the luncheon-tray in the middle of all, ready + for six people, for the two girls were there, and though Mr. Kendal stood + up by the fire, and would not eat, he and his black image, reflected + backwards and forwards in the looking-glass and in the little round + mirror, seemed to take up more room than if he had been seated. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Meadows was slight, shrunken, and gentle-looking, with a sweet tone + in her voice, great softness of manner, and pretty blue eyes. Albinia only + wished that she had worn mourning, it would have been so much more + becoming than bright colours, but that was soon overlooked in gratitude + for her affectionate reception, and in the warmth of feeling excited by + her evident fondness and solicitude for Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + Miss Meadows was gaily dressed in youthful fashion, such as evidently had + set her off to advantage when she had been a bright, dark, handsome girl; + but her hair was thin, her cheeks haggard, the colour hardened, and her + forty years apparent, above all, in an uncomfortable furrow on the brow + and round the mouth; her voice had a sharp distressed tone that grated + even in her lowest key, and though she did not stammer, she could never + finish a sentence, but made half-a-dozen disjointed commencements whenever + she spoke. Albinia pitied her, and thought her nervous, for she was + painfully assiduous in waiting on every one, scarcely sitting down for a + minute before she was sure that pepper, or pickle, or new bread, or stale + bread, or something was wanted, and squeezing round the table to help some + one, or to ring the bell every third minute, and all in a dress that had a + teasing stiff silken rustle. She offered Mr. Kendal everything in the + shape of food, till he purchased peace by submitting to take a hard + biscuit, while Albinia was not allowed her glass of water till all manner + of wines, foreign and domestic, had been tried upon her in vain. + </p> + <p> + Conversation was not easy. Gilbert was inquired after, and his aunt spoke + in her shrill, injured note, as she declared that she had done her utmost + to persuade him to have the tooth extracted, and began a history of what + the dentist ought to have done five years ago. + </p> + <p> + His grandmother softly pitied him, saying poor little Gibbie was such a + delicate boy, and required such careful treatment; and when Albinia hoped + that he was outgrowing his ill-health, she was amused to find that + desponding compassion would have been more pleasing. + </p> + <p> + There had been a transaction about a servant in her behalf: and Miss + Meadows insisted on hunting up a note, searching all about the room, and + making her mother and Sophy move from the front of two table-drawers, a + disturbance which Sophy did not take with such placid looks as did her + grandmother. + </p> + <p> + The name of the maid was Eweretta Dobson, at which there was a general + exclamation. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder what is the history of the name,’ said Albinia; ‘it sounds like + nothing but the diminutive of ewer. I hope she will not be the little + pitcher with long ears.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal looked as much amused as he ever did, but no one else gave the + least token of so much as knowing what she meant, and she felt as if she + had been making a foolish attempt at wit. + </p> + <p> + ‘You need not call her so,’ was all that Mrs. Meadows said. + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not like calling servants by anything but their true names,’ + answered Albinia; ‘it does not seem to me treating them with proper + respect to change their names, as if we thought them too good for them. It + is using them like slaves. + </p> + <p> + Lucy exclaimed, ‘Why! grandmamma’s Betty is really named Philadelphia.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia laughed, but was disconcerted by finding that she had really given + annoyance. ‘I beg your pardon,’ she said. ‘It is only a fancy of my own. I + am afraid that I have many fancies for my friends to bear with. You see I + have so fine a name of my own, that I have a fellow-feeling for those + under the same affliction; and I believe some servants like an alias + rather than be teased for their finery, so I shall give Miss Eweretta her + choice between that and her surname. + </p> + <p> + The old lady looked good-natured, and that matter blew over; but Miss + Meadows fell into another complication of pros and cons about writing for + the woman’s character, looking miserably harassed whether she should + write, or Mrs. Kendal, before she had been called upon. + </p> + <p> + Albinia supposed that Mrs. Wolfe might call in the course of the week; but + this Miss Meadows did not know, and she embarked in so many half speeches, + and looked so mysterious and significant at her mother, that Albinia began + to suspect that some dreadful truth was behind. + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps,’ said the old lady, ‘perhaps Mrs. Kendal might make it + understood through you, my dear Maria, that she is ready to receive + visits.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose they must be!’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘You see, my dear, people would be most happy, but they do not know + whether you have arrived. You have not appeared at church, as I may say.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed,’ said Albinia, much diverted by her new discoveries in the realms + of etiquette, ‘I was rather in a cupboard, I must allow. Ought we to have + sailed up the aisle in state in the Grandison pattern? Are you ready?’ and + she glanced up at her husband, but he only half heard. + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Miss Meadows, fretfully; ‘but you have not appeared as a bride. + The straw bonnet—you see people cannot tell whether you are not + incog, as yet—’ + </p> + <p> + To refrain from laughing was impossible. ‘My tarn cap,’ she exclaimed; ‘I + am invisible in it! What shall I do? I fear I shall never be producible, + for indeed it is my very best, my veritable wedding-bonnet!’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy looked as if she thought it not worth while to be married for no + better a bonnet than that. + </p> + <p> + ‘Absurdity!’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + If he would but have given a good hearty laugh, thought Albinia, what a + consolation it would be! but she considered herself to have had a lesson + against laughing in that house, and was very glad when he proposed going + home. He took a kind, affectionate leave of the old lady, who again looked + fondly in big face, and rejoiced in his having recovered his looks. + </p> + <p> + As they arrived at home, Lucy announced that she was just going to speak + to Lizzie Osborn, and Sophy ran after her to a house of about the same + degree as their own, but dignified as Mount Lodge, because it stood on the + hill side of the street, while Mr. Kendal’s house was for more gentility + called ‘Willow Lawn.’ Gilbert was not to be found; but at four o’clock the + whole party met at dinner, before the evening service. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert could eat little, and on going back to the fire to roast his cheek + instead of going to church, was told by his father, ‘I cannot have this + going on. You must go to Mr. Bowles directly after breakfast to-morrow, + have the tooth drawn, and then go on to Mr. Salsted’s. + </p> + <p> + The tone was one that admitted of no rebellion. If Mr. Kendal interfered + little, his authority was absolute where he did interfere, and Albinia + could only speak a few kind words of encouragement, but the boy was vexed + and moody, seemed half asleep when they came home, and went to bed as soon + as tea was over. + </p> + <p> + Sophy went to bed too, Mr. Kendal went to his study, and Albinia, after + this day of novelty and excitement, drew her chair to the fire, and as + Lucy was hanging wearily about, called her to her side, and made her talk, + believing that there was more use in studying the girl’s character than + even in suggesting some occupation, though that was apparently the great + want of the whole family on Sunday. + </p> + <p> + Lucy’s first confidence was that Gilbert had not been out alone, but with + that Archibald Tritton. Mr. Tritton had a great farm, and was a sort of + gentleman, and Gilbert was always after that Archy. She thought it ‘very + undesirable,’ and Aunt Maria had talked to him about it, but he never + listened to Aunt Maria. + </p> + <p> + Albinia privately thought that it must be a severe penance to listen to + Aunt Maria, and took Gilbert’s part. She supposed that he must be very + solitary; it must be a melancholy thing to be a twin left alone. + </p> + <p> + ‘And Edmund, dear Edmund, was always so kind and so fond of Gilbert!’ said + Lucy. ‘You would not have thought they were twins, Edmund was so much the + tallest and strongest. It seemed so odd that Gilbert should have got over + it, when he did not. Should you like to hear all about it, mamma?’ + </p> + <p> + It was Albinia’s great wish to lift that dark veil, and Lucy began, with + as much seriousness and sadness as could co-exist with the satisfaction + and importance of having to give such a narration, and exciting emotion + and pity. It was remarkable how she managed to make herself the heroine of + the story, though she had been sent out of the house, and had escaped the + infection. She spoke in phrases that showed that she had so often told the + story as to have a set form, caught from her elders, but still it had a + deep and intrinsic interest for the bride, that made her sit gazing into + the fire, pressing Lucy’s hand, and now and then sighing and shuddering + slightly as she heard how there had been a bad fever prevailing in that + lower part of the town, and how the two boys were both unwell one damp, + hot autumn morning, and Lucy dwelt on the escape it had been that she had + not kissed them before going to school. Sophy had sickened the same day, + and after the tedious three weeks, when father and mother were spent with + attendance on the three, Edmund, after long delirium, had suddenly sunk, + just as they had hopes of him; and the same message that told Lucy of her + brother’s death, told her of the severe illness of both parents. + </p> + <p> + The disease had done the work rapidly on the mother’s exhausted frame, and + she was buried a week after her boy. Lucy had seen the procession from the + window, and thought it necessary to tell how she had cried. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal’s had been a long illness; the first knowledge of his loss had + caused a relapse, and his recovery had long been doubtful. As soon as the + children were able to move, they were sent with Miss Meadows to Ramsgate, + and Lucy had joined them there. + </p> + <p> + ‘The day before I went, I saw papa,’ she said. ‘I had gone home for some + things that I was to take, and his room door was open, so he saw me on the + stairs, and called me, for there was no fear of infection then. Oh, he was + so changed! his hair all cut off, and his cheeks hollow, and he was quite + trembling, as he lay back on pillows in the great arm-chair. You can’t + think what a shock it was to me to see him in such a state. He held out + his arms, and I flung mine round his neck, and sobbed and cried. And he + just said, so faintly, “Take her away, Maria, I cannot bear it.” I assure + you I was quite hysterical.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You must have wished for more self-command,’ said Albinia, disturbed by + Lucy’s evident pleasure in having made a scene. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, but it was such a shock, and such a thing to see the house all empty + and forlorn, with the windows open, and everything so still! Miss + Belmarche cried too, and said she did not wonder my feelings overcame me, + and <i>she</i> did not see papa.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! Lucy,’ said Albinia, fervently, ‘how we must try to make him happy + after all that he has gone through!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That is what grandmamma said when she got his letter. “I would be glad of + anything,” she said, “that would bring back a smile to him.” And Aunt + Maria said she had done her best for him, but he must consult his own + happiness; and so I say. When people talk to me, I say that papa is quite + at liberty to consult his own happiness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy did not understand the tone, and went on patronizing. ‘And if they + say you look younger than they expected, I don’t object to that at all. I + had rather you were not as old as Aunt Maria, or Miss Belmarche.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who thinks me so young?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Aunt Maria, and grandmamma, and Mrs. Osborn, and all; but I don’t + mind that, it is only Sophy who says you look like a girl. Aunt Maria says + Sophy has an unmanageable temper.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t you think you can let me find that out for myself?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought you wanted me to tell you about everybody.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! but tell me of the good in your brother and sister.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know how,’ said Lucy. ‘Gilbert is so tiresome, and so is Sophy. I + heard Mary telling Jane, “I’m sure the new missus will have a heavy + handful of those two.”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what of yourself?’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I don’t know,’ said Lucy, modestly. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal came in, and as Albinia looked at his pensive brow, she was + oppressed by the thought of his sufferings in that dreary convalescence. + At night, when she looked from her window, the fog hung white, like mildew + over the pond, and she could not reason herself out of a spectral haunting + fancy that sickness lurked in the heavy, misty atmosphere. She dreamt of + it and the four babies, started, awoke, and had to recall all her higher + trust to enable her vigour to chase off the oppressive imagination. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + Fog greeted Mrs. Kendal’s eyes as she rose, and she resolved to make an + attack on the pond without loss of time. But Mr. Kendal was absorbed + nearly all breakfast-time in a letter from India, containing a scrap in + some uncouth character. As he finished his last cup of tea, he looked up + and said, ‘A letter from my old friend Penrose, of Bombay—an + inscription in the Salsette caves.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you seen the Salsette caves? + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes.’ + </p> + <p> + She was longing to hear about them, but his horse was announced. + </p> + <p> + ‘You said you would be engaged in the morning while I ride out, Albinia?’ + he said, ‘I shall return before luncheon. Gilbert, you had better go at + once to Mr. Bowles. I shall order your pony to be ready when you come + back.’ + </p> + <p> + There was not a word of remonstrance, though the boy looked very + disconsolate, and began to murmur the moment his father had gone. Albinia, + who had regarded protection at a dentist’s one of the offices of the head + of a family, though dismayed at the task, told Gilbert that she would come + with him in a moment. The girls exclaimed that no one thought of going + with him, and fearing she had put an affront on his manliness, she asked + what he would like, but could get no answer, only when Lucy scolded him + for lingering, he said, ‘I thought <i>she</i> was going with me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Amiable,’ thought Albinia, as she ran up to put on her bonnet; ‘but I + suppose toothache puts people out of the pale of civilization. And if he + is thankless, is not that treating me more like a mother?’ + </p> + <p> + Perhaps he had accepted her escort in hopes of deferring the evil hour, + for he seemed discomfited to see her so quickly ready, and not grateful to + his sisters, who hurried them by saying that Mr. Bowles would be gone out + upon his rounds. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bowles was amazed at the sight of Mrs. Kendal, and so elaborate in + compliments and assurances that Mrs. Bowles would do herself the honour of + calling, that Albinia, pitying Gilbert, called his attention back. + </p> + <p> + With him the apothecary was peremptory and facetious. ‘He had expected + that he should soon see him after his papa’s return!’ And with a ‘soon be + over,’ he set him down, and Albinia bravely stood a desperate wringing of + her hand at the tug of war. She was glad she had come, for the boy + suffered a good deal, and was faint, and Mr. Bowles pronounced his mouth + in no state for a ride to Tremblam. + </p> + <p> + ‘I must go,’ said Gilbert, as they walked home, ‘I wish papa would listen + to anything.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He would not wish you to hurt yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘When papa says a thing—’ began Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, Gilbert, you are quite right, and I hope you don’t think I mean to + teach you disobedience. But I do desire you, on my own responsibility, not + to go and catch an inflammation in your jaw. I’ll undertake papa.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert at once became quite another creature. He discoursed so much, that + she had to make him restore the handkerchief to his mouth; he held open + the gate, showed her a shoal of minnows, and tried to persuade her to come + round the garden before going in, but she clapped her hands at him, and + hunted him back into the warm room, much impressed and delighted by his + implicit obedience to his father. With Lucy and Sophy, his remaining + seemed likewise to make a great sensation; they looked at Mrs. Kendal and + whispered, and were evidently curious as to the result of her audacity. + Albinia, who had grown up with her brother Maurice and cousin Frederick, + was more used to boys than to girls, and was already more at ease with her + son than her daughters. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert lent a ready hand with hammer and chisel, and boxes were opened, + to the great delight and admiration of the girls. They were all very happy + and busy setting things to rights, but Albinia was in difficulty how to + bestow her books. There was an unaccountable scarcity both of books and + book-cases; none were to be seen except that, in a chiffoniere in the + drawing-room, there was a row in gilded bindings, chiefly Pope, Gray, and + the like; and one which Albinia took out had pages which stuck together, a + little pale blue string, faded at the end, and in the garlanded fly-leaf + the inscription, ‘To Miss Lucy Meadows, the reward of good conduct, + December 20th, 1822.’ The book seemed rather surprised at being opened, + and Albinia let it close itself as Lucy said, ‘Those are poor mamma’s + books, all the others are in the study. Come in, and I’ll show you.’ + </p> + <p> + She threw open the door, and Albinia entered. The study was shaded with a + mass of laurels that kept out the sun, and made it look chill and sad, and + the air in it was close. The round library-table was loaded with desks, + pocket-books, and papers, the mantelpiece was covered with letters, and + book-shelves mounted to the ceiling, filled with the learned and the + poetical of new and old times. + </p> + <p> + Over the fireplace hung what it needed not Lucy’s whisper to point out, as + ‘Poor mamma’s picture.’ It represented a very pretty girl, with dark eyes, + brilliant colour, and small cherry mouth, painted in the exaggerated style + usually called ‘ridiculously like.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s first feeling was that there was nothing in herself that could + atone for the loss of so fair a creature, and the thought became more + oppressive as she looked at a niche in the wall, holding a carved + sandal-wood work-box, with a silver watch lying on it. + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Edmund’s watch,’ said Lucy. ‘It was given to him for a reward just + before he was ill.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia tried to recover composure by reading the titles of the books. + Suddenly, Lucy started and exclaimed, ‘Come away. There he is!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why come away?’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘I would not have him find me there for all the world.’ + </p> + <p> + In all her vexation and dismay, Albinia could not help thinking of + Bluebeard’s closet. Her inclination was to stay where she was, and take + her chance of losing her head, yet she felt as if she could not bear to be + found invading a sanctuary of past recollections, and was relieved to find + that it was a false alarm, though not relieved by the announcement that + Admiral and Mrs. Osborn and the Miss Osborns were in the drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Before luncheon—too bad!’ she exclaimed, as she hurried upstairs to + wash off the dust of unpacking. + </p> + <p> + Ere she could hurry down, there was another inundation streaming across + the hall, Mrs. Drury and three Miss Drurys, who, as she remembered, when + they began to kiss her, were some kind of cousins. + </p> + <p> + There was talk, but Albinia could not give entire attention; she was + watching for Mr. Kendal’s return, that she might guard Gilbert from his + displeasure, and the instant she heard him, she sprang up, and flew into + the hall. He could not help brightening at the eager welcome, but when she + told him of Mr. Bowles’ opinion, he looked graver, and said, ‘I fear you + must not always attach credit to all Gilbert’s reports.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Bowles told me himself that he must run no risk of inflammation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You saw Mr. Bowles?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I went with Gilbert.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You? I never thought of your imposing so unpleasant a task on yourself. I + fear the boy has been trespassing on your kindness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, indeed, he never asked me, but—’ with a sort of laugh to hide + the warmth excited by his pleased, grateful look, ‘I thought it all in the + day’s work, only natural—’ + </p> + <p> + She would have given anything to have had time to enjoy his epanchement de + coeur at those words, bit she was obliged to add, ‘Alas! there’s all the + world in the drawing-room!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Osborns and Drurys.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you want me?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I ran away on the plea of calling you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll never do so again,’ was her inward addition, as his countenance + settled into the accustomed fixed look of abstraction, and as an unwilling + victim he entered the room with her, and the visitors were ‘dreadful + enough’ to congratulate him. + </p> + <p> + Albinia knew that it must be so unpleasant to him, that she blushed up to + the roots of her hair, and could not look at anybody. + </p> + <p> + When she recovered, the first comers were taking leave, but the second set + stayed on and on till past luncheon-time, and far past her patience, + before the room was at last cleared. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert hurried in, and was received by his father with, ‘You are very + much obliged to her!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed I am,’ said Gilbert, in a winning, pleasant manner. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t want you to be,’ said Albinia, affectionately laying her arm on + his shoulder. ‘And now for luncheon—I pitied you, poor fellow; I + thought you must have been famished.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Anything not to have all the Drurys at luncheon,’ said Gilbert, + confidentially, ‘I had begun to wish myself at Tremblam.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘By the bye,’ said Mr. Kendal, waking as he sat down at the bottom of the + table, ‘how was it that the Drurys did not stay to luncheon?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Was that what they were waiting for?’ exclaimed Albinia. ‘Poor people, I + had no notion of that.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They do have luncheon here in general,’ said Mr. Kendal, as if not + knowing exactly how it came to pass. + </p> + <p> + ‘O yes,’ said Lucy; ‘Sarah Anne asked me whether we ate wedding-cake every + day.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Miss Sarah Anne!’ said Albinia, laughing. ‘But one cannot help + feeling inhospitable when people come so unconscionably early, and cut up + all one’s morning.’ + </p> + <p> + The door was again besieged by visitors, just as they were all going out + to make the round of the garden, and it was not till half-past four that + the succession ceased, and Albinia was left to breathe freely, and + remember how often Maurice had called her to order for intolerance of + morning calls. + </p> + <p> + ‘And not the only people I cared to see,’ she said, ‘the Dusautoys and + Nugents. But they have too much mercy to call the first day.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal looked as if his instinct were drawing him study-wards, but + Albinia hung on his arm, and made him come into the garden. Though devoid + of Winifred’s gardening tastes, she was dismayed at the untended look of + the flower-beds. The laurels were too high, and seemed to choke the narrow + space, and the turf owed its verdant appearance to damp moss. She had made + but few steps before the water squished under her feet, and impelled her + to exclaim, ‘What a pity this pond should not be filled up!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Filled up!—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, it would be so much less damp. One might drain it off into the + river, and then we should get rid of the fog.’ + </p> + <p> + And she began actively to demonstrate the convenient slope, and the + beautiful flower-bed that might be made in its place. Mr. Kendal answered + with a few assenting sounds and complacent looks, and Albinia, accustomed + to a brother with whom to assent was to act, believed the matter was in + train, and that pond and fever would be annihilated. + </p> + <p> + The garden opened into a meadow with a causeway leading to a canal bank, + where there was a promising country walk, but the cruel visitors had left + no time for exploring, and Albinia had to return home and hurry up her + arrangements before there was space to turn round in her room—even + then it was not what Winifred could have seen without making a face. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal had read aloud to his wife in the evening during the stay at + the sea-side, and she was anxious not to let the habit drop. He liked it, + and read beautifully, and she thought it good for the children. She + therefore begged him to read, catching him on the way to his study, and + coaxing him to stay no longer than to find a book. He brought Schlegel’s + Philosophy of History. She feared that it was above the young ones, but it + was delightful to herself, and the custom had better be established before + it was perilled by attempts to adapt it to the children. Lucy and Sophy + seemed astonished and displeased, and their whispers had to be silenced, + Gilbert learnt his lessons apart. Albinia rallied her spirits, and + insisted to herself that she did not feel discouraged. + </p> + <p> + Monday had gone, or rather Albinia had been robbed of it by visitors—now + for a vigorous Tuesday. Her unpacking and her setting to rights were not + half over, but as the surface was habitable, she resolved to finish at her + leisure, and sacrifice no more mornings of study. + </p> + <p> + So after she had lingered at the door, to delight Gilbert by admiring his + pony, she returned to the dining-room, where the girls were loading a + small table in the window with piles of books and exercises, and Lucy was + standing, looking all eagerness to show off her drawings. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, my dear, but first we had better read. I have been talking to your + papa, and we have settled that on Wednesdays and Fridays we will go to + church; but on these days we will begin by reading the Psalms and + Lessons.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh,’ said Lucy, ‘we never do that, except when we are at grandmamma’s.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray are you too old or too young for it?’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘We did it to please grandmamma,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now you will do it to please me,’ said Albinia, ‘if for no better reason. + Fetch your Bibles and Prayerbooks.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We shall never have time for our studies, I assure you, mamma,’ objected + Lucy. + </p> + <p> + ‘That is not your concern,’ said Albinia, her spirit rising at the girls’ + opposition. ‘I wish for obedience.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy went, Sophy leant against the table like a post. Albinia regretted + that the first shot should have been fired for such a cause, and sat + perplexing herself whether it were worse to give way, or to force the + girls to read Holy Scripture in such a mood. + </p> + <p> + Lucy came flying down with the four books in her hands, and began + officiously opening them before her sister, and exhorting her not to give + way to sullenness—she ought to like to read the Bible—which of + course made Sophy look crosser. The desire to establish her authority + conquered the scruple about reverence. Albinia set them to read, and + suffered for it. Lucy road flippantly; Sophy in the hoarse, dull, dogged + voice of a naughty boy. She did not dare to expostulate, lest she should + exasperate the tempers that she had roused. + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind,’ she thought, ‘when the institution is fixed, they will be + more amenable.’ + </p> + <p> + She tried a little examination afterwards, but not one answer was to be + extracted from Sophy, and Lucy knew far less than the first class at + Fairmead, and made her replies wide of the mark, with an air of + satisfaction that nearly overthrew the young step-mother’s patience. + </p> + <p> + When Albinia took her Bible upstairs, she gave Sophy time to say what Lucy + reported instantly on her entrance. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear me, mamma, here is Sophy declaring that you ought to be a + charity-schoolmistress. You wont be angry with her, but it is so funny!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If you were at my charity school, Lucy,’ said Albinia, ‘the first lesson + I should give you would be against telling tales.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy subsided. + </p> + <p> + Albinia turned to Sophy. ‘My dear,’ she said, ‘perhaps I pressed this on + when you were not prepared for it, but I have always been used to think of + it as a duty.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy made no answer, but her moody attitude relaxed, and Albinia took + comfort in the hope that she might have been gracious if she had known how + to set about it. + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose Miss Belmarche is a Roman Catholic,’ she said, wishing to + account for this wonderful ignorance, and addressing herself to Sophy; but + Lucy, whom she thought she had effectually put down, was up again in a + moment like a Jack-in-a-box. + </p> + <p> + ‘O yes, but not Genevieve. Her papa made it his desire that she should be + brought up a Protestant. Wasn’t it funny? You know Genevieve is Madame + Belmarche’s grand-daughter, and Mr. Durant was a dancing-master.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Madame Belmarche’s father and brother were guillotined,’ continued Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! then she is an emigrant?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes. Miss Belmarche has always kept school here. Our own mamma, and Aunt + Maria went to school to her, and Miss Celeste Belmarche married Mr. + Durant, a dancing-master—she was French teacher in a school in + London where he taught, and Madame Belmarche did not approve, for she and + her husband were something very grand in France, so they waited and waited + ever so long, and when at last they did marry, they were quite old, and + she died very soon; and they say he never was happy again, and pined away + till he really did die of grief, and so Genevieve came to her grandmamma + to be brought up.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor child! How old is she?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fifteen,’ said Lucy. ‘She teaches in the school. She is not at all + pretty, and such a queer little thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Was her father French?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Lucy. ‘You know nothing about it, Sophy. He was French, but of + the Protestant French sort, that came to England a great many years ago, + when they ran away from the Sicilian Vespers, or the Edict of Nantes, I + don’t remember which; only the Spitalfields weavers have something to do + with it. However, at any rate Genevieve has got something in a drawer up + in her own room that she is very secret about, and wont show to anybody.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think it is something that somebody was killed with,’ said Sophy, in a + low voice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear me, if it is, I am sure it is quite wicked to keep it. I shall be + quite afraid to go into her room, and you know I slept there all the time + of the fever.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It did not hurt you,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + Albinia had been strongly interested by the touching facts, so + untouchingly narrated, and by the characteristic account of the Huguenot + emigration, but it suddenly occurred to her that she was promoting gossip, + and she returned to business. Lucy showed off her attainments with her + usual self-satisfaction. They were what might be expected from a + second-rate old-fashioned young ladies’ school, where nothing was good but + the French pronunciation. She was evidently considered a great proficient, + and her glib mediocrity was even more disheartening than the ungracious + carelessness or dulness—there was no knowing which—that made + her sister figure wretchedly in the examination. However, there was little + time—the door-bell rang at a quarter to twelve, and Mrs. Wolfe was + in the drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + ‘I told you so,’ whispered Lucy, exultingly. + </p> + <p> + ‘This is unbearable,’ cried Albinia. ‘I shall give notice that I am always + engaged in the morning.’ + </p> + <p> + She desired each young lady to work a sum in her absence, and left them to + murmur, if they were so disposed. Perhaps it was Lucy’s speech that made + her inflict the employment; at any rate, her spirit was not as serene as + she could have desired. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal was quite willing that she should henceforth shut her door + against company in the morning; that is to say, he bowed his head + assentingly. She was begging him to take a walk with her, when, at another + sound of the bell, he made a precipitate retreat into his study. The + visitors were the Belmarche family. The old lady was dark and withered, + small, yet in look and air, with a certain nobility and grandeur that + carried Albinia back in a moment to the days of hoops and trains, of + powder and high-heeled shoes, and made her feel that the sweeping courtesy + had come straight from the days of Marie Antoinette, and that it was an + honour and distinction conferred by a superior—superior, indeed, in + all the dignity of age, suffering, and constancy. + </p> + <p> + Albinia blushed, and took her hand with respect very unlike the + patronizing airs of Bayford Bridge towards ‘poor old Madame Belmarche,’ + and with downcast eyes, and pretty embarrassment, heard the stately + compliments of the ancien regime. + </p> + <p> + Miss Belmarche was not such a fine specimen of Sevres porcelain as her + mother. She was a brown, dried, small woman, having lost, or never + possessed, her country’s taste in dress, and with a rusty bonnet over the + tight, frizzly curls of her front, too thin and too scantily robed to have + any waist, and speaking English too well for the piquant grace of her + mother’s speech. Poor lady! born an exile, she had toiled, and struggled + for a whole lifetime to support her mother; but though care had worn her + down, there was still vivacity in her quick little black eyes, and though + her teeth were of a dreadful colour, her laugh was so full of life and + sweetness, that Albinia felt drawn towards her in a moment. + </p> + <p> + Silent and demure, plainly dressed in an old dark merino, and a + white-ribboned faded bonnet, sat a little figure almost behind her + grandmother. Her face had the French want of complexion, but the eyes were + of the deepest, most lustrous hue of grey, almost as dark as the pupils, + and with the softness of long dark eyelashes—beautiful eyes, full of + light and expression—and as she moved towards the table, there was a + finish and delicacy about the whole form and movements, that made her a + most pleasing object. + </p> + <p> + But Albinia could not improve her acquaintance, for in flowed another + party of visitors, and Madame curtsied herself out again, Albinia + volunteering that she would soon come to see her, and being answered, ‘You + will do me too much honour.’ + </p> + <p> + Another afternoon devoured by visitors! Every one seemed to have come + except the persons who would have been most welcome, Mr. Dusautoy, and + Winifred’s friends, the Nugents. + </p> + <p> + When, at four o’clock, she had shaken hands with the last guest, she gave + a hearty yawn, jumped up and shook herself, as she exclaimed, ‘There! + There! that is done! I wonder whether your papa would come out now?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is in his study,’ said the girls. + </p> + <p> + Albinia thought of knocking and calling at the door, but somehow it seemed + impossible, and she decided on promenading past his window to show that + she was ready for him. But alas! those evergreens! She could not see in, + and probably he could not see out. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ha!’ cried Lucy, as they pursued their walk into the kitchen garden, + ‘here are some asparagus coming up. Grandmamma always has our first + asparagus.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was delighted to find such an opening. Out came her knife—they + would cut the heads and take them up at once; but when the tempting + white-stalked, pink-tipped bundle had been made up and put into a basket, + a difficulty arose. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll call the boy to take it,’ said Lucy. + </p> + <p> + ‘What, when we are going ourselves?’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! but we can’t.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why? Do you think we shall break down under the weight?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘O no, but people will stare.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why—what should they stare at?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It looks <i>so</i> to carry a basket—’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia burst into one of her merriest peals of laughing. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not carry a basket! My dear, I have looked <i>so</i> all the days of my + life. Bayford must endure the spectacle, so it may as well begin at once.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, dear mamma—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m not asking you to carry it. O no, I only hope you don’t think it too + ungenteel to walk with me. But the notion of calling a boy away from his + work, to carry a couple of dozen asparagus when an able-bodied woman is + going that way herself!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was so tickled that she could hardly check herself, even when she + saw Lucy looking distressed and hurt, and little laughs would break out + every moment as she beheld the young lady keeping aloof, as if ashamed of + her company, turning towards the steep church steps, willing at least to + hide the dreadful sight from the High Street. + </p> + <p> + Just as they had entered the narrow alley, they heard a hasty tread, and + almost running over them with his long strides, came Mr. Dusautoy. He + brought himself up short, just in time, and exclaimed, ‘I beg your pardon—Mrs. + Kendal, I believe. Could you be kind enough to give me a glass of brandy?’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia gave a great start, as well she might. + </p> + <p> + ‘I was going to fetch one,’ quickly proceeded Mr. Dusautoy, ‘but your + house is nearer. A poor man—there—just come home—been on + the tramp for work—quite exhausted—’ and he pointed to one of + the cottages. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll fetch it at once,’ cried Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you,’ he said, as they crossed the street. ‘This poor fellow has + had nothing all day, has walked from Hadminster—just got home, sank + down quite worn out, and there is nothing in the house but dry bread. His + wife wants something nearly as much as he does.’ + </p> + <p> + In the excitement, Albinia utterly forgot all scruples about ‘Bluebeard’s + closet.’ She hurried into the house, and made but one dash, standing + before her astonished husband’s dreamy eyes, exclaiming, ‘Pray give me the + key of the cellaret; there’s a poor man just come home, fainting with + exhaustion, Mr. Dusautoy wants some brandy for him.’ + </p> + <p> + Like a man but half awake, obeying an apparition, Mr. Kendal put his hand + into his pocket and gave her the key. She was instantly opening the + cellaret, seeking among the bottles, and asking questions all the time. + She proposed taking a jug of the kitchen-tea then in operation, and Mr. + Dusautoy caught at the idea, so that poor Lucy beheld the dreadful + spectacle of the vicar bearing a can full of steaming tea, and Mrs. Kendal + a small cup with the ‘spirituous liquor.’ What was the asparagus to this? + </p> + <p> + Albinia told her to go on to Mrs. Meadows’, and that she should soon + follow. She intended to have gone the moment that she had carried in the + cup, leaving Mr. Dusautoy in the cottage, but the poor trembling + frightened wife needed woman’s sympathy and soothing, and she waited to + comfort her, and to see the pair more able to enjoy the meeting, in their + tidy, but bare and damp-looking cottage. She promised broth for the + morrow, and took her leave, the vicar coming away at the same time. + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you,’ he said, warmly, as they came out, and turned to mount the + hill together. + </p> + <p> + ‘May I go and call on them again?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It will be very kind in you. Poor Simkins is a steady, good sort of + fellow, but a clumsy workman, down-hearted, and with poor health, and + things have been untoward with him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘People, who do not prosper in the world are not always the worst,’ said + Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, indeed, and these are grateful, warm-hearted people that you will + like, if you can get over the poor woman’s lackadaisical manner. But you + are used to all that,’ he added, smiling. ‘I see you know what poor folk + are made of.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have been living among them nearly all my days,’ said Albinia. ‘I hope + you will give me something to do, I should be quite forlorn without it;’ + and she looked up to his kind, open face, as much at home with him as if + she had known, him for years. + </p> + <p> + ‘Fanny—my wife—shall find work for you,’ he said. ‘You must + excuse her calling on you, she is never off the sofa, but—’ And what + a bright look he gave! as much as to say that his wife <i>on</i> the sofa + was better than any one else <i>off</i>. ‘I was hoping to call some of + these afternoons,’ he continued, ‘but I have had little time, and Fanny + thought your door was besieged enough already.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you,’ said Albinia; ‘I own I thought it was your kindness in + leaving me a little breathing time. And would Mrs. Dusautoy be able to see + me if I were to call?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She would be delighted. Suppose you were to come in at once.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish I could, but I must go on to Mrs. Meadows’. If I were to come + to-morrow?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Any time—any time,’ he said. ‘She is always at home, and she has + been much better since we came here. We were too much in the town at + Lauriston.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dusautoy, having a year ago come out of the diocese where had been + Albinia’s home, they had many common friends, and plunged into + ‘ecclesiastical intelligence,’ with a mutual understanding of the topics + most often under discussion, that made Albinia quite in her element. ‘A + great Newfoundland dog of a man in size, and countenance, and kindness,’ + thought she. ‘If his wife be worthy of him, I shall reck little of all the + rest.’ + </p> + <p> + Her tread the gayer for this resumption of old habits, she proceeded to + Mrs. Meadows’, where the sensation created by her poor little basket + justified Lucy’s remonstrance. There were regrets, and assurances that the + girl could have come in a moment, and that she need not have troubled + herself, and her laughing declarations that it was no trouble were + disregarded, except that the old lady said, in gentle excuse to her + daughter, that Mrs. Kendal had always lived in the country, where people + could do as they pleased. + </p> + <p> + ‘I mean to do as I please here,’ said Albinia, laughing; but the speech + was received with silent discomfiture that made her heartily regret it. + She disdained to explain it away; she was beginning to hold Mrs. and Miss + Meadows too cheap to think it worth while. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ said Mrs. Meadows, as if yielding up the subject, ‘things may be + different from what they were in my time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! mamma—Mrs. Kendal—I am sure—’ Albinia let Maria + flounder, but she only found her way out of the speech with ‘Well! and is + not it the most extraordinary!—Mr. Dusautoy—so rude—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should not wonder if you found me almost as extraordinary as Mr. + Dusautoy,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + Why would Miss Meadows always nettle her into saying exactly the wrong + thing, so as to alarm and distress the old lady? That want of + comprehension of playfulness was a strangely hard trial. She turned to + Mrs. Meadows and tried to reassure her by saying, ‘You know I have been + always in the clerical line myself, so I naturally take the part of the + parson.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, my dear,’ said Mrs. Meadows. ‘I dare say Mr. Dusautoy is a very good + man, but I wish he would allow his poor delicate wife more butcher’s meat, + and I don’t think it looks well to see the vicarage without a + man-servant.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia finally made her escape, and while wondering whether she should + ever visit that house without tingling with irritation with herself and + with the inmates, Lucy exclaimed, ‘There, you see I was right. Grandmamma + and Aunt Maria were surprised when I told them that you said you were an + able-bodied woman.’ + </p> + <p> + What would not Albinia have given for Winifred to laugh with her? What to + do now she did not know, so she thought it best not to hear, and to ask + the way to a carpenter’s shop to order some book-shelves. + </p> + <p> + She was more uncomfortable after she came home, for by the sounds when Mr. + Kendal next emerged from his study, she found that he had locked himself + in, to guard against further intrusion. And when she offered to return to + him the key of the cellaret, he quietly replied that he should prefer her + retaining it,—not a formidable answer in itself, but one which, + coupled with the locking of the door, proved to her that she might do + anything rather than invade his privacy. + </p> + <p> + Now Maurice’s study was the thoroughfare of the household, the place for + all parish preparations unpresentable in the drawing-room, and Albinia was + taken by surprise. She grew hot and cold. Had she done anything wrong? + Could he care for her if he could lock her out? + </p> + <p> + ‘I will not be morbid, I will not be absurd,’ said she to herself, though + the tears stood in her eyes. ‘Some men do not like to be rushed in upon! + It may be only habit. It may have been needful here. It is base to take + petty offences, and set up doubts.’ + </p> + <p> + And Mr. Kendal’s tender manner when they were again together, his gentle + way of addressing her, and a sort of shy caress, proved that he was far + from all thought of displeasure; nay, he might be repenting of his + momentary annoyance, though he said nothing. + </p> + <p> + Albinia went to inquire after the sick man at her first leisure moment, + and while talking kindly to the wife, and hearing her troubles, was + surprised at the forlorn rickety state of the building, the broken + pavement, damp walls, and door that would not shut, because the frame had + sunk out of the perpendicular. + </p> + <p> + ‘Can’t you ask your landlord to do something to the house?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is of no use, ma’am, Mr. Pettilove never will do nothing. Perhaps if + you would be kind enough to say a word to him, ma’am—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Pettilove, the lawyer? I’ll try if Mr. Kendal can say anything to + him. It really is a shame to leave a house in this condition.’ + </p> + <p> + Thanks were so profuse, that she feared that she was supposed to possess + some power of amelioration. The poor woman even insisted on conducting her + up a break-neck staircase to see the broken ceiling, whence water often + streamed in plentifully from the roof. + </p> + <p> + Her mind full of designs against the cruel landlord, she speeded up the + hill, exhilarated by each step she took into the fresh air, to the + garden-gate, which she was just unhasping when the hearty voice of the + Vicar was heard behind her. ‘Mrs. Kendal! I told Fanny you would come.’ + </p> + <p> + Instead of taking her to the front door he conducted her across a sloping + lawn towards a French window open to the bright afternoon sunshine. + </p> + <p> + ‘Here she is, here is Mrs. Kendal!’ he said, sending his voice before him, + as they came in sight of the pretty little drawing-room, where through the + gay chintz curtains, she saw the clear fire shining upon half-a-dozen + school girls, ranged opposite to a couch. ‘Ah!’ as he perceived them, + ‘shall I take her for a turn in the garden while you finish your lesson?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘One moment, if you please. I did not know it was so late,’ and a face as + bright as all the rest was turned towards the window. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! give her her scholars, and she never knows how time passes,’ said Mr. + Dusautoy. ‘But step this way, and I’ll show you the best view in Bayford.’ + He took her up a step or two, to a little turfed mound, where there was a + rustic seat commanding the whole exquisite view of river, vale, and + woodland, with the church tower rising in the foreground. The wind blew + pleasantly, chasing the shadows of the clouds across the open space. + Albinia was delighted to feel it fan her brow, and her eager exclamations + contented Mr. Dusautoy. ‘Yes,’ he said, ‘it was all Fanny’s notion. She + planned it all last summer when I took her round the garden. It is + wonderful what an eye she has! I only hope when the dry weather comes, + that I shall be able to get her up there to enjoy it.’ + </p> + <p> + On coming down they found that Mrs. Dusautoy had dismissed her class, and + come out to a low, long-backed sloping garden-seat at the window. She was + very little and slight, a mere doll in proportion to her great husband, + who could lift her as easily and tenderly as a baby, paying her a sort of + reverential deference and fond admiration that rendered them a beautiful + sight, in such full, redoubled measure was his fondness repaid by the + little, clever, fairy-looking woman, with her playful manner, high + spirits, keen wit, and the active habits that even confirmed invalidism + could not destroy. She had small deadly white hands, a fair complexion, + that varied more than was good for her, pretty, though rather sharp and + irregular features, and hazel eyes dancing with merriment, and face and + figure at some years above thirty, would have suited a girl of twenty. To + see Mr. Dusautoy bringing her footstools, shawls, and cushions, and to + remember the accusation of starvation, was almost irresistibly ludicrous. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, John, you had better have been giving Mrs. Kendal a chair all this + time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mrs. Kendal will excuse,’ said Mr. Dusautoy, as he brought her a seat. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mrs. Kendal has excused,’ said Mrs. Dusautoy, bursting into a merry fit + of laughter. ‘Oh, I never heard anything more charming than your + introduction! I beg your pardon, but I laughed last evening till I was + worn out, and waked in the night laughing again.’ + </p> + <p> + It was exhilarating to find that any one laughed at Bayford, and Albinia + partook of the mirth with all her heart. ‘Never was an address more + gratifying to me!’ she said. + </p> + <p> + ‘It was like him! so unlike Bayford! So bold a venture!’ continued Mrs. + Dusautoy amid peals of laughter. + </p> + <p> + ‘What is there to laugh at?’ said Mr. Dusautoy, putting on a look between + merriment and simplicity. ‘What else could I have done? I should have done + the same whoever I had met.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! now he is afraid of your taking it as too great a compliment! To do + him justice I believe he would, but the question is, what answer he would + have had.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nobody could have refused—’ began Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh!’ cried Mrs. Dusautoy. ‘Little you know Bayford. + </p> + <p> + ‘Fanny! Fanny! this is too bad. Madame Belmarche—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Would have had nothing but eau sucre! No, John, decidedly you and Simkins + fell upon your legs, and you had better take credit for your “admirable + sagacity.”’. + </p> + <p> + ‘I like the people,’ said Albinia, ‘but they never can be well while they + live in such a shocking place. It is quite a disgrace to Bayford.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is in a sad state,’ said Mr. Dusautoy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I know I should like to set my brother upon that Mr. Pettilove, who they + say will do nothing,’ exclaimed Albinia. + </p> + <p> + The Vicar was going to have said something, but a look from his wife + checked him. Albinia was sorry for it, as she detected a look of + suppressed amusement on Mrs. Dusautoy’s face. ‘I mean to ask Mr. Kendal + what can be done,’ she said; ‘and in the meantime, to descend from what we + can’t do to what we can. Mr. Dusautoy told me to come to you for orders.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And I told Mr. Dusautoy that I should give you none.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! that is hard.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If you could have heard him! He thought he <i>had</i> got a working lady + at last, and he would have had no mercy upon you. One would have imagined + that Mr. Kendal had brought you here for his sole behoof!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then I shall look to you, Mr. Dusautoy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I believe she is quite right,’ he said. ‘She says you ought to + undertake nothing till you have had time to see what leisure you have to + give us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, I have been used to think the parish my business, home my leisure.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Mrs. Dusautoy, ‘but then you were the womankind of the clergy, + now you are a laywoman.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think you have work at home,’ said the Vicar. + </p> + <p> + ‘Work, but not work <i>enough!</i>’ cried Albinia. ‘The girls will help + me; only tell me what I may do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I say, “what you can,”’ said Mrs. Dusautoy. ‘You see before you a + single-handed man. Only two of the ladies here can be called coadjutors, + one being poor little Genevieve Durant, the other the bookseller’s + daughter, Clarissa Richardson, who made all the rest fly off. All the + others do what good they mean to do according to their own sweet will, + free and independent women, and we can’t have any district system, so I + think you can only do what just comes to hand.’ + </p> + <p> + Most heartily did Albinia undertake all that Mrs. Dusautoy would let her + husband assign to her. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, John is a strong temptation,’ said the bright little invalid, ‘but + you must let Mrs. Kendal find out in a month’s time whether she has work + enough.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could think my wise brother Maurice had been cautioning you,’ said + Albinia, taking leave as of an old friend, for indeed she felt more at + home with Mrs. Dusautoy than with any acquaintance she had made in + Bayford. + </p> + <p> + Albinia told her husband of the state of the cottages, and railed at Mr. + Pettilove much to her own satisfaction. Mr. Kendal answered, ‘He would see + about it,’ an answer of which Albinia had yet to learn the import. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + There are some characters so constituted, that of them the old proverb, + that Love is blind, is perfectly true; they can see no imperfection in the + mind or body of those dear to them. There are others in whom the strongest + affections do not destroy clearness of vision, who see their friends on + all sides, and perceive their faults and foibles, without loving them the + less. + </p> + <p> + Albinia Kendal was a person of the latter description. It might almost be + called her temptation, that her mind beheld all that came before it in a + clear, and a humorous light, such as only a disposition overflowing with + warm affection and with the energy of kindness, could have prevented from + bordering upon censoriousness. She had imagination, but it was not such as + to make an illusion of the present, or to interfere with her almost + satirical good sense. Happily, religion and its earthly manifestation—charity + regulated her, taught her to fear to judge lest she should be judged, + strengthened her naturally fond affections, and tempered the keenness that + disappointment might soon have turned to sourness. The tongue, the temper, + and the judgment knew their own tendencies, and a guard was set over them; + and if the sentinel were ever torpid or deceived, repentance paid the + penalty. + </p> + <p> + She had not long seen her husband at home before she had involuntarily + completed her view of his character. Nature must have designed him for a + fellow of a college, where, apart from all cares, he might have collected + fragments of forgotten authors, and immortalized his name by some edition + of a Greek Lyric poet, known by four poems and a half, and two-thirds of a + line quoted somewhere else. In such a controversy, lightened by + perpetually polished poems, by a fair amount of modern literature, select + college friendships, and methodical habits, Edmund Kendal would have been + in his congenial element, lived and died, and had his portrait hung up as + one of the glories of his college. + </p> + <p> + But he had been carried off from school, before he had done more than + prove his unusual capacity. All his connexions were Indian, and his + father, who had not seen him since his earliest childhood, offered him no + choice but an appointment in the civil service. He had one stimulus; he + had seen Lucy Meadows in the radiant glory of girlish beauty, and had + fastened on her all a poet’s dreams, deepening and becoming more fervid in + the recesses of a reserved heart, which did not easily admit new + sensations. That stimulus carried him out cheerfully to India, and + quickened his abilities, so that he exerted himself sufficiently to obtain + a lucrative situation early in life. He married, and his household must + have been on the German system, all the learning on one side, all the + domestic cares on the other. The understanding and refinement wanting in + his wife, he believed to be wanting in all women. As resident at a small + remote native court in India, he saw no female society such as could + undeceive him; and subsequently his Bayford life had not raised his + standard of womankind. A perfect gentleman, his superiority was his own + work, rather than that of station or education, and so he had never missed + intercourse with really ladylike or cultivated, female minds, expected + little from wife, or daughters, or neighbours; had a few learned friends, + but lived within himself. He had acquired a competence too soon, and had + the great misfortune of property without duties to present themselves + obviously. He had nothing to do but to indulge his naturally indolent + scholarly tastes, which, directed as they had been to Eastern languages, + had even less chance of sympathy among his neighbours than if they had + been classical. Always reserved, and seldom or never meeting with persons + who could converse with him, he had lapsed into secluded habits, and + learnt to shut himself up in his study and exclude every one, that he + might have at least a refuge from the gossip and petty cares that reigned + everywhere else. So seldom was anything said worth his attention, that he + never listened to what was passing, and had learnt to say ‘very well’—‘I’ll + see about it,’ without even knowing what was said to him. + </p> + <p> + But though his wife had been no companion, the illusion had never died + away, he had always loved her devotedly, and her loss had shattered all + his present rest and comfort; as entirely as the death of his son had + taken from him hope and companionship. + </p> + <p> + What a home it must have been, with Lucy reigning over it in her pert + self-sufficiency, Gilbert and Sophy running riot and squabbling, and Maria + Meadows coming in on them with her well-meant worries and persecutions! + </p> + <p> + When taken away from the scene of his troubles, his spirits revived; + afraid to encounter his own household alone, he had thought Albinia the + cure for everything. But at home, habit and association had proved too + strong for her presence—the grief, which he had tried to leave + behind, had waited ready to meet him on the threshold, and the very sense + that it was a melancholy welcome added to his depression, and made him + less able to exert himself. The old sorrows haunted the walls of the + house, and above all the study, and tarried not in seizing on their + unresisting victim. Melancholy was in his nature, his indolence gave it + force, and his habits were almost ineffaceable, and they were habits of + quiet selfishness, formed by a resolute, though inert will, and fostered + by an adoring wife. A youth spent in India had not given him ideas of + responsibilities beyond his own family, and his principles, though sound, + had not expanded the views of duty with which he had started in life. + </p> + <p> + It was a positive pleasure to Albinia to discover that there had been an + inefficient clergyman at Bayford before Mr. Dusautoy, and to know that + during half the time that the present vicar had held the living, Mr. + Kendal had been absent, so that his influence had had no time to work. She + began to understand her line of action. It must be her effort, in all + loving patience and gentleness, to raise her husband’s spirits and rouse + his faculties; to make his powers available for the good of his + fellow-creatures, to make him an active and happy man, and to draw him and + his children together. This was truly a task to make her heart throb high + with hope and energy. Strong and brave was that young heart, and not + self-confident—the difficulty made her only the more hopeful, + because she saw it was her duty. She was secure of her influence with him. + If he did exclude her from his study, he left her supreme elsewhere, and + though she would have given the world that their sovereignty might be a + joint one <i>everywhere</i>, still she allowed much for the morbid + inveterate habit of dreading disturbance. When he began by silence and not + listening, she could always rouse him, and give him animation, and he was + so much surprised and pleased whenever she entered into any of his + pursuits, that she had full hope of drawing him out. + </p> + <p> + One day when the fog, instead of clearing off had turned to violent rain, + Albinia had been out on parish work, and afterwards enlivening old Mrs. + Meadows by dutifully spending an hour with her, while Maria was nursing a + nervous headache—she had been subject to headaches ever since...an + ominous sigh supplied the rest. + </p> + <p> + But all the effect of Albinia’s bright kindness was undone, when the + grandmother learnt that Gilbert was gone to his tutor, and would have to + come home in the rain, and she gave such an account of his exceeding + delicacy, that Albinia became alarmed, and set off at once that she might + consult his father about sending for him. + </p> + <p> + Her opening of the hall door was answered by Mr. Kendal emerging from his + study. He was looking restless and anxious, came to meet her, and + uncloaked her, while he affectionately scolded her for being so + venturesome. She told him where she had been, and he smiled, saying, ‘You + are a busy spirit! But you must not be too imprudent.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, nothing hurts me. It is poor Gilbert that I am anxious about.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So am I. Gilbert has not a constitution fit for exposure. I wish he were + come home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Could we not send for him? Suppose we sent a fly.’ + </p> + <p> + He was consenting with a pleased smile, when the door opened, and there + stood the dripping Gilbert, completely wet through, pale and chilled, with + his hair plastered down, and his coat stuck all over with the horse’s + short hair. + </p> + <p> + ‘You must go to bed at once, Gilbert,’ said his father. ‘Are you cold?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very. It was such a horrid driving wind, and I rode so fast,’ said + Gilbert; violently shivering, as they helped to pull him out of his great + coat; he put his hand to his mouth, and said that his face ached. Mr. + Kendal was very anxious, and Albinia hurried the boy up to bed, and + meantime ordered quickly a basin of the soup preparing for dinner, warmed + some worsted socks at the fire, and ran upstairs with them. + </p> + <p> + He seemed to have no substance in him; he had hardly had energy to undress + himself, and she found him with his face hidden on the pillow, shivering + audibly, and actually crying. She was aghast. + </p> + <p> + The boys with whom she had been brought up, would never have given way so + entirely without resistance; but between laughing, cheering, scolding, + covering him up close, and rubbing his hands with her own, she comforted + him, so that he could be grateful and cheerful when his father himself + came up with the soup. Albinia noticed a sort of shudder pass over Mr. + Kendal as he entered, and he stood close by Gilbert, turning his back on + everything else, while he watched the boy eat the soup, as if restored by + every spoonful. ‘That was a good thought,’ was his comment to his wife, + and the look of gratitude brought a flush of pleasure into her cheek. + </p> + <p> + Of all the dinners, this was the most pleasant; he was more gentle and + affectionate, and she made him tell her about the Persian poets, and + promise to show her some specimens of the Rose Garden of Saadi—she + had never before been so near having his pursuits opened to her. + </p> + <p> + ‘What a favourite Gilbert is!’ Lucy said to Sophia, as Albinia lighted a + candle and went up to his room. + </p> + <p> + ‘He makes such a fuss,’ said Sophy. ‘What is there in being wet through to + cry about?’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia heard a little shuffle as she opened the door, and Gilbert pushed + a book under his pillow. She asked him what he had been reading. ‘Oh,’ he + said, ‘he had not been doing it long, for the flickering of the candle + hurt his eyes.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, you had better not,’ said Albinia, moving the flaring light to a + less draughty part of the dingy whitewashed attic. ‘Or shall I read to + you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Are you come to stay with me?’ cried the boy, raising himself up to look + after her, as she moved about the room and stood looking from the window + over the trees at the water meadows, now flooded into a lake, and lighted + by the beams of a young moon. + </p> + <p> + ‘I can stay till your father is ready for tea,’ said Albinia, coming + nearer. ‘Let me see whether your hands are hot.’ + </p> + <p> + She found her own hand suddenly clasped, and pressed to his lips, and + then, as if ashamed, he turned his face away; nor would she betray her + pleasure in it, but merely said, ‘Shall I go on with your book!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said he, wearily turning his reddened cheek to the other side. ‘I + only took it because it is so horrid lying here thinking.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am very sorry to hear it. Do you know, Gibbie, that it is said there is + nothing more lamentable than for a man not to like to have his own + thoughts for his company,’ said she, gaily. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! but—!’ said Gilbert. ‘If I lie here alone, I’m always looking + out there,’ and he pointed to the opposite recess. She looked, but saw + nothing. ‘Don’t you know?’ he said. + </p> + <p> + ‘Edmund?’ she asked. + </p> + <p> + He grasped her hands in both his own. ‘Aye! Ned used to sleep there. I + always look for him there.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you mean that you would rather have another room? I would manage it + directly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘O no, thank you, I like it for some things. Take the candle—look by + the shutter—cut out in the wood.’ + </p> + <p> + The boys’ scoring of ‘E. & G. K.,’ was visible there. + </p> + <p> + ‘Papa has taken all he could of Edmund’s,’ said Gilbert, ‘but he could not + take that! No, I would not have any other room if you were to give me the + best in the house.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure not! But, my dear, considering what Edmund was, surely they + should be gentle, happy thoughts that the room should give you.’ + </p> + <p> + He shuddered, and presently said, ‘Do you know what?’ and paused; then + continued, with an effort, getting tight hold of her hand, ‘Just before + Edmund died—he lay out there—I lay here—he sat up all + white in bed, and he called out, clear and loud, “Mamma, Gilbert”—I + saw him—and then—he was dead! And you know mamma did die—and + I’m sure I shall!’ He had worked himself into a trembling fit, hid his + face and sobbed. + </p> + <p> + ‘But you have not died of the fever.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes—but I know it means that I shall die young! I am sure it does! + It was a call! I heard Nurse say it was a call!’ + </p> + <p> + What was to be done with such a superstition? Albinia did not think it + would be right to argue it away. It might be in truth a warning to him to + guard his ways—a voice from the twin-brother, to be with him through + life. She knelt down by him, and kissed his forehead. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear Gilbert,’ she said, ‘we all shall die.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, but I shall die young.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And if you should. Those are happy who die young. How much pain your + baby-brother and sisters have missed! How happy Edmund is now!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you really think it meant that I shall’’ he cried, tremblingly. ‘O + don’t! I can’t die!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Your brother called on what he loved best,’ said Albinia. ‘It may mean + nothing. Or rather, it may mean that your dear twin-brother is watching + for you, I am sure he is, to have you with him, for what makes your mortal + life, however long, seem as nothing. It was a call to you to be as pure on + earth as he is in heaven. O Gilbert, how good you should be!’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert did not know whether it frightened him or soothed him to see his + superstition treated with respect—neither denied, nor reasoned away. + But the ghastliness was not in the mere fear that death might not be far + off. + </p> + <p> + The pillow had turned a little on one side—Albinia tried to smooth + it—the corner of a book peeped out. It was a translation of The + Three Musqueteers, one of the worst and most fascinating of Dumas’ + romances. + </p> + <p> + ‘You wont tell papa!’ cried Gilbert, raising himself, in far more real and + present terror than he had previously shown. + </p> + <p> + ‘How did you get it? Whose is it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is my own. I bought it at Richardson’s. It is very funny. But you wont + tell papa? I never was told not; indeed I was not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, Gilbert dear, will you tell me a few things? I do only wish what is + good for you. Why don’t you wish that papa should hear of this book?’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert writhed himself. + </p> + <p> + ‘You know he would not like it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then why did you take to reading it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh!’ cried the boy, ‘if you only did know how stupid and how miserable it + has been! More than half myself gone, and Sophy always glum, and Lucy + always plaguing, and Aunt Maria always being a torment, you would not + wonder at one’s doing anything to forget it!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, but why do what you knew to be wrong?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nobody told me not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Disobedience to the spirit, then, if not to the letter. It was not the + way to be happier, my poor boy, nor nearer to your brother and mother.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Things didn’t use to be stupid when Ned was there!’ sobbed Gilbert, + bursting into a fresh flood of tears. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! Gilbert, I grieved most of all for <i>you</i> when first I heard your + story, before I thought I should ever have anything to do with you,’ said + Albinia, hanging over him fondly. ‘I always thought it must be so forlorn + to be a twin left solitary. But it is sadder still than I knew, if grief + has made you put yourself farther from him instead of nearer.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall be good again now that I have you,’ said Gilbert, as he looked up + into that sweet face. + </p> + <p> + ‘And you will begin by making a free confession to your father, and giving + up the book.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t see what I have to confess. He would be so angry, and he never + told me not. Oh! I cannot tell him.’ + </p> + <p> + She felt that this was not the right way to begin a reformation, and yet + she feared to press the point, knowing that the one was thought severe, + the other timid. + </p> + <p> + ‘At least you will give up the book,’ she said. + </p> + <p> + ‘O dear! if you would let me see whether d’Artagnan got to England. I must + know that! I’m sure there can’t be any harm in that. Do you know what it + is about?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I do. My brother got it by some mistake among some French books. He + read some of the droll unobjectionable parts to my sister and me, but the + rest was so bad, that he threw it into the fire.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you think it funny?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To be sure I do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you remember the three duels all at once, and the three valets? Oh! + what fun it is. But do let me see if d’Artagnan got the diamonds.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, he did. But will this satisfy you, Gilbert? You know there are some + exciting pleasures that we must turn our backs on resolutely. I think this + book is one of them. Now you will let me take it? I will tell your father + about it in private, and he cannot blame you. Then, if he will give his + consent, whenever you can come home early, come to my dressing-room, out + of your sisters’ way, and I will read to you the innocent part, so as to + get the story out of your brain.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very well,’ said Gilbert, slowly. ‘Yes, if you will not let papa be angry + with me. And, oh dear! must you go?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think you had better dress yourself and come down to tea. There is + nothing the matter with you now, is there?’ + </p> + <p> + He was delighted with the suggestion, and promised to come directly; and + Albinia carried off her prize, exceedingly hopeful and puzzled, and + wondering whether her compromise had been a right one, or a mere tampering + with temptation—delighted with the confidence and affection bestowed + on her so freely, but awe-struck by the impression which the boy had + avowed, and marvelling how it should be treated, so as to render it a + blessed and salutary restraint, rather than the dim superstitious terror + that it was at present. At least there was hope of influencing him, his + heart was affectionate, his will on the side of right, and in + consideration of feeble health and timid character, she would overlook the + fact that he had not made one voluntary open confession, and that the + partial renunciation had been wrung from him as a choice of evils. She + could only feel how much he was to be pitied, and how he responded to her + affection. + </p> + <p> + She was crossing the hall next day, when she heard a confusion of tongues + through the open door of the dining-room, and above all, Gilbert’s. ‘Well, + I say there are but two ladies in Bayford. One is Mrs. Kendal, and the + other is Genevieve Durant!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A dancing-master’s daughter!’ Lucy’s scornful tone was unmistakeable, and + so was the ensuing high-pitched querulous voice, ‘Well, to be sure, + Gilbert might be a little more—a little more civil. Not that I’ve a + word to say against—against your—your mamma. Oh, no!—glad + to see—but Gilbert might be more civil.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think so indeed,’ said Albinia. ‘Good morning, Miss Meadows. You see + Gilbert has come home quite alive enough for mischief.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! I thought I might be excused. Mamma was so uneasy—though I know + you don’t admit visitors—my just coming to see—We’ve been + always so anxious about Gilbert. Gibbie dear, where is that flannel I gave + you for your throat?’ + </p> + <p> + She advanced to put her finger within his neck-tie and feel for it. + Gilbert stuck his chin down, and snapped with his teeth like a gin. Lucy + exclaimed, ‘Now, Gilbert, I know mamma will say that is wrong.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! we are used to Gilbert’s tricks. Always bear with a boy’s antics,’ + said Miss Meadows, preventing whatever she thought was coming out of Mrs. + Kendal’s month. Albinia took the unwise step of laughing, for her + sympathies were decidedly with resistance both to flannels and to the + insertion of that hooked finger. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Bowles has always said it was a case for great care. Flannel next the + skin—no exposure,’ continued Miss Meadows, tartly. ‘I am sure—I + know I am the last person to wish to interfere—but so delicate—You’ll + excuse—but my mother was uneasy; and people who go out in all + weathers—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope Mrs. Meadows had my note this morning.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘O yes! I am perfectly aware. Thank you. Yes, I know the rule, but you’ll + excuse—My mother was still anxious—I know you exclude visitors + in lesson-time. I’m going. Only grandmamma would be glad—not that + she wishes to interfere—but if Gilbert had on his piece of flannel—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you, Gilbert?’ said Albinia, becoming tormented. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have been flannel all over all my life,’ said Gilbert, sulkily, ‘one + bit more or less can make no odds.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you have not that piece? said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, my dear! Think of that! New Saxony! I begged it of Mr. Holland. A new + remnant—pink list, and all! I said it was just what I wanted for + Master Gilbert. Mr. Holland is always a civil, feeling man. New Saxony—three + shillings the yard—and trimmed with blue sarsenet! Where is it, + Gilbert?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘In a soup dish, with a crop of mustard and cress on it,’ said Gilbert, + with a wicked wink at Albinia, who was unable to resist joining in the + girls’ shout of laughing, but she became alarmed when she found that poor + Miss Meadows was very near crying, and that her incoherency became so + lachrymose as to be utterly incomprehensible. + </p> + <p> + Lucy, ashamed of her laughter, solemnly declared that it was very wrong of + Gilbert, and she hoped he would not suffer from it, and Albinia, trying to + become grave, judicial, and conciliatory, contrived to pronounce that it + was very silly to leave anything off in an east wind, and hoping to put an + end to the matter, asked Aunt Maria to sit down, and judge how they went + on with their lessons. + </p> + <p> + O no, she could not interrupt. Her mother would want her. She knew Mrs. + Kendal never admitted visitors. She had no doubt she was quite right. She + hoped it would be understood. She would not intrude. In fact, she could + neither go nor stay. She would not resume her seat, nor let anything go + on, and it was full twenty minutes before a series of little vibrating + motions and fragmentary phrases had borne her out of the house. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well!’ cried Gilbert, ‘I hoped Aunt Maria had left off coming down upon + us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘O, mamma!’ exclaimed Lucy, ‘you never sent your love to grandmamma.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Depend upon it she was waiting for that,’ said Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + I’m sure I wish I had known it,’ said Albinia, not in the most judicious + manner. ‘Half-past eleven!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Aunt Maria says she can’t think how you can find time for church when you + can’t see visitors in the morning,’ said Lucy. ‘And oh! dear mamma, + grandmamma says gravy soup was enough to throw Gilbert into a fever.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘At any rate, it did not,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! and, dear mamma, Mrs. Osborn is so hurt that you called on Mrs. + Dusautoy before returning her visit; and Aunt Maria says if you don’t call + to-day you will never get over it, and she says that—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What business has Mrs. Osborn to ask whom I called on?’ exclaimed + Albinia, impatiently. + </p> + <p> + ‘Because Mrs. Osborn is the leading lady in the town,’ said Lucy. ‘She + told Miss Goldsmith that she had no notion of not being respected.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And she can’t bear the Dusautoys. She left off subscribing to anything + when they came; and he behaved very ill to the Admiral and everybody at a + vestry-meeting.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall ask your papa before I am in any hurry to call on the Osborns!’ + cried Albinia. ‘I have no desire to be intimate with people who treat + their clergyman in that way.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But Mrs. Osborn is quite the leader!’ exclaimed Lucy. They keep the best + society here. So many families in the county come and call on them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very likely—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! Mrs. Osborn told Aunt Maria that as the Nugents called on you, and + you had such connexions, she supposed you would be high. But you wont make + me separate from Lizzie, will you? I suppose Miss Nugent is a fashionable + young lady.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Miss Nugent is five years old. Don’t let us have any more of this + nonsense.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But you wont part me from Lizzie Osborn,’ said Lucy, hanging her head + pathetically on one side. + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall talk to your father. He said, the other day, he did not wish you + to be so much with her.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy melted into tears, and Albinia was conscious of having been first + indiscreet and then sharp, hurt at the comments, feeling injured by Lucy’s + evident habit of reporting whatever she said, and at the failure of the + attempt to please Mrs. Meadows. She was so uneasy about the Osborn + question, that she waylaid Mr. Kendal on his return from riding, and laid + it before him. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Albinia,’ he said, as if he would fain have avoided the appeal, + ‘you must manage your own visiting affairs your own way. I do not wish to + offend my neighbours, nor would I desire to be very intimate with any one. + I suppose you must pay them ordinary civility, and you know what that + amounts to. As to the leadership in society here, she is a noisy woman, + full of pretension, and thus always arrogates the distinction to herself. + Your claims will establish themselves.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, you don’t imagine me thinking of that!’ cried Albinia, laughing. ‘I + meant their behaving ill to Mr. Dusautoy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know nothing about that. Mr. Dusautoy once called to ask for my support + for a vestry meeting, but I make it a rule never to meddle with parish + skirmishes. I believe there was a very unbecoming scene, and that Mr. + Dusautoy was in the minority.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, Edmund, next time you’ll see if a parson’s sister can sit quietly by + to see the parson beaten!’ + </p> + <p> + He smiled, and moved towards his study. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then I am to be civil?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Certainly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But is it necessary to call to-day?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should suppose not;’ and there he was, shut up in his den. Albinia went + back, between laughing and vexation, and Lucy looked up from her exercise + to say, ‘Does papa say you must call on the Osborns?’ + </p> + <p> + It was undignified! She bit her lip, and felt her false position, as with + a quiver of the voice she replied, ‘We shall make nothing but mischief if + we talk now. Go on with your business.’ + </p> + <p> + The sharp, curious eyes did not take themselves off her face. She leant + over Sophy, who was copying a house, told her the lines were slanting, + took the pencil from her hand, and tried to correct them, but found + herself making them over-black, and shaky. She had not seen such a line + since the days of her childhood’s ill-temper. She walked to the fireplace + and said, ‘I am going to call on Mrs. Osborn to-day. Not that your father + desires it, but because I have been indulging in a wrong feeling.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m sure you needn’t,’ cried Gilbert. ‘It is very impertinent of Mrs. + Osborn. Why, if he is an admiral, she was the daughter of an old + lieutenant of the Marines, and you are General Sir Maurice Ferrars’ first + cousin.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hush, hush, Gilbert!’ said Albinia, blushing and distressed. ‘Mrs. + Osborn’s standing in the place entitles her to all attention. I was + thinking of nothing of the kind. It was because I gave way to a wrong + feeling that I mean to go this afternoon.’ + </p> + <p> + On the Sunday, when Mr. and Mrs. Kendal went to pay their weekly visit to + Mrs. Meadows, they found the old lady taking a turn in the garden. And as + they were passing by the screen of laurels, Gilbert’s voice was heard very + loud, ‘That’s too bad, Lucy! Grandmamma, don’t believe one word of it!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert, you—you are, I’m sure, very rude to your sister.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll not stand to hear false stories of Mrs. Kendal!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What is all this?’ said Mr. Kendal, suddenly appearing, and discovering + Gilbert pirouetting with indignation before Lucy. + </p> + <p> + Miss Meadows burst out with a shower of half sentences, grandmamma begged + that no notice might be taken of the children’s nonsense, Lucy put on an + air of injured innocence, and Gilbert was beginning to speak, but his + father put him aside, saying, ‘Tell me what has happened, Sophia. From you + I am certain of hearing the exact truth.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Only,’ growled Sophy, in her hoarse boy’s voice, ‘Lucy said mamma said + she would not call on Mrs. Osborn unless you ordered her, and when you + did, she cried and flew into a tremendous passion.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy, what a story,’ exclaimed Lucy, but Gilbert was ready to + corroborate his younger sister’s report. + </p> + <p> + ‘You know Lucy too well to attach any importance to her + misrepresentations,’ said Mr. Kendal, turning to Mrs. Meadows, ‘but I know + not what amends she can make for this most unprovoked slander. Speak, + Lucy, have you no apology to make?’ + </p> + <p> + For Lucy, in self-defence, had begun to cry, and her grandmother seemed + much disposed to do the same. Miss Meadows had tears in her eyes, and + incoherencies on her lips. The distress drove away all Albinia’s + inclination to laugh, and clasping her two hands over her husband’s arm, + she said, ‘Don’t, Edmund, it is only a misunderstanding of what really + happened. I did have a silly fit, you know, so it is my fault.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot forgive for you as you do for yourself,’ said Mr. Kendal, with a + look that was precious to her, though it might have given a pang to the + Meadowses. ‘I did not imagine that my daughter could be so lost to the + sense of your kindness and forbearance. Have you nothing to say, Lucy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor child! she cannot speak,’ said her grandmother. ‘You see she is very + sorry, and Mrs. Kendal is too kind to wish to say any more about it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Go home at once, Lucy,’ said her father. ‘Perhaps solitude may bring you + to a better state of feeling. Go!’ + </p> + <p> + Direct resistance to Mr. Kendal was never thought of, and Lucy turned to + go. Her aunt chose to accompany her, and though this was a decided relief + to the company she left, it was not likely to be the best thing for the + young lady herself. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal gave his arm to Mrs. Meadows, saying gravely that Lucy must not + be encouraged in her habit of gossiping and inaccuracy. Mrs. Meadows quite + agreed with him, it was a very bad habit for a girl, she was very sorry + for it, she wished she could have attended to the dear children better, + but she was sure dear Mrs. Kendal would make them everything desirable. + She only hoped that she would remember their disadvantages, have patience, + and not recollect this against poor Lucy. + </p> + <p> + The warm indignation and championship of her husband and his son were what + Albinia chiefly wished to recollect; but it was impossible to free herself + from a sense of pain and injury in the knowledge that she lived with a spy + who would exaggerate and colour every careless word. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal returned to the subject as they walked home. + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope you will talk seriously to Lucy about her intolerable gossiping,’ + he said. ‘There is no safety in mentioning any subject before her; and + Maria Meadows makes her worse. Some stop must be put to it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should like to wait till next time,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you mean?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Because this is too personal to myself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, your own candour is an example to which Lucy can hardly be + insensible. Besides, it is a nuisance which must be abated.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia could not help thinking that he suffered from it as little as most + people, and wondering whether it were this which had taught him silence. + </p> + <p> + They met Miss Meadows at their own gate, and she told them that dear Lucy + was very sorry, and she hoped they would take no more notice of a little + nonsense that could do no one any harm; she would be more on her guard + next time. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal made no answer. Albinia ventured to ask him whether it would + not be better to leave it, since her aunt had talked to her. + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ he said; ‘Maria has no influence whatever with the children. She + frets them by using too many words about everything. One quiet + remonstrance from you would have far more effect.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia called the culprit and tried to reason with her. Lucy tried at + first to battle it off by saying that she had made a mistake, and Aunt + Maria had said that she should hear no more about it. ‘But, my dear, I am + afraid you must hear more. It is not that I am hurt, but your papa has + desired me to talk to you. You would be frightened to hear what he says.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy chose to hear, and seemed somewhat struck, but she was sure that she + meant no harm; and she had a great deal to say for herself, so voluble and + so inconsequent, that argument was breath spent in vain; and Albinia was + obliged to wind up, as an ultimatum, with warning her, that till she + should prove herself trustworthy, nothing interesting would be talked of + before her. + </p> + <p> + The atmosphere of gossip certainly had done its part in cultivating Mr. + Kendal’s talent for silence. When Albinia had him all to herself, he was + like another person, and the long drives to return visits in the country + were thoroughly enjoyable. So, too, were the walks home from the dinner + parties in the town, when the husband and wife lingered in the starlight + or moonlight, and felt that the weary gaiety of the constrained evening + was made up for. + </p> + <p> + Great was the offence they gave by not taking out the carriage! + </p> + <p> + It was disrespect to Bayford, and one of the airs of which Mrs. Kendal was + accused. As granddaughter of a Baron, daughter of one General Officer and + sister of another, and presented at Court, the Bayford ladies were + prepared to consider her a fine lady, and when they found her peculiarly + simple, were the more aggrieved, as if her contempt were ironically + veiled. Her walks, her dress, her intercourse with the clergy, were all + airs, and Lucy spared her none of the remarks. Albinia might say, ‘Don’t + tell me all Aunt Maria says,’ but it was impossible not to listen; and + whether in mirth or vexation, she was sure to be harmed by what she heard. + </p> + <p> + And yet, except for the tale-bearing, Lucy was really giving less trouble + than her sister, she was quick, observant, and obliging, and under + Albinia’s example, the more salient vulgarities of speech and manner were + falling off. There had seldom been any collision, since it had become + evident that Mrs. Kendal could and would hold her own; and that her + address and air, even while criticised, were regarded as something + superior, so that it was a distinction to belong to her. How many of poor + Albinia’a so-called airs should justly have been laid to Lucy’s account? + </p> + <p> + On the other hand, Sophy would attend to a word from her father, where she + had obstinately opposed her step-mother’s wishes, making her obedience + marked, as if for the very purpose of enforcing the contrast. It was a + character that Albinia could not as yet fathom. In all occupations and + amusements, Sophy followed the lead of her elder sister, and in her + lessons, her sole object seemed to be to get things done with as little + trouble as possible, and especially without setting her mind to work, and + yet in the very effort to escape diligence or exertion, she sometimes + showed signs of so much ability as to excite a longing desire to know of + what she would be capable when once aroused and interested; but the surly, + ungracious temper rendered this apparently impossible, and whatever + Albinia attempted, was sure, as if for the very reason that it came from + her, to be answered with a redoubling of the growl of that odd hoarse + voice. + </p> + <p> + On Lucy’s birthday, there was an afternoon party of her young friends, + including Miss Durant. Albinia, who, among the girlhood of Fairmead and + its neighbourhood, had been so acceptable a playmate, that her marriage + had caused the outcry that ‘there would never be any fun again without + Miss Ferrars,’ came out on the lawn with the girls, in hopes of setting + them to enjoy themselves. But they looked at her almost suspiciously, + retained their cold, stiff, company manners, and drew apart into giggling + knots. She relieved them of her presence, and sitting by the window, + watched Genevieve walking up and down alone, as if no one cared to join + her. Presently Lucy and Lizzie Osborn spoke to her, and she went in. + Albinia went to meet her in the hall; she coloured and said, ‘She was only + come to fetch Miss Osborn’s cloak.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia saw her disposing it over Lizzie’s shoulders, and then running in + again. This time it was for Miss Louisa’s cloak, and a third time for Miss + Drury’s shawl, which Albinia chose to take out herself, and encountering + Sophia, said, ‘Next time, you had better run on errands yourself instead + of sending your guests.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy gave a black look, and she retreated, but presently the groups + coalesced, and Maria Drury and Sophy ran out to call Genevieve into the + midst. Albinia hoped they were going to play, but soon she beheld + Genevieve trying to draw back, but evidently imprisoned, there was an echo + of a laugh that she did not like; the younger girls were skipping up in + the victim’s face in a rude way; she hastily turned round as in + indignation, one hand raised to her eyes, but it was instantly snatched + down by Maria Drury, and the pitiless ring closed in. Albinia sprang to + her feet, exclaiming aloud, ‘They are teasing her!’ and rushed into the + garden, hearing on her way, ‘No, we wont let you go!—you shall tell + us—you shall promise to show us—my papa is a magistrate, you + know—he’ll come and search—Jenny, you shall tell!’ + </p> + <p> + Come with me, Genevieve,’ said Albinia, standing in the midst of the + tormentors, and launching a look of wrath around her, as she saw tears in + the young girl’s eyes, and taking her hand, found it trembling with + agitation. Fondling it with both her own, she led Genevieve away, turning + her back upon Lucy and her, ‘We were only—’ + </p> + <p> + The poor girl shook more and more, and when they reached the shelter of + the house, gave way to a tightened, oppressed sob, and at the first kind + words a shower of tears followed, and she took Albinia’s hand, and clasped + it to her breast in a manner embarrassing to English feelings, though + perfectly natural and sincere in her. ‘Ah! si bonne! si bonne! + pardonnes-moi, Madame!’ she exclaimed, sobbing, and probably not knowing + that she was speaking French; ‘but, oh, Madame, you will tell me! Is it + true—can he?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Can who? What do you mean, my dear?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The Admiral,’ said Genevieve, looking about frightened, and sinking her + voice to a whisper. ‘Miss Louisa said so, that he could send and search—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Search for what, my dear?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘For my poor little secret. Ah, Madame, assuredly I may tell you. It is + but a French Bible, it belonged to my martyred ancestor, Francois Durant, + who perished at the St. Barthelemi—it is stained with his blood—it + has been handed on, from one to the other—it was all that Jacques + Durant rescued when he fled from the Dragonnades—it was given to me + by my own dear father on his death-bed, with a charge to keep it from my + grandmother, and not to speak of it—but to guard it as my greatest + treasure. And now—Oh, I am not disobeying him,’ cried Genevieve, + with a fresh burst of tears. ‘You can feel for me, Madame, you can counsel + me. Can the magistrates come and search, unless I confess to those young + ladies?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Most decidedly not,’ said Albinia. ‘Set your mind at rest, my poor child; + whoever threatened you played you a most base, cruel trick.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, do not be angry with them, Madame; no doubt they were in sport. They + could not know how precious that treasure was to me, and they will say + much in their gaiety of heart.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not like such gaiety,’ said Albinia. ‘What, they wished to make you + confess your secret?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes. They had learnt by some means that I keep one of my drawers locked, + and they had figured to themselves that in it was some relic of my + Huguenot ancestors. They thought it was some instrument of death, and they + said that unless I would tell them the whole, the Admiral had the right of + search, and, oh! it was foolish of me to believe them for a moment, but I + only thought that the fright would, kill my grandmother. Oh, you were so + good, Madame, I shall never forget; no, not to the end of my life, how you + rescued me!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We did not bring you here to be teased,’ said Albinia, caressing her. ‘I + should like to ask your pardon for what they have made you undergo.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, Madame!’ said Genevieve, smiling, ‘it is nothing. I am well used to + the like, and I heed it little, except when it falls on such subjects as + these.’ + </p> + <p> + She was easily drawn into telling the full history of her treasure, as she + had learnt from her father’s lips, the Huguenot shot down by the + persecutors, and the son who had fled into the mountains and returned to + bury the corpse, and take the prized, blood-stained Bible from the breast; + the escapes and dangers of the two next generations; the few succeeding + days of peace; and, finally, the Dragonnade, when the children had been + snatched from the Durant family, and the father and mother had been driven + at length to fly in utter destitution, and had made their way to England + in a wretched, unprovisioned open boat. The child for whose sake they + fled, was the only one rescued from the hands of these enemies, and the + tradition of their sufferings had been handed on with the faithfully + preserved relic, down to the slender girl, their sole descendant, and who + in early childhood had drunk in the tale from the lips of her father. The + child of the persecutors and of the persecuted, Genevieve Durant did + indeed represent strangely the history of her ancestral country; and as + Albinia said to her, surely it might be hoped that the faith in which she + had been bred up, united what was true and sound in the religion of both + Reformed and Romanist. + </p> + <p> + The words made the brown cheek glow. ‘Ah, Madame, did I not say I could + talk with you? You, who do not think me a heretic, as my dear + grandmother’s friends do, and who yet can respect my grandmother’s + Church.’ + </p> + <p> + Assuredly little Genevieve was one of the most interesting and engaging + persons that Albinia had ever met, and she listened earnestly to her + artless history, and pretty enthusiasms, and the story which she could not + tell without tears, of her father’s care, when the reward of her good + behaviour had been the reading one verse in the quaint black letter of the + old French Bible. + </p> + <p> + The conversation lasted till Gilbert made his appearance, and Albinia was + glad to find that his greeting to Genevieve was cordial and affectionate, + and free from all that was unpleasant in his sisters’ manner, and he + joined himself to their company when Albinia proposed a walk along the + broad causeway through the meadows. It was one of the pleasantest walks + that she had taken at Bayford, with both her companions so bright and + merry, and the scene around in all the beauty of spring. Gilbert, with the + courtesy that Albinia’s very presence had infused into him, gathered a + pretty wild bouquet for each, and Albinia talked of cowslip-balls, and + found that neither Gilbert nor Genevieve had ever seen one; then she + pitied them, and owned that she did not know how to get through a spring + without one; and Gilbert having of course a pocketful of string, a + delicious ball was constructed, over which Genevieve went into an + inexpressible ecstasy. + </p> + <p> + All the evening, Gilbert devoted himself to Genevieve, though more than + one of the others tried to attract him, playing off the follies of more + advanced girlhood, to the vexation of Albinia, who could not bear to see + him the centre of attention to silly girls, when he ought to have been + finding his level among boys. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert makes himself so ridiculous about Jenny Durant,’ said his + sisters, when he insisted on escorting her home, and thus they brought on + themselves Albinia’s pent-up indignation at their usage of their guest. + Lucy argued in unsatisfactory self-defence, but Sophy, when shown how + ungenerous her conduct had been, crimsoned deeply, and though uttering no + word of apology, wore a look that gave her step-mother for the first time + a hope that her sullenness might not be so much from want of compunction, + as from want of power to express it. + </p> + <p> + Oh! for a consultation with her brother. But he and his wife were taking a + holiday among their kindred in Ireland, and for once Albinia could have + echoed the aunts’ lamentation that Winifred had so many relations! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + Albinia needed patience to keep alive hope and energy, for a sore + disappointment awaited her. Whatever had been her annoyances with the + girls, she had always been on happy and comfortable terms with Gilbert, he + had responded to her advances, accommodated himself to her wishes, adopted + her tastes, and returned her affection. She had early perceived that his + father and sisters looked on him as the naughty one of the family, but + when she saw Lucy’s fretting interference, and, Sophia’s wrangling + contempt, she did not wonder that an unjust degree of blame had often + fallen to his share; and under her management, he scarcely ever gave cause + for complaint. That he was evidently happier and better for her presence, + was compensation for many a vexation; she loved him with all her heart, + made fun with him, told legends of the freaks of her brother Maurice and + cousin Fred, and grudged no trouble for his pleasure. + </p> + <p> + As long as The Three Musqueteers lasted, he had come constantly to her + dressing-room, and afterwards she promised to find other pleasant reading; + but after such excitement, it was not easy to find anything that did not + appear dry. As the daughter of a Peninsular man, she thought nothing so + charming as the Subaltern, and Gilbert seemed to enjoy it; but by the time + he had heard all her oral traditions of the war by way of notes, his + attendance began to slacken; he stayed out later, and always brought + excuses—Mr. Salsted had kept him, he had been with a fellow, or his + pony had lost a shoe. Albinia did not care to question, the evenings were + light and warm, and the one thing she desired for him was manly exercise: + she thought it much better for him to be at play with his fellow-pupils, + and she could not regret the gain of another hour to her hurried day. + </p> + <p> + One morning, however, Mr. Kendal called her, and his look was so grave and + perturbed, that she hardly waited till the door was shut to ask in terror, + what could be the matter. + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing to alarm you,’ he said. ‘It is only that I am vexed about + Gilbert. I have reason to fear that he is deceiving us again; and I want + you to help us to recollect on which days he should have been at Tremblam. + My dear, do not look so pale!’ + </p> + <p> + For Albinia had turned quite white at hearing that the boy, on whom she + had fixed her warm affection, had been carrying on a course of falsehood; + but a moment’s hope restored her. ‘I did keep him at home on Tuesday,’ she + said, ‘it was so very hot, and he had a headache. I thought I might. You + told me not to send him on doubtful days.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope you may be able to make out that it is right,’ said Mr. Kendal, + ‘but I am afraid that Mr. Salsted has too much cause of complaint. It is + the old story!’ + </p> + <p> + And so indeed it proved, when Albinia heard what the tutor had come to + say. The boy was seldom in time, often altogether missing, excusing + himself by saying he was kept at home by fears of the weather; but Mr. + Salsted was certain that his father could not know how he disposed of his + time, namely, in a low style of sporting with young Tritton, the son of a + rich farmer or half-gentleman, who was the pest of Mr. Salsted’s parish. + Ill-learnt, slurred-over lessons, with lame excuses, were nothing as + compared with this, and the amount of petty deceit, subterfuge, and + falsehood, was frightful, especially when Albinia recollected the tone of + thought which the boy had seemed to be catching from her. Unused to + duplicity, except from mere ignorant, unmanageable school-children, she + was excessively shocked, and felt as if he must be utterly lost to all + good, and had been acting a lie from first to last. After the conviction + had broken on her, she hardly spoke, while Mr. Kendal was promising to + talk to his son, threaten him with severe punishment, and keep a strict + account of his comings and goings, to be compared weekly with Mr. + Salsted’s notes of his arrival. This settled, the tutor departed, and no + sooner was he gone, than Albinia, hiding her face in her hands, shed tears + of bitter grief and disappointment. ‘My dearest,’ said her husband, + fondly, ‘you must not let my boy’s doings grieve you in this manner. You + have been doing your utmost for him, if any one could do him good, it + would be you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘O no, surely I must have made some dreadful mistake, to have promoted + such faults.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I have long known him not to be trustworthy. It is an evil of long + standing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Was it always so?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot tell,’ said he, sitting down beside her, and shading his brow + with one hand; ‘I have only been aware of it since he has been left alone. + When the twins were together, they were led by one soul of truth and + generosity. What this poor fellow was separately no one could know, while + he had his brother to guide and shield him. The first time I noticed the + evil was when we were recovering. Gilbert and Sophia were left together, + and in one of their quarrels injured some papers of mine. I was very weak, + and had little power of self-control; I believe I terrified him too much. + There was absolute falsehood, and the truth was only known by Sophia’s + coming forward and confessing the whole. It was ill managed. I was not + equal to dealing with him, and whether the mischief began then or earlier, + it has gone on ever since, breaking out every now and then. I had hoped + that with your care—But oh! how different it would have been with + his brother! Albinia, what would I not give that you had but seen <i>him!</i> + Not a fault was there; not a moment’s grief did he give us, till—O + what an overthrow of hope!’ And he gave way to an excess of grief that + quite appalled her, and made her feel herself powerless to comfort. She + only ventured a few words of peace and hope; but the contrast between the + brothers, was just then keen agony, and he could not help exclaiming how + strange it was, that Edmund should be the one to be taken. + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay,’ he said, ‘was not he ripe for better things? May not poor Gilbert + have been spared that longer life may train him to be like his brother?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He never will be like him,’ cried Mr. Kendal. ‘No! no! The difference is + evident in the very countenance and features.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Was he like you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They said so, but you could not gather an idea of him from me,’ said Mr. + Kendal, smiling mournfully, as he met her gaze. ‘It was the most beautiful + countenance I ever saw, full of life and joy; and there were wonderful + expressions in the eyes when he was thinking or listening. He used to read + the Greek Testament with me every morning, and his questions and remarks + rise up before me again. That text—You have seen it in church.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Because I live, ye shall live also,’ Albinia repeated. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes. A little before his illness we came to that. He rested on it, as he + used to do on anything that struck him, and asked me, “whether it meant + the life hereafter, or the life that is hidden here?” We went over it with + such comments as I could find, but his mind was not satisfied; and it must + have gone on working on it, for one night, when I had been thinking him + delirious, he called me, and the light shone out of those bright dark eyes + of his as he said, joyfully, “It is both, papa! It is hidden here, but it + will shine out there,” and as I did not catch his meaning, he repeated the + Greek words.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear boy! Some day we shall be glad that the full life and glory came so + soon.’ + </p> + <p> + He shook his head, the parting was still too recent, and it was the first + time he had been able to speak of his son. It was a great satisfaction to + her that the reserve had once been broken; it seemed like compensation for + the present trouble, though that was acutely felt, and not softened by the + curious eyes and leading questions of the sisters, when she returned to + give what attention she could to their interrupted lessons. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert returned, unsuspicious of the storm, till his father’s stern + gravity, and her depressed, pre-occupied manner, excited his attention, + and he asked her anxiously whether anything were the matter. A sad gesture + replied, and perhaps revealed the state of the case, for he became + absolutely silent. Albinia left them together. She watched anxiously, and + hurried after Mr. Kendal into the study, where his manner showed her not + to be unwelcome as the sharer of his trouble. ‘I do not know what to do,’ + he said, dejectedly. ‘I can make nothing of him. It is all prevarication + and sulkiness! I do not think he felt one word that I said.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘People often feel more than they show.’ + </p> + <p> + He groaned. + </p> + <p> + ‘Will you go to him?’ he presently added. ‘Perhaps I grew too angry at + last, and I believe he loves you. At least, if he does not, he must be + more unfeeling than I can think him. You do not dislike it, dearest.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘O no, no! If I only knew what would be best for him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He may be more unreserved with you,’ said Mr. Kendal; and as he was + anxious for her to make the attempt, she moved away, though in perplexity, + and in the revulsion of feeling, with a sort of disgust towards the boy + who had deceived her so long. + </p> + <p> + She found him seated on a wheelbarrow by the pond, chucking pebbles into + the still black water, and disturbing the duckweed on the surface. His + colour was gone, and his face was dark and moody, and strove not to relax, + as she said, ‘O Gilbert, how could you?’ + </p> + <p> + He turned sharply away, muttering, ‘She is coming to bother, now!’ + </p> + <p> + It cut her to the heart. ‘Gilbert!’ was all she could exclaim, but the + tone of pain made him look at her, as if in spite of himself, and as he + saw the tears he exclaimed in an impatient voice of rude consolation, + ‘There’s nothing to take so much to heart. No one thinks anything of it!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What would Edmund have thought?’ said Albinia; but the appeal came too + soon, he made an angry gesture and said, ‘He was nearly three years + younger than I am now! He would not have been kept in these abominable + leading-strings.’ + </p> + <p> + She was too much shocked to find an answer, and Gilbert went on, ‘Watched + and examined wherever I go—not a minute to myself—nothing but + lessons at Tremblam, and bother at home; driven about hither and thither, + and not allowed a friend of my own, nor to do one single thing! There’s no + standing it, and I won’t!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am very sorry,’ said Albinia, struggling with choking tears. ‘It has + been my great wish to make things pleasant to you. I hope I have not + teased or driven you to—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nonsense!’ exclaimed Gilbert, disrespectfully indeed, but from the bottom + of his heart, and breaking at once into a flood of tears. ‘You are the + only creature that has been kind to me since I lost my mother and Ned, and + now they have been and turned you against me too;’ and he sobbed + violently. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know what you mean, Gilbert. If I stand in your mother’s place, I + can’t be turned against you, any more than she could,’ and she stroked his + brow, which she found so throbbing as to account for his paleness. ‘You + can grieve and hurt me, but you can’t prevent me from feeling for you, nor + for your dear father’s grief.’ + </p> + <p> + He declared that people at home knew nothing about boys, and made an + uproar about nothing. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you call falsehood nothing?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Falsehood! A mere trifle now and then, when I am driven to it by being + kept so strictly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know how to talk to you, Gilbert,’ said Albinia, rising; ‘your + conscience knows better than your tongue.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t go;’ and he went off into another paroxysm of crying, as he caught + hold of her dress; and when he spoke again his mood was changed; he was + very miserable, nobody cared for him, he did not know what to do; he + wanted to do right, and to please her, but Archie Tritton would not let + him alone; he wished he had never seen Archie Tritton. At last, walking up + and down with him, she drew from him a full confidence, and began to + understand how, when health and strength had come back to him in greater + measure than he had ever before enjoyed, the craving for boyish sports had + awakened, just after he had been deprived of his brother, and was debarred + from almost every wholesome manner of gratifying it. To fall in with young + Tritton was as great a misfortune as could well have befallen a boy, with + a dreary home, melancholy, reserved father, and wearisome aunt. Tritton + was a youth of seventeen, who had newly finished his education at an + inferior commercial school, and lived on his father’s farm, giving himself + the airs of a sporting character, and fast hurrying into dissipation. + </p> + <p> + He was really good-natured, and Gilbert dwelt on his kindness with warmth + and gratitude, and on his prowess in all sporting accomplishments with a + perfect effervescence of admiration. He evidently patronized Gilbert, + partly from good-natured pity, and partly as flattered by the adherence of + a boy of a grade above him; and Gilbert was proud of the notice of one who + seemed to him a man, and an adept in all athletic games. It was a + dangerous intimacy, and her heart sank as she found that the pleasures to + which he had been introducing Gilbert, were not merely the free exercise, + the rabbit-shooting and rat-hunting of the farm, nor even the village + cricket-match, all of which, in other company, would have had her full + sympathy. But there had been such low and cruel sports that she turned her + head away sickened at the notion of any one dear to her having been + engaged in such amusements, and when Gilbert in excuse said that every one + did it, she answered indignantly, ‘My brothers never!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is no use talking about what swells do that hunt and shoot and go to + school,’ answered Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you wish you went to school?’ asked Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish I was out of it all!’ + </p> + <p> + He was in a very different frame. He owned that he knew how wrong it had + been to deceive, but he seemed to look upon it as a sort of fate; he + wished he could help it, but could not, he was so much afraid of his + father that he did not know what he said; Archie Tritton said no one could + get on without.—There was an utter bewilderment in his notions, here + and there showing a better tone, but obscured by the fancies imbibed from + his companion, that the knowledge and practice of evil were manly. At one + moment he cried bitterly, and declared that he was wretched; at another he + defended each particular case with all his might, changing and slipping + away so that she did not know where to take him. However, the conclusion + was far more in pity than anger, and after receiving many promises that if + she would shield him from his father and bear with him, he would abstain + from all she disapproved, she caressed and soothed the aching head, and + returned to his father hopeful and encouraged, certain that the evil had + been chiefly caused by weakness and neglect and believing that here was a + beginning of repentance. Since there was sorrow and confession, there + surely must be reformation. + </p> + <p> + For a week Gilbert went on steadily, but at the end of that time his + arrivals at home became irregular, and one day there was another great + aberration. On a doubtful day, when it had been decided that he might go + safely between the showers, he never came to Tremblam at all, and Mr. + Salsted sent a note to Mr. Kendal to let him know that his son had been at + the races—village races, managed by the sporting farmers of the + neighbourhood. There was a sense of despair, and again a talk, bringing at + once those ever-ready tears and protestations, sorrow genuine, but + fruitless. ‘It was all Archie’s fault, he had overtaken him, persuaded him + that Mr. Salsted would not expect him, promised him that he should see the + celebrated ‘Blunderbuss,’ Sam Shepherd’s horse, that won the race last + year. Gilbert had gone ‘because he could not help it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not help it!’ cried Albinia, looking at him with her clear indignant + eyes. ‘How can you be such a poor creature, Gilbert?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is very hard!’ exclaimed Gilbert; ‘I must go past Robble’s Leigh twice + every day of my life, and Archie will come out and be at me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That is the very temptation you have to resist,’ said Albinia. ‘Fight + against it, pray against it, resolve against it; ride fast, and don’t + linger and look after him.’ + </p> + <p> + He looked desponding and miserable. If she could only have put a spirit + into him! + </p> + <p> + ‘Shall I walk and meet you sometimes before you get to Robbie’s Leigh!’ + </p> + <p> + His face cleared up, but the cloud returned in a moment. + </p> + <p> + ‘What is it?’ she asked. ‘Only tell me. You know I wish for nothing so + much as to help you.’ + </p> + <p> + He did confess that there was nothing he should like better, if Archie + would not be all the worse another time, whenever he should catch him + alone. + </p> + <p> + ‘But surely, Gilbert, he is not always lying in ambush for you, like a cat + for a mouse. You can’t be his sole game.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, but he is coming or going, or out with his gun, and he will often + come part of the way with me, and he is such a droll fellow!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia thought that there was but one cure. To leave Gilbert daily + exposed to the temptation must be wrong, and she laid the case before Mr. + Kendal with so much earnestness, that he allowed that it would be better + to send the boy from home; and in the meantime, Albinia obtained that Mr. + Kendal should ride some way on the Tremblam road with his son in the + morning, so as to convoy him out of reach of the tempter; whilst she tried + to meet him in the afternoon, and managed so that he should be seldom + without the hope of meeting her. + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s likings had taken a current absolutely contrary to all her + preconceived notions; Sophia, with her sullen truth, was respected, but it + was not easy to like her even as well as Lucy, who, though pert and empty, + had much good-nature and good-temper, and was not indocile; while Gilbert, + in spite of a weak, shallow character, habits of deception, and low + ungentlemanly tastes, had won her affection, and occupied the chief of her + time and thoughts; and she dreaded the moment of parting with him, as + removing the most available and agreeable of her young companions. + </p> + <p> + That moment of parting, though acknowledged to be expedient, did not + approach. Gilbert, could not be sent to a public school without risk and + anxiety which his father did not like, and which would have been horror to + his grandmother; and Albinia herself did not feel certain that he was fit + for it, nor that it was her part to enforce it. She wrote to her brother, + and found that he likewise thought a tutor would be a safe alternative; + but then he must be a perfect man in a perfect climate, and Mr. Kendal was + not the man to make researches. Mr. Dusautoy mentioned one clergyman who + took pupils, Maurice Ferrars another, but there was something against + each. Mr. Kendal wrote four letters, and was undecided—a third was + heard of, but the locality was doubtful, and the plan went off, because + Mr. Kendal could not make up his mind to go thirty miles to see the place, + and talk to a stranger. + </p> + <p> + Albinia found that her power did not extend beyond driving him from ‘I’ll + see about it,’ to ‘Yes, by all means.’ Action was a length to which he + could not be brought. Mr. Nugent was very anxious that he should qualify + as a magistrate since a sensible, highly-principled man was much wanted + counterbalance Admiral Osborn’s misdirected, restless activity and the + lower parts of the town were in a dreadful state. Mrs. Nugent talked to + Albinia, and she urged it in vain. To come out of his study, examine + felons, contend with the Admiral, and to meet all the world at the quarter + sessions, was abhorrent to him, and he silenced her almost with sternness. + </p> + <p> + She was really hurt and vexed, and scarcely less so by a discovery that + she made shortly after. The hot weather had made the houses beneath the + hill more close and unwholesome than ever, Simkins’s wife had fallen into + a lingering illness, and Albinia, visiting her constantly, was painfully + sensible of the dreadful atmosphere in which she lived, under the roof, + with a window that would not open. She offered to have the house improved + at her own expense, but was told that Mr. Pettilove would raise the rent + if anything were laid out on it. She went about talking indignantly of Mr. + Pettilove’s cruelty and rapacity, and when Mr. Dusautoy hinted that + Pettilove was only agent, she exclaimed that the owner was worse, since + ignorance alone could be excused. Who was the wretch? Some one, no doubt, + who never came near the place, and only thought of it as money. + </p> + <p> + ‘Fanny,’ said Mr. Dusautoy, ‘I really think we ought to tell her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Mrs. Dusautoy, ‘I think it would be better. The houses + belonged to old Mr. Meadows.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, if they are Mrs. Meadows’s, I don’t wonder at anything.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe they are Gilbert Kendal’s.’ + </p> + <p> + They were very kind; Mr. Dusautoy strode out at the window, and his wife + would not look at Albinia during the minute’s struggle to regain her + composure, under the mortification that her husband should have let her + rave so much and so long about what must be in his own power. Her only + comfort was the hope that he had never heard what she said, and she knew + that he so extremely disliked a conference with Pettilove, that he would + consent to anything rather than have a discussion. + </p> + <p> + She was, for the first time in her life, out of spirits. Gilbert was + always upon her mind; and the daily walk to meet him was a burthen, + consuming a great deal of time, and becoming trying on hot summer + afternoons, the more so as she seldom ventured to rest after it, lest + dulness should drive Gilbert into mischief, or, if nothing worse, into + quarrelling with Sophia. If she could not send him safely out fishing, she + must be at hand to invent pleasures and occupations for him; and the worst + of it was, that the girls grudged her attention to their brother, and were + becoming jealous. They hated the walk to Robble’s Leigh, and she knew that + it was hard on them that their pleasure should be sacrificed, but it was + all-important to preserve him from evil. She had wished to keep the + tutor-negotiations a secret, but they had oozed out, and she found that + Mrs. and Miss Meadows had been declaring that they had known how it would + be—whatever people said beforehand, it always came to the same thing + in the end, and as to its being necessary, poor dear Gibbie was very + different before the change at home. + </p> + <p> + Albinia could not help shedding a few bitter tears. Why was she to be + always misjudged, even when she meant the best? And, oh! how hard, + well-nigh impossible, to forgive and candidly to believe that, in the old + lady, at least, it was partiality, and not spite. + </p> + <p> + In September, Mr. and Mrs. Ferrars returned from their journey. Albinia + was anxious to see them, for if there was a sense that she had fallen + short of her confident hopes of doing prosperously, there was also a great + desire for their sympathy and advice. But Maurice had been too long away + from his parish to be able to spare another day, and begged that the + Kendals would come to Fairmead. Seeing that Albinia’s heart was set on it, + Mr. Kendal allowed himself to be stirred up to appoint a time for driving + her over to spend a long day at Fairmead. + </p> + <p> + For her own pleasure and ease of mind, Albinia made a point of taking + Gilbert, and the girls were to spend the day with their grandmother. + </p> + <p> + ‘Pretty old Fairmead!’ she cried, as the beech-trees rose before her; and + she was turning round every minute to point out to Gilbert some of the + spots of which she had told him, and nodding to the few scattered children + who were not at school, and who looked up with mouths from ear to ear, and + flushed cheeks, as they curtsied to ‘Miss Ferrars.’ The ‘Miss Ferrars’ + life seemed long ago. + </p> + <p> + They came to the little green gate that led to what had been ‘home’ for + the happiest years of Albinia’s life, and from the ivy porch there was a + rush of little Willie and Mary, and close at hand their mamma, and Maurice + emerging from the school. It was very joyous and natural. But there were + two more figures, not youthful, but of decided style and air, and quiet + but fashionable dress, and Albinia had only time to say quickly to her + husband, ‘my aunts,’ before she was fondly embraced. + </p> + <p> + It was not at all what she had intended. Mrs. Annesley and Miss Ferrars + were very kind aunts, and she had much affection for them; but there was + an end of the hope of the unreserve and confidence that she wanted. She + could get plenty of compassion and plenty of advice, but her whole object + would be to avoid these; and, besides, Mr. Kendal had not bargained for + strangers. What would become of his opportunity of getting better + acquainted with Maurice and Winifred, and of all the pleasures that she + had promised Gilbert? + </p> + <p> + At least, however, she was proud that her aunts should see what a + fine-looking man her husband was, and they were evidently struck with his + appearance and manner. Gilbert, too was in very good looks, and was + altogether a bright, gentlemanly boy, well made, though with the air of + growing too fast, and with something of uncertainty about his expression. + </p> + <p> + It was quickly explained that the aunts had only decided, two days before, + on coming to Fairmead at once, some other engagement having failed them, + and they were delighted to find that they should meet their dear Albinia, + and be introduced to Mr. Kendal. Setting off before the post came in, + Albinia had missed Winifred’s note to tell her of their arrival. + </p> + <p> + ‘And,’ said Winifred, as she took Albinia upstairs, ‘if I did suspect that + would be the case, I wont say I regretted it. I did not wish to afford Mr. + Kendal the pleasures of anticipation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps it was better,’ said Albinia, smiling, ‘especially as I suppose + they will stay for the next six weeks, so that the days will be short + before you will be free.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And now let me see you, my pretty one,’ said Winifred, fondly. ‘Are you + well, are you strong? No, don’t wriggle your head away, I shall believe + nothing but what I read for myself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t believe anything you read without the notes,’ said Albinia. ‘I have + a great deal to say to you, but I don’t expect much opportunity thereof.’ + </p> + <p> + Certainly not, for Miss Ferrars was knocking at the door. She had never + been able to suppose that the sisters-in-law could be more to each other + than she was to her own niece. + </p> + <p> + So it became a regular specimen of a ‘long day’ spent together by + relations, who, intending to be very happy, make themselves very weary of + each other, by discarding ordinary occupations, and reducing themselves to + needlework and small talk. Albinia was bent on liveliness, and excelled + herself in her droll observations; but to Winifred, who knew her so well, + this brilliancy did not seem like perfect ease; it was more like effort + than natural spirits. This was no wonder, for not only had the sight of + new people thrown Mr. Kendal into a severe access of shyness and silence, + but he was revolving in fear and dread the expediency of asking them to + Willow Lawn, and considering whether Albinia and propriety could make the + effort bearable. Silent he sat, while the aunts talked of their wishes + that one nephew would marry, and that the other would not, and no one + presumed to address him, except little Mary, who would keep trotting up to + him, to make him drink out of her doll’s tea-cups. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars took pity on him, and took him and Gilbert out to call upon + Colonel Bury; but this did not lessen his wife’s difficulties, for there + was a general expectation that she would proceed to confidences; whereas + she would do nothing but praise the Dusautoys, ask after all the + parishioners of Fairmead one by one, and consult about French + reading-books and Italian grammars. Mrs. Annesley began a gentle warning + against overtaxing her strength, and Miss Ferrars enforced it with such + vehemence, that Winifred, who had been rather on that side, began to take + Albinia’s part, but perceived, with some anxiety, that her sister’s + attempts to laugh off the admonition almost amounted to an admission that + she was working very hard. As to the step-daughters, no intelligence was + attainable, except that Lucy would be pleased with a new crochet pattern, + and that Sophy was like her father, but not so handsome. + </p> + <p> + The next division of time passed better. Albinia walked out at the window + to meet the gentlemen when they came home, and materially relieved Mr. + Kendal’s mind by saying to him, ‘The aunts are settled in here till they + go to Knutsford. I hope you don’t think—there is not the least + occasion for asking them to stay with us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Are you sure you do not wish it?’ said Mr. Kendal, with great kindness, + but an evident weight removed. + </p> + <p> + ‘Most certain!’ she exclaimed, with full sincerity; ‘I am not at all ready + for them. What should I do with them to entertain?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very well,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘you must be the judge. If there be no + necessity, I shall be glad to avoid unsettling our habits, and probably + Bayford would hardly afford much enjoyment to your aunts.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia glanced in his face, and in that of her brother, with her own arch + fun. It was the first time that day that Maurice had seen that peculiarly + merry look, and he rejoiced, but he was not without fear that she was + fostering Mr. Kendal’s retiring habits more than was good for him. But it + was not only on his account that she avoided the invitation, she by no + means wished to show Bayford to her fastidious aunts, and felt as if to + keep them satisfied and comfortable would be beyond her power. + </p> + <p> + Set free from this dread, and his familiarity with his brother-in-law + renewed, Mr. Kendal came out to great advantage at the early dinner. Miss + Ferrars was well read and used to literary society, and she started + subjects on which he was at home, and they discussed new books and + criticised critics, so that his deep reading showed itself, and even a + grave, quiet tone of satire, such as was seldom developed, except under + the most favourable circumstances. He and Aunt Gertrude were evidently so + well pleased with each other, that Albinia almost thought she had been + precipitate in letting him off the visit. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert had, fortunately, a turn for small children, and submitted to be + led about the garden by little Willie; and as far as moderate enjoyment + went, the visit was not unsuccessful; but as for what Albinia came for, it + was unattainable, except for one little space alone with her brother. + </p> + <p> + ‘I meant to have asked a great deal,’ she said, sighing. + </p> + <p> + ‘If you, want me, I would contrive to ride over,’ said Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, it is not worth that. But, Maurice, what is to be done when one sees + one’s duty, and yet fails for ever for want of tact and temper! Ah, I know + what you will say, and I often say it to myself, but whatever I propose, I + always do either the wrong thing or in the wrong way!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You fall a hundred times a day, but are raised up again,’ said Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice, tell me one thing. Is it wrong to do, not the best, but only the + best one can?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is the wrong common to us all,’ said Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘I used to believe in “whatever is worth doing at all, is worth doing + well.” Now, I do everything ill, rather than do nothing at all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There are only two ways of avoiding that.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And they are—?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Either doing nothing, or admiring all your own doings.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Which do you recommend?’ said Albinia, smiling, but not far from tears. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear,’ said Maurice, ‘all I can dare to recommend, is patience and + self-control. Don’t fret and agitate yourself about what you can’t do, but + do your best to do calmly what you can. It will be made up, depend upon + it.’ + </p> + <p> + There was no time for more, but the sound counsel, the sympathy, and + playfulness had done Albinia wonderful good, and she was almost glad there + had been no more privacy, or her friends might have guessed that she had + not quite found a counsellor at home. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + The Christmas holidays did indeed put an end to the walks to meet Gilbert, + but only so as to make Albinia feel responsible for him all day long, and + uneasy whenever he was not accounted for. She played chess with him, found + books, and racked her brains to seek amusements for him; but knowing all + the time that it was hopeless to expect a boy of fourteen to be satisfied + with them. One or two boys of his age had come home for the holidays, and + she tried to be relieved by being told that he was going out with Dick + Wolfe or Harry Osborn, but it was not quite satisfactory, and she began to + look fagged and unwell, and had lost so much of her playfulness, that even + Mr. Kendal was alarmed. + </p> + <p> + Sophia’s birthday fell in the last week before Christmas, and it had + always been the family custom to drink tea with Mrs. Meadows. Albinia made + the engagement with a sense of virtuous resignation, though not feeling + well enough for the infliction, but Mr. Kendal put a stop to all notion of + her going. She expected to enjoy her quiet solitary evening, but the + result was beyond her hopes, for as she was wishing Gilbert good-bye, she + heard the click of the study lock, and in came Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought you were gone,’ she said. + </p> + <p> + ‘No. I did not like to leave you alone for a whole evening.’ + </p> + <p> + If it were only an excuse to himself for avoiding the Meadows’ party, it + was too prettily done for the notion to occur to his wife, and never had + she spent a happier evening. He was so unusually tender and unreserved, so + desirous to make her comfortable, and, what was far more to her, growing + into so much confidence, that it was even better than what she used last + year to picture to herself as her future life with him. It even came to + what he had probably never done for any one. She spoke of a beautiful old + Latin hymn, which she had once read with her brother, and had never seen + adequately translated, and he fetched a manuscript book, where, written + out with unrivalled neatness, stood a translation of his own, made many + years ago, full of scholarly polish. She ventured to ask leave to copy it. + ‘I will copy it for you,’ he said, ‘but it must be for yourself alone.’ + </p> + <p> + She was grateful for the concession, and happy in the promise. She begged + to turn the page, and it was granted. There were other translations, + chiefly from curious oriental sources, and there were about twenty + original poems, elaborated in the same exquisite manner, and with a deep + melancholy strain of thought, and power of beautiful description, that she + thought finer and more touching than almost anything she had read. + </p> + <p> + ‘And these are all locked up for ever. No one has seen them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So. When I was a young lad, my poor father put some lines of mine into a + newspaper. That sufficed me,’ and he shut the clasped book as if repenting + of having revealed the contents. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I was not thinking of anything you would dislike with regard to those + verses. I don’t like to let in the world on things precious, but (how + could she venture so far!) I was thinking how many powers and talents are + shut up in that study! and whether they might not have been meant for + more. I beg your pardon if I ought not to say so.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The time is past,’ he replied, without displeasure; ‘my youth is gone, + and with it the enterprise and hopefulness that can press forward, + insensible to annoyance. You should have married a man with freshness and + energy more responsive to your own.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, Edmund, that is a severe reproach for my impertinent speech.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You must not expect too much from me,’ he continued. ‘I told you that I + was a broken, grief-stricken man, and you were content to be my + comforter.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Would that I could be so!’ exclaimed Albinia, ‘but to try faithfully, I + must say what is on my mind. Dear Edmund, if you would only look out of + your books, and see how much good you could do, here in your own sphere, + how much the right wants strengthening, how much evil cries out to be + repressed, how sadly your own poor suffer—oh! if you once began, you + would be so much happier!’ + </p> + <p> + She trembled with earnestness, and with fear of her own audacity, but a + resounding knock at the door prevented her from even discovering whether + he were offended. He started away to secure his book, and the two girls + came in. Albinia could hardly believe it late enough for their return, but + they accounted for having come rather earlier by saying that Gilbert had + been making himself so ridiculous when he had come at last, that + grandmamma had sent him home. + </p> + <p> + ‘At last!’ said Albinia. ‘He set off only ten minutes after you, as soon + as he found that papa was not coming.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘All I know,’ said Lucy, ‘is, that he did not come till half-past nine, + and said he had come from home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And where can he be now?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gone to bed,’ growled Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know what he has been doing,’ said Lucy, who since the suspicion + of favouritism, had seemed to find especial pleasure in bringing forward + her brother’s faults; ‘but he came in laughing like a plough-boy, and + talking perfect nonsense. And when Aunt Maria spoke to him, he answered + quite rudely, that he wasn’t going to be questioned and called to order, + he had enough of petticoat government at home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Sophy, breaking in with ungracious reluctance, as if against + her will conveying some comfort to her step-mother for the sake of truth, + ‘what he said was, that if he bore with petticoat government at home, it + was because Mrs. Kendal was pretty and kind, and didn’t torment him out of + his life for nothing, and what he stood from her, he would not stand from + any other woman.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, Sophy, I am sure he did say Mrs. Kendal knew what she was going to + say, and said it, and it was worth hearing, and he laughed in Aunt Maria’s + face, and told her not to make so many bites at a cherry.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He must have been beside himself,’ said Albinia, in a bewilderment of + consternation, but Mr. Kendal’s return put a stop to all, for the sisters + never told tales before him, and she would not bring the subject under his + notice until she should be better informed. His suffering was too great, + his wrath too stern, to be excited without serious cause; but she spent a + wakeful, anxious night, revolving all imaginable evils into which the boy + could have fallen, and perplexing herself what measures to take, feeling + all the more grieved and bound to him by the preference that, even in this + dreadful mood, he had expressed for her. She fell into a restless sleep in + the morning, from which she wakened so late as to have no time to question + Gilbert before breakfast. On coming down, she found that he had not made + his appearance, and had sent word that he had a bad headache, and wanted + no breakfast. His father, who had made a visit of inspection, said he + thought it was passing off, smiling as he observed upon Mrs. Meadows’s + mince-pie suppers and home-made wine. + </p> + <p> + Lucy said nothing, but glanced knowingly at her sister and at Albinia, + from neither of whom did she get any response. + </p> + <p> + Albinia did not dare to take any measures till Mr. Kendal had ridden out, + and then she went up and knocked at Gilbert’s door. He was better, he + said, and was getting up, he would be down-stairs presently. She watched + for him as he came down, looking still very pale and unwell. She took him + into her room, made him sit by the fire, and get a little life and warmth + into his chilled hands before she spoke. ‘Yes, Gilbert, I don’t wonder you + cannot lift up your head while so much is on your mind.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert started and hid his face. + </p> + <p> + ‘Did you think I did not know, and was not grieved?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ he cried, peevishly, ‘I’m sure I have the most ill-natured pair of + sisters in the world.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you meant to deceive us again, Gilbert.’ + </p> + <p> + He had relapsed into the old habit—as usual, a burst of tears and a + declaration that no one was ever so badly off, and he did not know what to + do. + </p> + <p> + ‘You <i>do</i> know perfectly well what to do, Gilbert. There is nothing + for it but to tell me the whole meaning of this terrible affair, and I + will see whether I can help you.’ + </p> + <p> + It was always the same round, a few words would always bring the + confession, and that pitiful kind of helpless repentance, which had only + too often given her hope. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert assured her that he had fully purposed following his sisters, but + that on the way he had unluckily fallen in with Archie Tritton and a + friend, who had driven in to hear a man from London singing comic songs at + the King’s Head, and they had persuaded him to come in. He had been uneasy + and tried to get away, but the dread of being laughed at about his + grandmother’s tea had prevailed, and he had been supping on oysters and + porter, and trying to believe himself a fast man, till Archie, who had + assured him that he was himself going home in ‘no time,’ had found it + expedient to set off, and it had been agreed that he should put a bold + face on it, and profess that he had never intended to do more than come + and fetch his sisters home. + </p> + <p> + That the porter had anything to do with his extraordinary manner to his + grandmother and aunt, was so shocking a notion, and the very hint made him + cry so bitterly, and protest so earnestly that he had only had one pint, + which he did not like, and only drank because he was afraid of being + teased, that Albinia was ready to believe that he had been so elevated by + excitement as to forget himself, and continue the style of the company he + had left. It was bad enough, and she felt almost overpowered by the + contemplation of the lamentable weakness of the poor boy, of the + consequences, and of what was incumbent on her. + </p> + <p> + She leant back and considered a little while, then sighed heavily, and + said, ‘Gilbert, two things must be done. You must make an apology to your + grandmother and aunt, and you must confess the whole to your father.’ + </p> + <p> + He gave a sort of howl, as if she were misusing his confidence. + </p> + <p> + ‘It must be,’ she said. ‘If you are really sorry, you will not shrink. I + do not believe that it could fail to come to your father’s knowledge, even + if I did not know it was my duty to tell him, and how much better to + confess it yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + For this, however, Gilbert seemed to have no force; he cried piteously, + bewailed himself, vowed incoherently that he would never do so again, and + if she had not pitied him so much, would have made her think him + contemptible. + </p> + <p> + She was inexorable as to having the whole told, though dreading the + confession scarcely less than he did; and he finally made a virtue of + necessity, and promised to tell, if only she would not desert him, + declaring, with a fresh flood of tears, that he should never do wrong when + she was by. Then came the apology. It was most necessary, and he owned + that it would be much better to be able to tell his father that his + grandmother had forgiven him; but he really had not nerve to set out + alone, and Albinia, who had begun to dread having him out of sight, + consented to go and protect him. + </p> + <p> + He shrank behind her, and she had to bear the flood of Maria’s surprises + and regrets, before she could succeed in saying that he was very sorry for + yesterday’s improper behaviour, and had come to ask pardon. + </p> + <p> + Grandmamma was placable; Gilbert’s white face and red eyes were pleading + enough, and she was distressed at Mrs. Kendal having come out, looking + pale and tired. If she had been alone, the only danger would have been + that the offence would be lost in petting; but Maria had been personally + wounded, and the jealousy she already felt of the step-mother, had been + excited to the utmost by Gilbert’s foolish words. She was excessively + grieved, and a great deal more angry with Mrs. Kendal than with Gilbert; + and the want of justification for this feeling, together with her great + excitement, distress, and embarrassment, made her attempts to be dry and + dignified ludicrously abortive. She really seemed to have lost the power + of knowing what she said. She was glad Mrs. Kendal could walk up this + morning, since she could not come at night. + </p> + <p> + ‘It was not my fault,’ said Albinia, earnestly; ‘Mr. Kendal forbade me. I + am sure I wish we had come.’ + </p> + <p> + The old lady would have said something kind about not reproaching herself, + but Miss Meadows interposed with, ‘It was very unlucky, to be sure—Mr. + Kendal never failed them before, not that she would wish—but she had + always understood that to let young people run about late in the evening + by themselves—not that she meant anything, but it was very + unfortunate—if she had only been aware—Betty should have come + down to walk up with them.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert could not forbear an ashamed smile of intense affront at this + reproach to his manliness. + </p> + <p> + ‘It was exceedingly unfortunate,’ said Albinia, trying to repress her + vexation; ‘but Gilbert must learn to have resolution to guard himself. And + now that he is come to ask your forgiveness, will you not grant it to + him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, yes, yes, certainly, I forgive him from my heart. Yes, Gilbert, I do, + only you must mind and beware—it is a very shocking thing—low + company and all that—you’ve made yourself look as ill—and if + you knew what a cake Betty had made—almond and citron both—“but + it’s for Master Gilbert,” she said, “and I don’t grudge”—and then to + think—oh, dear!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia tried to express for him some becoming sorrow at having + disappointed so much kindness, but she brought Miss Meadows down on her + again. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, yes—she grudged nothing—but she never expected to meet + with gratitude—she was quite prepared—’ and she swallowed and + almost sobbed, ‘there had been changes. She was ready to make every excuse—she + was sure she had done her best—but she understood—she didn’t + want to be assured. It always happened so—she knew her homely ways + were not what Mrs. Kendal had been used to—and she didn’t wonder—she + only hoped the dear children—’ and she was absolutely crying. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Maria,’ said her mother, soothingly, ‘you have worked yourself + into such a state, that you don’t know what you are saying. You must not + let Mrs. Kendal think that we don’t know that she is leading the dear + children to all that is right and kind towards as.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, no, I don’t accuse any one. Only if they like to put me down under + their feet and trample on me, they are welcome. That’s all I have to say.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was too much annoyed to be amused, and said, as she rose to take + leave, ‘I think it would be better for Gilbert, as well as for ourselves, + if we were to say no more till some more cool and reasonable moment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am as cool as possible,’ said Miss Meadows, convulsively clutching her + hand; ‘I’m not excited. Don’t excite yourself, Mrs. Kendal—it is + very bad for you. Tell her not, Mamma—oh! no, don’t be excited—I + mean nothing—I forgive poor dear Gibbie whatever little matters—I + know there was excuse—boys with unsettled homes—but pray don’t + go and excite yourself—you see how cool I am—’ + </p> + <p> + And she pursued Albinia to the garden-gate, recommending her at every step + not to be excited, for she was as cool as possible, trembling and + stammering all the time, with flushed cheeks, and tears in her eyes. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder who she thinks is excited?’ exclaimed Albinia, as they finally + turned their backs on her. + </p> + <p> + It was hardly in human nature to help making the observation, but it was + not prudent. Gilbert took licence to laugh, and say, ‘Aunt Maria is beside + herself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never heard anything so absurd or unjust!’ cried Albinia, too much + irritated to remember anything but the sympathy of her auditor. ‘If I am + to be treated in this manner, I have done striving to please them. Due + respect shall be shown, but as to intimacy and confidence—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m glad you see it so at last!’ cried Gilbert. ‘Aunt Maria has been the + plague of my life, and I’m glad I told her a bit of my mind!’ + </p> + <p> + What was Albinia’s consternation! Her moment’s petulance had undone her + morning’s work. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert,’ she said, ‘we are both speaking very wrongly. I especially, who + ought to have helped you.’ + </p> + <p> + Spite of all succeeding humility the outburst had been fatal, and argue + and plead as she might, she could not restore the boy to anything like the + half satisfactory state of penitence in which she had led him from home. + The giving way to her worse nature had awakened his, and though he still + allowed that she should prepare the way for his confession to his father, + all real sense of his outrageous conduct towards his aunt was gone. + </p> + <p> + Disheartened and worn out, Albinia did not feel equal even to going to + take off her walking things, but sat down in the drawing-room on the sofa, + and tried to silence the girls’ questions and chatter, by desiring Lucy to + read aloud. + </p> + <p> + By-and-by Mr. Kendal was heard returning, and she rose to arrest him in + the hall. Her looks began the story, for he exclaimed, ‘My dear Albinia, + what is the matter?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, Edmund, I have such things to tell you! I have been doing so wrong.’ + </p> + <p> + She was almost sobbing, and he spoke fondly. ‘No, Albinia, I can hardly + believe that. Something has vexed you, and you must take time to compose + yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + He led her up to her own room, tried to soothe her, and would not listen + to a word till she should be calm. After lying still for a little while, + she thought she had recovered, but the very word ‘Gilbert’ brought such an + expression of anxiety and sternness over his brow as overcame her again, + and she could not speak without so much emotion that he silenced her; and + finding that she could neither leave the subject, nor mention it without + violent agitation, he said he would leave her for a little while, and + perhaps she might sleep, and then be better able to speak to him. Still + she held him, and begged that he would say nothing to Gilbert till he had + heard her, and to pacify her he yielded, passed his promise, and quitted + her with a kiss. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + There was a messenger at Fairmead Parsonage by sunrise the next morning, + and by twelve o’clock Mr. and Mrs. Ferrars were at Willow Lawn. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal’s grave brow and depressed manner did not reassure Winifred as + he met her in the hall, although his words were, ‘I hope she is doing + well.’ + </p> + <p> + He said no more, for the drawing-room door was moving to and fro, as if + uneasy on the hinges, and as he made a step towards it, it disclosed a + lady with black eyes and pinched features, whom he presented as ‘Miss + Meadows.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, now—I think—since more efficient—since I leave + Mrs. Kendal to better—only pray tell her—my love and my + mother’s—if I could have been of any use—or shall I remain?—could + I be of any service, Edmund?—I would not intrude when—but in + the house—if I could be of any further use.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Of none, thank you,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘unless you would be kind enough to + take home the girls.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, papa!’ cried Lucy, I’ve got the keys. You wont be able to get on at + all without me. Sophy may go, but I could not be spared.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let it be as you will,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘I only desire quiet, and that + you should not inconvenience Mrs. Ferrars.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You will help me, will you not!’ said Winifred, smiling, though she did + not augur well from this opening scene. ‘May I go soon to Albinia?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Presently, I hope,’ said Mr. Kendal, with an uneasy glance towards Miss + Meadows, ‘she has seen no one as yet, and she is so determined that you + cannot come till after Christmas, that she does not expect you.’ + </p> + <p> + Miss Meadows began one of her tangled skeins of words, the most tangible + of which was excitement; and Mr. Kendal, knowing by long experience that + the only chance of a conclusion was to let her run herself down, held his + tongue, and she finally departed. + </p> + <p> + Then he breathed more freely, and said he would go and prepare Albinia to + see her sister, desiring Lucy to show Mrs. Ferrars to her room, and to + take care not to talk upon the stairs. + </p> + <p> + This, Lucy, who was in high glory, obeyed by walking upon creaking + tip-toe, apparently borrowed from her aunt, and whispering at a wonderful + rate about her eagerness to see dear, dear mamma, and the darling little + brother. + </p> + <p> + The spare room did not look expectant of guests, and felt still less so. + It struck Winifred as very like the mouth of a well, and the paper showed + patches of ancient damp. One maid was hastily laying the fire, the other + shaking out the curtains, in the endeavour to render it habitable, and + Lucy began saying, ‘I must apologize. If papa had only given us notice + that we were to have the pleasure of seeing you,’ and then she dashed at + the maid in all the pleasure of authority. ‘Eweretta, go and bring up Mrs. + Ferrars’s trunks directly, and some water, and some towels.’ + </p> + <p> + Winifred thought the greatest mercy to the hunted maid would be to + withdraw as soon as she had hastily thrown off bonnet and cloak, and Lucy + followed her into the passage, repeating that papa was so absent and + forgetful, that it was very inconvenient in making arrangements. Whatever + was ordinarily repressed in her, was repaying itself with interest in the + pleasure of acting as mistress of the house. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ferrars beheld Gilbert sitting listlessly on the deep window-seat at + the end of the passage, resting his head on his hand. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well!’ exclaimed Lucy, ‘if he is not there still! He has hardly stirred + since breakfast! Come and speak to Mrs. Ferrars, Gilbert. Or,’ and she + simpered, ‘shall it be Aunt Winifred?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As you please,’ said Mrs. Ferrars, advancing towards her old + acquaintance, whom she would hardly have recognised, so different was the + pale, downcast, slouching figure, from the bright, handsome lad she + remembered. + </p> + <p> + ‘How cold your hand is!’ she exclaimed; ‘you should not sit in this cold + passage.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As I have been telling him all this morning,’ said Lucy. + </p> + <p> + ‘How is she?’ whispered the boy, rousing himself to look imploringly in + Winifred’s face. + </p> + <p> + ‘Your father seems satisfied about her.’ + </p> + <p> + At that moment a door at some distance was opened, and Gilbert seemed to + thrill all over as for the moment ere it closed a baby’s cry was heard. He + turned his face away, and rested it on the window. ‘My brother! my + brother!’ he murmured, but at that moment his father turned the corner of + the passage, saying that Albinia had heard their arrival, and was very + eager to see her sister. + </p> + <p> + Still Winifred could not leave the boy without saying, ‘You can make + Gilbert happy about her, can you not? He is waiting here, watching + anxiously for news of her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert himself best knows whether he has a right to be made happy,’ said + Mr. Kendal, gravely. ‘I promised to ask no questions till she is able to + explain, but I much fear that he has been causing her great grief and + distress.’ + </p> + <p> + He fixed his eyes on his son, and Winifred, in the belief that she was + better out of their way, hurried to Albinia’s room, and was seen very + little all the rest of the day. + </p> + <p> + She was spared, however, to walk to church the next morning with her + husband, Lucy showing them the way, and being quiet and agreeable when + repressed by Mr. Ferrars’s presence. After church, Mr. Dusautoy overtook + them to inquire after Mrs. Kendal, and to make a kind proposal of + exchanging Sunday duty. He undertook to drive the ponies home on the + morrow, begged for credentials for the clerk, and messages for Willie and + Mary, and seemed highly pleased with the prospect of the holiday, as he + called it, only entreating that Mrs. Ferrars would be so kind as to look + in on ‘Fanny,’ if Mrs. Kendal could spare her. + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought,’ said Winifred to her husband, ‘that you would rather have + exchanged a Sunday when Albinia is better able to enjoy you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That may yet be, but poor Kendal is so much depressed, that I do not like + to leave him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have no patience with him!’ cried Winifred; ‘he does not seem to take + the slightest pleasure in his baby, and he will hardly let poor Albinia do + so either! Do you know, Maurice, it is as bad as I ever feared it would + be. No, don’t stop me, I must have it out. I always said he had no + business to victimize her, and I am sure of it now! I believe this gloom + of his has broken down her own dear sunny spirits! There she is—so + unlike herself—so anxious and fidgety about her baby—will + hardly take any one’s word for his being as healthy and stout a child as I + ever saw! And then, every other moment, she is restless about that boy—always + asking where he is, or what he is doing. I don’t see how she is ever to + get well, while it goes on in this way! Mr. Kendal told me that Gilbert + had been worrying and distressing her; and as to those girls, the eldest + of them is intolerable with her airs, and the youngest—I asked her + if she liked babies, and she growled, “No.” Lucy said Gilbert was waiting + in the passage for news of mamma, and she grunted, “All sham!” and that’s + the whole I have heard of her! He is bad enough in himself, but with such + a train! My poor Albinia! If they are not the death of her, it will be + lucky!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well done, Winifred!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, Maurice,’ said his impetuous wife, in a curiously altered tone, ‘are + not you very unhappy about Albinia?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall leave you to find that out for me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you are not?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think Kendal thoroughly values and appreciates her, and is very + uncomfortable without her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose so. People do miss a maid-of-all-work. I should not so much + mind it, if she had been only <i>his</i> slave, but to be so to all those + disagreeable children of his too! And with so little effect. Why can’t he + send them all to school?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Propose that to Albinia.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She did want the boy to go somewhere. I should not care where, so it were + out of her way. What creatures they must be for her to have produced no + more effect on them!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Albinia! I am afraid it is a hard task: but these are still early + days, and we see things at a disadvantage. We shall be able to judge + whether there be really too great a strain on her spirits, and if so, I + would talk to Kendal.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And I wonder what is to come of that. It seems to me like what John Smith + calls singing psalms to a dead horse.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘John Smith! I am glad you mentioned him; I shall desire Dusautoy to bring + him here on Monday.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What! as poor Albinia would say, you can’t exist a week without John + Smith.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Even so. I want him to lay out a plan for draining the garden. That pond + is intolerable. I suspect that all, yourself included, will become far + more good-tempered in consequence.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A capital measure, but do you mean that Edmund Kendal is going to let you + and John Smith drain his pond under his very nose, and never find it out? + I did not imagine him quite come to that.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not <i>quite</i>,’ said Maurice; ‘it is with his free consent, and I + believe he will be very glad to have it done without any trouble to + himself. He said that Albinia <i>thought it damp</i>, and when I put a few + sanatory facts before him, thanked me heartily, and seemed quite relieved. + If they had only been in Sanscrit, they would have made the greater + impression.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘One comfort is, Maurice, that however provoking you are at first, you + generally prove yourself reasonable at last, I am glad you are not Mr. + Kendal.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! it will have a fine effect on you to spend your Christmas-day + tete-a-tete with him.’ + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ferrars’s views underwent various modifications, like all hasty yet + candid judgments. She took Mr. Kendal into favour when she found him + placidly submitting to Miss Meadows’s showers of words, in order to + prevent her gaining access to his wife. + </p> + <p> + ‘Maria Meadows is a very well-meaning person,’ he said afterwards; ‘but I + know of no worse infliction in a sick-room.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder,’ thought Winifred, ‘whether he married to get rid of her. I + should have thought it justifiable had it been any one but Albinia!’ + </p> + <p> + The call on Mrs. Dusautoy was consoling. It was delightful to find how + Albinia was loved and valued at the vicarage. Mrs. Dusautoy began by + sending her as a message, John’s first exclamation on hearing of the + event. ‘Then she will never be of any more use.’ In fact, she said, it was + much to him like having a curate disabled, and she believed he could only + be consoled by the hopes of a pattern christening, and of a nursery for + his school-girls; but there Winifred shook her head, Fairmead had a prior + claim, and Albinia had long had her eye upon a scholar of her own. + </p> + <p> + ‘I told John that she would! and he must bear it as he can,’ laughed Mrs. + Dusautoy; and she went on more seriously to say that her gratitude was + beyond expression, not merely for the actual help, though that was much, + but for the sympathy, the first encouragement they had met among their + richer parishioners, and she spoke of the refreshment of the mirthfulness + and playful manner, so as to convince Winifred that they had neither died + away nor been everywhere wasted. + </p> + <p> + Winifred had no amenable patient. Weak and depressed as Albinia was, her + restlessness and air of anxiety could not be appeased. There was a look of + being constantly on the watch, and once, when her door was ajar, before + Winifred was aware she exerted her voice to call Gilbert! + </p> + <p> + Pushing the door just wide enough to enter, and treading almost + noiselessly, he came forward, looking from side to side as with a sense of + guilt. She stretched out her hand and smiled, and he obeyed the movement + that asked him to bend and kiss her, but still durst not speak. + </p> + <p> + ‘Let me have the baby,’ she said. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ferrars laid it beside her, and held aloof. Gilbert’s eyes were fixed + intently on it. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, Gilbert,’ Albinia said, ‘I know what you will feel for him. He can’t + be what you once had—but oh, Gilbert, you will do all that an elder + brother can to make him like Edmund!’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert wrung her fingers, and ventured to stoop down to kiss the little + red forehead. The tears were running down his cheeks, and he could not + speak. + </p> + <p> + ‘If your father might only say the same of him! that he never grieved + him!’ said Albinia; ‘but oh, Gilbert—example,’ and then, pausing and + gazing searchingly in his face, ‘You have not told papa.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ whispered Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘Winifred,’ said Albinia, ‘would you be so kind as to ask papa to come?’ + </p> + <p> + Winifred was forced to obey, though feeling much to blame as Mr. Kendal + rose with a sigh of uneasiness. Gilbert still stood with his hand clasped + in Albinia’s, and she held it while her weak voice made the full + confession for him, and assured his father of his shame and sorrow. There + needed no such assurance, his whole demeanour had been sorrow all these + dreary days, and Mr. Kendal could not but forgive, though his eye spoke + deep grief. + </p> + <p> + ‘I could not refuse pardon thus asked,’ he said. ‘Oh, Gilbert, that I + could hope this were the beginning of a new course!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia looked from Gilbert to his little brother, and back again to + Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘It <i>shall</i> be,’ she said, and Gilbert’s resolution was perhaps the + more sincere that he spoke no word. + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor boy,’ said Albinia, half to herself and half aloud, ‘I think I feel + more strong to love and to help him!’ + </p> + <p> + That interview was a dangerous experiment, and she suffered for it. As her + brother said, instead of having too little life, she had too much, and + could not let herself rest; she had never cultivated the art of being + still, and when she was weak, she could not be calm. + </p> + <p> + Still the strength of her constitution staved off the nervous fever of her + spirits, and though she was not at all a comfortable patient, she made a + certain degree of progress, so that though it was not easy to call her + better, she was not quite so ill, and grew less irrational in her + solicitude, and more open to other ideas. ‘Do you know, Winifred,’ she + said one day, ‘I have been thinking myself at Fairmead till I almost + believed I heard John Smith’s voice under the window.’ + </p> + <p> + Winifred was obliged to look out at the window to hide her smile. Maurice, + who was standing on the lawn with the very John Smith, beckoned to her, + and she went down to hear his plans. He was wanted at home the next day, + and asked whether she thought he had better take Gilbert with him. ‘It is + the wisest thing that has been said yet!’ exclaimed she. ‘Now I shall have + a chance for Albinia!’ and accordingly, Mr. Kendal having given a gracious + and grateful consent, Albinia was informed; but Winifred thought her + almost perverse when a perturbed look came over her, and she said, ‘It is + very kind in Maurice, but I must speak to him.’ + </p> + <p> + He was struck by the worn, restless expression of her features, so unlike + the calm contented repose of a young mother, and when she spoke to him, + her first word was of Gilbert. ‘Maurice, it is so kind, I know you will + make him happy—but oh! take care—he is so delicate—indeed, + he is—don’t let him get wet through.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice promised, but Albinia resumed with minutiae of directions, ending + with, ‘Oh! if he should get hurt or into any mischief, what should we do? + Pray, take care, Maurice, you are not used to such delicate boys.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, I think you may rely on me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, but you will not be too strict with him—’ and more was + following, when her brother said, ‘I promise you to make him my special + charge. I like the boy very much. I think you may be reasonable, and trust + him with me, without so much agitation. You have not let me see my own + nephew yet.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia looked with her wistful piteous face at her brother as he took in + his arms her noble-looking fair infant. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are a great fellow indeed, sir,’ said his uncle. ‘Now if I were your + mamma, I would be proud of you, rather than—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am afraid!’ said Albinia, in a sudden low whisper. + </p> + <p> + He looked at her anxiously. + </p> + <p> + ‘Let me have him,’ she said; then as Maurice bent over her, and she + hastily gathered the babe into her arms, she whispered in quick, low, + faint accents, ‘Do you know how many children have been born in this + house?’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars understood her, he too had seen the catalogue in the church, + and guessed that the phantoms of her boy’s dead brethren dwelt on her + imagination, forbidding her to rejoice in him hopefully. He tried to say + something encouraging of the child’s appearance, but she would not let him + go on. ‘I know,’ she said, ‘he is so now—but—’ then catching + her breath again and speaking very low, ‘his father does not dare look at + him—I see that he is sorry for me—Oh, Maurice, it will come, + and I shall be able to do nothing!’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice felt his lip quivering as his sister’s voice became choked—the + sister to whom he had once been the whole world, and who still could pour + out her inmost heart more freely to him than to any other. But it was a + time for grave authority, and though he spoke gently, it was almost + sternly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Albinia, this is not right. It is not thankful or trustful. No, do not + cry, but listen to me. Your child is as likely to do well as any child in + the world, but nothing is so likely to do him harm as your want of + composure.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I tell myself so,’ said Albinia, ‘but there is no helping it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, there is. Make it your duty to keep yourself still, and not be + troubled about what may or may not happen, but be glad of the present + pleasure.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t you think I am?’ said Albinia, half smiling; ‘so glad, that I grow + frightened at myself, and—’ As if fain to leave the subject, she + added, ‘And it is what you don’t understand, Maurice, but he can’t be the + first to Edmund as he is to me—never—and when I get almost + jealous for him, I think of Gilbert and the girls—and oh! there is + so much to do for them—they want a mother so much—and Winifred + wont let me see them, or tell me about them!’ + </p> + <p> + She had grown piteous and incoherent, and a glance from Winifred told him, + ‘this is always the way.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear,’ he said, ‘you will never be fit to attend to them if you do not + use this present time rightly. You may hurt your health, and still more + certainly, you will go to work fretfully and impetuously. If you have a + busy life, the more reason to learn to be tranquil. Calm is forced on you + now, and if you give way to useless nervous brooding over the work you are + obliged to lay aside for a time, you have no right to hope that you will + either have judgment or temper for your tasks.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But how am I to keep from thinking, Maurice? The weaker I am, the more I + think.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Are you dutiful as to what Winifred there thinks wisest? Ah! Albinia, you + want to learn, as poor Queen Anne of Austria did, that docility in illness + may be self-resignation into higher Hands. Perhaps you despise it, but it + is no mean exercise of strength and resolution to be still.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia looked at him as if receiving a new idea. + </p> + <p> + ‘And,’ he added, bending nearer her face, and speaking lower, ‘when you + pray, let them be hearty faithful prayers that God’s hand may be over your + child—your children, not half-hearted faithless ones, that He may + work out your will in them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, Maurice, how did you know? But you are not going? I have so much to + talk over with you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I must go; and you must be still. Indeed I will watch over Gilbert + as though he were mine. Yes, even more. Don’t speak again, Albinia, I + desire you will not. Good-bye.’ + </p> + <p> + That lecture had been the most wholesome treatment she had yet received; + she ceased to give way without effort to restless thoughts and cares, and + was much less refractory. + </p> + <p> + When at last Lucy and Sophia were admitted, Winifred found perils that she + had not anticipated. Lucy was indeed supremely and girlishly happy: but it + was Sophy whose eye Albinia sought with anxiety, and that eye was averted. + Her cheek was cold like that of a doll when Albinia touched it eagerly + with her lips; and when Lucy admonished her to kiss the dear little + brother, she fairly turned and ran out of the room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Sophy!’ said Lucy. ‘Never mind her, mamma, but she is odder than + ever, since baby has been born. When Eweretta came up and told us, she hid + her face and cried; and when grandmamma wanted to make us promise to love + him with all our hearts, and not make any difference, she would only say, + “I wont!”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We will leave him to take care of that, Lucy,’ said Albinia. But though + she spoke cheerfully, Winifred was not surprised, after a little interval, + to hear sounds like stifled weeping. + </p> + <p> + Almost every home subject was so dangerous, that whenever Mrs. Ferrars + wanted to make cheerful, innocent conversation, she began to talk of her + visit to Ireland and the beautiful Galway coast, and the O’Mores of + Ballymakilty, till Albinia grew quite sick of the names of the whole clan + of thirty-six cousins, and thought, with her aunts, that Winifred was too + Irish. Yet, at any other time, the histories would have made her sometimes + laugh, and sometimes cry, but the world was sadly out of joint with her. + </p> + <p> + There was a sudden change when, for the first time her eye rested on the + lawn, and she beheld the work of drainage. The light glanced in her eye, + the colour rose on her cheek, and she exclaimed, ‘How kind of Edmund!’ + </p> + <p> + Winifred must needs give her husband his share. ‘Ah! you would never have + had it done without Maurice.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Albinia, ‘Edmund has been out of the way of such things, but + he consented, you know.’ Then as her eyes grew liquid, ‘A duck pond is a + funny subject for sentiment, but oh! if you knew what that place has been + to my imagination from the first, and how the wreaths of mist have wound + themselves into spectres in my dreams, and stretched out white shrouds now + for one, now for the other!’ and she shuddered. + </p> + <p> + ‘And you have gone through all this and never spoken. No wonder your + nerves and spirits were tried.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I did speak at first,’ said Albinia; ‘but I thought Edmund did not hear, + or thought it nonsense, and so did I at times. But you see he did attend; + he always does, you see, at the right time. It was only my impatience.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I suspect Maurice and John Smith had more to do with it,’ said Winifred. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, we wont quarrel about that,’ said Albinia. ‘I only know that + whoever brought it about has taken the heaviest weight off my mind that + has been there yet.’ + </p> + <p> + In truth, the terror, half real, half imaginary, had been a sorer burthen + than all the positive cares for those unruly children, or their silent, + melancholy father; and the relief told in all ways—above all, in the + peace with which she began to regard her child. Still she would provoke + Winifred by bestowing all her gratitude on Mr. Kendal, who began to be + persuaded that he had made an heroic exertion. + </p> + <p> + Winifred had been somewhat scandalized by discovering Albinia’s + deficiencies in the furniture development. She was too active and + stirring, and too fond of out-of-door occupation, to regard interior + decoration as one of the domestic graces, ‘her nest was rather that of the + ostrich than the chaffinch,’ as Winifred told her on the discovery that + her morning-room had been used for no other purpose than as a deposit for + all the books, wedding presents, lumber, etc., which she had never had + leisure to arrange. + </p> + <p> + ‘You might be more civil,’ answered Albinia. ‘Remember that the ringdove + never made half such a fuss about her nest as the magpie.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I am glad you have found some likeness in yourself to a dove,’ + rejoined Winifred. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ferrars set vigorously to work with Lucy, and rendered the room so + pretty and pleasant, that Lucy pronounced that it must be called nothing + but the boudoir, for it was a perfect little bijou. + </p> + <p> + Albinia was laid on the sofa by the sparkling fire, by her side the little + cot, and in her hand a most happy affectionate letter from Gilbert, + detailing the Fairmead Christmas festivities. She felt the invigoration of + change of room, admired and was grateful for Winifred’s work, and looked + so fair and bright, so tranquil and so contented, that her sister and + husband could not help pausing to contemplate her as an absolutely new + creature in a state of quiescence. + </p> + <p> + It did not last long, and Mrs. Ferrars felt herself the unwilling culprit. + Attracted by sounds in the hall, she found the two girls receiving from + the hands of Genevieve Durant a pretty basket choicely adorned with sprays + of myrtle, saying mamma would be much obliged, and they would take it up + at once; Genevieve should take home her basket, and down plunged their + hands regardless of the garniture. + </p> + <p> + Genevieve’s disappointed look caught Winifred’s attention, and springing + forward she exclaimed, ‘You shall come to Mrs. Kendal yourself, my dear. + She must see your pretty basket,’ and yourself, she could have added, as + she met the grateful glitter of the dark eyes. + </p> + <p> + Lucy remonstrated that mamma had seen no one yet, not even Aunt Maria, but + Mrs. Ferrars would not listen, and treading airily, yet with reverence + that would have befitted a royal palace, Genevieve was ushered upstairs, + and with heartfelt sweetness, and timid grace, presented her etrennes. + </p> + <p> + Under the fragrant sprays lay a small white-paper parcel, tied with narrow + blue satin bows, such as no English fingers could accomplish, and within + was a little frock-body, exquisitely embroidered, with a breastplate of + actual point lace in a pattern like frostwork on the windows. It was such + work as Madame Belmarche had learnt in a convent in times of history, and + poor little Genevieve had almost worn out her black eyes on this piece of + homage to her dear Mrs. Kendal, grieving only that she had not been able + to add the length of robe needed to complete her gift. + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s kiss was recompense beyond her dreams, and she fairly cried for + joy when she was told that she should come and help to dress the babe in + it for his christening. Mrs. Ferrars would walk out with her at once to + buy a sufficiency of cambric for the mighty skirts. + </p> + <p> + That visit was indeed nothing but pleasure, but Mrs. Ferrars had not + calculated on contingencies and family punctilios. She forgot that it + would be a mortal offence to let in any one rather than Miss Meadows; but + the rest of the family were so well aware of it, that when she returned + she heard a perfect sparrow’s-nest of voices—Lucy’s pert and eager, + Miss Meadows’s injured and shrill, and Albinia’s, alas! thin and loud, + half sarcasm, half fret. + </p> + <p> + There sat Aunt Maria fidgeting in the arm-chair; Lucy stood by the fire; + Albinia’s countenance sadly different from what it had been in the morning—weary, + impatient, and excited, all that it ought not to be! + </p> + <p> + Winifred would have cleared the room at once, but this was not easy, and + poor Albinia was so far gone as to be determined on finishing that endless + thing, an altercation, so all three began explaining and appealing at + once. + </p> + <p> + It seemed that Mrs. Osborn was requiting Mrs. Kendal’s neglect in not + having inquired after her when the Admiral’s sister’s husband died, by the + omission of inquiries at present; whereat Albinia laughed a feeble, + overdone giggle, and observed that she believed Mrs. Osborn knew all that + passed in Willow Lawn better than the inmates; and Lucy deposed that Sophy + and Loo were together every day, though Sophy knew mamma did not like it. + Miss Meadows said if reparation were not made, the Osborns had expressed + their intention of omitting Lucy and Sophy from their Twelfth-day party. + </p> + <p> + To this Albinia pettishly replied that the girls were to go to no + Christmas parties without her; Miss Meadows had taken it very much to + heart, and Lucy was declaiming against mamma making any condescension to + Mrs. Osborn, or herself being supposed to care for ‘the Osborn’s parties,’ + where the boys were so rude and vulgar, the girls so boisterous, and the + dancing a mere romp. Sophy might like it, but she never did! + </p> + <p> + Miss Meadows was hurt by her niece’s defection, and had come to ‘Oh, very + well,’ and ‘things were altered,’ and ‘people used to be grateful to old + friends, but there were changes.’ And thereby Lucy grew personal as to the + manners of the Osborns, while Albinia defended herself against the being + grand or exclusive, but it was her duty to do what she thought right for + the children! Yes, Miss Meadows was quite aware—only grandmamma was + so nervous about poor dear Gibbie missing his Christmas dinner for the + first time—being absent—Mrs. Ferrars would take great care, + but damp stockings and all— + </p> + <p> + Winifred endeavoured to stem the tide of words, but in vain, between the + meandering incoherency of the one, and the nervous rapidity of the other, + and they had both set off again on this fresh score, when in despair she + ran downstairs, rapped at the study door, and cried, ‘Mr. Kendal, Mr. + Kendal, will you not come! I can’t get Miss Meadows out of Albinia’s + room.’ + </p> + <p> + Forth came Mr. Kendal, walked straight upstairs, and stood in full majesty + on the threshold. Holding out his hand to Maria with grave courtesy, he + thanked her for coming to see his wife, but at the same time handed her + down, saw her out safely at the hall door, and Lucy into the drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + It was a pity that he had not returned to Albinia’s room, for she was too + much excited to be composed without authority. First, she scolded + Winifred; ‘it was the thing she most wished to avoid, that he should fancy + her teased by anything the Meadowses could say,’ and she laughed, and + protested she never was vexed, such absurdity did not hurt her in the + least. + </p> + <p> + ‘It has tired you, though,’ said Winifred. ‘Lie quite down and sleep.’ + </p> + <p> + Of course, however, Albinia would not believe that she was tired, and + began to talk of the Osborns and their party—she was annoyed at the + being thought too fine. ‘If it were not such a penance, and if you would + not be gone home, I really would ask you to take the girls, Winifred.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall not be gone home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, you will. I am well, and every one wants you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did you not hear Willie’s complimentary message, that he is never naughty + now, because Gilbert makes him so happy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, Winifred, the penny club! The people must have their things.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They can wait, or—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is very well for us to talk of waiting,’ cried Albinia, ‘but how + should we like a frosty night without cloaks, or blankets, or fire? I did + not think it of you, Winifred. It is the first winter I have been away + from my poor old dames, and I did think you would have cared for them.’ + </p> + <p> + And thereupon her overwrought spirits gave way in a flood of tears, as she + angrily averted her face from her sister, who could have cried too, not at + the injustice, but with compassion and perplexity lest there should be an + equally violent reaction either of remorse or of mirth. + </p> + <p> + It must be confessed that Albinia was very much the creature of health. + Never having been ill before, the depression had been so new that it broke + her completely down; convalescence made her fractious. + </p> + <p> + Recovery, however, filled her with such an ecstasy of animal spirits that + her time seemed to be entirely passed in happiness or in sleep, and cares + appeared to have lost all power. It was so sudden a change that Winifred + was startled, though it was a very pleasant one, and she did not reflect + that this was as far from the calm, self-restrained, meditative + tranquillity enjoined by Maurice, as had been the previous restless, + querulous state. Both were body more than mind, but Mrs. Ferrars was much + more ready to be merry with Albinia than to moralize about her. And it was + droll that the penny club was one of the first stages in her revival. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma,’ cried Lucy, flying in, ‘Mr. Dusautoy is at the door. There is + such a to do. All the women have been getting gin with their penny club + tickets, and Mrs. Brock has been stealing the money, and Mr. Dusautoy + wants to know if you paid up three-and-fourpence for the Hancock + children.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia instantly invited Mr. Dusautoy to explain in person, and he + entered, hearty and pleasant as ever, but in great haste, for he had left + his Fanny keeping the peace between five angry women, while he came out to + collect evidence. + </p> + <p> + The Bayford clothing-club payments were collected by Mrs. Brock, the + sexton’s wife, and distributed by tickets to be produced at the various + shops in the town. Mrs. Brock had detected some women exchanging their + tickets for gin, and the offending parties retaliated by accusing her of + embezzling the subscriptions, both parties launching into the usual amount + of personalities and exaggerations. + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s testimony cleared Mrs. Brock as to the three-and-fourpence, but + she ‘snuffed the battle from afar,’ and rushed into a scheme of taking the + clothing-club into her own hands, collecting the pence, having the goods + from London, and selling them herself—she would propose it on the + very first opportunity to the Dusautoys. Winifred asked if she had not a + good deal on her hands already. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, I have the work in me of a young giant.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And will Mr. Kendal like it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He would never find it out unless I told him, and very possibly not then. + Six months hence, perhaps, he may tell me he is glad that Lucy is inclined + to useful pursuits, and that <i>is</i> approval, Winifred, much more than + if I went and worried him about every little petty woman’s matter.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Every one to her taste,’ thought Winifred, who had begun to regard Mr. + and Mrs. Kendal in the same relation as the king and queen at chess. + </p> + <p> + The day before the christening, Mr. Ferrars brought back Gilbert and his + own little Willie. + </p> + <p> + Through all the interchange of greetings, Gilbert would hardly let go + Albinia’s hand, and the moment her attention was free, he earnestly + whispered, ‘May I see my brother?’ + </p> + <p> + She took him upstairs at once. ‘Let me look a little while,’ he said, + hanging over the child with a sort of hungry fondness and curiosity. ‘My + brother! my brother!’ he repeated. ‘It has rung in my ears every morning + that I can say my brother once more, till I have feared it was a dream.’ + </p> + <p> + It was the sympathy Albinia cared for, come back again! ‘I hope he will be + a good brother to you,’ she said. + </p> + <p> + ‘He must be good! he can’t help it! He has you!’ said Gilbert. ‘See, he is + opening his eyes—oh! how blue! May I touch him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To be sure you may. He is not sugar,’ said Albinia, laughing. ‘There—make + an arm; you may have him if you like. Your left arm, you awkward man. Yes, + that is right. You will do quite as well as I, who never touched a baby + till Willie was born. There, sir, how do you like your brother Gilbert?’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert held him reverently, and gave him back with a sigh when he seemed + to have satiated his gaze and touch, and convinced himself that his new + possession was substantial. ‘I say,’ he added wistfully, ‘did you think <i>that</i> + name would bring ill-luck? + </p> + <p> + She knew the name he meant, and answered, ‘No, but your father could not + have borne it. Besides, Gibbie, we would not think him <i>instead</i> of + Edmund. No, he shall learn, to look up to his other brother as you do, and + look to meeting and knowing him some day.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert shivered at this, and made no opposition to her carrying him + downstairs to his uncle, and then Gilbert hurried off for the basket of + snowdrops that he had gathered early, from a favourite spot at Fairmead. + That short absence seemed to have added double force to his affection; he + could hardly bear to be away from her, and every moment when he could gain + her ear, poured histories of the delights of Fairmead, where Mr. Ferrars + had devoted himself to his amusement, and had made him happier than + perhaps he had ever been in his life—he had had a taste of shooting, + of skating, of snowballing—he had been useful and important in the + village feasts, had dined twice at Colonel Bury’s, and felt himself many + degrees nearer manhood. + </p> + <p> + To hear of her old haunts and friends from such enthusiastic lips, + delighted Albinia, and her felicity with her baby, with Mr. Kendal, with + her brother and his little son, was one of the brightest things in all the + world—the fresh young loving bloom of her matronhood was even + sweeter and more beautiful than her girlish days. + </p> + <p> + Poor little frail, blighted Mrs. Dusautoy! Winifred could not help + wondering if the contrast pained her, when in all the glory of her + motherly thankfulness, Albinia carried her beautiful newly-christened + Maurice Ferrars Kendal to the vicarage to show him off, lying so + open-chested and dignified, in Genevieve’s pretty work, with a sort of + manly serenity already dawning on his baby brow. + </p> + <p> + Winifred need not have pitied the little lady. She would not have changed + with Mrs. Kendal—no, not for that perfect health, usefulness, value—nor + even for such a baby as that. No, indeed! She loved—she rejoiced in + all her friend’s sweet and precious gifts—but Mrs. Dusautoy had one + gift that she prized above all. + </p> + <p> + Even grandmamma and Aunt Maria did justice to Master Maurice’s + attractions, at least in public, though it came round that Miss Meadows + did not admire fat children, and when he had once been seen in Lucy’s + arms, an alarm arose that Mrs. Kendal would allow the girls to carry him + about, till his weight made them crooked, but Albinia was too joyous to + take their displeasure to heart, and it only served her for something to + laugh at. + </p> + <p> + They had a very happy christening party, chiefly juvenile, in honour of + little Willie and of Francis and Emily Nugent. Albinia was so radiantly + lively and good-natured, and her assistants, Winifred, Maurice, and Mr. + Dusautoy, so kind, so droll, so inventive, that even Aunt Maria forgot + herself in enjoyment and novelty, and was like a different person. Mr. + Kendal looked at her with a pleased sad wonder, and told his wife it + reminded him of what she had been when she was nearly the prettiest girl + at Bayford. Gilbert devoted himself as usual to making Genevieve feel + welcome; and she had likewise Willie Ferrars and Francis Nugent at her + feet. Neither urchin would sit two inches away from her all the evening, + and in all games she was obliged to obviate jealousies by being partner to + both at once. Where there was no one to oppress her, she came out with all + her natural grace and vivacity, and people of a larger growth than her + little admirers were charmed with her. + </p> + <p> + Lucy was obliging, ready, and useful, and looked very pretty, the only + blot was the heavy dulness of poor Sophy, who seemed resolved to take + pleasure in nothing. Winifred varied in opinion whether her moodiness + arose from ill-health, or from jealousy of her little brother. This latter + Albinia would not believe, especially as she saw that little Maurice’s + blue eyes were magnets that held the silent Sophy fast, but surly denials + silenced her interrogations as to illness, and made her content to + acquiesce in Lucy’s explanation that Sophy was only cross because the + Osborns and Drurys were not asked. + </p> + <p> + Albinia did her duty handsomely by the two families a day or two after, + for whatever reports might come round, they were always ready to receive + her advances, and she only took notice of what she saw, instead of what + she heard. Her brother helped Mr. Kendal through the party, and Winifred + made a discovery that excited her more than Albinia thought warranted by + any fact relating to the horde of Irish cousins. + </p> + <p> + ‘Only think, Albinia, I have found out that poor Ellen O’More is Mr. + Goldsmith’s sister!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed! But I am afraid I don’t remember which Ellen O’More is. You know + I never undertake to recollect any but your real cousins out of the + thirty-six.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘For shame, Albinia, I have so often told you about Ellen. I’m sure you + can’t forget. Her husband is my sister’s brother-in-law’s cousin.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, Winifred, Winifred!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But I tell you, her husband is the third son of old Mr. O’More of + Ballymakilty, and was in the army.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! the half-pay officer with the twelve children in the cottage on the + estate.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There now, I did think you would care when I told you of a soldier, a + Waterloo man too, and you only call him a half-pay officer!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do remember,’ said Albinia, taking a little pity, ‘that you used to be + sorry for his good little English wife.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Of course. I knew she had married him very imprudently, but she has + struggled gallantly with ill-health, and poverty, and Irish recklessness. + I quite venerate her, and it seems these Goldsmiths had so far cast her + off that they had no notion of the extent of her troubles.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Just like them,’ said Albinia. ‘Is that the reason you wish me to make + the most of the connexion? Let me see, my sister-in-law’s sister’s wife—no, + husband’s brother’s uncle, eh?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t want you to do anything,’ said Winifred, a little hurt, ‘only if + you had seen Ellen’s patient face you would be interested in her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I am interested, you know I am, Winifred. I hope you interested our + respected banker, which would be more to the purpose.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think I did,’ said Winifred; ‘at least he said “poor Ellen” once or + twice. I don’t want him to do anything for the captain, you might give him + a thousand pounds and he would never be the better for it: but that + fourth, boy, Ulick, is without exception the nicest fellow I ever saw in + my life—so devoted to his mother, so much more considerate and + self-denying than any of the others, and very clever. Maurice examined him + and was quite astonished. We did get him sent to St. Columba for the + present, but whether they will keep him there no one can guess, and it is + the greatest pity he should run to waste. I told Mr. Goldsmith all this, + and I really think he seemed to attend. I wonder if it will work.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was by this time anxious that it should take effect, and they + agreed that an old bachelor banker and his sister, both past sixty, were + the very people to adopt a promising nephew. + </p> + <p> + What had become of the multitude of things which Albinia had to discuss + with her brother? The floodtide of bliss had floated her over all the + stumbling-blocks and shoals that the ebb had disclosed, and she had + absolutely forgotten all the perplexities that had seemed so trying. Even + when she sought a private interview to talk to him about Gilbert, it was + in full security of hearing the praises of her darling. + </p> + <p> + ‘A nice boy, a very nice boy,’ returned Maurice; ‘most amiable and + intelligent, and particularly engaging, from his feeling being so much on + the surface.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing can be more sincere and genuine,’ she cried, as if this fell a + little flat. + </p> + <p> + ‘Certainly not, at the time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Always!’ exclaimed Albinia. ‘You must not distrust him because he is not + like you or Fred, and has never been hardened and taught reserve by rude + boys. Nothing was ever more real than his affection, poor dear boy,’ and + the tears thrilled to her eyes. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, and it is much to his credit. His love and gratitude to you are quite + touching, poor fellow; but the worst of it is that I am afraid he is very + timid, both physically and morally.’ + </p> + <p> + Often as she had experienced this truth, the soldier’s daughter could not + bear to avow it, and she answered hastily, ‘He has never been braced or + trained; he was always ill till within the last few years—coddling + at first, neglect afterwards, he has it all to learn, and it is too late + for school.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, he is too old to be laughed at or bullied out of cowardice. Indeed, + I doubt whether there ever would have been substance enough for much wear + and tear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know you have a turn for riotous, obstinate boys! You want Willie to be + another Fred,’ said Albinia, like an old hen, ruffling up her feathers. + ‘You think a boy can’t be good for anything unless he is a universal + plague!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder what you will do with your own son,’ said Maurice, amused, + ‘since you take Gilbert’s part so fiercely.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I trust my boy will never be as much to be pitied as his brother,’ said + Albinia, with tenderness that accused her petulance. ‘At least he can + never be a lonely twin with that sore spot in his heart. Oh, Maurice, how + can any one help dealing gently with my poor Gibbie?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gentle dealing is the very thing he wants,’ said Mr. Ferrars; ‘and I am + thinking how to find it for him. How did his going to Traversham fail?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know; Edmund did not like to send him without having seen + Traversham, and I could not go. But I don’t think there is any need for + his going away. His father has been quite enough tormented about it, and I + can manage him very well now. He is always good and happy with me. I mean + to try to ride with him, and I have promised to teach him music, and we + shall garden. Never fear, I will employ him and keep him out of mischief—it + is all pleasure to me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And pray what are your daughters and baby to do, while you are galloping + after Gilbert?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I’ll manage. We can all do things together. Come, Maurice, I wont + have Edmund teased, and I can’t bear parting with any of them, or think + that any strange man can treat Gibbie as I should.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice was edified by his sister’s warm-hearted weakness, but not at all + inclined to let ‘Edmund’ escape a ‘teasing.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal’s first impulse always was to find a sufficient plea for doing + nothing. If Gilbert was to go to India, it was not worth while to give him + a classical education. + </p> + <p> + ‘Is he to go to India? Albinia had not told me so.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought she was aware of it; but possibly I may not have mentioned it. + It has been an understood thing ever since I came home. He will have a + good deal of the property in this place, but he had better have seen + something of the world. Bayford is no place for a man to settle down in + too young.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Certainly,’ said Mr. Ferrars, repressing a smile. ‘Then are you thinking + of sending him to Haileybury?’ + </p> + <p> + He was pronounced too young, besides, it was explained that his + destination in India was unfixed. On going home it had been a kind of + promise that one of the twin brothers should have an appointment in the + civil service, the other should enter the bank of Kendal and Kendal, and + the survivor was unconsciously suspended between these alternatives, while + the doubt served as a convenient protection to his father from making up + his mind to prepare him for either of these or for anything else. + </p> + <p> + The prompt Ferrars temper could bear it no longer, and Maurice spoke out. + ‘I’ll tell you what, Kendal, it is time to attend to your own concerns. If + you choose to let your son run to ruin, because you will not exert + yourself to remove him from temptation, I shall not stand by to see my + sister worn out with making efforts to save him. She is willing and + devoted, she fancies she could work day and night to preserve him, and she + does it with all her heart; but it is not woman’s work, she cannot do it, + and it is not fit to leave it to her. When Gilbert has broken her heart as + well as yours, and left an evil example to his brother, then you will feel + what it is to have kept a lad whom you know to be well disposed, but weak + as water, in the very midst of contamination, and to have left your young, + inexperienced wife to struggle alone to save him. If you are unwarned by + the experience of last autumn and winter, I could not pity you, whatever + might happen.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice, who had run on the longer because Mr. Kendal did not answer + immediately, was shocked at his own impetuosity; but a rattling peal of + thunder was not more than was requisite. + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe you are right,’ Mr. Kendal said. ‘I was to blame for leaving + him so entirely to Albinia; but she is very fond of him, and is one who + will never be induced to spare herself, and there were considerations. + However, she shall be relieved at once. What do you recommend?’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars actually made Mr. Kendal promise to set out for Traversham + with him next morning, thirty miles by the railway, to inspect Mr. Downton + and his pupils. + </p> + <p> + Albinia had just sense enough not to object, though the discovery of the + Indian plans was such a blow to her that she could not be consoled by all + her husband’s representations of the advantages Gilbert would derive + there, and of his belief that the Kendal constitution always derived + strength from a hot climate, and that to himself going to India seemed + going home. She took refuge in the hope that between the two Indian stools + Gilbert might fall upon one of the professions which she thought alone + worthy of man’s attention, the clerical or the military. + </p> + <p> + Under Maurice’s escort, Mr. Kendal greatly enjoyed his expedition; liked + Traversham, was satisfied with the looks of the pupils, and very much + pleased with the tutor, whom he even begged to come to Bayford for a + conference with Mrs. Kendal, and this was received by her as no small + kindness. She was delighted with Mr. Downton, and felt as if Gilbert could + be safely trusted in his charge; nor was Gilbert himself reluctant. He was + glad to escape from his tempter, and to begin a new life, and though he + hung about Mrs. Kendal, and implored her to write often, and always tell + him about his little brother—nay, though he cried like a child at + the last, yet still he was happy and satisfied to go, and to break the + painful fetters which had held him so long. + </p> + <p> + And though Albinia likewise shed some parting tears, she could not but own + that she was glad to have him in trustworthy hands; and as to the + additional time thus gained, it was disposed of in a million of bright + plans for every one’s service—daughters, baby, parish, school, + classes, clubs, neighbours. It almost made Winifred giddy to hear how much + she had undertaken, and yet with what zest she talked and acted. + </p> + <p> + ‘There’s your victim, Winifred,’ said Maurice, as they drove away, and + looked back at Albinia, scandalizing Bayford by standing in the open + gateway, her face all smiles of cheerful parting, the sun and wind making + merry with her chestnut curls, her baby in one arm, the other held up to + wave her farewell. + </p> + <p> + ‘That child will catch cold,’ began Winifred, turning to sign her to go + in. ‘Well,’ she continued, ‘after all, I believe some people like an idol + that sits quiet to be worshipped! To be sure she must want to beat him + sometimes, as the Africans do their gods. But, on the whole, her sentiment + of reverence is satisfied, and she likes the acting for herself, and + reigning absolute. Yes, she is quite happy—why do you look doubtful? + Don’t you admire her?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘From my heart.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then why do you doubt? Do you expect her to do anything?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A little too much of everything.’ + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> + <p> + Yes! Albinia was excessively happy. Her naturally high spirits were + enhanced by the enjoyment of recovery, and reaction, from her former + depression. Since the great stroke of the drainage, every one looked + better, and her pride in her babe was without a drawback. He seemed to + have inherited her vigour and superabundance of life, and ‘that first + wondrous spring to all but babes unknown,’ was in him unusually rapid, so + that he was a marvel of fair stateliness, size, strength, and + intelligence, so unlike the little blighted buds which had been wont to + fade at Willow Lawn, that his father watched him with silent, wondering + affection, and his eldest sister was unmerciful in her descriptions of his + progress; while even Sophia had not been proof against his smiles, and was + proud to be allowed to carry him about and fondle him. + </p> + <p> + Neither was Mr. Kendal’s reserve the trial that it had once been. After + having become habituated to it as a necessary idiosyncrasy, she had become + rather proud of his lofty inaccessibility. Besides, her brother’s visit, + her recovery, and the renewed hope and joy in this promising child, had + not been without effect in rousing him from his apathy. He was less + inclined to shun his fellow-creatures, had become friendly with the Vicar, + and had even let Albinia take him into Mrs. Dusautoy’s drawing-room, where + he had been fairly happy. Having once begun taking his wife out in the + carriage, he found this much more agreeable than his solitary ride, and + was in the condition to which Albinia had once imagined it possible to + bring him, in which gentle means and wholesome influence might lead him + imperceptibly out of his morbid habits of self-absorption. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately, in the flush of blitheness and whirl of activity, Albinia + failed to perceive the relative importance of objects, and he had taught + her to believe herself so little necessary to him that she had not learnt + to make her pursuits and occupations subservient to his convenience. As + long as the drive took place regularly, all was well, but he caught a + severe cold, which lasted even to the setting in of the east winds, the + yearly misery of a man who hardly granted that India was over-hot. Though + Albinia had removed much listing, and opened various doors and windows, he + made no complaints, but did his best to keep the obnoxious fresh air out + of his study, and seldom crossed the threshold thereof but with a shiver. + </p> + <p> + His favourite atmosphere was quite enough to account for a return of the + old mood, but Albinia had no time to perceive that it might have been + prevented, or at least mitigated. + </p> + <p> + Few even of the wisest women are fit for authority and liberty so little + restrained, and happily it seldom falls to the lot of such as have not + previously been chastened by a life-long affliction. But Mrs. Kendal, at + twenty-four, with the consequence conferred by marriage, and by her + superiority of manners and birth, was left as unchecked and almost as + irresponsible as if she had been single or a widow, and was solely guided + by the impulses of her own character, noble and highly principled, but + like most zealous dispositions, without balance and without repose. + </p> + <p> + Ballast had been given at first by bashfulness, disappointment, and + anxiety, but she had been freed from her troubles with Gilbert, had gained + confidence in herself, and had taken her position at Bayford. She was + beloved, esteemed, and trusted in her own set, and though elsewhere she + might not be liked, yet she was deferred to, could not easily be + quarrelled with, so that she met with little opposition, and did not care + for such as she did meet. In fact, very few persons had so much of their + own way as Mrs. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + She was generally in her nursery at a much earlier hour than an + old-established nurse would have tolerated, but the little Susan, promoted + from Fairmead school and nursery, was trained in energetic habits. In + passing the doors of the young ladies’ rooms, Albinia gave a call which + she had taught them not to resist, for, like all strong persons, she + thought ‘early to rise’ the only way to health, wealth, or wisdom. Much + work had been despatched before breakfast, after which, on two days in the + week, Albinia and Lucy went to church. Sophy never volunteered to + accompany them, and Albinia was the less inclined to press her, because + her attitudes and attention on Sunday were far from satisfactory. On + Tuesday and Thursday Albinia had a class at school, and so, likewise, had + Lucy, who kept a jealous watch over every stray necklace and curl, and had + begun thoroughly to enjoy the importance and bustle of charity. She was a + useful assistant in the penny club and lending library, which occupied + Albinia on other mornings in the week, until the hour when she came in for + the girls’ studies. After luncheon, she enjoyed the company of little + Maurice, who indeed pervaded all her home doings and thoughts, for she had + a great gift of doing everything at once. + </p> + <p> + A sharp constitutional walk was taken in the afternoon. She thought no one + could look drooping or dejected but from the air of the valley, and that + no cure was equal to rushing straight up one hill and on to the next, + always walking rapidly, with a springy buoyant step, and surprised at any + one who lagged behind. Parochial cares, visits, singing classes, lessons + to Sunday-school teachers, &c., filled up the rest of the day. She had + an endless number of ‘excellent plans,’ on which she always acted + instantly, and which kept her in a state of perpetual haste. Poor Mrs. + Dusautoy had almost learnt to dread her flashing into the room, full of + some parish matter, and flashing out again before the invalid felt as if + the subject had been fairly entered on, or her sitting down to impress + some project with overpowering eagerness that generally carried away the + Vicar into grateful consent and admiring approval, while his wife was + feeling doubtful, suspecting her hesitation of being ungracious, or + blaming herself for not liking the little she could do to be taken out of + her hands. + </p> + <p> + There was nothing more hateful to Albinia than dawdling. She left the + girls’ choice of employments, but insisted on their being veritably + occupied, and many a time did she encounter a killing glance from Sophia + for attacking her listless, moody position in her chair, or saying, in + clear, alert tones, ‘My dear, when you read, read, when you work, work. + When you fix your eye in that way, you are doing neither.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy’s brisk, active disposition, and great good-humour, had responded to + this treatment; she had been obliging, instead of officious; repeated + checks had improved her taste; her love of petty bustle was directed to + better objects, and though nothing could make her intellectual or deep, + she was a really pleasant assistant and companion, and no one, except + grandmamma, who thought her perfect before, could fail to perceive how + much more lady-like her tones, manners, and appearance had become. + </p> + <p> + The results with Sophy had been directly the reverse. At first she had + followed her sister’s lead, except that she was always sincere, and often + sulky; but the more Lucy had yielded to Albinia’s moulding, the more had + Sophy diverged from her, as if out of the very spirit of contradiction. + Her intervals of childish nonsense had well nigh disappeared; her + indifference to lessons was greater than ever, though she devoured every + book that came in her way in a silent, but absorbed manner, a good deal + like her father. Tales and stories were not often within her reach, but + her appetite seemed to be universal, and Albinia saw her reading + old-fashioned standard poetry—such as she had never herself assailed—and + books of history, travels, or metaphysics. She wondered whether the girl + derived any pleasure from them, or whether they were only a shield for + doing nothing; but no inquiry produced an answer, and if Sophy remembered + anything of them, it was not with the memory used in lesson-time. The + attachment to Louisa Osborn was pertinacious and unaccountable in a person + who could have so little in common with that young lady, and there was + nothing comfortable about her except her fondness for her little brother, + and that really seemed to be against her will. Her voice was less hoarse + and gruff since the pond had been no more, and she had acquired an + expression, so suffering, so concentrated, so thoughtful, that, together + with her heavy black eyebrows, large face, profuse black hair, and + unlustrous eyes, it gave her almost a dwarfish air, increased by her + awkward deportment, which concealed that she was in reality tall, and on a + large scale. She looked to so little advantage in bright delicate colours, + that Albinia was often incurring her displeasure, and risking that of + Lucy, by the deep blues and sober browns which alone looked fit to be seen + with those beetle brows and sallow features. Her face looked many years + older than that of her fair, fresh, rosy stepmother; nay, her father’s + clear olive complexion and handsome countenance had hardly so aged an + aspect; and Gilbert, when he came home at Midsummer, declared that Sophy + had grown as old as grandmamma. + </p> + <p> + The compliment could not be returned; Gilbert was much more boy-like in a + good sense. He had brought home an excellent character, and showed it in + every look and gesture. His father was pleased to have him again, took the + trouble to talk to him, and received such sensible answers, that the habit + of conversing was actually established, and the dinners were enlivened, + instead of oppressed, by his presence. Towards his sisters he had become + courteous, he was fairly amiable to Aunt Maria, very attentive to + grandmamma, overflowing with affection to Mrs. Kendal, and as to little + Maurice, he almost adored him, and awakened a reciprocity which was the + delight of his heart. + </p> + <p> + At Midsummer came the grand penny-club distribution, the triumph for which + Albinia had so long been preparing. One of Mrs. Dusautoy’s hints as to + Bayford tradesmen had been overruled, and goods had been ordered from a + house in London, after Albinia and Lucy had made an incredible agitation + over their patterns of calico and flannel. Mr. Kendal was just aware that + there was a prodigious commotion, but he knew that all ladies were subject + to linen-drapery epidemics, and Albinia’s took a more endurable form than + a pull on his purse for the sweetest silk in the world, and above all, it + neither came into his study nor even into his house. + </p> + <p> + It was a grand spectacle, when Mr. Dusautoy looked in on Mrs. Kendal and + her staff, armed with their yard-wands. + </p> + <p> + A pile of calico was heaped in wild masses like avalanches in one corner, + rapidly diminishing under the measurements of Gilbert, who looked as if he + took thorough good-natured delight in the frolic. Brown, inodorous + materials for petticoats, blouses, and trowsers were dealt out by the + dextrous hands of Genevieve, a mountain of lilac print was folded off by + Clarissa Richardson, Lucy was presiding joyously over the various blue, + buff, brown, and pink Sunday frocks, the schoolmistress helping with the + other goods, the customers—some pleased with novelty, or hoping to + get more for their money, others suspicious of the gentry, and secretly + resentful for favourite dealers, but, except the desperate grumblers, + satisfied with the quality and quantity of the wares—and extremely + taken with the sellers, especially with Gilbert’s wit, and with Miss + Durant’s ready, lively persuasions, varied to each one’s taste, and + extracting a smile and ‘thank you, Miss,’ from the surliest. And the + presiding figure, with the light on her sunny hair, and good-natured, + unfailing interest in her countenance, was at her central table, + calculating, giving advice, considering of complaints, measuring, folding—here, + there, and everywhere—always bright, lively, forbearing, however + complaining or unreasonable her clients might be. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dusautoy went home to tell his Fanny that Mrs. Kendal was worth her + weight in gold; and the workers toiled till luncheon, when Albinia took + them home for food and wine, to restore them for the labours of the + afternoon. + </p> + <p> + ‘What have you been about all the morning, Sophy? Yes, I see your + translation—very well—I wish you would come up and help this + afternoon, Miss Richardson is looking so pale and tired that I want to + relieve her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t,’ said Sophy, + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t order you, but you are losing a great deal of fun. Suppose you + came to look on, at least.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hate poor people.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope you will change your mind some day, but you must do something this + afternoon. You had better take a walk with Susan and baby; I told her to + go by the meadows to Horton.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t want to walk.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you anything to do instead? No, I thought not, and it is not at all + hot to signify.—It will do you much more good. Yes, you must go.’ + </p> + <p> + In the course of the summer an old Indian friend was staying at Fairmead + Park, and Colonel Bury wrote to beg for a week’s visit from the whole + Kendal family. Even Sophy vouchsafed to be pleased, and Lucy threw all her + ardour into the completion of a blue braided cape, which was to add + immensely to little Maurice’s charms; she declared that she should work at + it the whole of the last evening, while Mr. and Mrs. Kendal were at the + dinner that old Mr. and Mrs. Bowles annually inflicted on themselves and + their neighbours, a dinner which it would have been as cruel to refuse as + it was irksome to accept. + </p> + <p> + There was a great similarity in those Bayford parties, inasmuch as the + same cook dressed them all, and the same waiters waited at them, and the + same guests met each other, and the principal variety on this occasion + was, that the Osborns did not come, because the Admiral was in London. + </p> + <p> + The ladies had left the dining-room, when Albinia’s ear caught a sound of + hurried opening of doors, and sound of steps, and saw Mrs. and Miss Bowles + look as if they heard something unexpected. She paused, and forgot the end + of what she was saying. The room door was pushed a little way open, but + then seemed to hesitate. Miss Bowles hastened forward, and opening it, + admitted a voice that made Albinia hurry breathlessly from the other side + of the room, and push so that the door yielded, and she saw it had been + Mr. Dusautoy who had been holding it while there was some kind of + consultation round Gilbert. The instant he saw her, he exclaimed, ‘Come to + the baby, Sophy has fallen down with him.’ + </p> + <p> + People pressed about her, trying to speak cheeringly, but she understood + nothing but that her husband and Mr. Bowles were gone on, and she had a + sense that there had been hardness and cruelty in hesitating to summon + her. Without knowing that a shawl was thrown round her, or seeing Mr. + Dusautoy’s offered arm, she clutched Gilbert’s wrist in her hand, and flew + down the street. + </p> + <p> + The gates and front door were open, and there was a throng of people in + the hall. Lucy caught hold of her with a sobbing, ‘Oh, Mamma!’ but she + only framed the words with her lips—‘where?’ + </p> + <p> + They pointed to the study. The door was shut, but Albinia broke from Lucy, + and pushed through it, in too much haste to dwell on the sickening doubt + what it might conceal. + </p> + <p> + Two figures stood under the window. Mr. Kendal, who was holding the little + inanimate form in his arms for the doctor to examine, looking up as she + entered, cast on her a look of mute, pleading, despairing agony, that was + as the bitterness of death. She sprang forward herself to clasp her child, + and her husband yielded him in broken-hearted pity, but at that moment the + little limbs moved, the features worked, the eyes unclosed, and clinging + tightly to her, as she strained him to her bosom, the little fellow + proclaimed himself alive by lusty roars, more welcome than any music. + Partly stunned, and far more terrified, he had been in a sort of swoon, + without breath to cry, till recalled to himself by feeling his mother’s + arms around him. Every attempt of Mr. Bowles to ascertain whether he were + uninjured produced such a fresh panic and renewal of screams, that she + begged that he might be left to her. Mr. Kendal took the doctor away, and + gradually the terror subsided, though the long convulsive sobs still + quivered up through the little frame, and as the twilight darkened on her, + she had time to realize the past alarm, and rejoice in trembling over the + treasure still her own. + </p> + <p> + The opening of the door and the gleaming of a light had nearly brought on + a fresh access of crying, but it was his father who entered, and Maurice + knew the low deep sweetness of his voice, and was hushed. ‘I believe there + is no harm done,’ Albinia said; and the smile that she fain would have + made reassuring gave way as her eyes filled with tears, on feeling the + trembling of the strong arm that was put round her, when Mr. Kendal bent + to look into the child’s eyes. + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought my blight had fallen on you,’ was all he said. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! the thankfulness—’ she said; but she could not go on, she must + stifle all that swelled within her, for the babe felt each throb of her + beating heart; and she could barely keep from bursting into tears as his + father kissed him; then, as he marked the still sobbing breath, said, + ‘Bowles must see him again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know how to make him cry again! I suppose he must be looked at, + but indeed I think him safe.—See, this little bruise on his forehead + is the only mark I can find. What was it? How did it happen?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophia thought proper to take him herself from the nursery to show him to + Mrs. Osborn. In crossing the street, she was frightened by a party of men + coming out of a public-house in Tibbs’s Alley, and in avoiding them, + slipped down and struck the child’s head against a gate-post. He was + perfectly insensible when I took him—I thought him gone. Albinia, + you must let Bowles see him again!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is any one there?’ she said. + </p> + <p> + ‘Every one, I think,’ he replied, looking oppressed—‘Maria, and Mrs. + Osborn, and Dusautoy—but I will call Bowles.’ + </p> + <p> + Apparently the little boy had escaped entirely unhurt, but the surgeon + still spoke of the morrow, and he was so startled and restless, that + Albinia feared to move, and felt the dark study a refuge from the voices + and sounds that she feared to encounter, lest they should again occasion + the dreadful screaming. ‘Oh, if they would only go home!’ she said. + </p> + <p> + ‘I will send them,’ said Mr. Kendal; and presently she heard sounds of + leave-taking, and he came back, as if he had been dispersing a riot, + announcing that the house was clear. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert and Lucy were watching at the foot of the stairs, the one pale, + and casting anxious, imploring looks at her; the other with eyes red and + swollen with crying, neither venturing near till she spoke to them, when + they advanced noiselessly to look at their little brother, and it was not + till they had caught his eye and made him smile, that Lucy bethought + herself of saying she had known nothing of his adventure, and Albinia, + thus recalled to the thought of the culprit, asked where Sophy was. + </p> + <p> + ‘In her own room,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘I could not bear the sight of her + obduracy. Even her aunt was shocked at her want of feeling.’ + </p> + <p> + Low as he spoke, the sternness of his voice frightened the baby, and she + was obliged to run away to the nursery, where she listened to the + contrition of the little nursemaid, who had never suspected Miss Sophy’s + intention of taking him out of the house. + </p> + <p> + ‘And indeed, ma’am,’ she said, ‘there is not one of us servants who dares + cross Miss Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + It was long before Albinia ventured to lay him in his cot, and longer + still before she could feel any security that if she ceased her low, + monotonous lullaby, the little fellow would not wake again in terror, but + the thankfulness and prayer, that, as she grew more calm, gained fuller + possession of her heart, made her recur the more to pity and forgiveness + for the poor girl who had caused the alarm. Yet there was strong + indignation likewise, and she could not easily resolve on meeting the hard + defiance and sullen indifference which would wound her more than ever. She + was much inclined to leave Sophy to herself till morning, but suspecting + that this would be vindictive, she unclasped the arm that Lucy had wound + round her waist, whispered to her to go on singing, and moved to Sophy’s + door. It was fastened, but before she could call, it was thrown violently + back, and Sophy stood straight up before her, striving for her usual + rigidity, but shaking from head to foot; and though there were no signs of + tears, she looked with wistful terror at her step-mother’s face, and her + lips moved as if she wished to speak. + </p> + <p> + ‘Baby is gone quietly to sleep,’ began Albinia in a low voice, beginning + in displeasure; but as she spoke, the harshness of Sophy’s face gave way, + she sank down on the floor, and fell into the most overpowering fit of + weeping that Albinia had ever witnessed. Kneeling beside her, she would + have drawn the girl close to her, but a sharp cry of pain startled her, + and she found the right arm, from elbow to wrist, all one purple bruise, + the skin grazed, and the blood starting. + </p> + <p> + ‘My poor child! how you have hurt yourself!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy turned away pettishly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Let me look! I am sure it must be very bad. Have you done anything to + it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, never mind. Go back to baby.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Baby does not want me. You shall come and see how comfortably he is + asleep, if you will leave off crying, and let me see that poor arm. Did + you hurt it in the fall?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The corner of the wall,’ said Sophy. ‘Oh! did it not hurt him?’ but then, + just as it seemed that she was sinking on that kind breast in exhaustion, + she collected herself, and pushing Albinia off, exclaimed, ‘I did it, I + took him out, I fell down with him, I hurt his head, I’ve killed him, or + made him an idiot for life. I did.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who said so?’ cried Albinia, transfixed. + </p> + <p> + ‘Aunt Maria said so. She said I did not feel. Oh, if I could only die + before he grows up to let one see it. Why wont you begin to hate me?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear,’ said Albinia, consoled on hearing the authority, ‘people often + say angry things when they are shocked. Your aunt had not seen Mr. Bowles, + and we all think he was not in the least hurt, only terribly frightened. + Dear, dear child, I am more distressed for you than for him!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy could hold out no longer, she let her head drop on the kind + shoulder, and seemed to collapse, with burning brow, throbbing pulses, and + sobs as deep and convulsive as had been those of her little brother. + Hastily calling Lucy, who was frightened, subdued, and helpful, Albinia + undressed the poor child, put her to bed, and applied lily leaves and + spirits to her arm. The smart seemed to refresh her, but there had been a + violent strain, as well as bruise, and each touch visibly gave severe + pain, though she never complained. Lucy insisted on hearing exactly how + the accident had happened, and pressed her with questions, which Albinia + would have shunned in her present condition, and it was thus elicited that + she had taken Maurice across the street to how him to Mrs. Osborn. He had + resented the strange place, and strange people, and had cried so much that + she was obliged to run home with him at once. A knot of bawling men came + reeling out of one of the many beer shops in Tibbs’s Alley, and in her + haste to avoid them, she tripped, close to the gate-post of Willow Lawn, + and fell, with only time to interpose her arm between Maurice’s head and + the sharp corner. She was lifted up at once, in the horror of seeing him + neither cry nor move, for, in fact, he had been almost stifled under her + weight, and all had since been to her a frightful phantom dream. Albinia + was infinitely relieved by this history, showing that Maurice could hardly + have received any real injury, and in her declarations that Sophy’s + presence of mind had saved him, was forgetting to whom the accident was + owing. Lucy wanted to know why her sister could have taken him out of the + house at all, but Albinia could not bear to have this pressed at such a + moment, and sent the inquirer down to order some tea, which she shared + with Sophy, and then was forced to bid her good-night, without drawing out + any further confessions. But when the girl raised herself to receive her + kiss, it was the first real embrace that had passed between them. + </p> + <p> + In the very early morning, Albinia was in the nursery, and found her + little boy bright and healthy. As she left him in glad hope and gratitude, + Sophy’s door was pushed ajar, and her wan face peeped out. ‘My dear child, + you have not been asleep all night!’ exclaimed Albinia, after having + satisfied her about the baby. + </p> + <p> + ‘No.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Does your arm hurt you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Does your head ache?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Rather.’ + </p> + <p> + But they were not the old sulky answers, and she seemed glad to have her + arm freely bathed, her brow cooled, her tossed bed composed, and her + window opened, so that she might make a fresh attempt at closing her weary + eyes. + </p> + <p> + She was evidently far too much shaken to be fit for the intended + expedition, even if her father had not decreed that she should be deprived + of it. Albinia had never seen him so much incensed, for nothing makes a + man so angry as to have been alarmed; and he was doubly annoyed when he + found that she thought Sophy too unwell to be left, as he intended, to + solitary confinement. + </p> + <p> + He would gladly have given up the visit, for his repugnance to society was + in full force on the eve of a party; but Albinia, by representing that it + would be wrong to disappoint Colonel Bury, and very hard on the + unoffending Gilbert and Lucy, succeeded in prevailing on him to accept his + melancholy destiny, and to allow her to remain at home with Sophy and the + baby—one of the greatest sacrifices he or she had yet made. He was + exceedingly vexed, and therefore the less disposed to be lenient. The more + Albinia told him of Sophy’s unhappiness, the more he hoped it would do her + good, and he could not be induced to see her, nor to send her any message + of forgiveness, for in truth it was less the baby’s accident that he + resented, than the eighteen months of surly resistance to the baby’s + mother, and at present he was more unrelenting than the generous, + forgiving spirit of his wife could understand, though she tried to believe + it manly severity and firmness. + </p> + <p> + ‘It would be time to pardon,’ he said, ‘when pardon was asked.’ + </p> + <p> + And Albinia could not say that it had been asked, except by misery. + </p> + <p> + ‘She has the best advocate in you,’ said Mr. Kendal, affectionately, ‘and + if there be any feeling in her, such forbearance cannot fail to bring it + out. I am more grieved than I can tell you at your present disappointment, + but it shall not happen again. If you can bring her to a better mind, I + shall be the more satisfied in sending her from home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Edmund! you do not think of it!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My mind is made up. Do you think I have not watched your patient care, + and the manner in which it has been repaid? You have sufficient occupation + without being the slave of those children’s misconduct.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy would be miserable. Oh! you must not! She is the last girl in the + world fit to be sent to school.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will not have you made miserable at home. This has been a long trial, + and nothing has softened her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Suppose this was the very thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If it were, what is past should not go unrequited, and the change will + teach her what she has rejected. Hush, dearest, it is not that I do not + think that you have done all for her that tenderness or good sense could + devise, but your time is too much occupied, and I cannot see you + overtasked by this poor child’s headstrong temper. It is decided, Albinia; + say no more.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have failed,’ thought Albinia, as he left the room. ‘He decides that I + have failed in bringing up his children. What have I done? Have I been + mistaken? have I been careless? have I not prayed enough? Oh! my poor, + poor Sophy! What will she do among strange girls? Oh! how wretched, how + harsh, how misunderstood she will be! She will grow worse and worse, and + just when I do think I might have begun to get at her! And it is for my + sake! For me that her father is set against her, and is driving her out + from her home! Oh! what shall I do? Winifred will promote it, because they + all think I am doing too much! I wonder what put that in Edmund’s head? + But when he speaks in that way, I have no hope!’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal’s anger took a direction with which she better sympathized when + he walked down Tibbs’s Alley, and counted the nine beer shops, which had + never dawned on his imagination, and which so greatly shocked it, that he + went straight to the astonished Pettilove, and gave him a severe reprimand + for allowing the houses to be made dens of iniquity and disorder. + </p> + <p> + He was at home in time to meet the doctor, and hear that Maurice had + suffered not the smallest damage; and then to make another ineffectual + attempt to persuade Albinia to consign Sophy to imprisonment with Aunt + Maria; after which he drove off very much against his will with Lucy and + Gilbert, both declaring that they did not care a rush to go to Fairmead + under the present circumstances. + </p> + <p> + Albinia had a sad, sore sense of failure, and almost of guilt, as she + lingered on the door-step after seeing them set off. The education of + ‘Edmund’s children’ had been a cherished vision, and it had resulted so + differently from her expectations, that her heart sank. With Gilbert there + was indeed no lack of love and confidence, but there was a sad lurking + sense of his want of force of character, and she had avowedly been + insufficient to preserve him from temptation; Lucy, whom externally she + had the most altered, was not of a nature accordant enough with her own + for her to believe the effects deep or permanent; and Sophia—poor + Sophia! Had what was kindly called forbearance been really neglect and + want of moral courage? Would a gentler, less eager person have won instead + of repelling confidence? Had her multiplicity of occupations made her give + but divided attention to the more important home duty. Alas! alas! she + only knew that her husband thought his daughter beyond her management, and + for that very reason she would have given worlds to retain the uncouth, + perverse girl under her charge. + </p> + <p> + She stood loitering, for the sound of the river and the shade of the + willows were pleasant on the glowing July day, and having made all her + arrangements for going from home, she had no pressing employment, and thus + she waited, musing as she seldom allowed herself time to do, and thinking + over each phase of her conduct towards Sophy, in the endeavour to detect + the mistake; and throughout came, not exactly answering her query, but + throwing a light upon it, her brother’s warning, that if she did not + resign herself to rest quietly when rest was forced upon her, she would + work amiss when she did work. + </p> + <p> + Just then came a swinging of the gate, a step on the walk, and Miss + Meadows made her appearance. A message had been sent up in the morning, + but grandmamma was so nervous, that Maria had trotted down in the heat so + satisfy her. + </p> + <p> + Albinia was surprised to find that womanhood had thrown all their + instincts on the baby’s side, and was gratified by the first truly kind + fellow-feeling they had shown her. She took Maria into the morning room, + where she had left Sophy lying on the sofa, and ran up to fetch Maurice + from the nursery. + </p> + <p> + When she came down, having left the nurse adorning him, she found that she + had acted cruelly. Sophy was standing up with her hardest face on, + listening to her aunt’s well-meant rebukes on her want of feeling, and + hopes that she did regret the having endangered her brother, and deprived + ‘her dear mamma of the party of pleasure at Fairmead; but Aunt Maria knew + it was of no use to talk to Sophy, none—!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray don’t, Aunt Maria,’ said Albinia, gently drawing Sophy down on the + sofa again; ‘this poor child is in no state to be scolded.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are a great deal too good to her, Mrs. Kendal—after such + wilfulness as last night—carrying the dear baby out in the street—I + never heard of such a thing—But what made you do it, Sophy, wont you + tell me that? No, I know you won’t; no one ever can get a word from her. + Ah! that sulky disposition—it is a very nasty temper—can’t you + break through it, Sophy, and confess it all to your dear mamma? You would + be so much better. But I know it is of no use, poor child, it is just like + her father.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was growing very angry, and it was well that Maurice’s merry + crowings were heard approaching. Miss Meadows was delighted to see him, + but as he had a great aversion to her, the interview was not prolonged, + since he could not be persuaded to keep the peace by being held up to + watch a buzzing fly, as much out of sight of her as possible, wrinkling up + his nose, and preparing to cry whenever he caught sight of her white + bonnet and pink roses. + </p> + <p> + Miss Meadows bethought her that grandmamma was anxious, so she only waited + to give an invitation to tea, but merely to Mrs. Kendal; she would say + nothing about Sophy since disgrace—well-merited—if they could + only see some feeling. + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you,’ said Albinia, ‘some evening perhaps I may come, since you are + so kind, but I don’t think I can leave this poor twisted arm to itself.’ + </p> + <p> + Miss Meadows evaporated in hopes that Sophy would be sensible of—and + assurances that Mrs. Kendal was a great deal too—with finally, + ‘Good-bye, Sophy, I wish I could have told grandmamma that you had shown + some feeling.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe,’ said Albinia, ‘that you would only be too glad if you knew + how.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy gasped. + </p> + <p> + Albinia could not help feeling indignant at the misjudged persecution; and + yet it seemed to render the poor child more entirely her own, since all + the world besides had turned against her. ‘Kiss her, Maurice,’ she said, + holding the little fellow towards her. That scratched arm of hers has + spared your small brains from more than you guess.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s first impulse was to hide her face, but he thought it was bo-peep, + caught hold of her fingers, and laughed; then came to a sudden surprised + stop, and looked up to his mother, when the countenance behind the screen + proved sad instead of laughing. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! baby, you had better have done with me,’ Sophy said, bitterly; ‘you + are the only one that does not hate me yet, and you don’t know what I have + done to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know some one else that cares for you, my poor Sophy,’ said Albinia, + ‘and who would do anything to make you feel it without distressing you. If + you knew how I wish I knew what to do for you!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is no use,’ said Sophy, moodily; ‘I was born to be a misery to myself + and every one else.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What has put such a fancy in your head, my dear?’ said Albinia, nearly + smiling. + </p> + <p> + ‘Grandmamma’s Betty said so, she used to call me Peter Grievous, and I + know it is so. It is of no good to bother yourself about me. It can’t be + helped, and there’s an end of it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is not an end of it, indeed!’ cried Albinia. ‘Why, Sophy, do you + suppose I could bear to leave you so?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m sure I don’t see why not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why not?’ continued Albinia, in her bright, tender voice. ‘Why, because I + must love you with all my heart. You are your own dear papa’s child, and + this little man’s sister. Yes, and you are yourself, my poor, sad, lonely + child, who does not know how to bring out the thoughts that prey on her, + and who thinks it very hard to have a stranger instead of her own mother. + I know I should have felt so.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But I have behaved so ill to you,’ cried Sophy, as if bent on repelling + the proffered affection. ‘I would not like you, and I did not like you. + Never! and I have gone against you every way I could.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And now I love you because you are sorry for it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m not’—Sophy had begun, but the words turned into ‘Am I?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think you are,’ and with the sweetest of tearful smiles, she put an arm + round the no longer resisting Sophy, and laying her cheek against the + little brother’s, she kissed first one and then the other. + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t think why you are so,’ said Sophy, still struggling against the + undeserved love, though far more feebly. ‘I shall never deserve it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘See if you don’t, when we pull together instead of contrary ways.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But,’ cried Sophy, with a sudden start from her, as if remembering a + mortal offence, ‘you drained the pond!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I own I earnestly wished it to be drained; but had you any reason for + regretting it, my dear?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you did not know,’ said Sophy. ‘He and I used to be always there.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He—?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, will you make me say it?’ cried Sophy. ‘Edmund! I mean Edmund! We + always called it his pond. He made the little quay for his boats—he + used to catch the minnows there. I could go and stand by it, and think he + was coming out to play; and now you have had it dried up, and his dear + little minnows are all dead,’ and she burst into a passion of tears, that + made Maurice cry till Albinia hastily carried him off and returned. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, I am sorry it seemed so unkind. I do not think we could have let + the pond stay, for it was making the house unhealthy; but if we had talked + over it together, it need not have appeared so very cruel and spiteful.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t believe you are spiteful,’ said Sophy, ‘though I sometimes think + so.’ + </p> + <p> + The filial compliment was highly gratifying. + </p> + <p> + ‘And now, Sophy,’ she said, ‘that I have told you why we were obliged to + have the pond drained, will you tell me what you wanted with baby at Mrs. + Osborn’s?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will tell,’ said Sophy, ‘but you wont like it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I like anything better than concealment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mrs. Osborn said she never saw him. She said you kept him close, and that + nobody was good enough to touch him; so I promised I would bring him over, + and I kept my word. I know it was wrong—and—I did not think + you would ever forgive me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But how could you do it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mrs. Osborn and all used to be so kind to us when there was nobody else. + I wont cast them off because we are too fine and grand for them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never thought of that. I only was afraid of your getting into silly + ways, and your papa did not wish us to be intimate there. And now you see + he was right, for good friends would not have led you to such disobedience—and + by stealth, too, what I should have thought you would most have hated.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia had been far from intending these last words to have been taken as + they were. Sophy hid her face, and cried piteously with an utter + self-abandonment of grief, that Albinia could scarcely understand; but at + last she extracted some broken words. ‘False! shabby! yes—Oh! I have + been false! Oh! Edmund! Edmund! Edmund! the only thing I thought I still + was! I thought I was true! Oh, by stealth! Why couldn’t I die when I + tried, when Edmund did?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And has life been a blank ever since?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Off and on,’ said Sophy. ‘Well, why not? I am sure papa is melancholy + enough. I don’t like people that are always making fun, I can’t see any + sense in it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Some sorts of merriment are sad, and hollow, and wrong, indeed,’ said + Albinia, ‘but not all, I hope. You know there is so much love and mercy + all round us, that it is unthankful not to have a cheerful spirit. I wish + I could give you one, Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy shook her head. ‘I can’t understand about mercy and love, when + Edmund was all I cared for.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, Sophy, if life is so sad and hard to you, don’t you see the mercy + that took Edmund away to perfect joy? Remember, not cutting you off from + him, but keeping him safe for you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no,’ cried Sophy, ‘I have never been good since he went. I have got + worse and worse, but I did think I was true still, that that one thing was + left me—but now—’ The sense of having acted a deception seemed + to produce grief under which the stubborn pride was melting away, and it + was most affecting to see the child weeping over the lost jewel of truth, + which she seemed to feel the last link with the remarkable boy whose + impress had been left so strongly on all connected with him. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, the truth is in you still, or you could not grieve thus over + your failure,’ said Albinia. ‘I know you erred, because it did not occur + to you that it was not acting openly by me; but oh! Sophy, there is + something that would bring you nearer to Edmund than hard truth in your + own strength.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know what you mean,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Did you ever think what Edmund is about now?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I only know that the one thing which is carried with us to the other + world is love, Sophy, and love that becomes greater than we can yet + imagine. If you would think of Him who redeemed and saved your dear + Edmund, and who is his happiness, his exceeding great reward, your heart + would warm, and, oh! what hope and peace would come!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Edmund was good,’ said Sophy, in a tone as if to mark the hopeless gulf + between. + </p> + <p> + ‘And you are sorry. All human goodness begins from sorrow. It had even to + be promised first for baby at his christening, you know. Oh, Sophy, God’s + blessing can make all these tears come to joy.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s own tears were flowing so fast, that she broke off to hide them + in her own room, her heart panting with hope, and yet with grief and pity + for the piteous disclosure of so dreary a girlhood. After all, childhood, + if not the happiest, is the saddest period of life—pains, griefs, + petty tyrannies, neglects, and terrors have not the alleviation of the + experience that ‘this also shall pass away;’ time moves with a tardier + pace, and in the narrower sphere of interests, there is less to distract + the attention from the load of grievances. Hereditary low spirits, a + precocious mind, a reserved temper, a motherless home, the loss of her + only congenial companion, and the long-enduring effect of her illness upon + her health, had all conspired to weigh down the poor girl, and bring on an + almost morbid state of gloomy discontent. Her father’s second marriage, by + enlivening the house, had rendered her peculiarities even more painful to + herself and others, and the cultivation of mind that was forced upon her, + made her more averse to the trifling and playfulness, which, while she was + younger, had sometimes brightened and softened her. And this was the girl + whom her father had resolved upon sending to the selfish, inconsiderate, + frivolous world of school-girls, just when the first opening had been + made, the first real insight gained into her feelings, the first + appearance of having touched her heart! Albinia felt baffled, + disappointed, almost despairing. His stern decree, once made, was, she + knew, well-nigh unalterable; and though resolved to use her utmost + influence, she doubted its power after having seen that look of decision. + Nay, she tried to think he might be right. There might be those who would + manage Sophy better. Eighteen months had been a fair trial, and she had + failed. She prayed earnestly for whatever might be best for the child, and + for herself, that she might take it patiently and submissively. + </p> + <p> + Sophy felt the heat of the day a good deal, but towards the evening she + revived, and seemed so much cheered and refreshed by her tea, that, as the + sound of the church bell came sweetly down in the soft air, Albinia said, + ‘Sophy, I am going to take advantage of my holiday and go to the evening + service. I suppose you had rather not come?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think I will,’ returned Sophy, somewhat glumly, but Albinia hailed the + answer joyfully, as the first shamefaced effort of a reserved character + wishing to make a new beginning, and she took care that no remark, not + even a look, should rouse the sullen sensitiveness that could so easily be + driven back for ever. + </p> + <p> + Slowly they crept up the steps on the shady side of the hill, watching + how, beyond the long shadow it cast over the town and the meadows, the + trees revelled in the sunset light, and windows glittered like great + diamonds, where in the ordinary daylight the distance was too great for + distinct vision. + </p> + <p> + The church was cool and quiet, and there was something in Sophy’s + countenance and reverent attitude that seemed as if she were consecrating + a newly-formed resolution; her eye was often raised, as though in spite of + herself, to the name of the brother whose short life seemed inseparably + interwoven with all the higher aspirations of his home. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of the Thanksgiving, a sudden movement attracted Albinia, and + she saw Sophy resting her head, and looking excessively pale. She put her + arm round her, and would have led her out, but could not persuade her to + move, and by the time the Blessing was given, the power was gone, and she + had almost fainted away, when a tall strong form stooped over her, and Mr. + Dusautoy gathered her up in his arms, and bore her off as if she had been + a baby, to the open window of his own drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Put me down! The floor, please!’ said Sophy, feebly, for all her + remaining faculties were absorbed in dislike to the mode of conveyance. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, flat on the floor,’ said Mrs. Dusautoy, rising with full energy, and + laying a cushion under Sophy’s head, reaching a scent-bottle, and sending + her husband for cold water and sal volatile; with readiness that + astonished Albinia, unused to illness, and especially to faintings, and + remorseful at having taken Sophy out. ‘Was it the pain of her arm that had + overcome her?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Sophy, ‘it was only my back.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed! you never told me you had hurt your back;’ and Albinia began + describing the fall, and declaring there must be a sprain. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, no,’ said Sophy, ‘kneeling always does it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Does what, my dear?’ said Albinia, sitting on the floor by her, and + looking up to Mrs. Dusautoy, exceedingly frightened. + </p> + <p> + ‘Makes me feel sick,’ said Sophy; ‘I thought it would go off, as it always + does, it didn’t; but it is better now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, don’t get up yet,’ said Mrs. Dusautoy, as she was trying to move; ‘I + would offer you the sofa, it would be more hospitable, but I think the + floor is the most comfortable place.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you, <i>much</i>,’ said Sophy, with an emphasis. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you ever lie down on it when you are tired?’ asked the lady, looking + anxiously at Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I always wish I might.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was surprised at the interrogations that followed; she did not + understand what Mrs. Dusautoy was aiming at, in the close questioning, + which to her amazement did not seem to offend, but rather to be gratifying + by the curious divination of all sensations. It made Albinia feel as if + she had been carrying on a deliberate system of torture, when she heard of + a pain in the back, hardly ever ceasing, aggravated by sitting upright, + growing severe with the least fatigue, and unless favoured by day, + becoming so bad at night as to take away many hours of sleep. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Sophy, Sophy,’ she cried, with tears in her eyes, ‘how could you go + on so? Why did you never tell me?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I did not like,’ began Sophy, ‘I was used to it.’ + </p> + <p> + Oh, that barrier! Albinia was in uncontrollable distress, that the girl + should have chosen to undergo so much suffering rather than bestow any + confidence. Sophy stole her hand into hers, and said in her odd, short + way, ‘Never mind, it did not signify.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Mrs. Dusautoy, ‘those things are just what one does get so + much used to, that it seems much easier to bear them than to speak about + them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But to let oneself be so driven about,’ cried Albinia. ‘Oh! Sophy, you + will never do so again! If I had ever guessed—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Please hush! Never mind!’ said Sophy, almost crossly, and getting up from + the floor quickly, as though resolved to be well. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have never minded long enough,’ sighed Albinia. ‘What shall I do, Mrs. + Dusautoy? What do you think it is?’ + </p> + <p> + This was the last question Mrs. Dusautoy wished to be asked in Sophy’s + presence. She had little doubt that it was spine complaint like her own, + but she had not intended to let her perceive the impression, till after + having seen Mrs. Kendal alone. However, Albinia’s impetuosity disconcerted + all precautions, and Sophy’s two great black eyes were rounded with + suppressed terror, as if expecting her doom. ‘I think that a doctor ought + to answer that question,’ Mrs. Dusautoy began. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, yes,’ exclaimed Albinia, ‘but I never had any faith in old Mr. + Bowles, I had rather go to a thorough good man at once.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, certainly, by all means.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And then to whom! I will write to my Aunt Mary. It seems exactly like + you. Do you think it is the spine?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am afraid so. But, my dear,’ holding out her hand caressingly to Sophy, + ‘you need not be frightened—you need not look at me as an example of + what you will come to—I am only an example of what comes of never + speaking of one’s ailments.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And of having no mother to find them out!’ cried Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed,’ said Mrs. Dusautoy, anxious to console and encourage, as well as + to talk the young step-mother out of her self-reproach, ‘I do not think + that if I had been my good aunt’s own child, she would have been more + likely to find out that anything was amiss. It was the fashion to be + strong and healthy in that house, and I was never really ill—but I + came as a little stunted, dwining cockney, and so I was considered ever + after—never quite comfortable, often forgetting myself in enjoyment, + paying for it afterwards, but quite used to it. We all thought it was + “only Fanny,” and part of my London breeding. Yes, we thought so in good + faith, even after the largest half of my life had been spent in + Yorkshire.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what brought it to a crisis? Did they go on neglecting you?’ + exclaimed Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, my dear,’ said the little lady, a glow lighting on her cheek, and a + smile awakening, ‘my uncle took a new curate, whom it was the family + custom to call “the good-natured giant,” and whose approach put all of us + young ladies in a state of great excitement. It was all in character with + his good-nature, you know, to think of dragging the poor little shrimp up + the hill to church, and I believe he did not know how she would get on + without his strong arm; for do you know, when he had the curacy of + Lauriston given him, he chose to carry the starveling off with him, + instead of any of those fine, handsome prosperous girls. Dear Mary and + Bessie! how good they were, and how kind and proud for me! I never could + complain of not having sisters.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, and Mr. Dusautoy made you have advice?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not he! Why, we all believed it cockneyism, you know, and besides, I was + so happy and so well, that when we went to Scotland, I fairly walked + myself off my legs, and ended the honeymoon laid up in a little inn on + Loch Katrine, where John used regularly to knock his head whenever he came + into the room. It was a fortnight before I could get to Edinburgh, and the + journey made me as bad as ever. So the doctors were called in, and poor + John learnt what a crooked stick he had chosen; but they all said that if + I had been taken in hand as a child, most likely I should have been a + sound woman. The worst of it was, that I was so thoroughly knocked up that + I could not bear the motion of a carriage; besides, I suppose the doctors + wanted a little amusement out of me, for they would not hear of my going + home. So poor John had to go to Lauriston by himself, and those were the + longest, dreariest six months I ever spent in my life, though Bessie was + so good as to come and take care of me. But at last, when I had nearly + made up my mind to defy the whole doctorhood, they gave leave, and between + water and steam, John brought me to Lauriston, and ever since that, I + don’t see that a backbone would have made us a bit happier.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy had been intently reading Mrs. Dusautoy’s face all through the + narration, from under her thick black eyelashes, and at the end she drew a + sigh of relief, and seemed to catch the smile of glad gratitude and + affection. There was a precedent, which afforded incredible food to the + tumultuous cravings of a heart that had been sinking in sullen gloom under + the consciousness of an unpleasing exterior. The possibility of a + ‘good-natured giant’ was far more present to her mind than the present + probability of future suffering and restraint. + </p> + <p> + Ever rapid and eager, Albinia could think of nothing but immediate + measures for Sophy’s good, and the satisfaction of her own conscience. She + could not bear even to wait for Mr. Kendal’s return, but, as her aunts + were still in London, she resolved on carrying Sophy to their house on the + following day for the best advice. It was already late, and she knelt at + the table to dash off two notes to put into the post-office as she went + home. One to Mrs. Annesley, to announce her coming with Sophy, baby, and + Susan, the other as follows:— + </p> + <p> + ‘July 10th, 9 p.m. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dearest Edmund, + </p> + <p> + ‘I find I have been cruelly neglectful. I have hunted and driven that poor + child about till it has brought on spine complaint. The only thing I can + do, is to take her to have the best advice without loss of time, so I am + going to-morrow to my aunt’s. It would take too long to write and ask your + leave. You must forgive this, as indeed each word I have to say is, + forgive! She is so generous and kind! You know I meant to do my best, but + they were right, I was too young. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Forgive yours, + ‘A. K.’ +</pre> + <p> + The Dusautoys were somewhat taken by surprise, but they knew too well the + need of promptitude to dissuade her; and Sophia herself sat aghast at the + commotion, excited by the habitual discomfort of which she had thought so + little. The vicar, when he found Mrs. Kendal in earnest, offered to go + with them and protect them; but Albinia was a veteran in independent + railway travelling, and was rather affronted by being treated as a + helpless female. Mrs. Dusautoy, better aware of what the journey might be + to one at least of the travellers, gave advice, and lent air cushions, and + Albinia bade her good night with an almost sobbing ‘thank you,’ and an + entreaty that if Mr. Kendal came home before them, she would tell him all + about it. + </p> + <p> + At home, she instantly sent the stupefied Sophy to bed, astonished the + little nurse, ordered down boxes and bags, and spent half the night in + packing, glad to be stirring and to tire herself into sleeping, for her + remorse and her anticipations were so painful, that, but for fatigue, her + bed would have been no resting-place. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. + </h2> + <p> + Winifred Ferrars was surprised by Mr. Kendal’s walking into her garden, + with a perturbed countenance, begging her to help him to make out what + could be the meaning of a note which he had just received. He was afraid + that there was much amiss with the baby, and heartily wished that he had + not been persuaded to leave home; but poor Albinia wrote in so much + distress, that he could not understand her letter. + </p> + <p> + More accustomed to Albinia’s epistolary habits, Winifred exclaimed at the + first glance, ‘What can you mean? There is not one word of the little one! + It is only Sophy!’ + </p> + <p> + The immediate clearing of his face was not complimentary to poor Sophy, as + he said, ‘Can you be quite sure? I had begun to hope that Albinia might at + least have the comfort of seeing this little fellow healthy; but let me + see—she says nursed and—and danced—is it? this poor + child—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no; it is hunted and driven; that’s the way she always <i>will</i> + make her <i>h</i>’s; besides, what nonsense the other would be.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This poor child—’ repeated Mr. Kendal, ‘Going up to London for + advice. She would hardly do that with Sophia.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who ever heard of a baby of six months old having a spine complaint?’ + cried Mrs. Ferrars almost angrily. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have lost one in that way,’ he replied. + </p> + <p> + A dead silence ensued, till Winifred, to her great relief, spied the + feminine pronoun, but could not fully satisfy Mr. Kendal that the ups and + downs were insufficient for the word <i>him</i>; and each scrawl was + discussed as though it had been a cuneiform inscription, until he had been + nearly argued into believing in the lesser evil. He then was persuaded + that the Meadowses had been harassing and frightening Albinia into this + startling measure. It was so contrary to his own nature, that he hardly + believed that it had actually taken place, and that she must be in London + by this time, but at any rate, he must join her there, and know the worst. + He would take the whole party to an hotel, if it were too great a liberty + to quarter themselves upon Mrs. Annesley. + </p> + <p> + Winifred was as much surprised as if the chess-king had taken a knight’s + move, but she encouraged his resolution, assured him of a welcome at what + the cousinhood were wont to call the Family Office, and undertook the + charge of Gilbert and Lucy. The sorrowful, almost supplicating tone of his + wife’s letter, would have sufficed to bring him to her, even without his + disquietude for his child, whichever of them it might be; and though + Albinia’s merry blue-eyed boy had brought a renewed spring of hope and + life, his crashed spirits trembled at the least alarm. + </p> + <p> + Thus, though the cheerful Winifred had convinced his reason, his gloomy + anticipations revived before he reached London; and with the stern + composure of one accustomed to bend to the heaviest blows, he knocked at + Mrs. Annesley’s door. He was told that Mrs. Kendal was out; but on further + inquiry, learnt that Sophy was in the drawing-room, where he found her + curled up in the corner of the sofa, reading intently. + </p> + <p> + She sprang to her feet with a cry of surprise, but did not approach, + though he held out his arms, saying in a voice husky with anxiety, ‘Is the + baby well, Sophia?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ she cried, ‘quite well; he is out in the carriage with them.’ Then + shrinking as he was stooping to kiss her, she reddened, reddening deeply, + ‘Papa, I did very wrong; I was sly and disobedient, and I might have + killed him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do not let us speak of that now, my dear, I want to hear of—’ and + again he would have drawn her into his embrace, but she held out her hand, + with her repelling gesture, and burst forth in her rude honesty, ‘I can’t + be forgiven only because I am ill. Hear all about it, papa, and then say + you forgive me if you can. I always was cross to mamma, because I was + determined I would be; and I did not think she had any business with us. + The more she was kind, the more I did not like it; and I thought it was + mean in Gilbert and Lucy to be fond of her. No! I have not done yet! I + grew naughtier and naughtier, till at last I have been false and sly, and—have + done this to baby—and I would not have cared then—if—if + she would not have been—oh! so good!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy made no farther resistance to the arm that was thrown round her, as + her father said, ‘So good, that she has overcome evil with good. My child, + how should I not forgive when you are sensible of your mistake, and when + she has so freely forgiven?’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy did not speak, but she pressed his arm closer round her, and laid + her cheek gratefully on his shoulder. She only wished it could last for + ever; but he soon lifted her, that he might look anxiously at her face, + while he said, ‘And what is all this, my dear! I am afraid you are not + well.’ + </p> + <p> + Her energies were recalled; and, squeezing his hand, she said, ‘Mind, you + will not let them say it was mamma’s fault.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who is accusing her, my dear?’ What is the matter?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is only my back,’ said Sophy; ‘there always was a stupid pain there; + but grandmamma’s Betty said I made a fuss, and that it was all laziness, + and I would not let any one say so again, and I never told of it, and it + went on till the other night I grew faint at church, and Mrs. Dusautoy put + mamma in such a fright, that we all came here yesterday; and there came a + doctor this morning, who says my spine is not straight, and that I must + lie on my back for a long time; but never mind, papa, it will be very + comfortable to lie still and read, and I shall not be cross now,’ she + added reassuringly, as his grasp pressed her close, with a start of + dismay. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, I am afraid you hardly know what you may have to go through, but + I am glad you meet it bravely.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But you wont let them say mamma did it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who should say so?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Aunt Maria will, and mamma <i>will</i> go and say so herself,’ cried + Sophy; ‘she <i>will</i> say it was taking walks and carrying baby, and + it’s not true. I told the doctor how my back ached long before baby came + or she either, and he said that most likely the weakness had been left by + the fever. So if it is any one’s mismanagement, it is Aunt Maria’s, and if + you wont tell her so, I will.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gently, Sophy, that would hardly be grateful, after the pains that she + has taken with you, and the care she meant to give.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Her care was all worry,’ said Sophy, ‘and it will be very lucky if I + don’t tell her so, if she says her provoking things to mamma. But you wont + believe them, papa.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Most certainly not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, you must tell her to be happy again,’ continued Sophy; ‘I cannot + bear to see her looking sorrowful! Last night, when she fancied me asleep, + she cried—oh! till it made me miserable! And to-day I heard Miss + Ferrars say to Mrs. Annesley, that her fine spirits were quite gone. You + know it is very silly, for I am the last person in all the world she ought + to cry for.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She has an infinite treasure of love,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘and we have done + very little that we should be blessed with it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There, they are come home!’ exclaimed Sophy, starting up as sounds were + heard on the stairs, and almost at the same moment Albinia was in the + room, overflowing with contrition, gladness, and anxiety; but something of + sweetness in the first hasty greeting made the trust overcome all the + rest; and, understanding his uppermost wish, she stepped back to the + staircase, and in another second had put Maurice into his arms, blooming + and contented, and with a wide-mouthed smile for his papa. Mr. Kendal held + him fondly through all the hospitable welcomes of the aunts, and his own + explanations; but to Albinia it was all confusion, and almost annoyance, + till she could take him upstairs, and tell her own story. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am afraid you have been very much alarmed,’ were his first words. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have done everything wrong from beginning to end,’ said Albinia. ‘Oh, + Edmund, I am so glad you are come! Now you will see the doctor, and know + whether it was as bad as all the rest to bring her to London.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dearest, you must calm yourself, and try to explain. You know I + understand nothing yet, except from your resolute little advocate + downstairs, and your own note, which I could scarcely make out, except + that you were in great trouble.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, that note; I wrote it in one of my impetuous fits. Maurice used to + say I ran frantic, and grew irrational, and so I did not know what I was + saying to you; and I brought that poor patient girl up here in all the + heat, and the journey hurt her so much, that I don’t know how we shall + ever get her home again. Oh, Edmund, I am the worst wife and mother in the + world; and I undertook it all with such foolish confidence.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal liked her impetuous fits as little as her brother did, and was + not so much used to them; but he dealt with her in his quiet, + straightforward way. ‘You are exaggerating now, Albinia, and I do not + wonder at it, for you have had a great deal to startle and to try you. + Walking up and down is only heating and agitating you more; sit down here, + and let me hear what gave you this alarm.’ + </p> + <p> + The grave affection of his manner restrained her, and his presence soothed + the flutter of spirits; though she still devoted herself with a sort of + wilfulness to bear all the blame, until he said, ‘This is foolish, + Albinia; it is of no use to look at anything but the simple truth. This + affection of the spine must be constitutional, and if neglect have + aggravated the evil, it must date from a much earlier period than since + she has been under your charge. If any one be to blame, it is myself, for + the apathy that prevented me from placing the poor things under proper + care, but I was hardly then aware that Maria’s solicitude is always in the + wrong place.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But everybody declares that it was always visible, and that no one could + look at her without seeing that she was crooked.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Apres le coup,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘I grant you that a person of more + experience might perhaps have detected what was amiss sooner than you did, + but you have only to regret the ignorance you shared with us all; and you + did your utmost according to your judgment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And a cruel utmost it was,’ said Albinia; ‘it is frightful to think what + I inflicted, and she endured in silence, because I had not treated her so + that she could bear to speak to me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That is over now,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘you have conquered her at last. + Pride could not hold out against such sweetness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is her generosity,’ said Albinia; ‘I always knew she was the best of + them all, if one could but get at her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What have you done to her? I never heard her say half so much as she + voluntarily said to me just now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor dear! I believe the key of her heart was lost when Edmund died, and + so all within was starved,’ said Albinia. ‘Yes,’ as his eyes were suddenly + raised and fixed on her, ‘I got to that at last. No one has ever + understood her, since she lost her brother.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She has a certain likeness to him. I knew she was his favourite sister; + but such a child as she was—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Children have deeper souls than you give them credit for,’ said Albinia. + ‘Yes, Edmund, you and Sophy are very much alike! You had your study, and + poor Sophy enclosed herself in a perpetual cocoon of study atmosphere, and + so you never found each other out till to-day.’ + </p> + <p> + Perhaps it was the influence of the frantic fit that caused her to make so + direct a thrust; but Mr. Kendal was not offended. There was a good deal in + the mere absence from habitual scenes and associations; he always left a + great deal of reserve behind him at Bayford. + </p> + <p> + ‘You may be right, Albinia,’ he said; ‘I sometimes think that amongst us + you are like the old poet’s “star confined into a tomb.”’ + </p> + <p> + Such a compliment was a pretty reward for her temerity. + </p> + <p> + Returning to business, she found that her journey was treated as more + judicious than she deserved. The consequences had justified her decision. + Mr. Kendal knew it was the right thing to be done, and was glad to have + been spared the dreadful task of making up his mind to it. He sat down of + his own accord to write a note to Winifred, beginning, ‘Albinia was right, + as she always is,’ and though his wife interlined, ‘Albinia had no right + to be right, for she was inconsiderate, as she always is,’ she looked so + brilliantly pretty and bright, and was so full of sunny liveliness, that + she occasioned one of the very few disputes between her good aunts. Miss + Ferrars declared that poor Albinia was quite revived by the return to her + old home, and absence of care, while Mrs. Annesley insisted on giving the + credit to Mr. Kendal. They were perfectly agreed in unwillingness to part + with their guests; and as the doctor wished to see more of his patient, + the visit was prolonged, to the enjoyment of all parties. + </p> + <p> + Sophy had received her sentence so easily, that it was suspected that she + did not realize the tedium of confinement, and was relieved by being + allowed to be inactive. Until she should go home, she might do whatever + did not fatigue her; but most sights, and even the motion of the carriage, + were so fatiguing, that she was much more inclined to remain at home and + revel in the delightful world of books. The kind, unobtrusive petting; the + absence of customary irritations; the quiet high-bred tone of the family, + so acted upon her, as to render her something as agreeably new to herself + as to other people. The glum mask was cast aside, she responded amiably to + kindness and attention, allowed herself to be drawn into conversation, and + developed much more intelligence and depth than even Albinia had given her + credit for. + </p> + <p> + One day, when Miss Ferrars was showing Mr. Kendal some illustrations of + Indian scenery, a question arose upon the date of the native sovereign to + whom the buildings were ascribed. Mr. Kendal could not recollect; but + Sophia, looking up, quietly pronounced the date, and gave her reasons for + it. Miss Ferrars asked how she could have learnt so much on an + out-of-the-way topic. + </p> + <p> + ‘I read a book of the History of India, up in the loft,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘That book!’ exclaimed her father; ‘I wish you joy! I never could get + through it! It is the driest chronicle I ever read—a mere book of + reference. What could induce you to read that?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I would read anything about India;’ and her tone, though low and subdued, + betrayed such enthusiasm as could find nothing dry, and this in a girl who + had read aloud the reign of Edward III. with stolid indifference! + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I think I can promise you more interesting reading about India when + we go home,’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + The colour rose on Sophy’s cheek. Books out of papa’s study! Could the + world offer a greater privilege?’ She could scarcely pronounce, ‘Thank + you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very faithful to her birth-place,’ said Miss Ferrars; ‘but she must have + been very young when she came home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘About five years old, I believe,’ said her father. ‘You surely can + remember nothing of Talloon.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know,’ said Sophy, mournfully; ‘I used—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought Indian children usually lost their eastern recollections very + early,’ said Miss Ferrars; ‘I never heard of one who could remember the + sound of Hindostanee a year after coming home.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal, entertained and gratified, turned to his daughter; and, by way + of experiment, began a short sentence in Hindostanee; but the first sound + brought a glow to her cheeks, and, with a hurried gesture, she murmured, + ‘Please don’t, papa.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia saw that feelings were here concerned which must not be played on + in public; and she hastily plunged into the discussion, and drew it away + from Sophy. Following her up-stairs at bed-time, she contrived to win from + her an explanation. + </p> + <p> + Edmund had been seven years old at the time of the return to England. + Fondly attached to some of the Hindoo servants, and with unusual + intelligence and observation, the gorgeous scenery and oriental habits of + his first home had dwelt vividly in his imagination, and he had always + considered himself as only taken to England for a time, to return again to + India. Thus, he had been fond of romancing of the past and of the future, + and had never let his little sister’s recollections fade entirely away. + His father had likewise thought that it would save future trouble to keep + up the boys’ knowledge of the language, which would by-and-by be so + important to them. Gilbert’s health had caused his studies to be often + intermitted, but Edmund had constantly received instructions in the Indian + languages, and whatever he learnt had been imparted to Sophia. It was + piteous to discover how much time the poor forlorn little girl had spent + sitting on the floor in the loft, poring over old grammars, and + phrase-books, and translations of missionary or government school-books + there accumulated—anything that related to India, or that seemed to + carry on what she had done with Edmund: and she had acquired just enough + to give her a keen appetite for all the higher class of lore, which she + knew to reside in the unapproachable study. Those few familiar words from + her father had overcome her, because, a trivial greeting in themselves, + they had been a kind of password between her and her brother. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal was greatly touched, and very remorseful for having left such a + heart to pine in solitude, while he was absorbed in his own lonely grief; + and Albinia ventured to say, ‘I believe the greatest pleasure you could + give her would be to help her to keep up the language.’ + </p> + <p> + He smiled, but said, ‘Of what possible use could it be to her?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I was not thinking of future use. It would be of immense present use to + her to do anything with you, and I can see that nothing would gratify her + so much. Besides, I have been trying to think of all the new things I + could set her to do. She must have lessons to fill up the day, and I want + to make fresh beginnings, and not go back to the blots and scars of our + old misunderstandings.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You want me to teach her Sanscrit because you cannot teach her Italian.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Exactly so,’ said Albinia; ‘and the Italian will spring all the better + from the venerable root, when we have forgotten how cross we used to be to + each other over our relative pronouns.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But there is hardly anything which I could let her read in those + languages.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very likely not; but you can pick out what there is. Do you remember the + fable of the treasure that was to be gained by digging under the + apple-tree, and which turned out not to be gold, but the fruit, the + consequence of digging? Now, I want you to dig Sophy; a Sanscrit, or a + Hindostanee, or a Persian treasure will do equally well as a pretext. If + she had announced a taste for the differential calculus, I should have + said the same. Only dig her, as Maurice dug me apropos to Homer. I + wouldn’t bother you, only you see no one else could either do it, or be + the same to Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We will see how it is,’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + With which Albinia was obliged to be content; but in the meantime she saw + the two making daily progress in intimacy, and Mr. Kendal beginning to + take a pride in his daughter’s understanding and information, which he + ascribed to Albinia, in spite of all her disclaimers. It was as if she had + evoked the spirit of his lost son, which had lain hidden under the sullen + demeanour of the girl, devoid indeed of many of Edmund’s charms, but yet + with the same sterling qualities, and with resemblance enough to afford + infinite and unexpected joy and compensation. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal enjoyed his stay in town. He visited libraries, saw pictures, + and heard music, with the new zest of having a wife able to enter into his + tastes. He met old friends, and did not shrink immoderately from those of + his wife; nay, he found them extremely agreeable, and was pleased to see + Albinia welcomed. Indeed, his sojourn in her former sphere served to make + him wonder that she could be contented with Bayford, and to find her, of + the whole party, by far the most ready to return home. Both he himself and + Sophy had an unavowed dread of the influence of Willow Lawn; but Albinia + had a spring of spirits, independent of place, and though happy, was + craving for her duties, anxious to have the journey over, and afraid that + London was making her little Maurice pale. + </p> + <p> + Miss Meadows was the first person whom they saw at Willow Lawn. Two + letters had passed, both so conventionally civil, that her state of mind + could not be gathered from them, but her first tones proved that coherence + was more than ever wanting, and no one attempted to understand anything + she said, while she enfolded Sophy in an agitated embrace, and marshalled + them to the drawing-room, where the chief of the apologies were spent upon + Sophy’s new couch, which had been sent down the day before by the + luggage-train, and which she and Eweretta had attempted to put together in + an impossible way, failing which, they had called in the carpenter, who + had made it worse. + </p> + <p> + It was an untold advantage that she had to take the initiative in excuses. + Sophy was so meek with weariness, that she took pretty well all the kind + fidgeting that could not be averted from her, and Miss Meadows’s discourse + chiefly tended to assurances that Mrs. Kendal was right, and grandmamma + was nervous—and poor Mr. Bowles—it could not be expected—with + hints of the wonderful commotion the sudden flight to London had excited + at Bayford. As soon as Mr. Kendal quitted the room, these hints were + converted into something between expostulation, condolence, and + congratulation. + </p> + <p> + It was so very fortunate—so very lucky that dear Mr. Kendal had come + home with her, for—she had said she would let Mrs. Kendal hear, if + only that she might be on her guard—people were so ill-natured—there + never was such a place for gossip—not that she heard it from any one + but Mrs. Drury, who really now had driven in—not that she believed + it, but to ascertain.—For Mrs. Drury had been told—mentioning + no names—oh, no! for fear of making mischief—she had been told + that Mrs. Kendal had actually been into Mr. Kendal’s study, which was + always kept locked up, and there she had found something which had + distressed her so much that she had gone to Mr. Dusautoy, and by his + advice had fled from home to the protection of her brother in Canada. + </p> + <p> + ‘Without waiting for Bluebeard’s asking for the key! Oh, Maria!’ cried + Albinia, in a fit of laughter, while Sophia sat up on the sofa in + speechless indignation. + </p> + <p> + ‘You may laugh, Mrs. Kendal, if you please,’ said Maria, with tart + dignity; ‘I have told you nothing but the truth. I should have thought for + my part, but that’s of no consequence, it was as well to be on one’s guard + in a nest of vipers, for Edmund’s sake, if not for your own.’ And as this + last speech convulsed Albinia, and rendered her incapable of reply, Miss + Meadows became pathetic. ‘I am sure the pains I have taken to trace out + and contradict—and so nervous as grandmamma has been—“I’m + sure, Mrs. Drury,” said I, “that though Edmund Kendal does lock his study + door, nobody ever thought anything—the housemaids go in to clean it—and + I’ve been in myself when the whitewashers were about the house—I’m + sure Mrs. Kendal is a most amiable young woman, and you wouldn’t raise + reports.” “No,” she said, “but Mrs. Osborn was positive that Mrs. Kendal + was nearly an hour shut up alone in the study the night of Sophy’s + accident—and so sudden,” she said, “the carriage being sent for—not + a servant knew of it—and then,” she said, “it was always the talk + among the girls, that Mr. Kendal kept his study a forbidden place.”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then,’ said Sophia, slowly, as she looked full at her aunt, ‘it was the + Osborns who dared to say such wicked things.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There now, I never meant you to be there. You ought to be gone to bed, + child. It is not a thing for you to know anything about.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I only want to know whether it was the Osborns who invented these + stories,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear,’ exclaimed Albinia, ‘what can it signify? They are only a very + good joke. I did not think there had been so much imagination in Bayford.’ + And off she went laughing again. + </p> + <p> + ‘They are very wicked,’ said Sophy, ‘Aunt Maria, I will know if it was + Mrs. Osborn who told the story.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s <i>will</i> was too potent for Miss Meadows, and the admission was + extracted in a burst of other odds and ends, in the midst of which Albinia + beheld Sophy cross the room with a deliberate, determined step. Flying + after her, she found her in the hall, wrapping herself up. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy, what is this? What are you about?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let me alone,’ said Sophy, straining against her detaining hand, ‘I do + not know when I shall recover again, and I will go at once to tell the + Osborns that I have done with them. I stuck to them because I thought they + were my mother’s friends; I did not guess that they would make an unworthy + use of my friendship, and invent wicked stories of my father and you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Please don’t make me laugh, Sophy, for I don’t want to affront you. Yes, + it is generous feeling; I don’t wonder you are angry; but indeed silly + nonsense like this is not worth it. It will die away of itself, it must be + dead already, now they have seen we have not run away to Canada. Your + heroics only make it more ridiculous.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I must tell Loo never to come here with her hypocrisy,’ repeated Sophy, + standing still, but not yielding an inch. + </p> + <p> + Miss Meadows pursued them at the same moment with broken protestations + that they must forget it, she never meant to make mischief, &c., and + the confusion was becoming worse confounded when Mr. Kendal emerged from + the study, demanding what was the matter, to the great discomfiture of + Maria, who began hushing Sophy, and making signs to Albinia that it would + be dangerous for him to know anything about it. + </p> + <p> + But Albinia was already exclaiming, ‘Here’s a champion wanting to do + battle with Louisa Osborn in our cause. Oh, Edmund! our neighbours could + find no way of accounting for my taking French leave, but by supposing + that I took advantage of being shut in there, while poor little Maurice + was squalling so furiously, to rifle your secrets, and detect something so + shocking, that away I was fleeing to William in Canada.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Obliging,’ quietly said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, dear Edmund—I know—for my sake—for everything’s + sake, remember you are a family man, don’t take any notice.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I certainly shall take no notice of such folly,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘and I + wish that no one else should. What are you about, Sophia?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Tell mamma to let me go, papa,’ she exclaimed, ‘I must and will tell + Louisa that I hate her baseness and hypocrisy, and then I’ll never speak + to her again. Why will mamma laugh? It is very wicked of them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Wrong in them, but laughing is the only way to treat it,’ said Mr. + Kendal. ‘Go back to your sofa and forget it. Your aunt and I have heard + Bayford reports before.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy obeyed unwillingly, she was far too much incensed to forget. On her + aunt’s taking leave, and Mr. Kendal offering his escort up the hill, she + rose up again, and would have perpetrated a denunciation by letter, had + not Albinia seriously argued with her, and finding ridicule, expediency, + and Christian forgiveness all fail of hitting the mark, said, ‘I don’t + know with what face you could attack Louisa, when you helped her to + persecute poor Genevieve because you thought she had an instrument of + torture in her drawer.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was not I who said that,’ said Sophy, blushing. + </p> + <p> + ‘You took part with those who did. And poor Genevieve was a much more + defenceless victim than papa or myself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I would not do so now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It does not take much individual blackness of heart to work up a fine + promising slander. A surmise made in jest is repeated in earnest, and all + the other tale-bearers think they are telling simple facts. Depend upon + it, the story did not get off from the Osborns by any means as it came + back to Aunt Maria.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should like to know.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t let us make it any worse; and above all, do not let us tell Lucy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, no!’ said Sophy, emphatically. + </p> + <p> + To Albinia’s surprise no innuendo from Mrs. or Miss Meadows ever referred + to her management having caused Sophy’s misfortune, and she secretly + attributed this silence to Mr. Kendal’s having escorted his sister-in-law + to her own house. + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s chief abode became the morning-room, and she seemed very happy and + tranquil there—shrinking from visitors, but grateful for the + kindness of parents, brother and sister. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal, finding her really eager to learn of him, began teaching her + Persian, and was astonished at her promptness and intelligence. He took + increasing pleasure in her company, gave her books to read, and would + sometimes tell the others not to stay at home for her sake, as he should + be ‘about the house.’ + </p> + <p> + He really gave up much time to her, and used to carry her, when the + weather served, to a couch in the garden, for she could not bear the + motion of wheels, and was forbidden to attempt walking, though she was to + be in the air as much as possible, so that Albinia spent more time at + home. The charge of Sophy was evidently her business, and after talking + the matter over with Mrs. Dusautoy, she resigned, though not without a + pang, the offices she had undertaken in the time of her superfluous + activity, and limited herself to occasional superintendence, instead of + undertaking constant employment in the parish. Though she felt grieved and + humiliated, Willow Lawn throve the better for it, and so did her own mind, + yes, and even her temper, which was far less often driven by over-haste + into quick censure, or unconsidered reply. + </p> + <p> + Her mistakes about Sophia had been a lesson against one-sided government. + At first, running into the other extreme, she was ready to imagine that + all the past ill-humour had been the effect of her neglect and cruelty; + and Sophy’s amiability almost warranted the notion. The poor girl herself + had promised ‘never to be cross again,’ and fancied all temptation was + over, since she had ‘found out mamma,’ and papa was so kind to her. But + all on a sudden, down came the cloud again. Nobody could detect any + reason. Affronts abounded—not received with an explosion that would + have been combated, laughed at, and disposed of, but treated with silence, + and each sinking down to be added to the weight of cruel injuries. There + was no complaint; Sophy obeyed all orders with her old form of dismal + submission, but everything proposed to her was distasteful, and her + answers were in the ancient surly style. If attempts were made to probe + the malady, her reserve was impenetrable—nothing was the matter, she + wanted nothing, was vexed at nothing. She pursued her usual occupations, + but as if they were hardships; she was sullen towards her mamma, + snappishly brief with her aunt and sister, and so ungracious and + indifferent even with her father, that Albinia trembled lest he might + withdraw the attention so improperly received. When this dreary state of + things had lasted more than a week, he did tell her that if she were tired + of the lessons, it was not worth while to proceed; but that he had hoped + for more perseverance. + </p> + <p> + The fear of losing these, her great pride and pleasure, overcame her. She + maintained her grim composure till he had left her, but then fell into a + violent fit of crying, in which Albinia found her, and which dissolved the + reserve into complaints that every one was very cruel and unkind, and she + was the most miserable girl in all the world; papa was going to take away + from her the only one thing that made it tolerable! + </p> + <p> + Reasoning was of no use; to try to show her that it was her own behaviour + that had annoyed him, only made her mamma appear equally hard-hearted, and + she continued wretched all the rest of the day, refusing consolation, and + only so far improved that avowed discontent was better than sullenness. + The next morning, she found out that it was not the world that was in + league against her, but that she had fallen into the condition which she + had thought past for ever. This was worst of all, and her disappointment + and dejection lasted not only all that long day, but all the next, making + her receive all kindnesses with a broken-down, woebegone manner, and reply + to all cheerful encouragements with despair about anything ever making her + good. Albinia tried to put her in mind of the Source of all goodness; but + any visible acceptance of personal applications of religious teaching had + not yet been accomplished. + </p> + <p> + Gradually all cleared up again, and things went well till for some fresh + trivial cause or no cause, the whole process was repeated—sulking, + injured innocence, and bitter repentance. This time, Mr. Kendal + pronounced, ‘This is low spirits, far more than temper,’ and he + thenceforth dealt with these moods with a tender consideration that + Albinia admired, though she thought at times that to treat them more like + temper than spirits might be better for Sophy; but it was evident that the + poor child herself had at present little if any power either of averting + such an access, or of shaking it off. The danger of her father’s treatment + seemed to be, that the humours would be acquiesced in, like changes in the + weather, and that she might be encouraged neither to repent, nor to + struggle; while her captivity made her much more liable to the tedium and + sinking of heart that predisposed her to them. + </p> + <p> + There seemed to be nothing to be done but to bear patiently with them + while they lasted, to console the victim afterwards, lead her to prayer + and resolute efforts, and above all to pray for her, as well as to avoid + occasions of bringing them on; but this was not possible, since no one + could live without occasional contradiction, and Sophy could sometimes + bear a strong remonstrance or great disappointment, when at others a hint, + or an almost imperceptible vexation, destroyed her peace for days. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal bore patiently with her variations, and did his best to amuse + away her gloom. It was wonderful how much of his own was gone, and how + much more alive he was. He had set himself to attack the five + public-houses and seven beer-shops in Tibbs’s Alley, and since his eyes + had been once opened, it seemed as if the disorders became more flagrant + every day. At last, he pounced on a misdemeanour which he took care should + come before the magistrates, and he was much annoyed to find the case + dismissed for want of evidence. One Sunday he beheld the end of a fray + begun during service-time; he caused an information to be laid, and went + himself to the petty sessions to represent the case, but the result was a + nominal penalty. The Admiral was a seeker of popularity, and though owning + that the town was in a shocking state, and making great promises when + talked to on general points, yet he could never make up his mind to punish + any ‘poor fellow,’ unless he himself were in a passion, when he would go + any length. The other magistrates would not interfere; and all the + satisfaction Mr. Kendal obtained was being told how much he was wanted on + the bench. + </p> + <p> + One of the few respectable Tibbs’s Alleyites told him that it was of no + use to complain, for the publicans boasted of their impunity, snapped + their fingers at him, and drank Admiral Osborn’s health as their friend. + The consequence was, that Mr. Kendal took a magnanimous resolution, + ordered a copy of Burn’s Justice, and at the September Quarter Sessions + actually rode over to Hadminster, and took the oaths. + </p> + <p> + On the whole, the expectation was more formidable than the reality. + However much he disliked applying himself to business, no one understood + it better. The value of his good sense, judgment, and acuteness was + speedily felt. Mr. Nugent, the chairman, depended on him as his ally, and + often as his adviser; and as he was thus made to feel himself of weight + and importance, his aversion subsided, and he almost learnt to look + forward to a chat with Mr. Nugent; or whether he looked forward to it or + not, there could be no doubt that he enjoyed it. Though still shy, grave, + silent, and inert, there was a great alteration in him since the time when + he had had no friends, no interests, no pursuits beyond his study; and + there was every reason to think that, in spite of the many severe shocks + to his mauvaise honte, he was a much happier man. + </p> + <p> + His wife could not regret that his magisterial proceedings led to a + coolness with the Osborns, augmented by a vestry-meeting, at which Mr. + Dusautoy had begged him to be present. The Admiral and his party surpassed + themselves in their virulence against whatever the vicar proposed, until + they fairly roused Mr. Kendal’s ire, and ‘he came out upon them all like a + lion;’ and with force appearing the greater from being so seldom exerted, + he represented Mr. Dusautoy’s conduct in appropriate terms, showing full + appreciation of his merits, and holding up their own course before them in + its true light, till they had nothing to say for themselves. It was the + vicar’s first visible victory. The increased congregation showed how much + way he had made with the poor, and Mr. Kendal taking his part openly, drew + over many of the tradespeople, who had begun to feel the influence of his + hearty nature and consistent uprightness, and had become used to what had + at first appeared innovations. Mr. Dusautoy, in thanking Mr. Kendal, + begged him to allow himself to be nominated his churchwarden next Easter, + and having consented while his blood was up, there was no danger that, + however he might dislike the prospect, he would falter when the time + should come. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. + </h2> + <p> + It was ‘a green Yule,’ a Christmas like an April day, and even the + lengthening days and strengthening cold of January attaining to nothing + more than three slight hoar-frosts, each quickly melting into mud, and the + last concluding in rain and fog. + </p> + <p> + ‘What would Willow Lawn have been without the drainage?’ Albinia often + thought when she paddled down the wet streets, and saw the fields flooded. + The damp had such an effect upon Sophy’s throat, temper, and whole nervous + system, that her moods had few intervals, and Albinia wrote to the surgeon + a detail of her symptoms, asking if she had not better be removed into a + more favourable air. But he pronounced that the injury of the transport + would outbalance the casual evils of the bad weather, and as the rain and + fog mitigated, she improved; but there were others on whom the heavy moist + air had a more fatal effect. + </p> + <p> + One morning, Mr. Kendal saw his wife descending the picturesque rugged + stone staircase that led outside the house to the upper stories of the old + block of buildings under the hill, nearly opposite to Willow Lawn. She + came towards him with tears still in her eyes as she said, ‘Poor Mrs. + Simkins has just lost her little girl, and I am afraid the two boys are + sickening.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you mean? Is the fever there again?’ exclaimed Mr. Kendal in the + utmost consternation. + </p> + <p> + ‘Did you not know it? Lucy has been very anxious about the child, who was + in her class.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have not taken Lucy to a house with a fever!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I thought it safer not, though she wanted very much to go.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But you have been going yourself!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was a low, lingering fever. I had not thought it infectious, and even + now I believe it is only one of those that run through an over-crowded + family. The only wonder is, that they are ever well in such a place. Dear + Edmund, don’t be angry; it is what I used to do continually at Fairmead. I + never caught anything; and there is plenty of chloride of lime, and all + that. I never imagined you would disapprove.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is the very place where the fever began before!’ said Mr. Kendal, + almost under his breath. + </p> + <p> + Instead of going into the house, he made her turn into the garden, where + little Maurice was being promenaded in the sun. He stretched out from his + nurse’s arms to go to them, and Albinia was going towards him, but her + husband held her fast, and said, ‘I beg you will not take the child till + you have changed your dress.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was quite subdued, alarmed at the effect on him. + </p> + <p> + ‘You must go away at once,’ he said presently. ‘How soon can you be ready? + You had better take Lucy and Maurice at once to your brother’s. They will + excuse the liberty when they know the cause.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And pray what is to become of poor Sophy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never going out, there may be the less risk for her. I will take care of + her myself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As if I was going to endure that!’ cried Albinia. ‘No, no, Edmund, I am + not likely to run away from you and Sophy! You may send Lucy off, if you + like, but certainly not me, or if you do I shall come back the same + evening.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should be much happier if you were gone.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you, but what should I be? No, if it were to be caught here, which + I don’t believe, now the pond is gone, it would be of no use to send me + away, after I have been into the house with it.’ + </p> + <p> + Her resolution and Sophy’s need prevailed, and most unwillingly Mr. Kendal + gave up the point. She was persuaded that he was acting on a panic, the + less to be wondered at after all he had suffered. She thought the chief + danger was from the effect of his fears, and would fain have persuaded him + to remain at Fairmead with Lucy, but she was not prepared to hear him + insist on likewise removing Maurice. She had promised not to enter the + sick room again, and pleaded that the little boy need never be taken into + the street—that the fever was not likely to come across the running + stream—that the Fairmead nursery was full enough already. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal was inexorable. ‘I hope you may never see what I have seen,’ he + said gravely, and Albinia was silenced. + </p> + <p> + A man who had lost so many children might be allowed to be morbidly + jealous of the health of the rest. But it was a cruel stroke to her to be + obliged to part with her noble little boy, just when his daily advances in + walking and talking made him more charming than ever. Her eyes were full + of tears, and she struggled to choke back some pettish rebellious words. + </p> + <p> + ‘You do not like to trust him with Susan,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘you had + better come with him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Albinia, ‘I ought to stay here, and if you judge it right, + Maurice must go. I’ll go and speak to Susan.’ + </p> + <p> + And away she ran, for she had no power just then to speak in a wifely + manner. It was not easy to respect a man in a panic so extremely + inconvenient. + </p> + <p> + He was resolved on an immediate start, and the next few hours were spent + in busy preparation, and in watching lest the excited Lucy should frighten + her sister. Albinia tried to persuade Mr. Kendal at least to sleep at + Fairmead that night, and after watching him drive off, she hurried, + dashing away the tears that would gather again and again in her eyes, to + hold council with the Dusautoys on the best means of stopping the course + of the malady, by depriving it of its victims. + </p> + <p> + She had a quiet snug evening with Sophy, whom she had so much interested + in the destitution of the sick children as to set her to work at some + night-gear for them, and she afterwards sat long over the fire trying to + read to silence the longing after the little soft cheek that had never yet + been laid to rest without her caress, and foreboding that Mr. Kendal would + return from his dark solitary drive with his spirits at the lowest ebb. + </p> + <p> + So late that she had begun to hope that Winifred had obeyed her behest and + detained him, she heard his step, and before she could run to meet him, he + had already shut himself into the study. + </p> + <p> + She was at the door in a moment; she feared he had thought her self-willed + in the morning, and she was the more bent on rousing him. She knocked—she + opened the door. He had thrown himself into his arm-chair, and was bending + over the dreary, smouldering, sulky log and white ashes, and his face, as + he raised his head, was as if the whole load of care and sorrow had + suddenly descended again. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sorry you sat up,’ was of course his beginning, conveying anything + but welcome; but she knew that this only meant that he was in a state of + depression. She took hold of his hand, chilled with holding the reins, + told him of the good fire in the morning-room, and fairly drew him + up-stairs. + </p> + <p> + There the lamp burnt brightly, and the red fire cast a merry glow over the + shining chintz curtains, and the two chairs drawn so cosily towards the + fire, the kettle puffing on the hearth, and Albinia’s choice little + bed-room set of tea-china ready on the small table. The cheerfulness + seemed visibly to diffuse itself over his face, but he still struggled to + cherish his gloom, ‘Thank you, but I would not have had you take all this + trouble, my dear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It would be a great deal more trouble if you caught a bad cold. I meant + you to sleep at Fairmead.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, they pressed me very kindly, but I could not bear not to come home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And how did Maurice comport himself?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He talked to the horse and then went to sleep, and he was not at all shy + with his aunt after the first. He watched the children, but had not begun + to play with them. Still I think he will be quite happy with Lucy there, + and I hope it will not be for long.’ + </p> + <p> + It was a favourable sign that Mr. Kendal communicated all these + particulars without being plied with questions, and Albinia went on with + the more spirit. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I hope it may not be for long. We have been holding a great council + against the enemy, and I do hope that we have really done something. No, + you need not be afraid, I have not been there again, but we have been + routing out the nucleus, and hope we may starve out the fever for want of + victims. You never saw such a swarm as we had to turn out. There were + twenty-three people to be considered for.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Twenty-three! Have you turned out the whole block?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I wish we had; but that would have been seventy-five. This is only + from those two tenements with one door!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Impossible!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should have thought so; but the lawful inhabitants make up sixteen, and + there were seven lodgers.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal gave a kind of groan, and asked what she had done; she detailed + the measures. + </p> + <p> + ‘Twenty-three people in those two houses, and seventy-five in the whole + block of building?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Too true. And if you could only see the rooms! The windows that wont + open; the roofs that open too much; the dirt on the staircases, and, oh! + the horrible smells!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It shall not go on,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘I will look over the place.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not till the fever is out of it,’ hastily interposed Albinia. + </p> + <p> + He made a sign of assent, and went on: ‘I will certainly talk to + Pettilove, and have the place repaired, if it be at my own expense.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia lifted up her eyes, not understanding at whose expense it should + be. + </p> + <p> + ‘The fact is,’ continued Mr. Kendal, ‘that there has been little to induce + me to take interest in the property. Old Mr. Meadows was, as you know, a + successful solicitor, and purchased these various town tenements bit by + bit, and then settled them very strictly on his grandson. He charged the + property with life incomes to his widow and daughters, and to me; but the + land is in the hands of trustees until my son’s majority, and Pettilove is + the only surviving trustee.’ + </p> + <p> + The burning colour mantled in Albinia’s face, and almost inaudibly she + said, ‘I beg your pardon, Edmund; I have done you moat grievous injustice. + I thought you <i>would</i> not see—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You did not think unjustly, my dear. I ought to have paid more attention + to the state of affairs, and have kept Pettilove in order. But I knew + nothing of English affairs, and was glad to be spared the unpleasant + charge. The consequence of leaving a man like that irresponsible never + occurred to me. His whole conscience in the matter is to have a large sum + to put into Gilbert’s hands when he comes of age. Why, he upholds those + dens of iniquity in Tibbs’s Alley on that very ground!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Gilbert! I am afraid a large sum so collected is not likely to do + him much good! and at one-and-twenty—! But that is one notion of + faithfulness!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was much happier after that conversation. She could better endure + to regret her own injustice than to believe her husband the cruel + landlord; and it was no small advance that he had afforded her an + explanation which once he would have deemed beyond the reach of female + capacity. + </p> + <p> + In spite of the lack of little Maurice’s bright presence, which, to + Albinia’s great delight, his father missed as much as she did, the period + of quarantine sped by cheerfully. Sophy had not a single sullen fit the + whole time, and Albinia having persuaded Mr. Kendal that it would be a + sanatory measure to whitewash the study ceiling, he was absolutely forced + to turn out of it and live in the morning-room, with all his books piled + up in the dining-room. And on that great occasion Albinia abstracted two + fusty, faded, green canvas blinds from the windows, carried them off with + a pair of tongs, and pushed them into a bonfire in the garden, persuaded + they were the last relics of the old fever. She had the laurels cut, the + curtains changed, the windows cleaned, and altogether made the room so + much lighter, that when Mr. Kendal again took possession, he did not look + at all sure whether he liked it; and though he was courteously grateful, + he did not avail himself of the den half so much as when it had more + congenial gloom. But then he had the morning-room as a resort, and it was + one of Albinia’s bargains with herself, that as far as her own influence + could prevent it, neither he nor Sophy should ever render it a literal + boudoir. + </p> + <p> + The sense of snugness that the small numbers produced was one great charm, + and made Mr. Kendal come unusually far out of his shell. His chief + sanatory precaution was to take Albinia out for a drive or walk every day, + and these expeditions were greatly enjoyed. + </p> + <p> + One day, after a visit from her old nurse, Sophy received Albinia with the + words,— + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma,’ she said, ‘old nurse has been telling me such things. I shall + never be cross with Aunt Maria again. It is such a sad story, just like + one in a book, if she was but that kind of person.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Aunt Maria! I remember Mrs. Dusautoy once saying she gave her the idea of + happiness shattered, but—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did she?’ exclaimed Sophy. ‘I never thought Aunt Maria could have done + anything but fidget everybody that came near her; but old nurse says a + gentleman was once in love with her, and a very handsome young gentleman + too. Old Mr. Pringle’s nephew it was, a very fine young officer in the + army. I want you to ask papa if it is true. Nurse says that he wrote to + make an offer for her, very handsomely, but grandpapa did not choose that + both his daughters should go quite away; so he locked the letter up, and + said no, and never told her, and she thought the captain had been trifling + and playing her false, and pined and fretted, till she got into this + nervous way, and fairly wore herself out, nurse says, and came to be what + she is now, instead of the prettiest young lady in the town! And then, + mamma, when grandpapa died, she found the letter in his papers, and one + inside for her, that had never been given to her; and by that time there + was no hope, for Captain Pringle had gone out with his regiment, and + married a rich young lady in the Indies! Oh, mamma! you see she really is + deserted, and it is all man’s treachery that has broken her heart. I + thought people always died or went into convents—I don’t mean that + Aunt Maria could have done that, but I did not think that way of hers was + a broken heart!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If she has had such troubles, it should indeed make us try to be very + forbearing with her,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Will you ask papa about it?’ entreated Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, certainly; but you must not make sure whether he will think it right + to tell us. Poor Aunt Maria; I do think some part of it must be true!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, mamma, is that really like deserted love?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, I don’t think I ever saw deserted love,’ said Albinia, rather + amused. ‘I suppose troubles of any kind, if not—I mean, I suppose, + vexations—make people show their want of spirits in the way most + accordant with their natural dispositions, and so your poor aunt has grown + querulous and anxious.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If she has such a real grand reason for being unhappy, I shall not be + cross about it now, except—’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy gave a sigh, and Albinia bade her good night. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal had never heard the story before, but he remembered many + circumstances in corroboration. He knew that Mr. Pringle had a nephew in + the army, he recollected that he had made a figure in Maria’s letters to + India; and that he had subsequently married a lady in the Mauritius, and + settled down on her father’s estate. He testified also to the bright gay + youth of poor Maria, and his surprise at the premature loss of beauty and + spirits; and from his knowledge of old Mr. Meadows, he believed him + capable of such an act of domestic tyranny. Maria had always been looked + upon as a mere child, and if her father did not choose to part with her, + he would think it for her good, and his own peace, for her not to be aware + of the proposal. He was much struck, for he had not suspected his + sister-in-law to be capable of such permanent feeling. + </p> + <p> + ‘There was little to help her in driving it away,’ said Albinia. ‘Few + occupations or interests, and very little change, to prevent it from + preying on her spirits.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘True,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘a narrow education and limited sphere are sad + evils in such cases.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you think anything can be a cure for disappointment?’ asked Sophy, in + such a solemn, earnest tone, that Albinia was disposed to laugh; but she + knew that this would be a dire offence, and was much surprised that Sophy + had so far broken through her reserve, as to mingle in their conversation + on such a subject. + </p> + <p> + ‘Occupation,’ said Mr. Kendal, but speaking rather as if from duty than + from conviction. ‘There are many sources of happiness, even if shipwreck + have been made on one venture. Your aunt had few resources to which to + turn her mind. Every pursuit or study is a help stored up against the + vacuity which renders every care more corroding.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well!’ said Sophy, in her blunt, downright way, ‘I think it would take + all the spirit out of everything.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope you will never be tried,’ said Mr. Kendal, with a mournful smile, + as if he did not choose to confess that she had divined too rightly the + probable effect of trouble upon her own temperament. + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose,’ said Albinia, ‘that the real cure can be but one thing for + that, as for any other trouble. I mean, “Thy will be done.” I don’t + suppose anything else would give energy to turn to other duties. But it + would be more to the purpose to resolve to be more considerate to poor + Maria.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall never be impatient with her again,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + And though at first the discovery of so romantic a cause for poor Miss + Meadows’s fretfulness dignified it in Sophy’s eyes, yet it did not prove + sufficient to make it tolerable when she tormented the window-blinds, + teased the fire, was shocked at Sophy’s favourite studies, or insisting on + her wishing to see Maria Drury. Nay, the bathos often rendered her petty + unconscious provocations the more harassing, and Sophy often felt, in an + agony of self-reproach, that she ought to have known herself too well to + expect to show forbearance with any one when she was under the influence + of ill-temper. + </p> + <p> + In Easter week Mr. Ferrars brought Lucy and Maurice home, and Gilbert came + for a short holiday. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was pleased when he was called to go over the empty houses with + his father, Mr. Ferrars, and a mason. + </p> + <p> + Back they came, horrified at the dreadful disrepair, at the narrow area + into which such numbers were crowded, and still more at the ill odours + which Mr. Ferrars and the mason had gallantly investigated, till they + detected the absence of drains, as well as convinced themselves that + mending roofs, floors, or windows, would be a mere mockery unless the + whole were pulled down. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars was more than ever thankful to be a country parson, and mused + on the retribution that the miasma, fostered by the avarice of the + grandfather and the neglect of the father, had brought on the family. + Dives cannot always scorn Lazarus without suffering even in this life. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, in the glory of castle-building, was talking eagerly of the + thorough renovation that should take place, the sweep that should be made + of all the old tenements, and the wide healthy streets and model cottages + that should give a new aspect to the town. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal prepared for the encounter with Pettilove, and his son begged + to go with him, to which he consented, saying that it was time Gilbert + should have an opinion in a matter that affected him so nearly. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert’s opinion of the interview was thus announced on his return: ‘If + there ever was a brute in the world, it is that Pettilove!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then he wont consent to do anything?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, indeed! Say what my father or I would to him, it was all of not the + slightest use. He smiled, and made little intolerable nods, and regretted—but + there were the settlements, and his late lamented partner! A parcel of + stuff. Not so much as a broken window will he mend! He says he is not + authorized!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Quite true,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘The man is warranted in his proceedings, + and thinks them his duty, though I believe he has a satisfaction in the + power of thwarting me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m sure he has!’ cried Gilbert. ‘I am sure there was spite in his grin + when he pulled out that horrid old parchment, with the lines a yard long, + and read us out the abominable old crabbed writing, all about the houses, + messuages, and tenements thereupon, and a lot of lawyer’s jargon. I’m sure + I thought it was left to Peter Pettilove himself. And when I came to + understand it, one would have thought it took my father to be the worst + enemy we had in the world, bent on cheating us!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That is the assumption on which settlements are drawn up, Gilbert,’ said + his father. + </p> + <p> + ‘Can nothing be done, then?’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Thus much,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘Pettilove will not object to our putting + the houses somewhat in repair, as, in fact, that will be making a present + to Gilbert; but he will not spend a farthing on them of the trust, except + to hinder their absolute falling, nor will he make any regulation on the + number of lodgers. As to taking them down, that is, as I always supposed, + out of the question, though I think the trustees might have stretched a + point, being certain of both my wishes and Gilbert’s.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t you think,’ said Mr. Ferrars, looking up from his book, ‘that a + sanatory commission might be got to over-ride Gilbert’s guardian?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My guardian! do not call him so!’ muttered Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am afraid,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘that unless your commission emulated of + Albinia and Dusautoy they would have little perception of the evils. Our + local authorities are obtuse in such matters.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Agitate! agitate!’ murmured Mr. Ferrars, going on with his book. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ said Albinia, ‘at least there is one beer-shop less in Tibbs’s + Alley. And if there are tolerable seasons, I daresay paint, whitewash, and + windows to open, may keep the place moderately wholesome till—Are + you sixteen yet, Gilbert? Five years.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, and then—’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert came and sat down beside her, and they built a scheme for the + almshouses so much wanted. Gilbert was sure the accumulation would easily + cover the expense, and Albinia had many an old woman, who it was hoped + might live to enjoy the intended paradise there. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, yes, I promise,’ cried Gilbert, warming with the subject, ‘the first + thing I shall do—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, don’t promise,’ said Albinia. ‘Do it from your heart, or not at all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, don’t promise, Gilbert,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why not, Sophy?’ he said good-humouredly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Because you are just what you feel at the moment,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t think I should keep it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No.’ + </p> + <p> + The grave answer fell like lead, and Albinia told her she was not kind or + just to her brother. But she still looked steadily at him, and answered, + ‘I cannot help it. What is truth, is truth, and Gilbert cares only for + what he sees at the moment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What is truth need not always be fully uttered,’ said Albinia. ‘I hope + you may find it untrue.’ + </p> + <p> + But Sophy’s words would recur, and weigh on her painfully. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. + </h2> + <p> + The summer had just begun, when notice was given that a Confirmation would + take place in the autumn; and Lucy’s name was one of the first sent in to + Mr. Dusautoy. His plan was to collect his candidates in weekly classes of + a few at a time, and likewise to see as much as he could of them in + private. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! mamma!’ exclaimed Lucy, returning from her first class, ‘Mr. Dusautoy + has given us each a paper, where we are to set down our christening days, + and our godfathers and godmothers. And only think, I had not the least + notion when I was christened. I could tell nothing but that Mr. Wenlock + was my godfather! It made me feel quite foolish not to know my + godmothers.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We were in no situation to have things done in order,’ said Mr. Kendal, + gravely. ‘If I recollect rightly, one of your godmothers was Captain Lee’s + pretty young wife, who died a few weeks after.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And the other?’ said Lucy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Your mother, I believe,’ he said. + </p> + <p> + Lucy employed herself in filling up her paper, and exclaimed, ‘Now I do + not know the date! Can you tell me that, papa?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was the Christmas-day next after your birth,’ he said. ‘I remember + that, for we took you to spend Christmas at the nearest station of troops, + and the chaplain christened you.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy wrote down the particulars, and exclaimed, ‘What an old baby I must + have been! Six months old! And I wonder when Sophy was christened. I never + knew who any of her godfathers and godmothers were. Did you, Sophy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No—’ she was looking up at her father. + </p> + <p> + A sudden flush of colour came over his face, and he left the room in + haste. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, Sophy!’ exclaimed Lucy, ‘one would think you had not been christened + at all!’ + </p> + <p> + Even the light Lucy was alarmed at the sound of her own words. The same + idea had thrilled across Albinia; but on turning her eyes on Sophy, she + saw a countenance flushed, anxious, but full rather of trembling hope than + of dismay. + </p> + <p> + In a few seconds Mr. Kendal came back with a thick red pocket-book in his + hand, and produced the certificate of the private baptism of Sophia, + daughter of Edmund and Lucy Kendal, at Talloon, March 17th, 1838. + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s face had more disappointment in it than satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + ‘I can explain the circumstances to you now,’ said her father. ‘At Talloon + we were almost out of reach of any chaplains, and, as you know, were + almost the only English. We always intended to take you to the nearest + station, as had been done with Lucy, but your dear mother was never well + enough to bear the journey; and when our next little one was born, it was + so plain that he could not live, that I sent in haste to beg that the + chaplain would come to us. It was then that you were both baptized, and + before the week was over, he buried little Henry. It was the first of our + troubles. We never again had health or spirits for any festive occasion + while we continued in India, and thus the ceremony was never completed. In + fact, I take shame to myself for having entirely forgotten that you had + never been received into the congregation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then I have told a falsehood whenever I said the Catechism!’ burst out + Sophy. Lucy would have laughed, and Albinia could almost have been amused + at the turn her displeasure had taken. + </p> + <p> + ‘It was not your fault,’ said Mr. Kendal, quietly. + </p> + <p> + He evidently wished the subject to be at an end, excepting that in silence + he laid before Albinia’s eyes the certificate of the baptism of the + twin-brothers, not long after the first arrival in India. He then put the + book in his pocket, and began, as usual, to read aloud. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, don’t go, mamma,’ said Sophy, when she had been carried to her own + room at bed-time, and made ready for the night. + </p> + <p> + Albinia was only too glad to linger, in the hope to be admitted into some + of the recesses of that untransparent nature, and by way of assistance, + said, ‘I was not at all prepared for this discovery.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy drew a long sigh, and said, ‘If I had never been christened, I + should have thought there was some hope for me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That would have been too dreadful. How could you imagine your papa + capable—?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought I had found out why I am so horrid! exclaimed Sophy. ‘Oh, if I + could only make a fresh beginning! Mamma, do pray give me a Prayer Book.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia gave it to her, and she hastily turned the pages to the Order for + Private Baptism. + </p> + <p> + ‘At least I have not made the promises and vows!’ she said, as if her + stern conscientiousness obtained some relief. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not formally made them,’ said Albinia; ‘but you cannot have a right to + the baptismal blessings, except on those conditions.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mamma, then I never had the sign of the cross on my forehead! It does not + feel blest!’ And then, hastily and low, she muttered,’ Oh! is that why I + never could bear the cross in all my life!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, my poor Sophy, you must not think of it like a spell. Many bear the + cross no better, who have had it marked on their brows.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Can it be done now?’ cried Sophy, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Certainly; I think it ought to be done. We will see what your father + says.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma, beg him, pray him!’ exclaimed Sophy. ‘I know it will make me + begin to be good! I can’t bear not to be one of those marked and sealed. + Oh! and, mamma, you will be my godmother? Can’t you? If the gleams of + goodness and brightness do find me out, they are always from you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think I might be, dear child,’ said Albinia, ‘but Mr. Dusautoy must + tell us whether I may. But, indeed, I am afraid to see you reckon too much + on this. The essential, the regenerating grace, is yours already, and can + save you from yourself, and Confirmation adds the rest—but you must + not think of any of these like a charm, which will save you all further + trouble with yourself. They do not kill the faults, but they enable you to + deal with them. Even baptism itself, you know, has destroyed the guilt of + past sin, but does not hinder subsequent temptation.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia hardly knew how far Sophy attended to this caution, for all she + said was to reiterate the entreaty that the omitted ceremony might be + supplied. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal gave a ready consent, as soon as he was told that Sophy so + ardently wished for it—so willing, indeed, that Albinia was + surprised, until he went on to say, ‘No one need be aware of the matter + beyond ourselves. Your brother and sister would, I have no doubt, act as + sponsors. Nay, if Ferrars would officiate, we need hardly mention it even + to Dusautoy. It could take place in your sitting-room.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, Edmund!’ began Albinia, aghast, ‘would that be the right thing? I + hardly think Maurice would consent.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are not imagining anything so preposterous or inexpedient as to wish + to bring Sophia forward in church,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘even if she were + physically capable of it, I should not choose to expose her to anything so + painful or undesirable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am afraid, then,’ said Albinia, ‘that it will not be done at all. It is + not receiving her into the congregation to have this service read before + half-a-dozen people in my sitting-room.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Better not have it done at all, then,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘It is not + essential. I will not have her made a spectacle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Will you only consult Mr. Dusautoy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not wish Mr. Dusautoy to interfere in my family regulations. I mean, + that I have a great respect for him, but as a clergyman, and one wedded to + form, he would not take into account the great evil of making a public + display, and attracting attention to a girl of her age, station, and + disposition. And, in fact,’ added Mr. Kendal, with the same scrupulous + candour as his daughter always showed, ‘for the sake of my own position, + and the effect of example, I should not wish this unfortunate omission to + be known.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I suspect,’ said Albinia, ‘that the example of repairing it would speak + volumes of good.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is mere absurdity to speak of it!’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘The poor child is + not to leave her couch yet for weeks.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy was told in the morning that the question was under consideration, + and Lucy was strictly forbidden to mention the subject. + </p> + <p> + When next Mr. Kendal came to read with Sophy, she said imploringly, ‘Papa, + have you thought?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ he said, ‘I have done so; but your mamma thinks, and, on + examination of the subject, I perceive she is right, that the service has + no meaning unless it take place in the church.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Sophy; ‘but you know I am to be allowed to go about in July.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You will hardly be equal to any fatigue even then, I fear, my dear; and + you would find this publicity extremely trying and unpleasant.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It would not last ten minutes,’ said Sophy, ‘and I am sure I should not + care! I should have something else to think about. Oh! papa, when my + forehead aches with surliness, it does feel so unblest, so uncrossed!’ and + she put her hand over it, ‘and all the books and hymns seem not to belong + to me. I think I shall be able to keep off the tempers when I have a right + in the cross.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! my child, I am afraid the tempers are a part of your physical + constitution,’ he returned, mournfully. + </p> + <p> + ‘You mean that I am like you, papa,’ said Sophy. ‘I think I might at least + learn to be really like you, and if I must feel miserable, not to be + unkind and sulky! And then I should leave off even the being unhappy about + nothing.’ + </p> + <p> + Her eyes brightened, but her father shook his head sadly, and said, ‘You + would not be like me, my dear, if depression never made you selfish. But,’ + he added, with an effort, ‘you will not suffer so much from low spirits + when you are in better health, and able to move about.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, no!’ exclaimed Sophy; ‘I often feel so sick of lying here, that I + feel as if I never could be sulky if only I might walk about, and go from + one room to another when I please! But papa, you will let me be admitted + into the Church when I am able, will you not?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It shall be well weighed, Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy knew her father too well, and had too much reticence to say any + more. He was certainly meditating deeply, and reading too, indeed he would + almost have appeared to have a fit of the study, but for little Maurice, a + tyrannical little gentleman, who domineered over the entire household, and + would have been grievously spoilt, if his mother had not taken all the + crossing the stout little will upon herself. He had a gallant pair of + legs, and the disposition of a young Centaur, he seemed to divide the + world into things that could be ridden on, and that could not; and when he + bounced at the study door, with ‘Papa! gee! gee!’ and lifted up his round, + rosy face, and despotic blue eyes, Mr. Kendal’s foot was at his service, + and the study was brown no longer. + </p> + <p> + The result of Mr. Kendal’s meditations was an invitation to his wife to + drive with him to Fairmead. + </p> + <p> + That was a most enjoyable drive, the weather too hot and sunny, perhaps, + for Albinia’s preferences, but thoroughly penetrating, and giving energy + to, her East-Indian husband, and making the whole country radiant with + sunny beauty—the waving hay-fields falling before the mower’s + scythe, the ranks of hay-makers tossing the fragrant grass, the growing + corn softly waving in the summer breeze, the river blue with reflected + sky, the hedges glowing with stately fox-gloves, or with blushing wreaths + of eglantine. And how cool, fresh, and fair was the beech-avenue at + Fairmead. + </p> + <p> + Yet though Albinia came to it with the fond tenderness of old association, + it was not with the regretful clinging of the first visit, when it seemed + to her the natural home to which she still really belonged. Nor had she + the least thought about producing an impression of her own happiness, and + scarcely any whether ‘Edmund’ would be amused and at ease, though knowing + he had a stranger to encounter in the person of Winifred’s sister, Mary + Reid. + </p> + <p> + That was not a long day. It was only too short, though Mr. and Mrs. Kendal + stayed three hours longer than on the last occasion. Mr. Kendal faced Mary + Reid without flinching, and she, having been previously informed that + Albinia’s husband was the most silent and shy man in existence, began to + doubt her sister’s veracity. And Albinia, instead of dealing out a shower + of fireworks, to hide what, if not gloom, was at least twilight, was now + ‘temperately bright,’ talking naturally of what most concerned her with + the sprightliness of her happy temper, but without effort; and gratifying + Winifred by a great deal more notice of the new niece and namesake than + she had ever bestowed on either of her predecessors in their infant days. + Moreover, Lucy’s two long visits had made Mrs. Ferrars feel a strong + interest in her, and, with a sort of maternal affection, she inquired + after the cuttings of the myrtle which she had given her. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah!’ said Albinia, ‘I never honoured gardening so much.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know you would never respect it in me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As you know, I love a walk with an object, and never could abide breaking + my back, pottering over a pink with a stem that wont support it, and a + calyx that wont hold it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And Lucy converted you when I could not!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If you had known my longing for some wholesome occupation for her, such + as could hurt neither herself nor any one else, and the pleasure of seeing + her engrossed by anything innocent, making it so easy to gratify her. Why, + a new geranium is a constant fund of ecstasy, and I do not believe she was + ever so grateful to her father in her life as when he gave her a + forcing-frame. Anything is a blessing that makes people contented at home, + and takes them out of themselves.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Lucy is a very nice, pleasant inmate; her ready obligingness and facility + of adapting herself make her very agreeable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Albinia, ‘she is the “very woman,” taking her complexion from + things around, and so she will go smoothly through the world, and be + always preferred to my poor turbid, deep-souled Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Are you going to be very angry with me?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you do not know Sophy! Poor, dear child! I do so long that she could + have—if it were but one day, one hour, of real, free, glowing + happiness! I think it would sweeten and open her heart wonderfully just to + have known it! If I could but see any chance of it, but I am afraid her + health will always be against her, and oh! that dreadful sense of + depression! Do you know, Winifred, I do think love would be the best + chance. Now, don’t laugh; I do assure you there is no reason Sophy should + not be very handsome.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Quite as handsome as the owl’s children, my dear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, the owls are the only young birds fit to be seen. But I tell you, + Sophy’s profile is as regular as her father’s, and animation makes her + eyes beautiful, and she has grown immensely since she has been lying down, + so that she will come out without that disproportioned look. If her + eyebrows were rather less marked, and her complexion—but that will + clear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, we will make her a beauty when we are about it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And, after all, affection is the great charm, and if she were attached, + it would, be so intensely—and happiness would develop so much that + is glorious, only hidden down so deep.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope you may find her a male Albinia,’ said Winifred, a little + wickedly, ‘but take care. It might be kill or cure, and I fancy when + sunshine is attracted by shadow, it is more often as it was in your case + than vice versa.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Take care!’ repeated Albinia, affronted. ‘You don’t fancy I am going + beyond a vague wish, do you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And rather a premature one. How old is Sophy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Towards fourteen, but years older in thought and in suffering.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia did not hear the result of the conference with her brother till + she had resumed her seat in the carriage, after having been surprised by + Mr. Kendal handing in three tall theological tomes. They both had much to + think over as they drove home in the lengthening shadows. Albinia was + greatly concerned that Winifred’s health had become affected, and that her + ordinary home duties were beyond her strength. Albinia had formerly + thought Fairmead parsonage did not give her enough to do, but now she saw + the gap that she had left; and she had fallen into a maze of musings over + schemes for helping Winifred, before Mr. Kendal spoke, telling her that he + had resolved that Sophia’s admission into the Church should take place as + soon as she was equal to the exertion. + </p> + <p> + Albinia asked if she should speak to Mr. Dusautoy, but the manliness of + Mr. Kendal’s character revolted from putting off a confession upon his + wife; so he went to church the next morning, and saw the vicar afterwards. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dusautoy’s first thought was gratitude for the effort that the + resolution must have cost both Mr. Kendal and his daughter; his next, how + to make the occasion as little trying to their feelings as was consistent + with his duty and theirs. He saw Sophy, and tried to draw her out, but, + though far from sullen, she did not reply freely. However, he was + satisfied, and he wished her, likewise, to consider herself under + preparation for Confirmation in the autumn. She did all that he wished + quietly and earnestly, but without much remark, her confidence only came + forth when her feelings were strongly stirred, and it was remarkable that + throughout this time of preparation there was not the remotest shadow of + ill-temper. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal insisted that her London doctor should come to see her at the + year’s end. The improvement had not been all that had been hoped, but it + was decided that though several hours of each day must still be spent on + her back, she might move about, join the meals, and do whatever she could + without over-fatigue. It seemed a great release, but it was a shock to + find how very little she could do at first, now that she had lost the + habit of exertion, and of disregard of her discomforts. She had quite shot + up to more than the ordinary woman’s height, and was much taller than her + sister—but this hardly gave the advantage Albinia had hoped, for she + had a weak, overgrown look, and could not help stooping. A number of + people in a room, or even the sitting upright during a morning call, + seemed quite to overcome and exhaust her: but still the return to ordinary + life was such great enjoyment, that she endured all with good temper. + </p> + <p> + But now the church-going was possible, a fit of exceeding dread came upon + her. Albinia found her with the tears silently rolling down her cheeks, + almost as if she were unconscious of them. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma, I can never do it! I know what I am. I can’t let them say I + will keep all the commandments always! It will not be true!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It will be true that you have the steadfast purpose, my dear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How can it be steadfast when I know I can’t?’ + </p> + <p> + It was the old story, and all had to be argued through again how the + obligation was already incurred at her baptism, and how it was needful + that she should be sworn to her own side of the great covenant—how + the power would be given, and the grace supplied, but that the will and + purpose to obey was required—and then Sophy recurred to that + blessing of the cross for which she longed so earnestly, and which again + Albinia feared she was regarding in the light of a talisman. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars was to be her godfather. Mr. Kendal had wished Aunt Winifred, + as Lucy called her, to be the godmother, but Sophy had begged earnestly + for Mrs. Dusautoy, whose kindness had made a great impression. + </p> + <p> + There was not much liking between Mrs. Ferrars and Sophy. Perhaps Sophy + had been fretted and angered by her quick, decided ways, and rather + disgusted by the enthusiasm of her brother and sister about Fairmead; and + she was not gratified by hearing that Winifred was to accompany her + husband in order to try the experiment of a short absence from cares and + children. + </p> + <p> + Albinia, on the contrary, was highly pleased to have Winifred to nurse, + and desirous of showing off Sophy’s reformation. Winifred arrived late in + the day, with an invalid look, and a great inclination to pine for her + baby. She was so much tired, that Albinia took her upstairs very soon, and + put her to bed, sitting with her almost all the evening, hoping that + downstairs all was going on well. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, too, went off very well. Mr. Ferrars sought a private + talk with his old godchild, and though Sophy scarcely answered, she liked + his kind, frank, affectionate manner, and showed such feeling as he + wished, so that he fully credited all that his sister thought of her. + </p> + <p> + Otherwise, Sophy was kept quiet, to gave her strength and collect her + thoughts. + </p> + <p> + At seven o’clock in the evening, there was not a formidable congregation. + Miss Meadows, who had been informed as late as could save offence, had + treated it as a freak of Mrs. Kendal, resented the injunction of secrecy, + and would neither be present herself, nor let her mother come out. + Genevieve, three old men, and a child or two, were the whole number + present. The daily service at Bayford was an offering made in faith by the + vicar, for as yet there was very little attendance. ‘But,’ said Mr. + Dusautoy, ‘it is the worship of God, not an entertainment to please man—it + is all nonsense to talk of its answering or not answering.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal was in a state of far greater suffering from shame than his + daughter, as indeed he deserved, but he endured it with a gallant, almost + touching resignation. He was the only witness of her baptism, and it + seemed like a confession, when he had to reply to the questions, by whom, + and with what words this child had been baptized, when she stood beside + him overtopping her little godmother. She stood with tightly-locked hands, + and ebbing colour, which came back in a flood when Mr. Dusautoy took her + by the hand, and said, ‘We receive this child into the congregation,’ and + when he traced the cross on her brow, she stood tremblingly, her lips + squeezed close together, and after she returned to her place no one saw + her face. + </p> + <p> + Albinia, with her brother and Lucy, were at home by the short cut before + the carriage could return. She met Sophy at the hall-door, kissed her, and + said, ‘Now, my dear, you had better lie down, and be quite quiet;’ then + followed Winifred into the drawing-room, and took her shawl and bonnet + from her, lingering for a happy twilight conversation. Lucy came down, and + went to water her flowers, and by-and-by tea was brought, the gentlemen + came in from their walk, and Mr. Kendal asked whether Sophy was tired. + Albinia went up to see. She found her on her couch in the morning room, + and told her that tea was ready. There was something not promising in the + voice that replied; and she said, + </p> + <p> + ‘No, don’t move, my dear, I will bring it to you; you are tired.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No—I’ll go down, thank you.’ It was the gruff voice! + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed you had much better not, my dear. It is only an hour to bed-time, + and you would only tire yourself for nothing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll go.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are tired, Sophy,’ said her father. ‘You had better lie down while + you have your tea.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, thank you,’ growled Sophy, as though hurt by being told to lie down + before company. + </p> + <p> + Her father put a sofa-cushion behind her, but though she mumbled some + acknowledgment, it was so surly, that Mrs. Ferrars looked up in surprise, + and she would not lean back till fatigue gained the ascendancy. Mr. Kendal + asking her, got little in reply but such a grunt, that Mrs. Ferrars longed + to shake her, but her father fetched a footstool, and put it under her + feet, and grew a little abstracted in his talk, as if watching her, and + his eye had something of the old habitual melancholy. + </p> + <p> + So it went on. The night’s rest did not carry off the temper. Sophy was + monosyllabic, displeased if not attended to, but receiving attention like + an affront, wanting nothing, but offended if it were not offered. Albinia + was exceedingly grieved. She had some suspicion that Sophy might have been + hurt by her going to Mrs. Ferrars instead of to her on their return from + church, and made an attempt at an apology, but this was snubbed like an + additional affront, and she could only bide the time, and be greatly + disappointed at such an exhibition before the guests. + </p> + <p> + Winifred looked on, forbearing to hurt Albinia’s feelings by remarks, but + in private compensating by little outbreaks with her husband, teasing him + about his hopeful goddaughter, laughing at Albinia’s infatuation, and + railing at Mr. Kendal’s endurance of the ill-humour, which she declared he + promoted. + </p> + <p> + Maurice, as usual, was provoking. He had no notion of giving up his + godchild, he said, and he had no doubt that Edmund Kendal could manage his + own child his own way. + </p> + <p> + ‘Because of his great success in that line.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is not what he was. He uses his sense and principle now, and when they + are fairly brought to bear, I know no one whom I would more entirely + trust.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well! it will be great good luck if I do not fall foul of Miss Sophy one + of these days, if no one else will!’ + </p> + <p> + Winifred was slightly irritable herself from weakness, and on the last + morning of her stay she could bear the sight no longer. Sophy had twice + been surly to Lucy’s good offices, had given Albinia a look like thunder, + and answered her father with a sulky displeasure that made Mrs. Ferrars + exclaim, as soon as he had left the room, ‘I should never allow a child of + mine to peak to her father in that manner!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy swelled. She did not think Mrs. Ferrars had any right to interfere + between her and her father. Her silence provoked Winifred to continue, ‘I + wonder if you have any compunction for having spoilt all your—all + Mrs. Kendal’s enjoyment of our visit.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am not of consequence enough to spoil any one’s pleasure.’ + </p> + <p> + That was the last effort. Albinia came into the room, with little Maurice + holding her hand, and flourishing a whip. He trotted up to the sofa, and + began instantly to ‘whip sister Sophy;’ serve her right, if I had but the + whip, thought Mrs. Ferrars, as his mother hurried to snatch him off. + Leaning over Sophy’s averted face, she saw a tear under her eyelashes, but + took no notice. + </p> + <p> + Three seconds after, Sophy reared herself up, and with a rigid face and + slow step walked out of the room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you said anything to her?’ asked Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘I could not help it,’ said Winifred, narrating what had past. ‘Have I + done wrong?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Edmund cannot bear to have anything harsh said to her in these moods, + especially about her behaviour to himself. He thinks she cannot help it—but + it may be well that she should know how it appears to other people, for I + cannot bear to see his patient kindness spurned. Only, you know, she + values it in her heart. I am afraid we shall have a terrible agony now.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was right. It was the worst agony poor Sophy had ever undergone. + She had been all this time ignorant that it was a cross fit, only + imagining herself cruelly neglected and cast aside for the sake of Mrs. + Ferrars; but the wakening time had either arrived, or had been brought by + that reproach, and she beheld her conduct in the most abhorrent light. + After having desired to be pledged to her share of the covenant, and + earnestly longed to bear the cross, to be sworn in as soldier and servant, + to have put her neck under the yoke of her old master ere the cross had + dried upon her brow, to have been meanly jealous, ungrateful, + disrespectful, vindictive!! oh! misery, misery! hopeless misery! She would + take no word of comfort when Albinia tried to persuade her that it had + been partly the reaction of a mind wrought up to an occasion very simple + in its externals, and of a body fatigued by exertion; and then in + warm-hearted candour professed that she herself had been thoughtless in + neglecting Sophy for Winifred. Still less comfort would she take in her + father’s free forgiveness, and his sad entreaties that she would not treat + these fits of low spirits as a crime, for they were not her fault, but + that of her constitution. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then one can’t help being hateful and wicked! Nothing is of any use! I + had rather you had told me I was mad!’ said poor Sophy. + </p> + <p> + She was so spent and exhausted with weeping, that she could not come down—indeed, + between grief and nervousness she would not eat; and Albinia found Mr. + Kendal mournfully persuading her, when a stern command would have done + more good. Albinia spoke it: ‘Sophy, you have put your father to a great + deal of pain already; if you are really grieving over it, you will not + hurt him more by making yourself ill.’ + </p> + <p> + The strong will came into action on the right side, and Sophy sat up, took + what was offered, but what was she that they should care for her, when she + had spoilt mamma’s pleasure? Better go and be happy with Mrs. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s next visitor came up with a manly tread, and she almost feared + that she had made herself ill enough for the doctor; but it was Mr. + Ferrars, with a kind face of pitying sympathy. + </p> + <p> + ‘May I come to wish my godchild good-bye?’ he said. + </p> + <p> + Sophy did not speak, and he looked compassionately at the prone dejection + of the whole figure, and the pale, sallow face, so piteously mournful. He + took her hand, and began to tell her of the godfather’s present, that he + had brought her—a little book of devotions intended for the time + when she should be confirmed. Sophy uttered a feeble ‘thank you,’ but a + hopeless one. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you are feeling as if nothing would do you any good,’ said Mr. + Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + ‘Papa says so!’ she answered. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not quite,’ said Mr. Ferrars. ‘He knows that your low spirits are the + effect of temperament and health, and that you are not able to prevent + yourself from feeling unhappy and aggrieved. And perhaps you reckoned on + too much sensible effect from Church ordinances. Now joy, help, all these + blessings are seldom revealed to our consciousness, but are matters of + faith; and you must be content to work on in faith in the dark, before you + feel comfort. I cannot but hope that if you will struggle, even when you + are hurt and annoyed, to avoid the expression of vexation, the morbid + temper will wear out, and you will both be tempted and suffer less, as you + grow older. And, Sophy—forgive me for asking—do you pray in + this unhappy state?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot. It is not true.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Make it true. Take some verse of a Psalm. Shall I mark you some? Repeat + them, even if you seem to yourself not to feel them. There is a holy power + that will work on you at last; and when you can truly pray, the dark hour + will pass.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mark them,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + There was some space, while she gave him the book, and he showed her the + verses. Then he rose to go. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish I had not spoilt the visit,’ she said, wistfully, at last. + </p> + <p> + ‘We shall see you again, and we shall know each other better,’ he said, + kindly. ‘You are my godchild now, Sophy, and you know that I must remember + you constantly in prayer.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ she faintly said. + </p> + <p> + ‘And will you promise me to try my remedy? I think it will soften your + heart to the graces of the Blessed Comforter. And even if all seems gloom + within, look out, see others happy, try to rejoice with them, and peace + will come in! Now, goodbye, my dear godchild, and the God of Peace bless + you, and give you rest. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Dusautoy had given notice of the day of the Confirmation, when Mr. + Kendal called his wife. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder,’ he said, ‘my dear, whether Sophia can spare you to take a walk + with me before church.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy, who was well aware that a walk with him was the greatest and rarest + treat to his wife, gave gracious permission, and in a few minutes they + were walking by the bright canal-side, under the calm evening sunshine and + deep blue sky of early autumn. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal said not a word, and Albinia, leaning on his arm, listened, as + it were, to the stillness, or rather to the sounds that marked it—the + gurgling of the little streams let off into the water-courses in the + meadows; the occasional plunge of the rat from the banks, the sounds from + the town, softened by distance, and the far-off cawings of the rooks, + which she could just see wheeling about as little black specks over the + plantations of Woodside, or watching the swallows assembling for departure + sitting in long ranks, like an ornament along the roof of a neighbouring + barn. + </p> + <p> + Long, long it was before Mr. Kendal broke silence, but when at length he + did speak, his words amazed her extremely. + </p> + <p> + ‘Albinia, poor Sophia’s admission into the Church has not been the only + neglect. I have never been confirmed. I intend to speak to Dusautoy this + evening, but I thought you would wish to know it first.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you. I suppose you went out to India too young.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Maria says truly that no one thought of these things in our day, at + least so far as we were concerned. I must explain to you, Albinia, how it + is that I see things very differently now from the light in which I once + viewed them. I was sent home from India, at six years old, to + correspondents and relations to whom I was a burthen. I was placed at a + private school, where the treatment was of the harsh style so common in + those days. The boys always had more tasks than they could accomplish, and + were kept employed by being always in arrears with their lessons. This + pressed less heavily upon me than on most; but though I seldom incurred + punishment, there was a sort of hard distrust of me, I believe because the + master could not easily overwhelm me with work, so as to have me in his + power. I know I was often unjustly treated, and I never was popular.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I can imagine you extremely miserable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You can understand my resolution that my boys should not be sent to + England to be homeless, and how I judged all schools by my own experience. + I stayed there too late, till I was beyond both tormentors and masters, + and was left to an unlimited appetite for books, chiefly poetry. Our + religious instruction was a nullity, and I am only surprised that the + results were not worse. India was not likely to supply what education had + omitted. Looking back on old journals and the like, I am astonished to see + how unsettled my notions were—my sublimity, which was really + ignorant childishness, and yet my perfect unconsciousness of my want of + Christianity.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I dare say you cannot believe it was yourself, any more than I can. What + brought other thoughts!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Practical obligations made me somewhat less dreamy, and my dear boy, + Edmund, did much for me, but all so insensibly, that I can remember no + marked change. I do not know whether you will understand me, when I say + that I had attained to somewhat of what I should call personal religion, + such as we often find apart from the Church.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, Edmund, you always were a Churchman.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I was; but I viewed the Church merely as an establishment—human, + not divine. I had learnt faith from Holy Scripture, from my boy, from the + infants who passed away so quickly, and I better understood how to direct + the devotional tendencies that I had never been without, but the + sacramental system had never dawned on my comprehension, nor the real + meaning of Christian fellowship. Thence my isolation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You had never fairly seen the Church.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never. It might have made a great difference to me if Dusautoy had been + here at the time of my trouble. When he did come, I had sunk into a state + whence I could not rouse myself to understand his principles. I can hardly + describe how intolerable my life had become. I was almost resolved on + returning to India. I believe I should have done so if you had not come to + my rescue.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What would you have done with the children?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To say the truth I had idolized their brother to such an exclusive + degree, that I could not turn to the others when he was taken from me. I + deserved to lose him; and since I have seen this unfortunate strain of + melancholy developed in poor Sophia, who so much resembles him, I have + been the more reconciled to his having been removed. I never understood + what the others might be until you drew them out.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia paused, afraid to press his reserve too far; and the next thing + she said was, ‘I think I understand your distinction between personal + religion and sacramental truth. It explains what has often puzzled me + about good devout people who did not belong to the Church. The Visible + Church cannot save without this individual personal religion but without + having recourse to the Church, there is—’ she could not find the + word. + </p> + <p> + ‘There is a loss of external aid,’ he said; ‘nay, of much more. There is + no certainty of receiving the benefits linked by Divine Power to her + ordinances. Faith, in fact, while acknowledging the great Object of Faith, + refuses or neglects to exercise herself upon the very subjects which He + has set before her; and, in effect, would accept Him on her terms, not on + His own.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was not refusal on your part,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, it was rather indifference and imaginary superiority. But I have read + and thought much of late, and see more clearly. If I thought of this rite + of Confirmation at all, it was only as a means of impressing young minds. + I now see every evidence that it is the completion of Baptismal grace, and + without, like poor Sophia, expecting that effects would ever have been + perceptible, I think that had I known how to seek after the Spirit of + Counsel and Ghostly Strength, I might have given way less to the + infirmities of my character, and have been less wilfully insensible to + obvious duties.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you have made up your mind?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes. I shall speak to Mr. Dusautoy at once.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And,’ she said, feeling for his sensitive shyness, ‘no one else need know + it—at least—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should not wish to conceal it from the children,’ he answered, with his + scrupulous candour. He was supine when thought more ill of than he + deserved, but he always defended himself from undeserved credit. + </p> + <p> + ‘Whom do you think I have for a candidate?’ said Mr. Dusautoy that + evening. + </p> + <p> + ‘Another now! I thought you were talking to Mr. Kendal about the onslaught + on the Pringle pew.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you think of my churchwarden himself?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t mean that he has never been confirmed!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So he tells me. He went out to India young, and was never in the way of + such things. Well, it will be a great example.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Take care what you do. He will never endure having it talked of.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think he has made up his mind, and is above all nonsense. I am sure it + is well that I need not examine him. I should soon get beyond my depth.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what good did his depth ever do to him,’ indignantly cried Mrs. + Dusautoy, ‘till that dear good wife of his took him in hand? Don’t you + remember what a log he was when first we came—how I used to say he + gave you subscriptions to get rid of you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, well, Fanny, what’s the use of recollecting all our foolish first + impressions. I always told you he was the most able man in the parish.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fanny’ laughed merrily at this piece of sagacity, as she said ‘Ay, the + most able and the least practicable; and the best of it is, that his wife + has not the most distant idea that she has been the making of him. She + nearly quarrelled with me for hinting it. She would have it that “Edmund” + had it all in him, and had only recovered his health and spirits.’ + </p> + <p> + And, indeed, it was no wonder she was happy. This step taken of free will + by Mr. Kendal, was an evidence not only of a powerful reasoning intellect + bowed to an act of simple faith but of a victory over the false shame that + had always been a part of his nature. Nor did it apparently cost him as + much as his consent to Sophy’s admission into the Church; the first effort + had been the greatest, and he was now too much taken up with deep thoughts + of devotion to be sensitive as to the eyes and remarks of the world. The + very resolution to bend in faithful obedience to a rite usually belonging + to early youth and not obviously enforced to human reason, nor made an + express condition of salvation, was as a pledge that he would strive to + walk for the future in the path of self-denying obedience. Who that saw + the manly well-knit form kneeling among the slight youthful ones around, + and the thoughtful, sorrow-marked brow bowed down beneath the Apostolic + hand, could doubt that such faith and such humble obedience would surely + be endowed with a full measure of the Spirit of Ghostly Might, to lead him + on in his battle with himself? Those young ones needed the ‘sevenfold veil + between them and the fires of youth,’ but surely the freshening and + renewing came most blessedly to the man weary already with sin and woe, + and tired out alike with himself and the world, because he had lived to + himself alone. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. + </h2> + <p> + Old Mr. Pringle never stirred beyond his parlour, and was invisible to + every one, except his housekeeper and doctor, but his tall, square, + curtained pew was jealously locked up, and was a grievance to the vicar, + who having been foiled in several attempts, was meditating a fresh one, + if, as he told his wife, he could bring his churchwarden up to the + scratch, when one Sunday morning the congregation was electrified by the + sound of a creak and a shake, and beheld a stout hale sunburnt gentleman, + fighting with the disused door, and finally gaining the victory by + strength of hand, admitting himself and a boy among the dust and the + cobwebs. + </p> + <p> + Had Mr. Pringle, or rather his housekeeper, made a virtue of necessity? + and if so, who could it be? + </p> + <p> + Albinia hailed the event as a fertile source of conjecture which might + stave off dangerous subjects in the Sunday call, but there was no + opportunity for any discussion, for Maria was popping about, settling and + unsettling everything and everybody, in a state of greater confusion than + ever, inextricably entangling her inquiries for Sophy with her + explanations about the rheumatism which had kept grandmamma from church, + and jumping up to pull down the Venetian blind, which descended awry, and + went up worse. The lines got into such a hopeless complication, that + Albinia came to help her, while Mr. Kendal stood dutifully by the fire, in + the sentry-like manner in which he always passed that hour, bending now + and then to listen and respond to some meek remark of old Mrs. Meadows, + and now and then originating one. As to assisting Maria in any pother, he + well knew that would be a vain act of chivalry, and he generally contrived + to be insensible to her turmoils. + </p> + <p> + ‘Who could that have been in old Pringle’s seat?’ he presently began, + appropriating Albinia’s cherished morsel of gossip; but he was not allowed + to enjoy it, for Miss Meadows broke out, + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, Edmund! this blind, I beg your pardon, but if you would help—’ + </p> + <p> + He was obliged to move to the window, and nervously clutching his arm, she + whispered, ‘You’ll excuse it, I know, but don’t mention it—not a + word to mamma.’ Mr. Kendal looked at Albinia to gather what could be this + dreadful subject, but the next words made it no longer doubtful. ‘Ah, you + were away, there’s no use in explaining—but not a word of Sam + Pringle. It would only make her uneasy—’ she gasped in a floundering + whisper, stopping suddenly short, for at that moment the stranger and his + son were entering the garden, so near them, that they might have seen the + three pairs of eyes levelled on them, through the wide open end of the + unfortunate blind, which was now in the shape of a fan. + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s cheeks glowed with sympathy, and she longed for the power of + helping her, marvelling how a being so nervously restless and devoid of + self-command could pass through a scene likely to be so trying. The bell + sounded, and the loud hearty tones of a manly voice were heard. Albinia + looked to see whether her help were needed, but Miss Meadows’s whole face + was brightened, and moving across the room with unusually even steps, she + leant on the arm of her mother’s chair, saying, ‘Mamma, it is Captain + Pringle. You remember Samuel Pringle? He settled in the Mauritius, you + know, and he was at church this morning with his little boy.’ + </p> + <p> + There was something piteous in the searching look of inquiry that Mrs. + Meadows cast at her daughter’s face, but Maria had put it aside with an + attempt at a smile, as ‘Captain Pringle’ was announced. + </p> + <p> + He trod hard, and spoke loud, and his curly grizzled hair was thrown back + from a bronzed open face, full of broad heartiness, as he walked in with + outstretched hand, exclaiming, ‘Well, and how do you do?’ shaking with all + his might the hand that Maria held out. ‘And how are you, Mrs. Meadows? + You see I could not help coming back to see old friends.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Old friends are always welcome, sir,’ said the old lady, warmly. ‘My son, + Mr. Kendal, sir—Mrs. Kendal,’ she added, with a becoming + old-fashioned movement of introduction. + </p> + <p> + ‘Very glad to meet you,’ said the captain, extending to each such a hearty + shake of the hand, that Albinia suspected he was taking her on trust for + Maria’s sister. + </p> + <p> + ‘Your little boy?’ asked Mrs. Meadows. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay—Arthur, come and make the most of yourself, my man,’ said he, + thumping the shy boy on the back to give him courage. ‘I’ve brought him + home for his schooling—quite time, you see, though what on earth I’m + to do without him—’ + </p> + <p> + The boy looked miserable at the words. ‘Ay, ay,’ continued his father, + ‘you’ll do well enough. I’m not afraid for you, master, but that you’ll be + happy as your father was before you, when once you have fellows to play + with you. Here is Mr. Kendal will tell you so.’ + </p> + <p> + It was an unfortunate appeal, but Mr. Kendal made the best of it, saying + that his boy was very happy at his tutor’s. + </p> + <p> + ‘A private tutor, eh?’ said the rough captain, ‘I’d not thought of that—neither + home nor school. I had rather do it thoroughly, and trust to numbers to + choose friends from, and be licked into shape.’ + </p> + <p> + Poor little Arthur looked as if the process would be severe; and by way of + consolation, Mrs. Meadows suggested, a piece of cake. Maria moved to ring + the bell. It was the first time she had stirred since the visitor came in, + and he getting up at the same time, that she might not trouble herself, + their eyes met. ‘I’m very glad to see you again,’ he exclaimed, catching + hold of her hand for another shake; ‘but, bless me! you are sadly altered! + I’m sorry to see you looking so ill.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We all grow old, you know,’ said Maria, endeavouring to smile, but half + strangled by a tear, and looking at that moment as she might have done + long ago. ‘You find many changes.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope you find Mr. Pringle pretty well,’ said Albinia, thinking this + might be a relief, and accordingly, the kind-hearted captain began, + ruefully to describe the sad alterations that time had wrought. Then he + explained that he had had little correspondence with home, and had only + landed three days since, so that he was ignorant of all Bayford tidings, + and began asking after a multitude of old friends and acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + The Kendals thought all would go on the better in their absence, and + escaped from the record of deaths and marriages, each observing to the + other as they left the house, that there could be little doubt that + nurse’s story was true, but both amazed by the effect on Maria, who had + never been seen before to sit so long quiet in her chair. Was his wife + alive? Albinia thought not, but could not be certain. His presence was + evidently happiness to Miss Meadows, but would this last? Would this + renewal soothe her, or only make her more restless and unhappy? + </p> + <p> + Albinia found that Sophy’s imagination bad been quicker than her own. Lucy + had brought home the great news of the stranger, and she had leapt at once + to the conclusion that it must be the hero of nurse’s story, but she had + had the resolution to keep the secret from her sister, who was found + reproaching her with making mysteries. When Lucy heard that it was Captain + Pringle, she was quite provoked. + </p> + <p> + ‘Only Mr. Pringle’s nephew?’ she said, disdainfully. ‘What was the use of + making a fuss? I thought it was some one interesting!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy was able to walk to church in the evening, but was made to go in to + rest at the vicarage before returning home. While this was being discussed + before the porch, Albinia felt a pressure on her arm, and looking round, + saw Maria Meadows. + </p> + <p> + ‘Can you spare me a few moments?’ she said; and Albinia turned aside with + her to the flagged terrace path between the churchyard and vicarage + garden, in the light of a half-moon. + </p> + <p> + ‘You were so kind this morning,’ began Maria, ‘that I thought—you + see it is very awkward—not that I have any idea—but if you + would speak to Edmund—I know he is not in the habit—morning + visits and—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you wish him to call? He had been thinking of it.’ + </p> + <p> + Maria would have been unbounded in her gratitude, but catching herself up, + she disclaimed all personal interest—only she said Edmund knew + nothing of anything that had passed—if he did, he would see they + would feel— + </p> + <p> + ‘I think,’ said Albinia, kindly, ‘that we do know that you had some + troubles on that score. Old nurse said something to Sophy, but no other + creature knows it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah!’ exclaimed Maria, ‘that is what comes of trusting any one. I was so + ill when I found out how it had been, that I could not keep it from nurse, + but from mamma I did—my poor father being just gone and all—I + could not have had her know how much I felt it—the discovery I mean—and + it is what I wish her never to do. But oh! Mrs. Kendal, think what it was + to find out that when I had been thinking he had been only trifling with + me all those years, to find that he had been so unkindly treated. There + was his own dear letter to me never unsealed; and there was another to my + father saying in a proud-spirited way that he did not know what he had + done to be so served, and he wished I might find happiness, for I would + never find one that loved me as well. I who had turned against him in my + heart!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was cruel indeed! And you kept it from your mother!’ said Albinia, + beginning to honour her. + </p> + <p> + ‘My poor father was just gone, you know, and I could not be grieving her + with what was passed and over, and letting her know that my father had + broken my heart, as indeed I think he did, though he meant it all for the + best. But oh! I thought it hard when Lucy had married the handsomest man + in the country, and gone out to India, without a word against it, that I + might not please myself, because I was papa’s favourite.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was very hard not to be made aware of his intentions.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yea,’ said Maria; ‘for it gave me such a bitter, restless feeling against + him—though I ought to have known him better than to think he would + give one minute’s pain he could help; and then when I knew the truth, the + bitterness all went to poor papa’s memory, and yet perhaps he never meant + to be unkind either.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia said some kind words, and Maria went on: + </p> + <p> + ‘But what I wanted to say was this—Please don’t let mamma suspect + one bit about it; and next, if Edmund would not mind showing him a little + attention. Do you think he would, my dear? I do so wish that he should not + think we were hurt by his marriage, and you see, two lone women can do + nothing to make it agreeable; besides that, it would not be proper.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is his wife living?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, I could not make up my tongue to ask—the poor dear boy + there and all—but it is all the same. I hope she is, for I would not + see him unhappy, and you don’t imagine I have any folly in my head—oh, + no! for I know what a fright the fret and the wear of this have made me; + and besides, I never could leave mamma. So I trust his wife is living to + make him happy, and I shall be more at peace now I have seen him again, + since he turned his horse at Bobble’s Leigh, and said I should soon hear + from him again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed I think you will be happier. There is something very soothing in + taking up old feelings and laying them to rest. I hope even now there is + less pain than pleasure.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t help it,’ said Maria. ‘I do hope it is not wrong; but his very + voice has got the old tone in it, as if it were the old lullaby that my + poor heart has been beating for all these years.’ + </p> + <p> + Who would have thought of Maria speaking poetically? But her words did + indeed seem to be the truth. In spite of the embarrassment of her + situation and the flutter of her feelings, she was in a state of composure + unexampled. Albinia had just gratified her greatly by a few words on + Captain Pringle’s evident good-nature, when a tread came behind them. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ha! you here?’ exclaimed the loud honest voice. + </p> + <p> + ‘We were taking a turn in the moonlight,’ said Albinia. ‘A beautiful + night.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Beautiful! Arthur and I have been a bit of the way home with old + Goldsmith. There’s an evergreen, to be sure; and now—are you bound + homewards, Maria?’ + </p> + <p> + Maria clung to Albinia’s arm. Perhaps in the days of the last parting, she + had been less careful to be with a chaperon. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! I forgot,’ said the captain; ‘your way lies the other side of the + hill. I had very nearly walked into Willow Lawn this morning, only luckily + I bethought me of asking.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope you will yet walk into Willow Lawn,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! thank you; I should like to see the old place. I dare say it may be + transmogrified now, but I think I could find my way blindfold about the + old garden. I say, Maria, do you remember that jolly tea-party on the + lawn, when the frog made one too many?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That I do—’ Maria could not utter more, and Albinia said she was + afraid he would miss a great deal. + </p> + <p> + ‘I reckoned on that when I came home. Changes everywhere; but after the + one great change,’ he added, mournfully, ‘the others tell less. One has + the less heart to care for an old tree or an old path.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia felt sure he could mean only one great change, but they were now + at Mrs. Meadows’s door, and Maria wished them good night, giving a most + grateful squeeze of the hand to Mrs. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘Where are you bound now?’ asked the captain. + </p> + <p> + ‘Back to the vicarage, to take up my husband and the girls,’ said Albinia, + ‘but good night. I am not afraid.’ + </p> + <p> + The captain, however, chose to continue a squire of dames, and walked at + her side, presently giving utterance to a sound of commiseration. ‘Ah! + well, poor Maria, I never thought to see her so altered. Why, she had the + prettiest bloom—I dare say you remember—but, I beg your + pardon, somehow I thought you were her <i>elder</i> sister.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Kendal’s first wife was,’ said Albinia, pitying the poor man; but + Captain Pringle was not a man for awkwardness, and the short whistle with + which he received her answer set her off laughing. + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg your pardon,’ he said, recovering himself; ‘but you see I am all + astray, like a man buried and dug up again, so no wonder I make strange + blunders; and my poor uncle is grown so childish, that he does not know + one person from another, and began by telling me Maria Meadows had married + and gone out to India. I had not had a letter these seven years, so I + thought it was high time to bring my boy home, and renew old times, though + how I am ever to go back without him—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is he your only one?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes. I lost his mother when he was six years old, and we have been all + the world to each other since, till I began to think I was spoiling him + outright, and it was time he should see what Old England was made of.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia had something like a discovery to impart now; but she hated the + sense of speculating on the poor man’s intentions. He talked so much, that + he saved her trouble in replying, and presently resumed the subject of + Maria’s looks. + </p> + <p> + ‘She has had a harassed life, I fear,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Eh! old Meadows was a terrible old tyrant, I believe; but she was his + pet. I thought he refused her nothing—but there’s no trusting such a + Turk! Oh! ah! I dare say,’ as if replying to something within. And then + having come to the vicarage wicket, Albinia took leave of him and ran + indoors, answering the astonished queries as to how she had been employed, + ‘Walking home with Aunt Maria and Captain Pringle!’ + </p> + <p> + It was rather a relief at such a juncture that Lucy’s curious eyes should + be removed. Mr. Ferrars came to talk his wife’s state over with his + sister. Her children were too much for Winifred, and he wished to borrow + Lucy for a few weeks, till a governess could be found for them. + </p> + <p> + It struck Albinia that this would be an excellent thing for Genevieve + Durant, and she at once contrived to ask her to tea, and privately + propound the plan. + </p> + <p> + Genevieve faltered much of thanks, and said that Madame was very good; but + the next morning a note was brought in, which caused a sudden change of + countenance: + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Madame, + </p> + <p> + ‘I was so overwhelmed with your kindness last night, and so unwilling to + appear ungrateful, that perhaps I left you under a false impression. I + entreat you not to enter on the subject with my grandmamma or my aunt. + They would grieve to prevent what they would think for my advantage, and + would, I am but too sure, make any sacrifice on my account; but they are + no longer young, and though my aunt does not perceive it, I know that the + real work of the school depends on me, and that she could not support the + fatigue if left unassisted. They need their little Genevieve, likewise, to + amuse them in their evenings; and, forgive me, madame, I could not, + without ingratitude, forsake them now. Thus, though with the utmost sense + of your kindness, I must beg of you to pardon me, and not to think me + ungrateful if I decline the situation so kindly offered to me by Mr. + Ferrars, thanking you ten thousand times for your too partial + recommendation, and entreating you to pardon + </p> + <p> + ‘Your most grateful and humble servant, + </p> + <p> + ‘GENEVIEVE CELESTE DURANT.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There!’ said Albinia, tossing the note to her brother, who was the only + person present excepting Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Albinia,’ he said, ‘it is hard to be disappointed in a bit of + patronage.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never meant it as patronage,’ said Albinia, slightly hurt. ‘I thought + it would help you, and rescue her from that school. There will she spend + the best years of her life in giving a second-rate education to third-rate + girls, not one of whose parents can appreciate her, till she will grow as + wizened and as wooden as Mademoiselle herself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Happily,’ said Mr. Ferrars, ‘there are worse things than being spent in + one’s duty. She may be doing an important work in her sphere.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So does a horse in a mill,’ exclaimed Albinia; ‘but you would not put a + hunter there. Yes, yes, I know, education, and these girls wanting right + teaching; but she, poor child, has been but half educated herself, and has + not time to improve herself. If she does good, it is by force of sheer + goodness, for they all look down upon her, as much as vulgarity can upon + refinement.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I told her so,’, exclaimed Gilbert; ‘I told her it was the only way to + teach them what she was worth.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What did you know of the matter?’ asked Albinia; and the colour mounted + in the boy’s face as he muttered, ‘She was overcome when she came down, + she said you had been so kind, and we were obliged to walk up and down + before she could compose herself, for she did not want the old ladies to + know anything about it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And did she not wish to go?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, though I did the best I could. I told her what a jolly place it was, + and that the children would be a perfect holiday to her. And I showed her + it would not be like going away, for she might come over here whenever she + pleased; and when I have my horse, I would come and bring her word of the + old ladies once a week.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Inducements, indeed!’ said Mr. Ferrars. ‘And she could not be incited by + any of these?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Gilbert, ‘she would not hear of leaving the old women. She was + only afraid it would vex Mrs. Kendal, and she could not bear not to take + the advice of so kind a friend, she said. You are not going to be angry + with her,’ he added. + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Albinia, ‘one cannot but honour her motives, though I think she + is mistaken; and I am sorry for her; but she knows better than to be + afraid of me.’ + </p> + <p> + With which assurance Gilbert quitted the room, and the next moment, + hearing the front door, she exclaimed, ‘I do believe he is gone to tell + her how I took the announcement.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice gave a significant ‘Hem!’ to which his sister replied, ‘Nonsense!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very romantic consolations and confidences.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not at all. They have been used to each other all their lives, and he + used to be the only person who knew how to behave to her, so no wonder + they are great friends. As to anything else, she is nineteen, and he not + sixteen.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘One great use of going to school is to save lads from that silly pastime. + I advise you to look to these moonlight escortings!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘One would think you were an old dowager, Maurice. I suppose Colonel Bury + may not escort Miss Mary.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, Albinia, you are a very naughty child still.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Of course, when you are here to keep me in order, I wish I never were so + at other times when it is not so safe.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal was kind and civil to Captain Pringle, and though the + boisterous manner seemed to affect him like a thunderstorm, Maria imagined + they were delighted with one another. + </p> + <p> + Maria was strangely serene and happy; her querulous, nervous manner + smoothed away, as if rest had come to her at last; and even if the renewed + intercourse were only to result in a friendship, there was hope that the + troubled spirit had found repose now that misunderstandings were over, and + the sore sense of ill-usage appeased. + </p> + <p> + Yet Albinia was startled when one day Mr. Kendal summoned her, saying, ‘It + is all over, she has refused him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Impossible; she could only have left half her sentence unsaid.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Too certain. She will not leave her mother.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is that all?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Of course it is. He told me the whole affair, and certainly Mr. Meadows + was greatly to blame. He let Maria give this man every encouragement, + believing his property larger, and his expectations more secure than was + the case; and when the proposal was made, having discovered his mistake, + he sent a peremptory refusal, giving him reason to suppose her a party to + the rejection. Captain Pringle sailed in anger; but it appears that his + return has revived his former feelings, and that he has found out that + poor Maria was a greater sufferer than himself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why does he come to you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To consult me. He wishes me to persuade poor old Mrs. Meadows to go out + to the Mauritius, which is clearly impossible, but Maria must not be + sacrificed again. Would the Drurys make her comfortable? Or could she not + live alone with her maid?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She might live here.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Albinia! Think a little.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can think of nothing else. Let her have the morning room, and Sophy’s + little room, and Lucy and I would do our best for her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, that is out of the question. I would not impose such charge upon you + on any consideration!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s face became humble and remorseful. ‘Yes,’ she said, ‘perhaps I + am too impatient and flighty.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That was not what I meant,’ he said; ‘but I do not think it right that a + person with no claims of relationship should be made a burthen on you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No claims, Edmund,’ said she, softly. ‘In whose place have you put me?’ + </p> + <p> + He was silent: then said, ‘No, it must not be, my kind Albinia. She is a + very good old lady, but Sophy and she would clash, and I cannot expose the + child to such a trial.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I dare say you are right,’ pensively said Albinia, perceiving that her + plan had been inconsiderate, and that it would require the wisdom, tact, + and gentleness of a model woman to deal with such discordant elements. + ‘What are you going to do?’ as he took up his hat. ‘Are you going to see + Maria? May I come with you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If you please; but do not mention this notion. There is no necessity for + such a tax on you; and such arrangement should never be rashly made.’ + </p> + <p> + He asked whether Miss Meadows could see him, and awaited her alone in the + dining-room, somewhat to the surprise of his wife; but either he felt that + there was a long arrear of kindness owing, or feared to trust Albinia’s + impulsive generosity. + </p> + <p> + Meantime Albinia found the poor old lady in much uneasiness and distress. + Her daughter fancied it right to keep her in ignorance of the crisis; but + Maria was not the woman to conceal her feelings, and her nervous misery + had revealed all that she most wished to hide. Too timid to take her + confidence by storm, her mother had only exchanged surmises and + observations with Betty, and was in a troubled condition of affectionate + curiosity and anxiety. Albinia was a welcome visitor since it was a great + relief to hear what had really taken place and to know that Mr. Kendal was + with Maria. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! that is kind,’ she said; ‘but he must tell her not to think of me. I + am an old woman, good for nothing but to be put out of the way, and she + has gone through quite enough! You will not let her give it up! Tell her I + have not many more years to live, and anything is good enough for me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That would hardly comfort her,’ said Albinia, affectionately; ‘but + indeed, dear grandmamma, I hope we shall convince her that we can do + something to supply her place.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! my dear, you are very kind, but nobody can be like a daughter! But + don’t tell Maria so—poor dear love—she may never have another + chance. Such a beautiful place out there, and Mr. Pringle’s property must + come to him at last! Bless me, what will Sarah Drury say? And such a good + attentive man—besides, she never would hear of any one else—her + poor papa never knew—Oh! she must have him! it is all nonsense to + think of me! I only wish I was dead out of the way!’ + </p> + <p> + There was a strong mixture of unselfish love, and fear of solitude; of the + triumph of marrying a daughter, and dread of separation; of affection, and + of implanted worldliness; touching Albinia at one moment, and paining her + at another; but she soothed and caressed the old lady, and was a willing + listener to what was meant for a history of the former transaction; but as + it started from old Mr. Pringle’s grandfather, it had only proceeded as + far as the wedding of the Captain’s father and mother, when it was broken + off by Mr. Kendal’s entrance. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! my dear Mr. Kendal, and what does poor Maria say? It is so kind in + you. I hope you have taken her in hand, and told her it is quite another + thing now, and her poor dear papa would think so. She must not let this + opportunity pass, for she may never have another. Did you tell her so?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I told her that, under the circumstances, she has no alternative but to + accept Captain Pringle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! thank you. And does she?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She has given me leave to send him to her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am so much obliged. I knew that nobody but you could settle it for her, + poor dear girl; she is so young and inexperienced, and one is so much at a + loss without a gentleman. But this is very kind; I did not expect it in + you, Mr. Kendal. And will you see Mr. Pettilove, and do all that is proper + about settlements, as her poor dear papa would have done. Poor Pettilove, + he was once very much in love with Maria!’ + </p> + <p> + In this mood of triumph and felicity, the old lady was left to herself and + her daughter. Albinia, on the way home, begged to hear how Mr. Kendal had + managed Maria; and found that he had simply told her, in an authoritative + tone, that after all that had passed, she had no choice but to accept + Captain Pringle, and that he had added a promise, equally vague and + reassuring, of being a son to Mrs. Meadows. Such injunctions from such a + quarter had infused new life into Maria; and in the course of the + afternoon, Albinia met the Captain with the mother and daughter, one on + each arm, Maria in recovered bloom and brilliancy, and Mrs. Meadows’s + rheumatism forgotten in the glory of exhibiting her daughter engaged. + </p> + <p> + For form’s sake, secrecy had been mentioned; but the world of Bayford had + known of the engagement a fortnight before took place. Sophy had been + questioned upon it by Mary Wolfe two hours ere she was officially + informed, and was sore with the recollection of her own ungracious + professions of ignorance. + </p> + <p> + ‘So it is true,’ she said. ‘I don’t mind, since Arthur is not a girl.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal laughed so heartily, that Sophy looked to Albinia for + explanation; but even on the repetition of her words, she failed to + perceive anything ridiculous in them. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, mamma,’ she said, impressively, ‘if you had been like Aunt Maria, I + should—’ she paused and panted for sufficient strength of phrase—‘I + should have run away and begged! Papa laughs, but I am sure he remembers + when grandmamma and Aunt Maria wanted to come and live here!’ + </p> + <p> + He looked as if he remembered it only too well. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, papa,’ pursued Sophy, ‘we heard the maids saying that they knew it + would not do, for all Mr. Kendal was so still and steady, for Miss Meadows + would worret the life out of a lead pincushion.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hem!’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘Albinia, do you think after all we are doing + Captain Pringle any kindness?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is the best judge.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, he may think himself bound in honour and compassion—he may be + returning to an old ideal.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘People like Captain Pringle are not apt to have ideals,’ said Albinia; + ‘nor do I think Maria will be so trying. Do you remember that creeper of + Lucy’s, all tendrils and catching leaves, which used to lie sprawling + about, entangling everything till she gave it a prop, when it instantly + found its proper development, and offered no further molestation?’ + </p> + <p> + All was not, however, smooth water as yet. The Captain invaded Mr. Kendal + the next morning in despair at Maria having recurred to the impossibility + of leaving her mother, and wanting him to wait till he could reside in + England. This could not be till his son was grown up, and ten years were a + serious delay. Mr. Kendal suspected her of a latent hope that the Captain + would end by remaining at home; but he was a man sense and determination, + who would have thought it unjustifiable weakness to sacrifice his son’s + interests and his own usefulness. He would promise, that if all were alive + and well, he would bring Maria back in ten or twelve years’ time; but he + would not sooner relinquish his duties, and he was very reluctant to + become engaged on such terms. + </p> + <p> + ‘No one less silly than poor Maria would have thought of such a proposal,’ + was Mr. Kendal’s comment afterwards to his wife. ‘Twelve years! No one + would be able to live with her by that time!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot help respecting the unselfishness,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘One sided unselfishness,’ quoth Mr. Kendal. ‘I am sick of the whole + business, I wish I had never interfered. I cannot get an hour to myself.’ + </p> + <p> + He might be excused for the complaint on that day of negotiations and + counter-negotiations, which gave no one any rest, especially after Mrs. + Drury arrived with all the rights of a relation, set on making it evident, + that whoever was to be charged with Mrs. Meadows, it was not herself; and + enforcing that nothing could be more comfortable than that Lucy Kendal + should set up housekeeping with her dear grandmamma. Every one gave + advice, and nobody took it; Mrs. Meadows cried, Maria grew hysterical, the + Captain took up his hat and walked out of the house; and Albinia thought + it would be very good in him ever to venture into it again. + </p> + <p> + The next morning Mr. Kendal ordered his horse early, and hastened his + breakfast; told Albinia not to wait dinner for him, and rode off by one + gate, without looking behind him, as the other opened to admit Captain + Pringle. She marvelled whither he had fled, and thought herself fortunate + in having only two fruitless discussions in his absence. Not till eight + o’clock did he make his appearance, and then it was in an unhearing, + unseeing mood, so that nothing could be extracted, except that he did not + want any dinner; and it was not till late in the evening that he abruptly + announced, ‘Lucy is coming home on Wednesday. Colonel Bury will bring her + to Woodside.’ + </p> + <p> + What? have you heard from Maurice?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; I have been at Fairmead.’ + </p> + <p> + You! To-day! How was Winifred?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Better—I believe.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How does she like the governess?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I did not hear.’ + </p> + <p> + Gradually something oozed out about Lucy having been happy and valuable, + and after Sophy had gone to bed, he inquired how the courtship was going + on? + </p> + <p> + ‘Worse than ever,’ Albinia said. + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose it must end in this?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘In what!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If there is no more satisfactory arrangement, I suppose we must receive + Mrs. Meadows.’ + </p> + <p> + If Albinia could but have heard what a scolding her brother was undergoing + from his vivacious wife! + </p> + <p> + ‘As if poor Albinia had not enough on her hands! Of all inmates in the + world! When Mr. Kendal himself did not like it! Well! Maurice would + certainly have advised Sinbad to request the honour of taking the Old Man + of the Sea for a promenade a cheval. There was an end of Albinia. There + would never be any room in her house, and she would never be able to come + from home. And after having seen her worked to death, he to advise—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I did not advise, I only listened. What he came for was to silence his + conscience and his wife by saying, “Your brother thinks it out of the + question.” Now to this my conscience would not consent.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘More shame for it, then!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could not say I thought these two people’s happiness should be + sacrificed, or the poor old woman left desolate. Albinia has spirits and + energy for a worse infliction, and Edmund Kendal himself is the better for + every shock to his secluded habits. If it is a step I would never dare + advise, still less would I dare dissuade.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well! I thought Mr. Kendal at least had more sense.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay, nothing is so provoking as to see others more unselfish than + ourselves.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘All I have to say,’ concluded Mrs. Ferrars, walking off, ‘is, I wish + there was a law against people going and marrying two wives.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was in no haste to profit by her husband’s consent to her + proposal. The more she revolved it, the more she foresaw the discomfort + for all parties. She made every effort to devise the ‘more satisfactory + arrangement,’ but nothing would occur. The Drurys would not help, and the + poor old lady could not be left alone. Her maid Betty, who had become + necessary to her comfort, was not a trustworthy person, and could not be + relied on, either for honesty, or for not leaving her mistress too long + alone; and when the notion was broached of boarding Mrs. Meadows with some + family in the place, the conviction arose, that when she had + grandchildren, there was no reason for leaving her to strangers. + </p> + <p> + Finally, the proposal was made, and as instantly rejected by Maria. It was + very kind, but her mother could never be happy at Willow Lawn, never; and + the tone betrayed some injury at such a thing being thought possible. But + just as the Kendals had begun to rejoice at having cleared their + conscience at so slight a cost, Captain Pringle and Miss Meadows made + their appearance, and Maria presently requested that Mrs. Kendal would + allow her to say a few words. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am afraid you thought me very rude and ungrateful,’ she began, ‘but the + truth was, I did not think dear mamma would ever bear to live here, my + poor dear sister and all; but since that, I have been talking it over with + the dear Captain—thinks that since you are so kind, and dear Edmund—more + than I could ever have dared to expect—that I could not do better + than just to sound mamma.’ + </p> + <p> + There was still another vicissitude. Mrs. Meadows would not hear of being + thrust on any one, and was certain that Maria had extorted an invitation; + she would never be a burden upon any one; young people liked company and + amusement, and she was an old woman in every one’s way; she wished she + were in her coffin with poor dear Mr. Meadows, who would have settled it + all. Maria fell back into the depths of despair, and all was lugubrious, + till Mr. Kendal, in the most tender and gentle manner, expressed his hopes + that Mrs. Meadows would consider the matter, telling her that his wife and + children would esteem it a great privilege to attend on her, and that he + should be very grateful if she would allow them to try to supply Maria’s + place. And Albinia, in her coaxing tone, described the arrangement; how + the old furniture should stand in the sitting-room, and how Lucy would + attend to her carpet-work, and what nice walks the sunny garden would + afford, and how pleasant it would be not to have the long hill between + them, till grandmamma forgot all her scruples in the fascination of that + sweet face and caressing manner, she owned that poor old Willow Lawn + always was like home, and finally promised to come. Before the evening was + over the wedding-day was fixed. + </p> + <p> + What Sophy briefly termed ‘the fuss about Aunt Maria,’ had been so + tedious, that it almost dispelled all poetical ideas of courtship. If + Captain Pringle had been drowned at sea, and Aunt Maria pined herself into + her grave, it would have been much more proper and affecting. + </p> + <p> + Sophy heard of the arrangement without remark, and quietly listened to + Albinia’s explanation that she was not to be sent up to the attics, but + was to inhabit the spare room, which was large enough to serve her for a + sitting-room. But in the evening Mr. Kendal happened in her absence to + take up the book which she had been reading, and did not perceive at once + on her entrance that she wanted it. When he did so, he yielded it with a + few kind words of apology, but this vexation had been sufficient to bring + down the thunder-cloud which had been lowering since the morning. There + were no signs of clearance the next day; but Albinia had too much upon her + hands to watch the symptoms, and was busy making measurements for the + furniture in the morning-room when Mr. Kendal came in. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have been thinking,’ he said, ‘that it is a pity to disturb this room. + I dare say Mrs. Meadows would prefer that below-stairs. It used to be her + parlour, where she always sat when I first knew the house.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The dining-room? How could we spare that?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, the study.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia remained transfixed. + </p> + <p> + ‘We could put the books here and in the dining-room,’ he continued, ‘until + next spring, when, as your brother said, we can build a new wing on the + drawing-room side.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what is to become of you?’ she continued. + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps you will admit me here,’ he said, smiling, for he was pleased + with himself. ‘Turn me out when I am in the way.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Edmund, how delightful! See, we shall put your high desk under the + window, and your chair in your own corner. This will be the pleasantest + place in the house, with you and your books! Dear Winifred! she did me one + of her greatest services when she made me keep this room habitable!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And I think Sophy will not object to give up her present little room for + my dressing-room. Shall you, my dear?’ said he, anxious to judge of her + temper by her reply. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t care,’ she said; ‘I don’t want any difference made to please me; + I think that weak.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy!’ began Albinia, indignantly, but Mr. Kendal stopped her, and made + her come down, to consider of the proposal in the study. + </p> + <p> + That study, once an oppressive rival to the bride, now not merely + vanquished, but absolutely abandoned by its former captive! + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t say anything to her,’ said Mr. Kendal, as they went downstairs. ‘Of + course her spirits are one consideration, but were it otherwise, I could + not see you give up your private room.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is very kind in you, but indeed I can spare mine better than you can,’ + said Albinia. ‘I am afraid you will never feel out of the whirl.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yours would be a loss to us all,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘The more inmates + there are in a house, the more needful to have them well assorted.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Just so; and that makes me afraid—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Of me? No, Albinia, I will try not to be a check on your spirits.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You! Oh! I meant that we should disturb you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You never disturb me, Albinia; and it is not what it was when the + children’s voices were untrained and unsubdued.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t say much for Master Maurice’s voice.’ + </p> + <p> + He smiled, he had never yet found those joyous notes de trop, and he + continued, ‘Your room is of value and use to us all; mine has been of + little benefit to me, and none to any one else. I wish I could as easily + leave behind me all the habits I have fostered there.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Edmund, it is too good! When poor Sophy recovers her senses she will feel + it, for I believe that morning room would have been a great loss to her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was too much to ask in her present state. I should have come to the + same conclusion without her showing how much this plan cost her, for + nothing can be plainer than that while she continues subject to these + attacks, she must have some retreat.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yet,’ ventured Albinia, ‘if you think solitude did you no good, do you + think letting these fits have their swing is good for Sophy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I <i>cannot</i> drive her about! They must not be harshly treated,’ he + answered quickly. ‘Resistance can only come from within; compulsion is + worse than useless. Poor child, it is piteous to watch that state of dull + misery! On other grounds, I am convinced this is the best plan. The + communication with the offices will prevent that maid from being always on + the stairs. Mrs. Meadows will have her own visitors more easily, and will + get out of doors sooner, and I think she will be better pleased.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, it will be a much better plan for every one but Mr. Kendal himself,’ + said Albinia; ‘and if he can be happy with us, we shall be all the + happier. So this was the old sitting-room!’ ‘Yes, I knew them first here,’ + he said. ‘It used to be cheerful then, and I dare say you can make it the + same again. We must dismantle it before Mrs. Meadows or Maria come to see + it, or it will remind them of nothing but the days when I was recovering, + and anything but grateful for their attention. Yes,’ he added, ‘poor Mrs. + Meadows bore most gently and tenderly with a long course of moroseness. I + am glad to have it in my power to make any sort of amends, though it is + chiefly through you.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia might well be very happy! It was her moment of triumph, and + whatever might be her fears for the future, and uneasiness at Sophy’s + discontent, nothing could take away the pleasure of finding herself + deliberately preferred to the study. + </p> + <p> + Sophy did not fail to make another protest, and when told that ‘it was not + solely on her account,’ the shame of having fancied herself so important, + rendered her ill-humour still more painful and deplorable. It was vain to + consult her about the arrangements, she would not care about anything, + except that by some remarkable effect of her perverse condition, she had + been seized with a penchant for maize colour and blue for the bridesmaids, + and was deeply offended when Albinia represented that they would look like + a procession of macaws, and her aunt declared that Sophy herself would be + the most sacrificed by such colours. She made herself so grim that Maria + broke up the consultation by saying good-humouredly, ‘Yes, we will settle + it when Lucy comes home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ muttered Sophy, ‘Lucy is ready for any sort of nonsense.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. and Mrs. Kendal went to Woodside to meet Lucy, hoping that solitude + would be beneficial. Albinia grieved at the manifestations of these, her + sullen fits, if only because they made Lucy feel herself superior. In + truth, Lucy was superior in temper, amiability, and all the qualities that + smooth the course of life, and it was very pleasant to greet her pretty + bright face, so full of animation. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear grandmamma going to live with us? Oh, how nice! I can always take + care of her when you are busy, mamma.’ + </p> + <p> + That accommodating spirit was absolute refreshment, and long before + Albinia reached home the task of keeping the household contented seemed + many degrees easier. + </p> + <p> + A grand wedding was ‘expected,’ so all the Bayford flys were bespoken + three deep, a cake was ordered from Gunter, and so many invitations sent + out, that Albinia speculated how all were to come alive out of the little + dining-room. + </p> + <p> + And Mr. Kendal the presiding gentleman! + </p> + <p> + He had hardly seemed aware of his impending fate till the last evening, + when, as the family were separating at night, he sighed disconsolately, + and said, ‘I am as bad as you are, Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + It awoke her first comfortable smile. + </p> + <p> + Experience had, however, shown him that such occasions might be survived, + and he was less to be pitied than his daughter, who felt as if she and her + great brown face would be the mark of all beholders. Poor Sophy! all + scenes were to her like daguerreotypes in a bad light, she saw nothing but + herself distorted! + </p> + <p> + And yet she was glad that the period of anticipation had consumed itself + and its own horrors, and found herself not insensible to the excitement of + the occasion. Lucy was joyous beyond description, looking very pretty, and + solicitously decorating her sister, while both bestowed the utmost rapture + on their step-mother’s appearance. + </p> + <p> + Having learnt at last what Bayford esteemed a compliment, she had + commissioned her London aunts to send her what she called ‘an + unexceptionable garment,’ and so well did they fulfil their orders, that + not only did her little son scream, ‘Mamma, pretty, pretty!’ and Gilbert + stand transfixed with admiration, but it called forth Mr. Kendal’s first + personal remark, ‘Albinia, you look remarkably well;’ and Mrs. Meadows + reckoned among the honours done to her Maria, that Mrs. Kendal wore a + beautiful silk dress, and a lace bonnet, sent down on purpose from London! + </p> + <p> + Maria Meadows made a very nice bride, leaning on her brother-in-law, and + not more agitated than became her well. The haggard restless look had long + been gone, repose had taken away the lean sharpness of countenance, the + really pretty features had fair play, and she was astonishingly like her + niece Lucy, and did not look much older. Her bridegroom was so beaming and + benignant, that it might fairly be hoped that even if force of habit + should bring back fretfulness, he had a stock of happiness sufficient for + both. The chairs were jammed so tight round the table, that it was by a + desperate struggle that people took their seats, and Mr. Dusautoy’s + conversation was a series of apologies for being unable to keep his elbows + out of his neighbours’ way while carving, and poor Sophy, whose back was + not two feet from the fire, was soon obliged to retreat. She had gained + the door before any one perceived her, and then her brother and sister + both followed; Albinia was obliged to leave her to their care, being in + the innermost recesses, where moving was impossible. + </p> + <p> + There was not much the matter, she only wanted rest, and Gilbert undertook + to see her safely home. + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall be heartily glad to get away,’ he said. ‘There is no breathing in + there, and they’ll begin talking the most intolerable nonsense presently. + Besides, I want to be at home to take baby down to the gate to halloo at + the four white horses from the King’s Head. Come along, Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mind you don’t make her walk too fast,’ said the careful Lucy, ‘and take + care how you take off your muslin, Sophy, you had better go to the nursery + for help.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert did not seem inclined to hurry his sister as they came near Madame + Belmarche’s. He lingered, and presently said, ‘Should you be too tired to + come in here for a moment? it was an intolerable shame that none of them + were asked.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mamma did beg for Genevieve, but there was so little room, and the Drurys + did not like it. Mrs. Drury said it would only be giving her a taste for + things above her station.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then Mrs. Drury should never come out of the scullery. I am sure she + looks as if her station was to black the kettles!’ cried Gilbert, with + some domestic confusion in his indignation. ‘Didn’t she look like a + housekeeper with her mistress’s things on by mistake?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She did not look like mamma, certainly,’ said Sophy. ‘Mamma looked no + more aware that she had on those pretty things than if she had been in her + old grey—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mamma—yes—Mrs. Drury might try seventy years to look like + mamma, or Genevieve either! Put Genevieve into satin or into brown + holland, you couldn’t help her looking ten times more the lady than Mrs. + Drury ever will! But come in, I have got a bit of the cake for them here, + and they will like to see you all figged out, as they have missed all the + rest of the show. Aunt Maria might have cared for her old mistress!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy wished to be amiable, and refrained from objecting. + </p> + <p> + It was a holiday in honour of cette chere eleve of five-and-twenty years + since, and the present pupils were from their several homes watching for + the first apparition of the four greys from the King’s Head, with the + eight white satin rosettes at their eight ears. + </p> + <p> + Madame Belmarche and her daughter were discovered in the parlour, cooking + with a stew pan over the fire a concoction which Sophy guessed to be a + conserve of the rose-leaves yearly begged of the pupils, which were + chiefly useful as serving to be boiled up at any leisure moment, to make a + cosmetic for Mademoiselle’s complexion. She had diligently used it these + forty-five years, but the effect was not encouraging, as brown, wrinkled, + with her frizzled front awry, with not stainless white apron, and a long + pewter spoon, she turned round to confront the visitors in their wedding + finery. + </p> + <p> + But what Frenchwoman ever was disconcerted? Away went the spoon, forward + she sprang, both hands outstretched, and her little black eyes twinkling + with pleasure. ‘Ah! but this is goodness itself,’ said she, in the English + wherein she flattered herself no French idiom appeared. ‘You are come to + let us participate in your rejoicing. Let me but summon Genevieve, the + poor child is at every free moment trying to perfectionnate her music in + the school-room.’ + </p> + <p> + Madame Belmarche had arisen to receive the guests with her dignified + courtesy and heartfelt felicitations, which were not over when Genevieve + tripped in, all freshness and grace, with her neat little collar, and the + dainty black apron that so prettily marked her slender waist. One moment, + and she had arranged a resting-place for Sophy, and as she understood + Gilbert’s errand, quickly produced from a corner-cupboard a plate, on + which he handed it to the two other ladies, who meanwhile paid their + compliments in the most perfect style. + </p> + <p> + The history of the morning was discussed, and Madame Belmarche described + her sister’s wedding, and the curiosity which she had shared with the + bride for the first sight of ‘le futur,’ when the two sisters had been + brought from their convent for the marriage. + </p> + <p> + ‘But how could she get to like him?’ cried Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘My sister was too well brought up a young girl to acknowledge a + preference,’ replied Madame Belmarche. ‘Ah! my dear, you are English; you + do not understand these things.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Sophy, ‘I can’t understand how people can marry without loving. + How miserable they must be!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘On the contrary, my dear, especially if one continued to live with one’s + mother. It is far better to earn the friendship and esteem of a husband + than to see his love grow cold.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And was your sister happy?’ asked Sophy, abruptly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, my dear, never were husband and wife more attached. My brother-in-law + joined the army of the Prince de Conde, and never was seen after the day + of Valmy; and my sister pined away and died of grief. My daughter and + granddaughter go to the Catholic burying-ground at Hadminster on her fete + day, to dress her grave with immortelles.’ + </p> + <p> + Now Sophy knew why the strip of garden grew so many of the grey-leaved, + woolly-stemmed, little yellow-and-white everlasting flowers. Good madame + began to regret having saddened her on this day of joy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! no,’ said Sophy, ‘I like sad things best.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mais, non, my child, that is not the way to go through life,’ said the + old lady, affectionately. ‘Look at me; how could I have lived had I not + always turned to the bright side? Do not think of sorrow, it, is always + near enough.’ + </p> + <p> + This conversation had made an impression on Sophy, who took the first + opportunity of expressing her indignation at the system of mariages de + convenance. + </p> + <p> + ‘And, mamma, she said if people began with love, it always grew cold. Now, + has not papa loved you better and better every day?’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia could not be displeased, though it made her blush, and she could + not answer such a home push. ‘We don’t quite mean the same things,’ she + said evasively. ‘Madame is thinking of passion independent of esteem or + confidence. But, Sophy, this is enough even for a wedding-day. Let us + leave it off with our finery, and resume daily life.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Only tell me one thing, mamma.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well?’ + </p> + <p> + She paused and brought it out with an effort. It had evidently occupied + her for a long time. ‘Mamma, must not every one with feeling be in love + once in their life?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well done, reserve!’ thought Albinia—‘but she is only a child, + after all; not a blush, only those great eyes seeming ready to devour my + answer. What ought it to be? Whatever it is, she will brood on it till her + time comes. I must begin, or I shall grow nervous: “Dear Sophy, these are + not things good to think upon. There is quite enough to occupy a Christian + woman’s heart and soul without that—no need for her feelings to + shrivel up for want of exercise. No, I don’t believe in the passion once + in the life being a fate, and pray don’t you, my Sophy, or you may make + yourself very silly, or very unhappy, or both.”’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy drew up her head, and her brown skin glowed. Albinia feared that she + had said the wrong thing, and affronted her, but it was all working in the + dark. + </p> + <p> + At any rate the sullenness was dissipated, and there were no tokens of a + recurrence. Sophy set herself to find ways of making amends for the past, + and as soon as she had begun to do little services for grandmamma, she + seemed to have forgotten her gloomy anticipations, even while some of them + were partly realized. For as it would be more than justice to human nature + to say that Mrs. Meadows’s residence at Willow Lawn was a perfect success, + so it would be less than justice to call it a failure. + </p> + <p> + To put the darker side first. Grandmamma’s interest in life was to know + the proceedings of the whole household, and comment on each. Now Albinia + could endure housewifely advice, some espionage on her servants, and even + counsel about her child; but she could not away with the anxiety that + would never leave Sophy alone, tried to force her sociability, and + regretted all extra studies, unable to perceive the delicate treatment her + disposition needed. And Sophy, in the intolerance of early girlhood, was + wretched at hearing poor grandmamma’s petty views, and narrow, ignorant + prejudices. She might resolve to be filial and agreeable, but too often + found herself just achieving a moody, disgusted silence, or else bursting + out with some true but unbecoming reproof. + </p> + <p> + On the whole, all did well. Mrs. Meadows was happy; she enjoyed the + animation of the larger party, liked their cheerful faces, grew fond of + Maurice, and daily more dependent on Lucy and Mrs. Kendal. Probably she + had never before had so much of her own way, and her gentle placid nature + was left to rest, instead of being constantly worried. Her son-in-law was + kind and gracious, though few words passed between them, and he gave her a + sense of protection. Indeed, his patience and good-humour were exemplary; + he never complained even when he was driven from the dining-room by the + table-cloth, to find Maurice rioting in the morning-room, and a music + lesson in the drawing-room, or still worse, when he heard the Drurys + everywhere; and he probably would have submitted quietly for the rest of + his life, had not Albinia insisted on bringing forward the plan of + building. + </p> + <p> + When Captain and Mrs. Pringle returned to Bayford to take leave, they + found grandmamma so thoroughly at home, that Maria could find no words to + express her gratitude. Maria herself could hardly have been recognised, + she had grown so like her husband in look and manner! If her sentences did + not always come to their legitimate development, they no longer seemed + blown away by a frosty wind, but pushed aside by fresh kindly impulses, + and her pride in the Captain, and the rest in his support, had set her at + peace with all the world and with herself. A comfortable, comely, happy + matron was she, and even her few weeks beyond the precincts of Bayford had + done something to enlarge her mind. + </p> + <p> + It was as if her education had newly begun. The fixed aim, and the union + with a practical man, had opened her faculties, not deficient in + themselves, but contracted and nipped by the circumstances which she had + not known how to turn to good account. Such a fresh stage in middle life + comes to some few, like the midsummer shoot to repair the foliage that has + suffered a spring blight; but it cannot be reckoned on, and Mrs. Pringle + would have been a more effective and self-possessed woman, a better + companion to her husband, and with more root in herself, had Maria Meadows + learnt to tune her nerves and her temper in the overthrow of her early + hopes. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. + </h2> + <p> + Maurice Ferrars was a born architect, with such a love of brick and + mortar, that it was meritorious in him not to have overbuilt Fairmead + parsonage. With the sense of giving him an agreeable holiday, his sister + wrote to him in February that Gilbert’s little attic was at his service if + he would come and give his counsel as to the building project. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal disliked the trouble and disturbance as much as Maurice loved + it; but he quite approved and submitted, provided they asked him no + questions; he gave them free leave to ruin him, and set out to take Sophy + for a drive, leaving the brother and sister to their calculations. Of + ruin, there was not much danger, Mr. Kendal had a handsome income, and had + always lived within it; and Albinia’s fortune had not appeared to her a + reason for increased expense, so there was a sufficient sum in hand to + enable Mr. Ferrars to plan with freedom. + </p> + <p> + A new drawing-room, looking southwards, with bedrooms over it, was the + matter of necessity; and Albinia wished for a bay-window, and would like + to indulge Lucy by a conservatory, filling up the angle to the east with + glass doors opening into the drawing-room and hall. Maurice drew, and she + admired, and thought all so delightful, that she began to be taken with + scruples as to luxury. + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Maurice, ‘these are not mere luxuries. You have full means, and + it is a duty to keep your household fairly comfortable and at ease. + Crowded as you are with rather incongruous elements, you are bound to give + them space enough not to clash.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They don’t clash, except poor Sophy. Gilbert and Lucy are elements of + union, with more plaster of Paris than stone in their nature.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray, has Kendal made up his mind what to do with Gilbert?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have heard nothing lately; I hope he is grown too old for India.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert is rather too well off for his good,’ said Mr. Ferrars; ‘the + benefit of a profession is not evident enough.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know what I wish! If he could but be Mr. Dusautoy’s curate, in five or + six years’ time, what glorious things we might do with the parish!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Eh! is that his wish?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have sometimes hoped that his mind is taking that turn. He is ready to + help in anything for the poor people. Once he told me he never wished to + look beyond Bayford for happiness or occupation; but I did not like to + draw him out, because of his father’s plans. Why, what have you drawn? The + alms-houses?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could do no other when I was improving Gilbert’s house for him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That would be the real improvement! How pretty! I will keep them for + him.’ + </p> + <p> + The second post came in, bringing a letter from Gilbert to his father, and + Albinia was so much surprised, that her brother asked whether Gilbert were + one of the boys who only write to their father with a reason. + </p> + <p> + ‘He can write more freely to me,’ said Albinia; ‘and it comes to the same + thing. I am not in the least afraid of anything wrong, but perhaps he may + be making some proposal for the future. I want to know how he is. Fancy + his being so foolish as to go out bathing. I am afraid of his colds.’ + </p> + <p> + Many times during the consultation did Mr. Ferrars detect Albinia’s eye + stealing wistfully towards that ‘E. Kendal, Esq.;’ and when the proper + owner came in, he was evidently as much struck, for he paused, as if in + dread of opening the letter. Her eyes were on his countenance as he read, + and did not gather much consolation. ‘I am afraid this is serious,’ at + last he said. + </p> + <p> + ‘His cold?’ exclaimed Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Mr. Kendal, reading aloud sentence by sentence, with gravity + and consideration. + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not wish to alarm Mrs. Kendal, and therefore address myself at once + to you, for I do not think it right to keep you in ignorance that I have + had some of the old symptoms. I do not wish to make any one uneasy about + me, and I may have made light of the cold I caught a month since; but I + cannot conceal from myself that I have much painful cough, an inclination + to shortness of breath, and pain in the back and shoulders, especially + after long reading or writing. I thought it right to speak to Mr. Downton, + but people in high health can understand nothing short of a raging fever; + however, at last he called in the parish surgeon, a stupid, ignorant + fellow, who understands my case no more than his horse, and treats me with + hyoscyamus, as if it were a mere throat-cough. I thought it my duty to + speak openly, since, though I am quite aware that circumstances make + little difference in constitutional cases, I know you and dear Mrs. Kendal + will wish that all possible means should be used, and I think it—’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal broke down, and handed the letter to his wife, who proceeded, + </p> + <p> + ‘I think it best you should be prepared for the worst, as I wish and + endeavour to be; and truly I see so much trial and disappointment in the + course of life before me, that it would hardly be the worst to me, except—’ + </p> + <p> + That sentence finished Albinia’s voice, and stealing her hand into her + husband’s, she read on in silence, + </p> + <p> + ‘for the additional sorrow to you, and my grief at bringing pain to my + more than mother, but she has long known of the presentiment that has + always hung over me, and will be the better prepared for its realization. + If it would be any satisfaction to you, I could easily take a ticket, and + go up to London to see any physician you would prefer. I could go with + Price, who is going for his sister’s birthday, and I could sleep at his + father’s house; but, in that case, I should want three pounds journey + money, and I should be very glad if you would be so kind as to let me have + a sovereign in advance of my allowance, as Price knows of a capital + secondhand bow and arrows. With my best love to all, + </p> + <p> + ‘Your affectionate son, + </p> + <p> + ‘GILBERT KENDAL.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia held the letter to her brother, to whom she looked for something + cheering, but, behold! a smile was gaining uncontrollably on the muscles + of his cheeks, though his lips strove hard to keep closely shut. She would + not look at him, and turning to her husband, exclaimed, ‘We will take him + to London ourselves!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am afraid that would be inconvenient,’ observed Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘That would not signify,’ continued Albinia; ‘I must hear myself what is + thought of him, and how I am to nurse him. Oh! taking it in time, dear + Edmund, we need not be so much afraid! Maurice will not mind making his + visit another time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I only meant inconvenient to the birthday party,’ drily said her brother. + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice!’ cried she, ‘you don’t know the boy!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have no doubt that he has a cold.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And I know there is a great deal more the matter!’ cried Albinia. ‘We + have let him go away to be neglected and badly treated! My poor, dear boy! + Edmund, I will fetch him home to-morrow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You had better send me,’ said Maurice, mischievously, for he saw he was + diminishing Mr. Kendal’s alarm, and had a brotherly love of teasing + Albinia, and seeing how pretty she looked with her eyes flashing through + wrathful tears, and her foot patting impetuously on the carpet. + </p> + <p> + ‘You!’ she cried; ‘you don’t believe in him! You fancy all boys are made + of iron and steel—you would only laugh at him—you made us send + him there—I wish—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gently, gently, my dear Albinia,’ said her husband, dismayed at her + vehemence, just when it most amused her brother. ‘You cannot expect + Maurice to feel exactly as we do, and I confess that I have much hope that + this alarm may be more than adequate.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He thinks it all a scheme!’ said Albinia, in a tone of great injury. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, indeed, Albinia,’ answered her brother, seriously, ‘I fully believe + that Gilbert imagines all that he tells you, but you cannot suppose that + either the tutor or doctor could fail to see if he were so very ill.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Certainly not,’ assented Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘And low spirits are more apt to accompany a slight ailment, than such an + illness as you apprehend.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe you are right,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘Where is the letter?’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia did not like it to come under discussion, but could not withhold + it, and as she read it again, she felt that neither Maurice nor her cousin + Fred could have written the like, but she was only the more impelled to do + battle, and when she came to the unlucky conclusion, she exclaimed, ‘I am + sure that was an afterthought. I dare say Price asked him while he was + writing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What’s this?’ asked Mr. Kendal, coming to the ‘presentiment.’ + </p> + <p> + She hesitated, afraid both of him and of Maurice, but there was no + alternative. ‘Poor Gilbert!’ she said. ‘It was a cry or call from his + brother just at last. It has left a very deep impression.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed!’ said his father, much moved. ‘Yes. Edmund gave a cry such as was + not to be forgotten,’ and the sigh told how it had haunted his own pillow; + ‘but I had not thought that Gilbert was in a condition to notice it. Did + he mention it to you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, not long after I came, he thinks it was a call, and I have never + known exactly how to deal with it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is a case for very tender handling,’ said Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘I should have desired him never to think of it again,’ said Mr. Kendal, + decidedly. ‘Mere nonsense to dwell on it. Their names were always in + Edmund’s mouth, and it was nothing but accident. You should have told him + so, Albinia.’ + </p> + <p> + And he walked out of the room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! it will prey upon him now,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I thought he only spoke of driving it away because it was what he + would like to be able to do. But things do not prey on people of his age + as they do on younger ones.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder if I did right,’ said Albinia. ‘I never liked to ask you, though + I wished it. I could not bear to treat it as a fancy. How was I to know, + if it may not have been intended to do him good? And you see his father + says it was very remarkable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you imagine that it dwells much upon his mind?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not when he is well—not when it would do him good,’ said Albinia; + ‘it rather haunts him the instant he is unwell.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He makes it a superstition, then, poor boy! You thought me hard on him, + Albinia; but really I could not help being angry with him for so + lamentably frightening his father and you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let us see how he is before you find fault with him,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘You’re as bad as if you were his mother, or worse!’ exclaimed Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Maurice, I can’t help it! He had no one to care for him till I came, + and he is such a very dear fellow—he wants me so much!’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars agreed to go with Mr. Kendal to Traversham. He thought his + father would be encouraged by his presence, and he was not devoid of + curiosity. Albinia would not hear of staying at home; in fact, Maurice + suspected her of being afraid to trust Gilbert to his mercy. + </p> + <p> + With a trembling heart she left the train at the little Traversham + station, making resolutions neither to be too angry with the negligent + tutor, nor to show Gilbert how much importance she attached to his + illness. + </p> + <p> + As they walked into the village, they heard a merry clamour of tongue, and + presently met five or six boys, and, a few paces behind them, Mr. Downton. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah!’ he exclaimed, ‘I am glad you are come. I would have written + yesterday, but that I found your boy had done so. I shall be very glad to + have him cheered up about himself. I will turn back with you. You go on, + Price. They are setting out for one of Hullah’s classes, so we shall have + the house clear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope there is not much amiss?’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘A tedious cold,’ said the tutor; ‘but the doctor assures me that there is + nothing wrong with his chest, and I do believe he would not cough half so + much, if he were not always watching himself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who has been attending him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Lee, the union doctor, a very good man, with a large family,’ (Albinia + could have beaten him). ‘Indeed,’ he continued perceiving some + dissatisfied looks, ‘I think you will find that a little change is all + that he wants.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope you can give a good account of him in other respects?’ said Mr. + Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! yes, in every way; he is the most good-natured lad in the world, and + quite the small boys’ friend. Perhaps he has been a little more + sentimental of late, but that may be only from being rather out of order. + I’ll call him.’ + </p> + <p> + The last words were spoken as they entered the parsonage, where opening a + door, he said, ‘Here, Kendal, here’s a new prescription for you.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia had a momentary view of a tabby-cat and kitten, a volume of + poetry, a wiry-haired terrier, and Gilbert, all lying promiscuously on the + hearth-rug, before the two last leaped up, the one to bark, and the other + to come forward with outstretched hand, and glad countenance. + </p> + <p> + He looked flushed and languid, but the roaring fire and close room might + account for that, and though, when the subject was mentioned, he gave a + short uncomfortable cough, Albinia’s mind was so far relieved, that she + was in doubt with whom to be angry, and prepared to stand on the + defensive, should her brother think him too well. + </p> + <p> + The gentlemen went away together, and Gilbert, grasping her hand, gave way + to one of his effusions of affection—‘So kind to come to him—he + knew he had her to trust to, whatever happened’—and he leant his + cheek on his hand in a melancholy mood. + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t be so piteous, Gibbie,’ she said. ‘You were quite right to tell us + you were not well, only you need not have been so very doleful, I don’t + like papa to be frightened.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought it was no use to go on in this way,’ said Gilbert, with a + cough: ‘it was the old thing over again, and nobody would believe I had + anything the matter with me.’ + </p> + <p> + And he commenced a formidable catalogue of symptoms which satisfied her + that Maurice would think him fully justified. Just at a point where it was + not easy to know what next to say, the kitten began to play tricks with + her mother’s tail, and a happy diversion was made; Gilbert began to + exhibit the various drolleries of the animals, to explain the friendship + between dog and cat, and to leave off coughing as he related anecdotes of + their sagacity; and finally, when the gentlemen returned, laughing was the + first sound they heard, and Mrs. Kendal was found sitting on the floor at + play with the livestock. + </p> + <p> + They had come to fetch her to see the church and schools, and on going + out, she found that Mr. Ferrars had moved and carried that Gilbert should + be taken home at once, and, on the way, be shown to a physician at the + county town. From this she gathered that Maurice was compassionate, and + though, of course, he would make no such admission, she had reason + afterwards to believe that he had shown Mr. Downton that the pupil’s + health ought to have met with a shade more attention. + </p> + <p> + With Gilbert wrapped up to the tip of his nose, they set off, and found + the doctor at home. Nothing could have been more satisfactory to Albinia, + for it gave her a triumph over her brother, without too much anxiety for + the future. The physician detected the injury to the lungs left by an + attack that the boy had suffered from in his first English winter, and had + scarcely outgrown when Albinia first knew him. The recent cold had so far + renewed the evil, that though no disease actually existed, the cough must + be watched, and exposure avoided; in fact, a licence for petting to any + extent was bestowed, and therewith every hope of recovery. + </p> + <p> + Albinia and her son sat in their corners of the carriage in secret + satisfaction, while Mr. Kendal related the doctor’s opinion to Mr. + Ferrars, but one of them, at least, was unprepared for the summing-up. + ‘Under the circumstances, Gilbert is most fortunate. A few years in his + native climate will quite set him up.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! but he is too old for Haileybury,’ burst out Albinia, in her + consternation. + </p> + <p> + ‘Nearly old enough for John Kendal’s bank, eh, Gilbert?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh!’ cried Albinia, ‘pray don’t let us talk of that while poor Gilbert is + so ill.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hm!’ said Mr. Kendal with interrogative surprise, almost displeasure, and + no more was said. + </p> + <p> + Albinia felt guilty, as she remembered that she had no more intended to + betray her dislike to the scheme, than to gratify Gilbert by calling him + ‘so ill.’ Aristocratic and military, she had no love for the monied + interest, and had so sedulously impressed on her friends that Mr. Kendal + had been in the Civil Service, and quite unconnected with the bank, that + Mr. Ferrars had told her she thought his respectability depended on it, + and she was ashamed that her brother should hear her give way again so + foolishly to the weakness. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert became the most talkative as they drew near home, and was the + first to spring out and open the hall door, displaying his two sisters + harnessed tandem-fashion with packthread, and driven at full speed by + little Maurice, armed with the veritable carriage whip! The next moment it + was thrown down, with a rapturous shout, and Maurice was lost to + everything but his brother! + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! girls, how could you let him serve you so?’ began the horrified + Albinia. ‘Sophy will be laid up for a week!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind,’ said Sophy, dropping on a chair. ‘Poor little fellow, he + wished it so much!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I tried to stop her, mamma,’ said Lucy, ‘but she will do as Maurice + pleases.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘See, this is the way they will spoil my boy, the instant my back is + turned!’ said Albinia. ‘What’s the use of all I can do with him, if every + one else will go and be his bond-slave! I do believe Sophy would let him + kill her, if he asked her!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is no real kindness,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘Their good-nature ought not to + go beyond reason.’ + </p> + <p> + The elder Maurice could hardly help shrugging his shoulders. Well did he + know that Mr. Kendal would have joined the team if such had been the will + of that sovereign in scarlet merino, who stood with one hand in Gilbert’s, + and the whip in the other. + </p> + <p> + ‘Come here, Maurice,’ quoth Albinia; ‘put down the whip,’ and she + extracted it from his grasp, with grave resolution, against which he made + no struggle, gave it to Lucy to be put away, and seated him on her knee. + ‘Now listen, Maurice; poor sister Sophy is tired, and you are never to + make a horse of her. Do you hear?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Maurice, fidgeting. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mind, if ever you make a horse of Sophy, mamma will put you into the + black cupboard. You understand?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy shan’t be horse,’ said Maurice. ‘Sophy naughty, lazy horse. Boy has + Gibbie—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There’s gratitude,’ said Mr. Ferrars, as ‘Boy’ slid off his mamma’s knee, + stood on tiptoe to pull the door open, and ran after Gilbert to + grandmamma’s room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Albinia, ‘no one is grateful for services beyond all reason. + So, Sophy, mind, into the cupboard he goes, the very next time you are so + silly as to be a horse.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To punish which of them?’ asked her brother. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy knows,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + Sophy was too miserable to smile. Sarah Anne Drury had been calling, and + on hearing of Gilbert’s indisposition, had favoured them with ‘mamma’s + remarks,’ and when Mrs. Kendal was blamed, Sophy had indignantly told + Sarah Anne that she knew nothing about it, and had no business to + interfere. Then followed the accusation, that Mrs. Kendal had set the + whole family against their old friends, and Sophy had found all her own + besetting sins charged upon her step-mother. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear!’ said Albinia, ‘don’t you know that if a royal tiger were to eat + up your cousin John in India, the Drurys would say Mrs. Kendal always let + the tigers run about loose! Nor am I sure that your faults are not my + fault. I helped you to be more exclusive and intolerant, and I am sure I + tried your temper, when I did not know what was the matter with you—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No—no,’ said the choked voice. It would have been an immense + comfort to cry, or even to be able to return the kiss; but she was a great + deal too wretched to be capable of any demonstration; physically exhausted + by being driven about by Maurice; mentally worn out by the attempts to be + amiable, which had degenerated into wrangling, full of remorse for having + made light of her brother’s illness, and, for that reason, persuaded that + she was to be punished by seeing it become fatal. Not a word of all this + did she say, but, dejected and silent, she spent the evening in a lonely + corner of the drawing-room, while her brother, in the full pleasure of + returning home, and greatly enjoying his invalid privileges, was + discussing the projected improvements. + </p> + <p> + Talking at last brought back his cough with real violence, and he was sent + to bed; Albinia went up with him to see that his fire burnt. He set Mr. + Ferrars’s drawing of the alms-houses over his mantelshelf. ‘I shall nail + it up to-morrow,’ he said. ‘I always wanted a picture here, and that’s a + jolly one to look to.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It would be a beautiful beginning,’ she said. ‘I think your life would go + the better for it, Gibbie.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose old nurse would be too grand for one,’ he said, ‘but I should + like to have her so near! And you must mind and keep old Mrs. Baker out of + the Union for it. And that famous old blind sailor! I shall put him up a + bench to sit in the sun, and spin his yarns on, and tell him to think + himself at Greenwich.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia went down, only afraid that his being so very good was a dangerous + symptom. + </p> + <p> + Sophy was far from well in the morning, and Albinia kept her upstairs, and + sent her godfather to make her a visit. He always did her good; he knew + how to probe deeply, and help her to speak, and he gave her advice with + more experience than his sister, and more encouragement than her father. + </p> + <p> + Sophy said little, but her eyes had a softened look. + </p> + <p> + ‘One good thing about Sophy,’ said he afterwards to his sister, ‘is, that + she will never talk her feelings to death.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That reserve is my great pain. I don’t get at the real being once in six + months.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So much the better for people living together.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I was thinking that you and I are a great deal more intimate and + confidential when we meet now, than we used to be when we were always + together.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘People can’t be often confidential from the innermost when they live + together,’ said Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Since I have been a Kendal, such has been my experience.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was the same before, only we concealed it by an upper surface of + chatter,’ said Maurice. ‘“As iron sharpeneth iron, so doth a man the + countenance of his friend;” but if the mutual sharpening went on without + intermission, both irons would wear away, and no work would be done. + Aren’t you coming with me? Edmund is going to drive me to Woodside to meet + the pony-carriage from home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish I could; but you see what happens when I go out pleasuring!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, you can take one element of mischief with you—that imp, + Maurice.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ye—es. Papa would like it, if you do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should like you to come on worse terms.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very well, then; and Sophy is safe; I had already asked Genevieve to come + and read to her this afternoon. If Gilbert can spare me, I will go.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert did not want her, and begged Lucy not to think of staying indoors + on his account. He was presently left in solitary possession of the + drawing-room, whereupon he rose, settled his brown locks at the glass, + arranged his tie, brushed his cuffs, leisurely walked upstairs, and tapped + at the door of the morning-room, meekly asking, ‘May I come in?’ with a + cough at each end of the sentence. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Gilbert!’ cried his anxious sister, starting up. ‘Are you come to see + me?’ and she would have wheeled round her father’s arm-chair for him, but + Genevieve was beforehand with her, and he sank into it, saying + pathetically, ‘Ah! thank you, Miss Durant; you are come to a perfect + hospital. Oh! this is too much,’ as she further gave him a footstool. ‘Oh! + no, thank you, Sophy,’ for she would have handed Genevieve her own pillow + for his further support; ‘this is delightful!’ reclining pathetically in + his chair. ‘This is not like Traversham.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where they would not believe he was ill!’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope he does not look so very ill,’ said Genevieve, cheerfully, but + this rather hurt the feelings of both; the one said, ‘Oh! but he is + terribly pale,’ the other coughed, and said, ‘Looks are deceitful.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That is the very reason,’ said Genevieve. ‘You don’t look deceitful + enough to be so ill—so ill as Miss Sophie fears; now you are at + home, and well cared for, you will soon be well.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Care would have prevented it all,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘And not brought me home!’ said Gilbert. ‘Home is home on any terms. No + one there had the least idea a fellow could ever be unwell or out of + spirits!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you must have been ill,’ cried his sister, ‘you who never used to be + miserable!’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert gave a sigh. ‘They were such mere boys,’ he said. + </p> + <p> + ‘Monsieur votre Precepteur?’ asked Genevieve. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! he was otherwise occupied!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is some mystery beneath,’ said Genevieve, turning to Sophy, who + exclaimed abruptly, ‘Oh! is he in love?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy goes to the point,’ said Gilbert, smiling, the picture of languid + comfort; ‘but I own there are suspicious circumstances. He always has a + photograph in his pocket, and Price has seen him looking at it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! depend upon it, Miss Sophy, it is all a romance of these young + gentlemen,’ said Genevieve, turning to her with a droll provoking air of + confidence; ‘ce pauvre Monsieur had the portrait of his sister!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Catch me carrying Sophy’s face in my waistcoat pocket, cried Gilbert, + forgetting his languor. + </p> + <p> + ‘Speak for yourself, Mr. Gilbert,’ laughed Genevieve. + </p> + <p> + ‘And he writes letters every day, and wont let any of us put them into the + post for him; but we know the direction begins with Miss—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! the curious boys!’ cried Genevieve. ‘If I could only hint to this + poor tutor to let them read Miss Downton on one!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I assure you,’ cried Gilbert, ‘Price has laid a bet that she’s an heiress + with forty thousand pounds and red hair.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Price is an impertinent! I hope you will inform me how he looks when + he is the loser.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But he has seen her! He met Mr. Downton last Christmas in Regent Street, + in a swell carriage, with a lady with such carrots, he thought her bonnet + was on fire; and Mr. Downton never saw Price, though he bowed to him, and + you know nobody would marry a woman with red hair unless she was an + heiress.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Miss Sophy,’ whispered Genevieve, ‘prepare for a red-haired + sister-in-law. I predict that every one of the pupils of the respectable + Mr. Downton will marry ladies with lively chestnut locks.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What, you think me so mercenary, Genevieve?’ said Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘I only hope to see this school-boy logic well revenged!’ said Genevieve. + ‘Mrs. Price shall have locks of orange red, and for Mrs. Gilbert Kendal—ah! + we will content ourselves with her having a paler shade—sandy gold.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Gilbert, speaking slowly, turning round his eyes. ‘I could tell + you what Mrs. G. Kendal’s hair will be—’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve let this drop, and said, ‘You do not want me: good-bye, Miss + Sophie.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Going! why, you came to read to me, Genevieve,’ exclaimed Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! I beg your pardon, I have been interrupting you all this time,’ cried + Gilbert; ‘I never meant to disturb you. Pray let me listen.’ + </p> + <p> + And Genevieve read while Gilbert resumed his reclining attitude, with + half-closed eyes, listening to the sweet intonations and pretty refined + accent of the ancien regime. + </p> + <p> + Sophy enjoyed this exceedingly, she made it her especial occupation to + take care of Gilbert, and enter into his fireside amusements. This + indisposition had drawn the two nearer together, and essentially unlike as + they were, their two characters seemed to be fitting well one into the + other. His sentiment accorded with her strain of romance, and they read + poetry and had discussions as they sat over the fire, growing constantly + into greater intimacy and confidence. Sophy waited on him, and watched him + perpetually, and her assiduity was imparting a softness and warmth quite + new to her, while the constant occupation kept affronts and vexations out + of her sight, and made her amiable. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert’s health improved, though with vicissitudes that enforced the + necessity of prudence. Rash when well, and desponding at each renewal of + illness, he was not easy to manage, but he was always so gentle, grateful, + and obliging, that he endeared himself to the whole household. It was no + novelty for him to be devoted to his step-mother and his little brother, + but he was likewise very kind to Lucy, and spent much time in helping in + her pursuits; he was becoming companionable to his father, and could play + at chess sufficiently well to be a worthy antagonist in Mr. Kendal’s + scientific and interminable games. He would likewise play at backgammon + with grandmamma, and could entertain her for hours together by listening + to her long stories of the old Bayford world. He was a favourite in her + little society, and would often take a hand at cards to make up a rubber, + nay, even when not absolutely required, he was very apt to bestow his + countenance upon the little parties, where he had the pleasure of being + treated as a great man, and which, at least, had the advantage of making a + variation in his imprisonment during the east winds. + </p> + <p> + Madame Belmarche and her daughter and grandchild were sometimes of the + party, and on these occasions, Sophy always claimed Genevieve, and usually + succeeded in carrying her off when Gilbert would often join them. Their + books and prints were a great treat to her; Gilbert had a beautiful + illustrated copy of Longfellow’s poems, and the engravings and + ‘Evangeline’ were their enjoyment; Gilbert regularly proffering the loan + of the book, and she as regularly refusing it, and turning a deaf ear to + gentle insinuations of the pleasure of knowing that an book of his was in + her hands. Gilbert had never had much of the schoolboy manner, and he was + adopting a gentle, pathetic tone, at which Albinia was apt to laugh, but + in her absence was often verged upon tendresse, especially with Genevieve. + She, however, by her perfect simplicity and lively banter, always nipped + the bud of his sentiment, she had known him from a child, and never lost + the sense of being his elder, treating him somewhat as a boy to be played + with. Perfectly aware of her own position, her demeanour, frank and + gracious as it was, had something in it which kept in check other Bayford + youths less gentlemanlike than Gilbert Kendal. If she never forgot that + she was dancing-master’s daughter, she never let any one else forget that + she was a lady. + </p> + <p> + When the building began, Gilbert had a wholesome occupation, saving his + father some trouble and—not quite so much expense by overlooking the + workmen. Mr. Kendal was glad to be spared giving orders and speaking to + people, and would always rather be overcharged than be at the pains of + bargaining or inquiring. ‘It was Gilbert’s own house,’ he said, ‘and it + was good for the boy to take an interest in it, and not to be too much + interfered with.’ So the bay window and the conservatory were some degrees + grander than Mr. Ferrars had proposed but all was excused by the pleasure + and experience they afforded Gilbert, and it was very droll to see Maurice + following him about after the workmen, watching them most knowingly, and + deep in mischief at every opportunity. Once he had been up to his knees in + a tempting blancmanger-like lake of lime, many times had he hammered or + cut his fingers, and once his legs had gone through the new drawing-room + ceiling, where he hung by the petticoats screaming till rescued by his + brother. The room was under these auspices finished, and was a very + successful affair—the conservatory, in which the hall terminated, + and into which a side door of the drawing-room opened, gave a bright + fragrant, flowery air to the whole house; and the low fireplace and + comfortable fan-shaped fender made the room very cheerful. Fresh + delicately-tinted furniture, chosen con amore by the London aunts, had + made the apartment very unlike old Willow-Lawn, and Albinia had so much + enjoyed setting it off to the best advantage, that she sent word to + Winifred that she was really becoming a furniture fancier. + </p> + <p> + It was a very pretty paper, and some choice prints hung on it, but Albinia + and Sophy had laid violent hands on all the best-looking books, and kept + them for the equipment of one of the walls. The rest were disposed, for + Mr. Kendal’s delectation, in the old drawing-room, henceforth to be named + the library. Lucy thought it sounded better, and he was quite as willing + as Albinia was that the name of study should be extinct. Meantime Mr. + Downton had verified the boys’ prediction by writing to announce that he + was about to marry and give up pupils. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was past seventeen, and it was time to decide on his profession. + Albinia had virtuously abstained from any hint adverse to the house of + Kendal and Kendal, for she knew it hurt her husband’s feelings to hear any + disparagement of the country where he had spent some of his happiest + years. He was fond of his cousins, and knew that they would give his son a + safe and happy home, and he believed that the climate was exactly what his + health needed. + </p> + <p> + Sophy fired at the idea. Her constant study of the subject and her vivid + imagination had taken the place of memory, which could supply nothing but + the glow of colouring and the dazzling haze which enveloped all the forms + that she would fain believe that she remembered. She and her father would + discuss Indian scenery as if they had been only absent from it a year, she + envied Gilbert his return thither, but owned that it was the next thing to + going herself, and was already beginning to amass a hoard of English gifts + for the old ayahs and bearers who still lived in her recollection, in + preparation for the visit which on his first holiday her brother must pay + to her birthplace and first home. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert, however, took no part in this enthusiasm, he made no opposition, + but showed no alacrity; and at last his father asked Albinia whether she + knew of any objection on his part, or any design which he might be + unwilling to put forward. With a beating heart she avowed her cherished + scheme. + </p> + <p> + ‘Is this his own proposal?’ asked Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘No; he has never spoken of it, but your plan has always seemed so decided + that perhaps he thinks he has no choice.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That is not what I wish,’ said his father. ‘If his inclinations be + otherwise, he has only to speak, and I will consider.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Shall I sound him?’ suggested Albinia, dreading the timidity that always + stood between the boy and his father. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do not inspire him with the wish and then imagine it his own,’ said Mr. + Kendal; and then thinking he had spoken sternly, added ‘I know you would + be the last to wish him to take holy orders inconsiderately, but you have + such power over him, that I question whether he would know his wishes from + yours.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia began to disavow the desire of actuating him. + </p> + <p> + ‘You would not intend it, but he would catch the desire from you, and I + own I would rather he were not inspired with it. If he now should express + it, I should fear it was the unconscious effort to escape from India. If + it had been his brother Edmund, I would have made any sacrifice, but I do + not think Gilbert has the energy or force of character I should wish to + see in a clergyman, nor do I feel willing to risk him at the university.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Edmund, why will you distrust Oxford? Why will you not believe what I + know through Maurice and his friends?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If my poor boy had either the disposition or the discipline of your + brother, I should not feel the same doubt.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice had no discipline except at school and when William licked him,’ + cried Albinia. ‘You know he was but eleven years old when my father died, + and my aunts spoilt us without mitigation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I said the disposition,’ repeated Mr. Kendal; ‘I can see nothing in + Gilbert marking him for a clergyman, and I think him susceptible to the + temptations that you cannot deny to exist at any college. Nor would I + desire to see him fixed here, until he has seen something of life and of + business, for which this bank affords the greatest facilities with the + least amount of temptation. He would also be doing something for his own + support; and with the life-interests upon his property, he must be + dependent on his own exertions, unless I were to do more for him than + would be right by the other children.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then I am to say nothing to him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will speak to him myself. He is quite old enough to understand his + prospects and decide for himself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, Edmund,’ cried Albinia, with sudden vehemence, ‘you are not + sacrificing Gilbert for Maurice’s sake?’ + </p> + <p> + She had more nearly displeased him than she had ever done before, though + he looked up quietly, saying, ‘Certainly not. I am not sacrificing + Gilbert, and I should do the same if Maurice were not in existence.’ + </p> + <p> + She was too much ashamed of her foolish fancy to say more, and she cooled + into candour sufficient to perceive that he was wise in distrusting her + tact where her preference was so strong. But she foresaw that Gilbert + would shrink and falter before his father, and that the conference would + lead to no discovery of his views, and she was not surprised when her + husband told her that he could not understand the boy, and believed that + the truth was, that he would like to do nothing at all. It had ended by + Mr. Kendal, in a sort of despair, undertaking to write to his cousin John + for a statement of what would be required, after which the decision was to + be made. + </p> + <p> + Meantime Mr. Kendal advised Gilbert to attend to arithmetic and + book-keeping, and offered to instruct him in his long-forgotten + Hindostanee. Sophy learnt all these with all her heart, but Gilbert always + had a pain in his chest if he sat still at any kind of study! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. + </h2> + <p> + Colonel Bury was the most open-hearted old bachelor in the country. His + imagination never could conceive the possibility of everybody not being + glad to meet everybody, his house could never be too full, his + dinner-parties of ‘a few friends’ overflowed the dining-room, and his + ‘nobody’ meant always at least six bodies. Every season was fertile in + occasions of gathering old and young together to be made happy, and little + Mary Ferrars, at five years old, had told her mamma that ‘the Colonel’s + parties made her quite dissipated.’ + </p> + <p> + One bright summer day, his beaming face appeared at Willow-Lawn with a + peremptory invitation. His nephew and heir had newly married a friend of + Albinia’s girlhood, and was about to pay his wedding visit. Too happy to + keep his guests to himself, the Colonel had fixed the next Thursday for a + fete, and wanted all the world to come to it—the Kendals, every one + of them—if they could only sleep there—but Albinia brought him + to confession that he had promised to lodge five people more than the + house would hold; and the aunts were at the parsonage, where nobody + ventured to crowd their servants. + </p> + <p> + But there was a moon—and though Mr. Kendal would not allow that she + was the harvest moon, the hospitable Colonel dilated on her as if she had + been bed, board, and lodging, and he did not find much difficulty in his + persuasions. + </p> + <p> + Few invitations ever gave more delight; Albinia appreciated a holiday to + the utmost, and the whole family was happy at Sophy’s chance of at length + seeing Fairmead, and taking part in a little gaiety. And if Mr. Kendal’s + expectations of pleasure were less high, he submitted very well, smiled + benignantly at the felicity around him, and was not once seen to shudder. + </p> + <p> + Sarah Anne Drury had been invited to enliven grandmamma, and every one + augured a beautiful day and perfect enjoyment. The morning was beautiful, + but alas! Sophy was hors de combat, far too unwell to think of making one + of the party. She bore the disappointment magnanimously, and even the + pity. Every one was sorry, and Gilbert wanted her to go and wait at + Fairmead Parsonage for the chance of improving, promising to come and + fetch her for any part of the entertainment; and her father told her that + he had looked to her as his chief companion while the gay people were + taking their pleasure. No one was uncomfortably generous enough to offer + to stay at home with her; but Lucy suggested asking Genevieve to come and + take care of her. + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay,’ said Sophy, ‘it would be much better if she were to go in my + stead.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert and Lucy both uttered an exclamation; and Sophy added, ‘She would + have so much more enjoyment than I could! Oh, it would quite make up for + my missing it!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear,’ said grandmamma, ‘you don’t know what you are talking of. It + would be taking such a liberty.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There need be no scruples on that score,’ said Albinia; ‘the Colonel + would only thank me if I brought him half Bayford.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then,’ cried Sophy, ‘you think we may ask her? Oh, I should like to run + up myself;’—and a look of congratulation and gratitude passed + between her and her brother. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, indeed, you must not, let me go,’ said Lucy, ‘I’ll just finish this + cup of tea—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, my dear,’ interposed Mrs. Meadows, ‘pray consider. She is a very + good little girl in her way, but it is only giving her a taste for things + out of her station.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! don’t say that, dear grandmamma,’ interposed Albinia, ‘one good + festival does carry one so much better through days of toil!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, well! my dear, you will do as you think proper; but considering who + the poor child is, I should call it no kindness to bring her forward in + company.’ + </p> + <p> + Something passed between the indignant Gilbert and Sophy about French + counts and marquises, but Lucy managed much better. ‘Dear me, grandmamma, + nobody wishes to bring her forward. She will only play with the children, + and see the fireworks, and no one will speak to her.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia averted further discussion till grandmamma had left the + breakfast-table, when all four appealed with one voice to Mr. Kendal, who + saw no objection, whereupon Lucy ran off, while Albinia finished her + arrangements for the well-being of grandmamma, Sophy, and Maurice, who + were as difficult to manage as the fox, goose, and cabbage. At every turn + she encountered Gilbert, touching up his toilette at each glass, and + seriously consulting her and Sophy upon the choice between lilac and + lemon-coloured gloves, and upon the bows of his fringed neck-tie. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Gilbert,’ said Albinia, on the fifth anxious alternative, ‘it is + of no use. No living creature will be the wiser, and do what you will, you + will never look half so well as your father.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert flung aside, muttering something about ‘fit to be seen,’ but just + then Lucy hurried in. ‘Oh! mamma, she wont go—she is very much + obliged, but she can’t go.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Can’t! she must,’ cried Albinia and Gilbert together. + </p> + <p> + ‘She says you are very kind, but that she cannot. I said everything I + could; I told her she should wear Sophy’s muslin mantle, or my second best + polka.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No doubt you went and made a great favour of it,’ said Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I assure you I did not; I persuaded her with all my might; I said + mamma wished it, and we all wished it; and I am sure she would really have + been very glad if she could have gone.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It can’t be the school, it is holiday time,’ said Gilbert. ‘I’ll go and + see what is the matter.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I will go,’ said Albinia, ‘I will ask the old ladies to luncheon + here, and that will make her happy, and make it easier for Sophy to get on + with Sarah Anne Drury.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy had seen Genevieve alone; Albinia took her by storm before Madame + Belmarche, whose little black eyes sparkled as she assured Mrs. Kendal + that the child merited that and every other pleasure; and when Genevieve + attempted to whisper objections, silenced her with an embrace, saying, + ‘Ah! my love, where is your gratitude to Madame? Have no fears for us. + Your pleasure will be ours for months to come.’ + </p> + <p> + The liquid sweetness of Genevieve’s eyes spoke of no want of gratitude, + and with glee which she no longer strove to repress, she tripped away to + equip herself, and Albinia heard her clear young voice upstairs, singing + away the burthen of some queer old French ditty. + </p> + <p> + Albinia found Gilbert and Sophy in disgrace with Lucy for having gathered + the choicest flowers, which they were eagerly making up into bouquets. + Genevieve’s was ready before she arrived in the prettiest tremor of + gratitude and anticipation, and presented to her by Gilbert, whilst Sophy + looked on, and blushed crimson, face, neck, and all, as Genevieve smelt + and admired the white roses that had so cruelly been reft from Lucy’s + beloved tree. + </p> + <p> + With every advantage of pretty features, good complexion, and nice figure, + the English Lucy, in her blue-and-white checked silk, worked muslin + mantle, and white chip bonnet with blue ribbons, was eclipsed by the small + swarthy French girl, in that very old black silk dress, and white trimmed + coarse straw bonnet, just enlivened by little pink bows at the neck and + wrists. It had long been acknowledged that Genevieve was unrivalled in the + art of tying bows, and those pink ones were paragons, redolent of all her + own fresh sprightly archness and refinement. Albinia herself was the best + representative of English good looks, and never had she been more + brilliant, her rich chestnut hair waving so prettily on the rounded + contour of her happy face, her fair cheek tinted with such a healthy fresh + bloom, her grey eyes laughing with merry softness, her whole person so + alert and elastic with exuberant life and enjoyment, that grandmamma was + as happy in watching her as if she had been her own daughter, and stroked + down the broad flounces of her changeable silk, and admired her black + lace, as if she felt the whole family exalted by Mrs. Kendal’s appearance. + </p> + <p> + It was a merry journey, through the meadows and corn-fields, laughing in + the summer sunshine, and in due time they saw the flag upon Fairmead + steeple, and Albinia nodded to curtseying old friends at the cottage + doors. The lodge gate swung open wide, and the well-known striped marquee + was seen among the trees in the distance, as they went up the carriage + road; but at the little iron gate leading to the shrubbery there was a + halt; Mr. Ferrars called to the carriage to stop, and opened the door. At + the same moment Albinia gave a cry of wonder, and exclaimed, ‘Why, Fred? + is William here?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; at Montreal, but very well,’ was the answer, with a hearty shake of + the hand. + </p> + <p> + ‘Edmund, it is Fred Ferrars,’ said Albinia. ‘Why, Maurice, you never told + us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He took us by surprise yesterday.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes; I landed yesterday morning, went to the Family Office, found + Belraven was nowhere, and the aunts at Fairmead, and so came on here,’ + explained Fred, as he finished shaking hands with all the party, and + walked on beside Albinia. He was tall, fresh-coloured, a good deal like + her, with a long fair moustache, and light, handsome figure; and Lucy, + though rather disconcerted at Genevieve being taken for one of themselves, + began eagerly to whisper her conviction that he was Lord Belraven’s + brother, mamma’s first cousin, captain in the 25th Lancers, and + aide-de-camp to General Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + It was the first meeting since an awkward parting. The only son of a + foolish second marriage, and early left an orphan, Frederick Ferrars bad + grown up under the good aunts’ charge, somewhat neglected by his + half-brother, by many years his senior. He was little older than Albinia, + and a merry, bantering affection had always subsisted between them, till + he had begun to give it the air of something more than friendship. Albinia + was, however, of a nature to seek for something of depth and repose, on + which to rely for support and anchorage. Fred’s vivacious disposition had + never for a moment won her serious attachment; she was ‘very fond of him,’ + but no more; her heart was set on sharing her brother’s life as a country + pastor. She went to Fairmead, Fred was carried off by the General to + Canada, and she presently heard of his hopeless attachment to a lovely + Yankee, whom he met on board the steamer. All this was now cast behind the + seven most eventful years of Albinia’s life; and in the dignity of her + matronhood, she looked more than ever on ‘poor Fred’ as a boy, and was + delighted to see him again, and to hear of her brother William. + </p> + <p> + A few steps brought them to the shade of the large cedar-tree, where was + seated Winifred, and Mrs. Annesley was with her. The greetings had hardly + been exchanged before the Colonel came upon them in all his glory, with + his pretty shy bride niece on his arm, looking very like the Alice Percy + of the old times, when Fred used to tease the two girls. + </p> + <p> + Genevieve was made heartily welcome, and Sophia’s absence deplored, and + then the Colonel carried off the younger ones to the archery, giving his + arm to the much-flattered Lucy, and followed by Gilbert and Genevieve, + with Willie and Mary adhering to them closely, and their governess in + sight. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars and Mr. Kendal fell into one of their discussions, and paced + up and down the shady walk, while Albinia sat, in the complete + contentment, between Alice and Winifred, with Fred Ferrars on the turf at + their feet, living over again the bygone days, laughing over ancient + jokes, resuscitating past scrapes, tracing the lot of old companions, or + telling mischievous anecdotes of each other, for the very purpose of being + contradicted. They were much too light-hearted to note the lapse of time, + till Maurice came to take his wife home, thinking she had had fatigue + enough. Mrs. Annesley went with her, and Albinia, on looking for her + husband, was told that he had fallen in with some old Indian + acquaintances; and Charles Bury presently came to find his wife, and + conduct the party to luncheon. There was no formal meal, but a perpetual + refection laid out in the dining-room, for relays of guests. Fred took + care of Albinia and here they met Miss Ferrars, who had been with one of + her old friends, to whom she was delighted to exhibit her nephew and niece + in their prime of good looks. + </p> + <p> + ‘But I must go,’ said Albinia; ‘having found the provisions, I must secure + that Mr. Kendal and the children are not famished.’ + </p> + <p> + Fred came with her, and she turned down the long alley leading to the + archery-ground. He felt old times so far renewed as to resume their habits + of confidence, and began, ‘I suppose the General has not told you what has + brought me home?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He has not so much as told me you were coming.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay, ay, of course you know how he treats those things.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh—h!’ said Albinia, perfectly understanding. + </p> + <p> + ‘But,’ continued Frederick, eagerly, ‘even he confesses that she is the + very sweetest—I mean,’ as Albinia smiled at this evident + embellishment, ‘even he has not a word of objection to make except the old + story about married officers.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And who is <i>she</i>, Fred?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma, there you are!’ and Lucy joined them as they emerged on the + bowling-green, where stood the two bright targets, and the groups of + archers, whose shafts, for the most part, flew far and wide. + </p> + <p> + ‘Where are the rest, my dear? are they shooting?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes; Gilbert has been teaching Genevieve—there, she is shooting + now.’ + </p> + <p> + The little light figure stood in advance. Gilbert held her arrows, and + another gentleman appeared to be counselling her. There seemed to be + general exultation when one of her arrows touched the white ring outside + the target. + </p> + <p> + ‘That has been her best shot,’ said Lucy. ‘I am sure I would not shoot in + public unless I knew how!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you not like shooting?’ asked Captain Ferrars; and Lucy smiled, and + lost her discontented air. + </p> + <p> + ‘It hurts my fingers, she said; ‘and I have always so much to do in the + garden.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia asked if she had had anything to eat. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, yes; the Colonel asked Gilbert to carve in the tent there, for the + children and governesses,’ said Lucy, ‘he and Genevieve were very busy + there, but I found I was not of much use so, I came away with the Miss + Bartons to look at the flowers, but now they are shooting, and I could not + think what had become of you.’ + </p> + <p> + And Lucy bestowed her company on Albinia and the Captain, reducing him to + dashing, disconnected talk, till they met Mr. Kendal, searching for them + in the same fear that they were starving, and anxious to introduce his + wife to his Indian friends. When at the end of the path, Albinia looked + round, the Lancer had disappeared, and Lucy was walking by her father, + trying to look serenely amused by a discussion on the annexation of the + Punjaub. + </p> + <p> + The afternoon was spent in pleasant loitering, chiefly with Miss Ferrars, + who asked much after Sophy, lamented greatly over Winifred’s delicate + health, and was very anxious to know what could have brought Fred home, + being much afraid it was some fresh foolish attachment. + </p> + <p> + Ominous notes were heard from the band, and the Colonel came to tell them + that there was to be dancing till it was dark enough for the fireworks, + his little Alice had promised him her first country-dance. Fred Ferrars + emerged again with a half-laughing, half-imploring, ‘For the sake of old + times, Albinia! We’ve been partners before!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You’ll take care of Lucy,’ said Albinia, turning to her aunt; but Mr. + Winthrop had already taken pity on her, and Albinia was led off by her + cousin to her place in the fast lengthening rank. How she enjoyed it! She + had cared little for London balls after the first novelty, but these + Fairmead dances on the turf had always had an Arcadian charm to her fancy, + and were the more delightful after so long an interval, in the renewal of + the old scene, and the recognition of so many familiar faces. + </p> + <p> + With bounding step and laughing lips, she flew down the middle, more + exhilarated every moment, exchanging merry scraps of talk with her partner + or bright fragments as she poussetted with pair after pair; and when the + dance was over, with glowing complexion and eyes still dancing, she took + Fred’s arm, and heard the renewal of his broken story—the praise of + his Emily, the fairest of Canadians, whom even the General could not + dislike, though, thorough soldier as he was, he would fain have had all + military men as devoid of encumbrances as himself, and thought an + officer’s wife one of the most misplaced articles in the world. Poor Fred + had been in love so often, that he laboured under the great vexation of + not being able to persuade any of his friends to regard his passion + seriously, but Albinia was quite sisterly enough to believe him this time, + and give full sympathy to his hopes and fears. Far less wealth had fallen + to his lot than to that of his cousins, and his marriage must depend on + what his brother would ‘do for him,’ a point on which he tried to be + sanguine, and Albinia encouraged him against probability, for Lord + Belraven was never liberal towards his relations, and had lately married + an expensive wife, with whom he lived chiefly abroad. + </p> + <p> + This topic was not exhausted when Fred fell a prey to the Colonel, who + insisted on his dancing again, and Albinia telling him to do his duty, he + turned towards a group that had coalesced round Miss Ferrars, consisting + of Lucy, Gilbert, Genevieve, and the children from the parsonage, and at + once bore off the little Frenchwoman, leaving more than one countenance + blank. Lucy and Willie did their best for mutual consolation, while + Albinia undertook to preside over her niece and a still smaller partner in + red velvet, in a quadrille. It was amusing to watch the puzzled downright + motions of the sturdy little bluff King Hal, and the earnest precision of + the prim little damsel, and Albinia hovering round, now handing one, now + pointing to the other, keeping lightly out of every one’s way, and far + more playful than either of the small performers in this solemn + undertaking. As it concluded she found that Mr. Kendal had been watching + her, with much entertainment, and she was glad to take his arm, and assure + herself that he had not been miserable, but had been down to the + parsonage, where he had read the newspaper in peace, and had enjoyed a cup + of tea in quiet with Winifred and Mrs. Annesley. + </p> + <p> + The dancing had been transferred to the tent, which presented a very + pretty scene from without, looking through the drooping festoons of + evergreens at the lamps and the figures flitting to and fro in their + measured movements, while the shrubs and dark foliage of the trees fell + into gloom around; and above, the sky assumed the deep tranquil blue of + night, the pale bright stars shining out one by one. The Kendals were + alone in the terrace, far enough from the gay tumult to be sensible of the + contrast. + </p> + <p> + ‘How beautiful!’ said Albinia: ‘it is like a poem.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I was just thinking so,’ he answered. + </p> + <p> + ‘This is the best part of all,’ she said, feeling, though hardly + expressing to herself the repose of his lofty, silent serenity, standing + aloof from gaiety and noise. She could have compared him and her lively + cousin to the evening stillness contrasted with the mirthful scene in the + tent; and though her nature seemed to belong to the busy world, her best + enjoyment lay with what calmed and raised her above herself; and she was + perfectly happy, standing still with her arm upon that of her silent + husband. + </p> + <p> + ‘These things are well imagined,’ said he. ‘The freedom and absence of + formality give space for being alone and quiet.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Albinia, saucily, ‘when that is what you go into society for.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have me there,’ he said, smiling; ‘but I must own how much I enjoyed + coming back from the parsonage by myself. I am glad we brought that little + Genevieve; she seems to be so perfectly in her element. I saw her amusing + a set of little children in the prettiest, most animated way; and + afterwards, when the young people were playing at some game, her gestures + were so sprightly and graceful, that no one could look at the English + girls beside her. Indeed I think she was making quite a sensation; your + cousin seemed to admire her very much. If she were but in another station, + she would shine anywhere.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How much you have seen, Edmund!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have been a spectator, you an actor,’ he said, smiling. + </p> + <p> + Her quiescence did not long continue, for the poor people had begun to + assemble on the gravel road before the front door to see the fireworks, + and she hurried away to renew her acquaintance with her village friends, + guessing at them in the dark, asking after old mothers and daughters at + service, inquiring the names of new babies, and whether the old ones were + at school, and excusing herself for having become ‘quite a stranger.’ + </p> + <p> + In the midst—whish—hiss, with steady swiftness, up shot in the + dark purple air the first rocket, bursting and scattering a rain of stars. + There was an audible gasp in the surrounding homely world, a few little + cries, and a big boy clutched tight hold of her arm, saying, ‘I be + afeard.’ She was explaining away his alarms, when she heard her brother’s + voice, and found her arm drawn into his. + </p> + <p> + ‘Here you are, then,’ he said; ‘I thought I heard your voice.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Maurice, I have hardly seen you. Let us have a nice quiet turn in the + park together.’ + </p> + <p> + He resisted, saying, ‘I don’t approve of parents and guardians losing + themselves. What have you done with all your children?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What have you done with yours?’ retorted she. + </p> + <p> + ‘I left Willie and Mary at the window with their governess, I came to see + that these other children of mine were orderly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Most proper, prudential, and exemplary Maurice!’ his sister laughed. ‘Now + I have an equally hearty belief in my children being somewhere, sure to + turn up when wanted. Come, I want to get out from the trees to look for + Colonel Bury’s harvest moon, for I believe she is an imposition.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I’m not coming. You, don’t understand your duties. Your young ladies + ought always to know where to find you, and you where to find them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Maurice, what must you have suffered before you imported Winifred to + chaperon me!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are in so mad a mood that I shall attempt only one moral maxim, and + that is, that no one should set up for a chaperon, till she has retired + from business on her own account.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s a stroke at my dancing with poor Fred, but it was his only chance + of speaking to me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not particularly at the dancing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, then—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You’ll see, by-and-bye. It was not your fault if those girls were not in + all sorts of predicaments.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe you think life is made up of predicaments. And I want to hear + whether William has written to you anything about poor Fred.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Only that he is more mad than ever, and that he let him go, thinking that + there is no chance of Belraven helping him, but that it may wear itself + out on the journey.’ + </p> + <p> + A revolving circle shedding festoons of purple and crimson jets of fire + made all their talk interjectional, and they had by this time reached the + terrace, where all the company were assembled, the open windows at regular + intervals casting bewildering lights on the heads and shoulders in front + of them. Then out burst a grand wheat-sheaf of yellow flame with crimson + ears and beards, by whose light Albinia recognised Gilbert standing close + to her in the shadow, and asked him where the rest where.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t tell; Lucy and my father were here just now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Are you feeling the chill, Gilbert?’ asked Albinia, struck by something + in his tone. ‘You had better look from the window.’ + </p> + <p> + He neither moved nor made answer, but a great illumination of Colonel + Bury’s coat-of-arms, with Roman candles and Chinese trees at the four + corners, engrossed every eye, and flashing on every face, enabled Albinia + to join Mr. Kendal, who was with Lucy and Miss Ferrars. No one knew where + Genevieve was, but Albinia was confident that she could take good care of + herself, and was not too uneasy to enjoy the grand representation of + Windsor Castle, and the finale of interlaced ciphers amidst a multitude of + little fretful sputtering tongues of flame. Then it was, amid good nights, + donning of shawls, and announcing of carriages, that Captain Ferrars and + Miss Durant made their appearance together, having been ‘looking + everywhere for Mrs. Kendal,’ and it was not in the nature of a brother not + to look a little arch, though Albinia returned him as resolute and + satisfied a glance as could express ‘Well, what of that?’ + </p> + <p> + In consideration of the night air, Mr. Kendal put Gilbert inside the + carriage, and mounted the box, to revel in the pleasures of silence. The + four within talked incessantly and compared adventures. Lucy had been + gratified by being patronized by Miss Ferrars, and likewise had much to + say of the smaller fry, and went into raptures about many a ‘dear little + thing,’ none of whom would, however, stand a comparison with Maurice; + Gilbert was critical upon every one’s beauty; and Genevieve was more + animated than all, telling anecdotes with great piquancy, and rehearsing + the comical Yankee stories she had heard from Captain Ferrars. She had + enjoyed with the zest and intensity of a peculiarly congenial temperament, + and she seemed not to be able to cease from working off her excitement in + repetitions of her thanks, and in discussing the endless delights the day + had afforded. + </p> + <p> + But the day had begun early, and the way was long, so remarks became + scanty, and answers were brief and went astray, and Albinia thought she + was travelling for ever to Montreal, when she was startled by a pettish + exclamation from Lucy, ‘Is that all! It was not worth while to wake me + only to see the moon.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg your pardon,’ said Genevieve, ‘but I thought Mrs. Kendal wished to + see it rise.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you, Genevieve,’ said Albinia, opening her sleepy eyes; ‘she is as + little worth seeing as a moon can well be, a waning moon does well to keep + untimely hours.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why do you think she is so much more beautiful in the crescent, Mrs. + Kendal?’ said Genevieve, in the most wakeful manner. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m sure I don’t know,’ said Albinia, subsiding into her corner. + </p> + <p> + ‘Is it from the situation of the mountains in the moon?’ continued the + pertinacious damsel. + </p> + <p> + ‘In Africa!’ said Albinia, well-nigh asleep, but Genevieve’s laugh roused + her again, partly because she thought it less mannerly than accorded with + the girl’s usual politeness. No mere sleep was allowed her; an + astronomical passion seemed to have possessed the young lady, and she + dashed into the tides, and the causes of the harvest-moon, and volcanoes, + and thunderbolts, and Lord Rosse’s telescope, forcing her tired friend to + reply by direct appeals, till Albinia almost wished her in the moon + herself; and was rejoiced when in the dim greyness of the early summer + dawn, the carriage drew up at Madame Belmarche’s house. As the light from + the weary maid’s candle flashed on Genevieve’s face, it revealed such a + glow of deep crimson on each brown cheek, that Albinia perceived that the + excitement must have been almost fever, and went to bed speculating on the + strange effects of a touch of gaiety on the hereditary French nature, + startling her at once from her graceful propriety and humility of + demeanour, into such extraordinary obtrusive talkativeness. + </p> + <p> + She heard more the next morning that vexed her. Lucy was seriously of + opinion that Genevieve had not been sufficiently retiring. She herself had + heedfully kept under the wing of Mary’s governess, mamma, or Miss Ferrars, + and nobody had paid her any particular attention; but Genevieve had been + with Gilbert half the day, had had all the gentlemen round her at the + archery and in the games, had no end of partners in the dances, and had + walked about in the dark with Captain Ferrars. Lucy was sure she was taken + for her sister, and whenever she had told people the truth, they had said + how pretty she was. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are jealous, Lucy,’ Sophy said. + </p> + <p> + Lucy protested that it was quite the reverse. She was glad poor little + Jenny should meet with any notice, there was no cause for jealousy of <i>her</i>, + and she threw back her head in conscious beauty; ‘only she was sorry for + Jenny, for they were quite turning her head, and laughing at her all the + time.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s candour burst out as usual, ‘Say no more about it, my dear; it + was a mistake from beginning to end. I was too much taken up with my own + diversion to attend to you, and now you are punishing me for it. I left + you to take care of yourselves, and exposed poor little Genevieve to + unkind remarks.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know what I said,’ began Lucy. ‘I don’t mean to blame her; it was + just as she always is with Gilbert, so very French.’ + </p> + <p> + That word settled it—Lucy pronounced it with ineffable pity and + contempt—she was far less able to forgive another for being + attractive, than for trying to attract. + </p> + <p> + Sophy looked excessively hurt and grieved, and in private asked her + step-mother what she thought of Genevieve’s behaviour. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, I cannot tell; I think she was off her guard with excitement; + but all was very new to her, and there was every excuse. I was too happy + to be wise, so no wonder she was.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And do you think Captain Ferrars was laughing at her? I wish you would + tell her, mamma. Gilbert says he is a fine, flourishing officer in + moustaches, who, he is sure, flirts with and breaks the heart of every + girl he meets. If he is right, mamma, it would cure Genevieve to tell her + so, and you would not mind it, though he is your cousin.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Fred!’ said Albinia. ‘I am sorry Gilbert conceived such a notion. + But Genevieve’s heart is too sensible to break in that way, even if Fred + wished it, and I can acquit him of such savage intentions. I never should + have seen any harm in all that Genevieve did last night if she had not + talked us to death coming home! Still I think she was off her balance, and + I own I am disappointed. But we don’t know what it is to be born French!’ + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. + </h2> + <p> + ‘Mrs. Kendal, dear Madame, a great favour, could you spare me a few + moments?’ + </p> + <p> + A blushing face was raised with such an expression of contrite timidity, + that Albinia felt sure that the poor little Frenchwoman had recovered from + her brief intoxication, and wanted to apologize and be comforted, so she + said kindly, + </p> + <p> + ‘I was wishing to see you, my dear; I was afraid the day had been too much + for you; I was certain you were feverish.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you were so good to make excuses for me. I am so ashamed when I think + how tedious, how disagreeable I must have been. It was why I wished to + speak to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind apologies, my dear; I have felt and done the like many a time—it + is the worst of enjoying oneself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! that was not all—I could not help it—enjoyment—no!’ + stammered Genevieve. ‘If you would be kind enough to come this way.’ + </p> + <p> + She opened her grandmother’s back gate, the entrance to a slip of garden + smothered in laurels, and led the way to a small green arbour, containing + a round table, transformed by calico hangings into what the embroidered + inscription called ‘Autel a l’Amour filial et maternel,’ bearing a plaster + vase full of fresh flowers, but ere Albinia had time to admire this + achievement of French sentiment, Genevieve exclaimed, clasping her hands, + ‘Oh, madame, pardon me, you who are so good! You will tell no one, you + will bring on him no trouble, but you will tell him it is too foolish—you + will give him back his billet, and forbid him ever to send another.’ + </p> + <p> + Spite of the confidence about Emily, spite of all unreason, such was the + family opinion of Fred’s propensity to fall in love, that Albinia’s first + suspicion lighted upon him, but as her eye fell on the pink envelope the + handwriting concerned her even more nearly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert!’ she cried. ‘My dear, what is this? Do you wish me to read it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, for I cannot.’ Genevieve turned away, as in his best hand, and bad + it was, Albinia read the commencement— + </p> + <p> + “My hope, my joy, my Genevieve!” + </p> + <p> + In mute astonishment Albinia looked up, and met Genevieve’s eyes. ‘Oh, + madame, you are displeased with me!’ she cried in despair, misinterpreting + the look, ‘but indeed I could not help it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear child,’ said Albinia, affectionately putting her arm round her + waist, and drawing her down on the seat beside her, ‘indeed I am not + displeased with you; you are doing the very best thing possible by us all. + Think I am your sister, and tell me what is the meaning of all this, and + then I will try to help you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, madame, you are too good,’ said Genevieve, weeping; and kindly + holding the trembling hand, Albinia finished the letter, herself. ‘Silly + boy! Genevieve, dear girl, you must set my mind at rest; this is too + childish—this is not the kind of thing that would touch your + affections, I am sure.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! pour cela non,’ said Genevieve. ‘Oh! no; I am grateful to Mr. Gilbert + Kendal, for, even as a little boy, he was always kind to me, but for the + rest—he is so young, madame, even if I could forget—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I see,’ said Albinia. ‘I am sure that you are much too good and sensible + at your age to waste a moment’s thought or pain on such a foolish boy, as + he certainly is, Genevieve, though not so foolish in liking you, whatever + he may be in the way of expressing it. Though of course—’ Albinia + had floundered into a dreadful bewilderment between her sense of + Genevieve’s merits and of the incompatibility of their station, and she + plunged out by asking, ‘And how long has this been going on?’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve hesitated. ‘To speak the truth, madame, I have long seen that, + like many other youths, he would be—very attentive if one were not + guarded; but I had known him so long, that perhaps I did not soon enough + begin, to treat him en jeune homme. + </p> + <p> + ‘And this is his first letter?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! yes, madame.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He complains that you will not hear him? Do you dislike to tell me if + anything had passed previously?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thursday,’ was slightly whispered. + </p> + <p> + ‘Thursday! ah! now I begin to understand the cause of your being suddenly + moon-struck.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! madame, pardon me!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I see—it was the only way to avoid a tete-a-tete!’ said Albinia. + ‘Well done, Genevieve. What had he been saying to you, my dear?’ + </p> + <p> + Poor Genevieve cast about for a word, and finally faltered out, ‘Des + sottises, Madame.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That I can well believe,’ said Albinia. ‘Well, my dear—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think,’ pursued Genevieve, ‘that he was vexed because I would not let + him absorb me exclusively at Fairmead; and began to reproach me, and + protest—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And like a wise woman you waked the sleeping dragon,’ said Albinia. ‘Was + this all?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, madame; so little had passed, that I hoped it was only the + excitement, and that he would forget; but on Saturday he met me in the + flagged path, and oh! he said a great deal, though I did my best to + convince him that he could only make himself be laughed at. I hoped even + then that he was silenced, and that I need not mention it, but I see he + has been watching me, and I dare not go out alone lest I should meet him. + He called this morning, and not seeing me left this note.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do your grandmother and aunt know?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, no! I would far rather not tell them. Need I? Oh! madame, surely you + can speak to him, and no one need ever hear of it?’ implored Genevieve. + ‘You have promised me that no one shall be told!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No one shall, my dear. I hope soon to tell you that he is heartily + ashamed of having teased you. No one need be ashamed of thinking you very + dear and good—you can’t help being loveable, but Master Gibbie has + no right to tell you so, and we’ll put an end to it. He will soon be in + India out of your way. Good-bye!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia kissed the confused and blushing maiden, and walked away, + provoked, yet diverted. + </p> + <p> + She found Gilbert alone, and was not slow in coming to the point, + endeavouring to model her treatment on that of her brother, the General, + towards his aide-de-camp in the like predicaments. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert, I want to speak to you. I am afraid you have been making + yourself troublesome to Miss Durant. You are old enough to know better + than to write such a note as this.’ + </p> + <p> + He was all one blush, made an inarticulate exclamation, and burst out, + ‘That abominable treacherous old wooden doll of a mademoiselle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, Miss Belmarche knows nothing of it. No one ever shall if you will + promise to drive this nonsense out of your head.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nonsense! Mrs. Kendal!’ with a gesture of misery. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert, you are making yourself absurd.’ + </p> + <p> + He turned about, and would have marched out of the room, but she pursued + him. ‘You must listen to me. It is not fit that you should carry on this + silly importunity. It is exceedingly distressing to her, and might lead to + very unpleasant and hurtful remarks.’ Seeing him look sullen, she took + breath, and considered. ‘She came to me in great trouble, and begged me to + restore your letter, and tell you never to repeat the liberty.’ + </p> + <p> + He struck his hand on his brow, crying vehemently, ‘Cruel girl! She little + knows me—you little know me, if you think I am to be silenced thus. + I tell you I will never cease! I am not bound by your pride, which has + sneered down and crushed the loveliest—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not mine,’ said Albinia, disconcerted at his unexpected violence. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes!’ he exclaimed. ‘I know you could patronize! but a step beyond, and + it is all the same with you as with the rest—you despise the jewel + without the setting.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Albinia, ‘so far from depreciating her, I want to convince you + that it is an insult to pursue her in this ridiculous underhand way.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You do me no justice,’ said Gilbert loftily; ‘you little understand what + you are pleased to make game of,’ and with one of his sudden alternations, + he dropped into a chair, calling himself the most miserable fellow in the + world, unpitied where he would gladly offer his life, and his tenderest + feelings derided, and he was so nearly ready to cry, that Albinia pitied + him, and said, ‘I’ll laugh no more if I can help it, Gibbie, but indeed + you are too young for all this misery to be real. I don’t mean that you + are pretending, but only that this is your own fancy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fancy!’ said the boy solemnly. ‘The happiness of my life is at stake. She + shall be the sharer of all that is mine, the moment my property is in my + own hands.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And do you think so high-minded a girl would listen to you, and take + advantage of a fancy in a boy so much younger, and of a different class?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It would be ecstasy to raise her, and lay all at her feet!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So it might, if it were worthy of her to accept it. Gilbert, if you knew + what love is, you would never wish her to lower herself by encouraging you + now. She would be called artful—designing—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If she loved me—’ he said disconsolately. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish I could bring you to see how unlikely it is that a sensible, + superior woman could really attach herself to a mere lad. An unprincipled + person might pretend it for the sake of your property—a silly one + might like you because you are good-looking and well-mannered; but neither + would be Genevieve.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is no use in saying any more,’ he said, rising in offended dignity. + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot let you go till you have given me your word never to obtrude + your folly on Miss Durant again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you anything else to ask me?’ cried Gilbert in a melodramatic tone. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, how would you like your father to know of this? It is her secret, + and I shall keep it, unless you are so selfish as to continue the pursuit, + and if so, I must have recourse to his authority.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Mrs. Kendal,’ he said, actually weeping, ‘you have always pitied me + hitherto.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A man should not ask for pity,’ said Albinia; ‘but I am sorry for you, + for she is an admirable person, and I see you are very unhappy; but I will + do all I can to help you, and you will get over it, if you are reasonable. + Now understand me, I will and must protect Genevieve, and I shall appeal + to your father unless you promise me to desist from this persecution.’ + </p> + <p> + The debate might have been endless, if Mr. Kendal had not been heard + coming in. ‘You promise?’ she said. ‘Yes,’ was the faint reply, in nervous + terror of immediate reference to his father; and they hurried different + ways, trying to look unconcerned. + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind,’ said Albinia to herself. ‘Was not Fred quite as bad about + me, and look at him now! Yes, Gilbert must go to India, it will cure him, + or if it should not, his affection will be respectable, and worth + consideration. If he were but older, and this were the genuine article, I + would fight for him, but—’ + </p> + <p> + And she sat down to write a loving note to Genevieve. Her sanguine + disposition made her trust that all would blow over, but her experience of + the cheerful buoyant Ferrars temperament was no guide to the morbid Kendal + disposition, Gilbert lay on the grass limp and doleful till the fall of + the dew, when he betook himself to a sofa; and in the morning turned up + his eyes reproachfully at her instead of eating his breakfast. + </p> + <p> + About eleven o’clock the Fairmead pony-carriage stopped at the door, + containing Mr. Ferrars, the Captain, Aunt Gertrude, and little Willie. + Albinia, her husband, and Lucy, were soon in the drawing-room welcoming + them; and Lucy fetched her little brother, who had been vociferous for + three days about Cousin Fred, the real soldier, but now, struck with awe + at the mighty personage, stood by his mamma, profoundly silent, and + staring. He was ungracious to his aunt, and still more so to Willie, the + latter of whom was despatched under Lucy’s charge to find Gilbert, but + they came back unsuccessful. Nor did Sophy make her appearance; she was + reported to be reading to grandmamma—Mrs. Meadows preferred to Miss + Ferrars! there was more in this than Albinia could make out, and she sat + uneasily till she could exchange a few words with Lucy. ‘My dear, what is + become of the other two?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure I don’t know what is the matter with them,’ said Lucy. ‘Gilbert + is gone out—nobody knows where—and when I told Sophy who was + here, she said Captain Ferrars was an empty-headed coxcomb, and she did + not want to see him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! the geese!’ murmured Albinia to herself, till the comical suspicion + crossed her mind that Gilbert was jealous, and that Sophy was afraid of + falling a victim to the redoubtable lady killer. + </p> + <p> + Luncheon-time produced Sophy, grave and silent, but no Gilbert, and Mr. + Kendal, receiving no satisfactory account of his absence, said, ‘Very + strange,’ and looked annoyed. + </p> + <p> + Captain Ferrars seemed to have expected to see his bright little partner + of Thursday, for he inquired for her, and Willie imparted the information + that Fred had taken her for Sophy all the time! Fred laughed, and owned + it, but asked if she were not really the governess? ‘A governess,’ said + Albinia, ‘but not ours,’ and an explanation followed, during which Sophy + blushed violently, and held up her head as if she had an iron bar in her + neck. + </p> + <p> + ‘A pity,’ said the Lancer, when he had heard who she was, and under his + moustache he murmured to Albinia, ‘She is rather in Emily’s style.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, Fred,’ thought Albinia, ‘after all, it may be lucky that you aren’t + going to stay here!’ + </p> + <p> + When Albinia was alone with her brother, she could not help saying, + ‘Maurice, you were right to scold me; I reproached you with thinking life + made up of predicaments. I think mine is made of blunders!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! I saw you were harassed to-day,’ said her brother kindly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Whenever one is happy, one does something wrong!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I guess—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are generous not to say you warned me months ago. Mind, it is no + fault of hers, she is behaving beautifully; but oh! the absurdity, and the + worst of it is, I have promised not to tell Edmund.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then don’t tell me. You have a judgment quite good enough for use.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I have not. I have only sense, and that only serves me for what other + people ought to do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then ask Albinia what Mrs. Kendal ought to do.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert came in soon after their departure, with an odd, dishevelled, + abstracted look, and muttering something inaudible about not knowing the + time. His depression absolutely courted notice, but as a slight cough + would at any time reduce him to despair, he obtained no particular + observation, except from Sophy, who made much of him, flushed at + Genevieve’s name, and looked reproachful, that it was evident that she was + his confidante. Several times did Albinia try to lead her to enter on the + subject, but she set up her screen of silence. It was disappointing, for + Albinia had believed better things of her sense, and hardly made allowance + for the different aspect of the love-sorrows of seventeen, viewed from + fifteen or twenty-six—vexatious, too, to be treated with dry + reserve, and probably viewed as a rock in the course of true love; and + provoking to see perpetual tete-a-tetes that could hardly fail to fill + Sophy’s romantic head with folly. + </p> + <p> + At the end of another week, Albinia received the following note:— + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear and most kind Madame, + </p> + <p> + ‘I would not trouble you again, but this is the third within four days. I + returned the two former ones to himself, but he continues to write. May I + ask your permission to speak to my relatives, for I feel that I ought to + hide this no longer from them, and that we must take some measures for + ending it. He does me the honour to wait near the house, and I never dare + go out, since—for I will confess all to you, madame—he met me + by the river on Monday. I am beginning to fear that his assiduities have + been observed, and I should be much obliged if you would tell me how to + act. Your kind perseverance in your goodness towards me is my greatest + comfort, and I hope that you will still continue it, for indeed it is most + unwillingly that I am a cause of perplexity and vexation to you. + Entreating your pardon, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Your most faithful and obliged servant, + Genevieve Celeste Durant.’ +</pre> + <p> + What was to be done? That broken pledge overpowered Albinia with a + personal sense of shame, and though it set her free to tell all to her + husband, she shrank from provoking his stern displeasure towards his son, + and feared he might involve Genevieve in his anger. She dashed off a note + to her poor little friend, telling her to do as she thought fit by her + aunt and grandmother, and then sought another interview with the reluctant + Gilbert, to whom she returned the letter, saying, ‘Oh, Gilbert, at least I + thought you would keep your word.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think,’ he said, angrily, trying for dignity, though bewrayed by his + restless eyes and hands—‘I think it is too much to accuse me of—of—when + I never said—What word did I ever give?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You promised never to persecute her again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There may be two opinions as to what persecution means,’ said Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘I little thought of subterfuges. I trusted you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mrs. Kendal! hear me,’ he passionately cried. ‘You knew not the misery + you imposed. To live so near, and not a word, not a look! I bore it as + long as I could; but when Sophy would not so much as take one message, + human nature could not endure.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, if you cannot restrain yourself like a rational creature, some + means must be taken to free Miss Durant from a pursuit so injurious and + disagreeable to her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay,’ he cried, ‘you have filled her with your own prejudices, and + inspired her with such a dread of the hateful fences of society, that she + does not dare to confess—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘For shame, Gilbert, you are accusing her of acting a part.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No!’ he exclaimed, ‘all I say is, that she has been so thrust down and + forced back, that she cannot venture to avow her feelings even to + herself!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh!’ said Albinia, ‘you conceited person!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well!’ cried the boy, so much nettled by her sarcasm that he did not know + what he said, ‘I think—considering—considering our situations, + I might be worth her consideration!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who put that in your head?’ asked Albinia. ‘You are too much a gentleman + for it to have come there of its own accord.’ + </p> + <p> + He blushed excessively, and retracted. ‘No, no! I did not mean that! No, I + only mean I have no fair play—she will not even think. Oh! if I had + but been born in the same station of life!’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert making entrechats with a little fiddle! It had nearly overthrown + her gravity, and she made no direct answer, only saying, ‘Well, Gilbert, + these talks are useless. I only thought it right to give you notice that + you have released me from my engagement not to make your father aware of + your folly.’ + </p> + <p> + He went into an agony of entreaties, and proffers of promises, but no more + treaties of secrecy could he obtain, she would only say that she should + not speak immediately, she should wait and see how things turned out. By + which she meant, how soon it might be hoped that he would be safe in the + Calcutta bank, where she heartily wished him. + </p> + <p> + She sought a conference with Genevieve, and took her out walking in the + meadows, for the poor child really needed change and exercise, the fear of + Gilbert had made her imprison herself within the little garden, till she + looked sallow and worn. She said that her grandmother and aunt had decided + that she should go in a couple of days to the Convent at Hadminster, to + remain there till Mr. Gilbert went to India—the superior was an old + friend of her aunt, and Genevieve had often been there, and knew all the + nuns. + </p> + <p> + Albinia was startled by this project. ‘My dear, I had much rather send you + to stay at my brother’s, or—anywhere. Are you sure you are not + running into temptation?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not of that kind,’ said Genevieve. ‘The priest, Mr. O’Hara, is a + good-natured old gentleman, not in the least disposed to trouble himself + about my conversion.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And the sisters?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Good old ladies, they have always been very kind to me, and petted me + exceedingly when I was a little child, but for the rest—’ still + seeing Albinia’s anxious look—‘Oh! they would not think of it; I + don’t believe they could argue; they are not like the new-fashioned Roman + Catholics of whom you are thinking, madame.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And are there no enthusiastic young novices?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should think no one would ever be a novice there,’ said Genevieve. + </p> + <p> + ‘You seem to be bent on destroying all the romance of convents, + Genevieve!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never thought of anything romantic connected with the reverend + mothers,’ rejoined Genevieve, ‘and yet when I recollect how they came to + Hadminster, I think you will be interested. You know the family at + Hadminster Hall in the last century were Roman Catholics, and a daughter + had professed at a convent in France. At the time of the revolution, her + brother, the esquire, wrote to offer her an asylum at his house. The day + of her arrival was fixed—behold! a stage-coach draws up to the door—black + veils inside—black veils clustered on the roof—a black veil + beside the coachman, on the box—eighteen nuns alight, and the poor + old infirm abbess is lifted out. They had not even figured to themselves + that the invitation could be to one without the whole sisterhood!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what did the esquire do with the good ladies?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He took them as a gift from Providence, he raised a subscription among + his friends, and they were lodged in the house at Hadminster, where + something like a sisterhood had striven to exist ever since the days of + James II.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Are any of these sisters living still?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Only poor old Mother Therese, who was a little pensionnaire when they + came, and now is blind, and never quits her bed. There are only seven + sisters at present, and none of them are less than five-and-forty.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what shall you do there, Genevieve?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If they have any pupils from the town, perhaps I may help to teach them + French. And I shall have plenty of time for my music. Oh! madame, would + you lend me a little of your music to copy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘With all my heart. Any books?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! that would be the greatest kindness of all! And if it were not + presuming too much, if madame would let me take the pattern of that + beautiful point lace that she sometimes wears in the evening, then I + should make myself welcome!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And put out your eyes, my dear! But you may turn out my whole lace-drawer + if you think anything there will be a pleasure to the old ladies.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you do not guess the pleasure, madame. Needlework and embroidery is + their excitement and delight. They will ask me closely about all I have + seen and done for months past, and the history of the day at Fairmead will + be a fete in itself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well! my dear, it is very right of you; and I do feel very thankful to + you for treating the matter thus. Pray tell your grandmamma and aunt to + pardon the sad revolution we have made in their comfort, and that I hope + it will soon be over!’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve took no leave. Albinia sent her a goodly parcel of books and + work-patterns, and she returned an affectionate note; but did not attempt + to see Lucy and Sophy. + </p> + <p> + The next Indian mail brought the expected letter, giving an exact account + of the acquirements and habits that would be required of Gilbert, with a + promise of a home where he would be treated as a son, and of admission to + the firm after due probation. The letter was so sensible and affectionate, + that Mr. Kendal congratulated his son upon such an advantageous outset in + life. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert made slight reply, but the next morning Sophy sought Albinia out, + and with some hesitation began to tell her that Gilbert was very anxious + that she would intercede with papa not to send him to Calcutta. + </p> + <p> + ‘You now, Sophy!’ cried Albinia. ‘You who used to think nothing equal to + India!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish it were I,’ said Sophy, ‘but you know—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ said Albinia, coldly. + </p> + <p> + Sophy was too shy to begin on that tack, and dashed off on another. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma, he is so wretched. He can’t bear to thwart papa, but he says + it would break his heart to go so far away, and that he knows it would + kill him to be confined to a desk in that climate.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You know papa thinks that nothing would confirm his health so much as a + few years without an English winter.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘One’s own instinct—’ began Sophy; then breaking off, she added, + ‘Mamma, you never were for the bank.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I used not to see the expediency, and I did not like the parting; but now + I understand your father’s wishes, and the sort of allegiance he feels + towards India, so that Gilbert’s reluctance will be a great mortification + to him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So it will,’ said Sophy, mournfully, ‘I am sure it is to me. I always + looked forward to Gilbert’s going to Talloon, and seeing the dear old + bearer, and taking all my presents there, but you see, of course, mamma, + he cannot bear to go—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy, dear,’ said Albinia, ‘you have been thinking me a very + hard-hearted woman this last month. I have been longing to have it out.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not hard-hearted,’ said Sophy, looking down, ‘only I had always thought + you different from other people.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you considered that I was worldly, and not romantic enough. Is that + it, Sophy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought you knew how to value her for herself, so good and so admirable—a + lady in everything—with such perfect manners. I thought you would + have been pleased and proud that Gilbert’s choice was so much nobler than + beauty, or rank, or fashion could make it,’ said Sophy, growing + enthusiastic as she went on. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, my dear, perhaps I am.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, mamma, you have done all you could to separate them: you have shut + Genevieve up in a convent, and you want to banish him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It sounds very grand, and worthy of a cruel step-dame,’ said Albinia; + ‘but, my dear, though I do think Genevieve in herself an admirable + creature, worthy of any one’s love, what am I to think of the way Gilbert + has taken to show his admiration?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And is it not very hard,’ cried Sophy, ‘that even you, who own all her + excellences, should turn against him, and give in to all this miserable + conventionality, that wants riches and station, and trumpery worldly + things, and crushes down true love in two young hearts?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy dear, I am afraid the love is not proved to be true in the one + heart, and I am sure there is none in the other!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mamma! ‘Tis her self-command—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nonsense! His attentions are nothing but distress to her! Sensible + grown-up young women are not apt to be flattered by importunity from silly + boys. Has he told you otherwise?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He thinks—he hopes, at least—and I am sure—it is all + stifled by her sense of duty, and fear of offending you, or appearing + mercenary.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘All delusion!’ said Albinia; ‘there’s not a spark of consciousness about + her! I see you don’t like to believe it, but it is my great comfort. Think + how she would suffer if she did love him! Nay, think, before you are angry + with me for not promoting it, how it would bring them into trouble and + disgrace with all the world, even if your father consented. Have you once + thought how it would appear to him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You can persuade papa to anything!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy! you ought to know your father better than to say that!’ cried + Albinia, as if it had been disrespect to him. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you think he would never allow it! You really think that such a + creature as Genevieve, as perfect a lady as ever existed, must always be a + victim to these hateful rules about station.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Albinia, ‘certainly not; but if she were in the very same rank, + if all else were suitable, Gilbert’s age would make the pursuit + ridiculous.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Only three years younger,’ sighed Sophy. ‘But if they were the same age? + Do you mean that no one ever ought to marry, if they love ever so much, + where the station is different?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, but that they must not do so lightly, but try the love first to see + whether it be worth the sacrifice. If an attachment last through many + years of adverse circumstances, I think the happiness of the people has + been shown to depend on each other, but I don’t think it safe to disregard + disparities till there has been some test that the love is the right + stuff, or else they may produce ill-temper, regrets, and unhappiness, all + the rest of their lives.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If Gilbert went on for years, mamma?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I did not say that, Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Suppose,’ continued the eager girl, ‘he went out to Calcutta, and worked + these five years, and was made a partner. Then he would be two-and-twenty, + nobody could call him too young, and he would come home, and ask papa’s + consent, and you—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I <i>should</i> call that constancy,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘And he would take her out to Calcutta, and have no Drurys and Osborns to + bother her! Oh! It would be beautiful! I would watch over her while he was + gone! I’ll go and tell him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Stop, Sophy, not from me—that would never do. I don’t think papa + would think twenty-two such a great age—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But he would have loved her five years!’ said Sophy. ‘And you said + yourself that would be constancy!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘True, but, Sophy, I have known a youth who sailed broken-hearted, and met + a lady “just in the style” of the former one, on board the steamer—’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy made a gesture of impatient disdain, and repeated, ‘Do you allow me + to tell Gilbert that this is the way?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not from me. I hold out no hope. I don’t believe Genevieve cares for him, + and I don’t know whether his father would consent—’ but seeing + Sophy’s look of disappointment, ‘I see no harm in your suggesting it, for + it is his only chance with either of them, and would be the proof that his + affection was good for something.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you think her worth it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think her worth anything in the world—the more for her behaviour + in this matter. I only doubt if Gilbert have any conception how much she + is worth.’ + </p> + <p> + Away went Sophy in a glow that made her almost handsome, while Albinia, as + usual, wondered at her own imprudence. + </p> + <p> + At luncheon Sophy avoided her eye, and looked crestfallen, and when + afterwards she gave a mute inquiring address, shook her head impatiently. + It was plain that she had failed, and was too much pained and shamed by + his poorness of spirit to be able as yet to speak of it. + </p> + <p> + Next came Gilbert, who pursued Albinia to the morning-room to entreat her + interference in his behalf, appealing piteously to her kindness; but she + was obdurate. If any remonstrance were offered to his father, it must be + by himself. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert fell into a state of misery, threw himself about upon the chairs, + and muttered in the fretfulness of childish despair something about its + being very hard, when he was owner of half the town, to be sent into exile—it + was like jealousy of his growing up and being master. + </p> + <p> + ‘Take care, Gilbert!’ said Albinia, with a flash of her eye that he felt + to his backbone. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t mean it,’ cried Gilbert, springing towards her in supplication. + ‘I’ve heard it said, that’s all, and was as angry as you, but when a + fellow is beside himself with misery at being driven away from all he + loves—not a friend to help him—how can he keep from thinking + all sorts of things?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder what people dare to say it!’ cried Albinia wrathfully; but he + did not heed, he was picturing his own future misfortunes—toil—climate—fevers—choleras—Thugs—coups + de soleil—genuine dread and repugnance working him up to positive + agony. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert,’ said Albinia, ‘this is trumpery self-torture! You know this is + a mere farrago that you have conjured up. Your father would neither thrust + you into danger, nor compel you to do anything to which you had a + reasonable aversion. Go and be a man about it in one way or the other! + Either accept or refuse, but don’t make these childish lamentations. They + are cowardly! I should be ashamed of little Maurice if he behaved so!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you will not speak a word for me!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No! Speak for yourself!’ and she left the room. + </p> + <p> + Days passed on, till she began to think that, after all, Gilbert preferred + Calcutta, cholera, Thugs, and all, to facing his father; but at last, he + must have taken heart from his extremity, for Mr. Kendal said, with less + vexation than she had anticipated, ‘So our plans are overthrown. Gilbert + tells me he has an invincible dislike to Calcutta. Had you any such idea?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not till your cousin’s letter arrived. What did you say to him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He was so much afraid of vexing me that I was obliged to encourage him to + speak freely, and I found that he had always had a strong distaste to and + dread of India. I told him I wished he had made me aware of it sooner, and + desired to know what profession he really preferred. He spoke of Oxford + and the Bar, and so I suppose it must be. I do not wonder that he wishes + to follow his Traversham friends, and as they are a good set, I hope there + may not be much temptation. I see you are not satisfied, Albinia, yet your + wishes were one of my motives.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you—once I should,’ said Albinia; ‘but, Edmund, I see how + wrong it was to have concealed anything from you;’ and thereupon she + informed him of Gilbert’s passion for Genevieve Durant, which astonished + him greatly, though he took it far less seriously than she had expected, + and was not displeased at having been kept in ignorance and spared the + trouble of taking notice of it, and thus giving it importance. + </p> + <p> + ‘It will pass off,’ he said. ‘She has too much sense and principle to + encourage him, and if you can get her out of Bayford for a few years he + will be glad to have it forgotten.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Genevieve! She must break up her grandmother’s home after all!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It will be a great advantage to her. You used to say that it would be + most desirable for her to see more of the world. Away from this place she + might marry well.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Any one’s son but yours,’ said Albinia, smiling. + </p> + <p> + ‘The connexion would be worse here than anywhere else; but I was not + thinking of any one in our rank of life. There are many superior men in + trade with whom she might be very happy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor child!’ sighed Albinia. ‘I cannot feel that it is fair that she + should be banished for Gilbert’s faults; and I am sorry for the school; + you cannot think how much the tone was improving.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If it could be done without hurting her feelings, I should gladly give + her a year at some superior finishing school, which might either qualify + her for a governess, or enable her to make this one more profitable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! thank you!’ cried Albinia; ‘yet I doubt. However, her services would + be quite equivalent in any school to the lessons she wants. I’ll write to + Mrs. Elwood—’ and she was absorbed in the register-office in her + brain, when Mr. Kendal continued— + </p> + <p> + ‘This is quite unexpected. I could not have supposed the boy so foolish! + However, if you please, I will speak to him, tell him that I was unaware + of his folly, and insist on his giving it up.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should be very glad if you would.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was called, and the result was more satisfactory than Albinia + thought that Genevieve deserved. His frenzy had tended to wear itself out, + and he had been so dreadfully alarmed about India and his father, that in + his relief, gratitude, and fear of being sent out, he was ready to promise + anything. Before his father he could go into no rhapsodies, and could only + be miserably confused. + </p> + <p> + ‘Personally,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘it is creditable that you should be + attracted by such estimable qualities, but these are not the sole + consideration. Equality of station is almost as great a requisite as these + for producing comfort or respectability, and nothing but your youth and + ignorance could excuse your besetting any young woman with importunities + which she had shown to be disagreeable to her.’ + </p> + <p> + There was no outcry of despair, only a melancholy muttering. Then Mr. + Kendal pronounced his decree in terms more explicit than those in which + Albinia had exacted the promise. He said nothing about persecution, nor + was he unreasonable enough to command an instant immolation of the + passion; he only insisted that Gilbert should pay no marked attention, and + attempt no unsanctioned or underhand communication. Unless he thought he + had sufficient self-command to abstain, his father must take ‘further + measures.’ + </p> + <p> + As if fearing that this must mean ‘Kendal and Kendal,’ he raised his head, + and with a deep sigh undertook for his own self-command. Mr. Kendal laid + his hand on his shoulder with kind pity, told him he was doing right, and + that while he acted openly and obediently, he should always meet with + sympathy and consideration. + </p> + <p> + Two difficult points remained—the disposing of the young people. + Gilbert was still over young for the university, as well as very backward + and ill-prepared, and the obstinate remains of the cough made his father + unwilling to send him from home. And his presence made Genevieve’s absence + necessary. + </p> + <p> + The place had begun to loom in the distance. A former governess of + Albinia’s, who would have done almost anything to please her, had lately + been left a widow, and established herself in a suburb of London, with a + small party of pupils. She had just begun to feel the need of an + additional teacher, and should gladly receive Genevieve, provided she + fulfilled certain requisites, of which, luckily, French pronunciation + stood the foremost. The terms were left to Albinia, who could scarcely + believe her good fortune, and went in haste to discuss the matter with the + Belmarches. + </p> + <p> + It almost consoled her for what she had been exceedingly ashamed to + announce, the change of purpose with regard to Gilbert, which was a + sentence of banishment to the object of his folly. Nothing pained her more + than the great courtesy and kindness of the two old ladies to whom it was + such a cruel stroke, they evidently felt for her, and appeared to catch at + Mrs. Elwood’s offer, and when Albinia proposed that her salary should be a + share in the instructions of the masters, agreed that this was the very + thing they had felt it their duty to provide for her, if they had been + able to bring themselves to part with her. + </p> + <p> + ‘So,’ said good Madame Belmarche, smiling sadly, ‘you see it has been for + the dear child’s real good that our weakness has been conquered.’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve was written to, and consented to everything, and when Mr. Kendal + took Gilbert away to visit an old friend, his wife called for Genevieve at + the convent to bring her home. Albinia could not divest herself of some + curiosity and excitement in driving up to the old-fashioned red brick + house, with two tall wings projecting towards the street, and the front + door in the centre between them, with steps down to it. She had not been + without hopes of a parlour with a grille, or at least that a lay sister + would open the door; but she saw nothing but a very ordinary-looking old + maid-servant, and close behind her was Genevieve, with her little box, + quite ready—no excuse for seeing anything or anybody else. + </p> + <p> + If Genevieve were sad at the proposal of leaving home and going among + strangers, she took care to hide all that could pain Mrs. Kendal, and her + cheerful French spirit really enjoyed the prospect of new scenes, and + bounded with enterprise at the hope of a new life and fresh field of + exertion. + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps, after all,’ she said, smiling, ‘they may make of me something + really useful and valuable, and it will all be owing to you, dear madame. + Drawing and Italian! When I can teach them, I shall be able to make + grandmamma easy for life!’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve skipped out of the carriage and into her aunt’s arms, as if + alive only to the present delight of being at home again. It was a + contrast to Sophy’s dolorous visage. Poor Sophy! she was living in a + perpetual strife with the outward tokens of sulkiness, forcing herself + against the grain to make civil answers, and pretend to be interested when + she felt wretched and morose. That Gilbert, after so many ravings, should + have relinquished, from mere cowardice, that one hope of earning Genevieve + by honourable exertion, had absolutely lowered her trust in the exalting + power of love, and her sense of justice revolted against the decision that + visited the follies of the guilty upon the innocent. She was yearning over + her friend with all her heart, pained at the separation, and longing + fervently to make some demonstration, but the greater her wish, the worse + was her reserve. She spent all her money upon a beautiful book as a + parting gift, and kept it beside her, missing occasion after occasion of + presenting it, and falling at each into a perfect agony behind that + impalpable, yet impassable, barrier of embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + It was not till the very last evening, when Genevieve had actually wished + her good-bye and left the house, that she grew desperate. She hastily put + on bonnet and cloak, and pursued Genevieve up the street, overtaking her + at last, and causing her to look round close to her own door. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Miss Sophy,’ cried Genevieve, ‘what is the matter? You are quite + overcome.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This book—’ said Sophy—it was all she could say. + </p> + <p> + ‘Love—yes,’ said Genevieve. ‘Admiration—no.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You shall not say that,’ cried Sophy. ‘I have found what is really + dignified and disinterested, and you must let me admire you, Jenny, it + makes me comfortable.’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve smiled. ‘I would not commit an egoism,’ she said; but if the + sense of admiration do you good, I wish it had a worthier cause.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There’s no one to admire but you,’ said Sophy. ‘I think it very unfair to + send you away, and though it is nobody’s fault, I hate good sense and the + way of the world!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! do not talk so. I am only overwhelmed with wonder at the goodness I + have experienced. If it had happened with any other family, oh! how + differently I should have been judged! Oh! when I think of Mrs. Kendal, I + am ready to weep with gratitude!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, mamma is mamma, and not like any one else, but even she is obliged + to be rational, and do the injustice, whatever she feels,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! not injustice—kindness! I shall be able to earn more for + grandmamma!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is injustice!’ said Sophy, ‘not hers, perhaps, but of the world! It + makes me so angry, to think that you—you should never do anything + but wear yourself out in drudging over tiresome little children—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Little children are my brothers and sisters, as I never had any,’ said + Genevieve. ‘Oh! I always loved them, they make a home wherever they are. I + am thankful that my vocation is among them.’ + </p> + <p> + In dread of a token from Gilbert, Genevieve would not notice it, but + pursued, ‘You must come in and rest—you must have my aunt’s salts.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No—no—’ said Sophy, ‘not there—’ as Genevieve would + have taken her to the little parlour, but opening the door of the + school-room, she sank breathless into a sitting position on the carpetless + boards. + </p> + <p> + Genevieve shut the door, and kneeling down, found Sophy’s arms thrown + round her, pressing her almost to strangulation. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I wanted to do it—I never could wont you have the book, + Genevieve? It is my keepsake—only I could not give it because—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is it your keepsake, indeed, dear Miss Sophy?’ said Genevieve. ‘Oh! if it + is yours—how I shall value it—but it is too beautiful—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing is too beautiful for you, Genevieve,’ said Sophy fervently. + </p> + <p> + ‘And it is your gift! But I am frightened—it must have cost—!’ + began Genevieve, still a little on her guard. ‘Dear, dear Miss Sophy, + forgive me if I do seem ungrateful, but indeed I ought to ask—if—if + it is all your own gift?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mine? yes!’ said Sophy, on the borders of offence. ‘I know what you mean, + Genevieve, but you may trust me. I would not take you in.’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve was blushing intensely, but taking courage she bestowed a shower + of ardent embraces and expressions of gratitude, mingled with excuses for + her precaution. ‘Oh! it was so very kind in Miss Sophy,’ she said; ‘it + would be such a comfort to remember, she had feared she too was angry with + her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Angry? oh, no!’ cried Sophy, her heart quite unlocked; ‘but the more I + loved and admired, the more I could not speak. And if they drive you to be + a governess? If you had a situation like what we read of?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps I shall not,’ said Genevieve, laughing. ‘Every one has been so + good to me hitherto! And then I am not reduced from anything grander. I + shall always have the children, you know.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How I should hate them!’ quoth Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘They are my pleasure. Besides I have always thought it a blessing that my + business in life, though so humble, should be what may do direct good. If + only I do not set them a bad example, or teach them any harm.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not much danger of that,’ said Sophy, smiling. ‘Well, I can’t believe it + will be your lot all your life. You will find some one who will know how + to love you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Genevieve, ‘I am not in a position for marriage—grandmamma + has often told me so!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Things sometimes happen,’ pursued Sophy. ‘Mamma said if Gilbert had been + older, or even if—if he had been in earnest and steady enough to + work for you in India, then it might—And surely if Gilbert could + care for you—people higher and deeper than he would like you better + still.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hush,’ said Genevieve; ‘they would only see the objections more strongly. + No, do not put these things in my head. I know that unless a teacher hold + her business as her mission, and put all other schemes out of her mind, + she will work with an absent, distracted, half-hearted attention, and fail + of the task that the good God has committed to her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you would never even wish—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It would be seeking pomps and vanities to wish,’ said Genevieve; ‘a + school-room is a good safe cloister, probably less dull than the convent. + If I wish at all, it will be that I may be well shut up there, for I know + that in spite of myself my manners are different from your English ones. I + cannot make them otherwise, and that amuses people; and I cannot help + liking to please, and so I become excited. I enjoy society so much that it + is not safe for me! So don’t be sorry, dear Sophy, it is a fit penance for + the vanity that elated me too much that evening at Fairmead!’ + </p> + <p> + Mademoiselle Belmarche was here attracted by the voices. Sophy started up + from the ground, made some unintelligible excuse, and while Mademoiselle + was confounded with admiration at the sight of the book, inflicted another + boa-constrictor embrace, and hurried away. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. + </h2> + <p> + Planets hostile to the tender passion must have been in the ascendant, for + the result of Captain Ferrars’s pursuit of his brother to Italy was the + wholesome certainty that his own slender portion was all he had to reckon + upon. Before returning to Canada, he came to Bayford to pour out his + troubles to his cousin, and to induce her, if he could induce no one else, + to advise his immediate marriage. It was the first time he had been really + engaged, and his affection had not only stood three months’ absence, but + had so much elevated his shatter-brained though frank and honest + temperament, that Albinia conceived a high opinion of ‘Emily,’ and did her + best to persuade him to be patient, and wait for promotion. + </p> + <p> + Sophy likewise approved of him this time, perhaps because he was so + opposite a specimen of the genus lover from that presented by her brother. + Gilbert had not been able to help enjoying himself while from home, but + his spirits sank on his return; he lay about on the grass in doleful + dejection, studied little but L. E. L., lost appetite, and reproachfully + fondled his cough; but Albinia was now more compassionate than Sophy, whom + she was obliged to rebuke for an unsisterly disregard toward his woes. + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t help it,’ said Sophy; ‘I can’t believe in him now!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, you ought to believe that he is really unhappy, and be more gentle + and considerate with him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If it had been earnest, he would have sacrificed himself instead of + Genevieve.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! Sophy, some day you will learn to make excuses for other people, and + not be so intolerant.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never make excuses.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Except for Maurice,’ said Albinia. ‘If you viewed other people as you do + him, your judgments would be gentler.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s conscientiousness, like her romance, was hard, high, and strict; + but while she had as little mercy on herself as on others, and while there + were some soft spots in her adamantine judgment, there was hope that these + would spread, and, without lowering her tone, make her more merciful. + </p> + <p> + She corresponded constantly with Genevieve, who seemed very happily + placed; Mrs. Elwood was delighted with her, and she with Mrs. Elwood; and + her lively letters showed no signs of pining for home. Sophy felt as if it + were a duty to her friend, to do what in her lay to prevent the two old + ladies from being dull, and spent an hour with them every week, not + herself contributing much to their amusement, but pleasing them by the + attention, and hearing much that was very curious of their old-world + recollections. + </p> + <p> + Ever since that unlucky penny-club-day, when she had declared that she + hated poor people, she had been let alone on that subject; and though + principle had made her use her needle in their behalf, shyness and reserve + had kept her back from all intercourse with them; but in her wish to + compensate for Genevieve’s absence, she volunteered to take charge of her + vacant Sunday-school class, and obtained leave to have the girls at home + on the afternoons for an hour and a half. This was enough for one who + worked as she did, making a conscience of every word, and toiling to + prepare her lessons, writing out her questions beforehand, and begging for + advice upon them. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear,’ said Albinia, ‘you must alter this—you see this question + does not grow out of the last answer.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Sophy, ‘that must have been what puzzled them last Sunday: + they want connexion.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing like logic to teach one to be simple,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t see the use of all this trouble,’ put in Lucy. ‘Why can’t you ask + them just what comes into your head, as I always do?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Suppose mistakes came into my head.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! they would not find it out if they did! I declare!—what’s this—Persian? + Are you going to teach them Persian?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; it is Greek. You see it is a piece of a Psalm, a quotation rather + different in the New Testament. I wrote it down to ask papa what it is in + Hebrew.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘By-the-bye, Sophy,’ continued Lucy, ‘how could you let Susan Price come + to church with lace sleeves—absolute lace sleeves!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Had she?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There—you never see anything! Mamma, would not it be more sensible + to keep their dress in order, than to go poking into Hebrew, which can’t + be of use to any one?’ + </p> + <p> + There was more reason than might appear in what Lucy said: the girls of + her class were more orderly, and fonder of her than Sophy’s of the grave + young lady whose earnestness oppressed them, and whose shyness looked + dislike and pride. As to finding fault with their dress, she privately + told Albinia that she could not commit such a discourtesy, and was + answered that no one but Mrs. Dusautoy need interfere. + </p> + <p> + ‘I will go and ask Mrs. Dusautoy what she wishes,’ said Albinia. ‘I should + be glad if she would modify Lucy’s sumptuary laws. To fall foul of every + trifle only makes the girls think of their dress.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia found Mrs. Dusautoy busied in writing notes on mourning paper. + </p> + <p> + ‘Here is a note I had written to you,’ she said. ‘I am sending over to + Hadminster to see if any of the curates can take the services to-morrow.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia looked at the note while Mrs. Dusautoy wrote on hurriedly. She + read that there could be no daily services at present, the Vicar having + been summoned to Paris by the sudden death of Mrs. Cavendish Dusautoy. As + the image of a well-endowed widow, always trying to force her way into + higher society, arose before Albinia, she could hardly wait till the + letter was despatched, to break out in amazement, + </p> + <p> + ‘Was she a relation of yours? Even the name never made me think of it!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is a pity she cannot have the gratification of hearing it, poor + woman,’ said Mrs. Dusautoy, ‘but it is a fact that she did poor George + Dusautoy the honour to marry him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Dusautoy’s brother?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay—he was a young surgeon, just set up in practice, exactly like + John—nay, some people thought him still finer-looking. She was a + Miss Greenaway Cavendish, a stock-broker’s heiress of a certain age.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh!’ expressively cried Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘You may say so,’ returned Mrs. Dusautoy. ‘She made him put away his + profession, and set up for taste and elegant idleness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And he submitted?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There was a great deal of the meek giant in him, and he believed + implicitly in the honour she had done him. It would have been very + touching, if it had not been so provoking, to see how patiently and humbly + that fine young man gave up all that would have made him happy, to bend to + her caprices and pretensions.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did you ever see them together?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I never saw her at all, and him only once. I never knew John really + savage but once, and that was at her not letting him come to our wedding; + but she did give him leave of absence for one fortnight, when we were at + Lauriston. How happy the brothers were! It did one good to hear their + great voices about the house; and they were like boys on a stolen frolic, + when John took him to prescribe for some of our poor people. He used to + talk of bringing us his little son—the one pleasure of his life—but + he never was allowed. Oh, how I used to long to stir up a mutiny!’ cried + Mrs. Dusautoy, quite unknowing that she ruled her own lion with a leash of + silk. ‘If she had appreciated him, it would have been bearable; but to her + he was no more than the handsome young doctor, whom she had made a + gentleman, and not a very good piece of work of it either! Little she + recked of the great loving heart that had thrown itself away on her, and + the patience that bore with her; and she tried to hinder all the liberal + bountiful actions that were all he cared to do with his means! I wish the + boy may remember him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How long has he been dead?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘These ten years. He was drowned in a lake storm in Switzerland—people + clung to him, and he could not swim. It was John’s one great grief—he + cannot mention him even now. And really,’ she added, smiling, ‘I do + believe he has brought himself to fancy it was a very happy marriage. She + has always been very civil; but she has been chiefly abroad, and never + would take his advice about sending her boy to school.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What becomes of him now?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is our charge. She was on the way home from Italy, when she was taken + ill at Paris, and died at the end of the week.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How old is he?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘About nineteen, I fancy. He must have had an odd sort of education; but + if he is a nice lad, it will be a great pleasure to John to have something + young about the house.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I was thinking that Mr. Dusautoy hardly wanted more cares.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So have I,’ said her friend, smiling, ‘and I have been laying a plot + against him. You see, he is as strong as a lion, and never yet was too + tired to sleep; but it is rather a tempting of Providence to keep 3589 + people and fourteen services in a week resting upon one man!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Exactly what his churchwarden has preached to him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Moreover, he cannot be in two places at once, let alone half-a-dozen. + Now, my Lancashire people have written in quest of a title for holy orders + for a young man who has just gone through Cambridge with great credit, and + it strikes me that he might at once help John, and cram Master Algernon.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And Gilbert!’ cried Albinia. ‘Oh, if you will import a tutor for Gilbert, + we shall be for ever beholden to you!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I had thought of him. I have no doubt that he is much better taught than + Algernon; but I am not afraid of this poor fellow bringing home bad + habits, and they will be good companions. I reckon upon you and Mr. Kendal + as great auxiliaries, and I don’t think John will be able to withstand our + united forces.’ + </p> + <p> + On the way home, on emerging from the alley, Albinia encountered Gilbert, + just parting with another youth, who walked off quickly on the Tremblam + road, while she inquired who it was. + </p> + <p> + ‘That?’ said Gilbert; ‘oh! that was young Tritton. He has been away + learning farming in Scotland. We speak when we meet, for old acquaintance + sake and that.’ + </p> + <p> + The Bayford mind was diverted from the romance of Genevieve, by the + enormous fortune of the Vicar’s nephew, whose capital was in their mouths + and imaginations swelled into his yearly income. Swarms of cards of + inquiry were left at the vicarage; and Mrs. Meadows and Lucy enjoyed the + reflected dignity of being able to say that Mrs. Kendal was continually + there. And so she was, for Mrs. Dusautoy was drooping, though more in body + than visibly in spirit, and needed both companionship and assistance in + supporting the charge left by her absent Atlas. + </p> + <p> + He was not gone a moment longer than necessary, and took her by surprise + at last, while Albinia and Sophy were sitting on the lawn with her, when + she welcomed the nephew and the Vicar, holding out a hand to each, and + thanked them for taking care of ‘Fanny.’ ‘Here, Algernon,’ he continued, + ‘here are two of our best friends, Mrs. Kendal and Miss Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + There was a stiff bow from a stiff altitude. The youth was on the gigantic + Dusautoy scale, looking taller even than his uncle, from his manner of + holding himself with his chin somewhat elevated. He had a good ruddy + sun-burnt complexion, shining brown hair, and regular features; and + Albinia could respond heartily to the good Vicar’s exclamation, as he + followed her down to the gate for the sake of saying, + </p> + <p> + ‘Well-grown lad, isn’t that? And a very good-hearted fellow too, poor boy—the + very picture of his dear father. Well, and how has Fanny been?’ + </p> + <p> + He stayed to be reassured that his return was all his Fanny wanted, and + then hurried back to her, while Albinia and Sophy pursued their way down + the hill. + </p> + <p> + ‘News for grandmamma. We must give her a particular description of the + hero.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How ugly he thought me!’ said Sophy, quaintly. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, I believe that is the first thing you think of when you meet a + stranger!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I saw it this time,’ returned Sophy. ‘His chin went up in the air at + once. He set me down for Mrs. Kendal, and you for Miss Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nonsense,’ said Albinia, for the inveterate youthfulness of her bright + complexion and sunny hair was almost a sore subject with her. ‘Your always + fancying that every one is disgusted with you, is as silly as if you + imagined yourself transcendently beautiful. It is mere self-occupation, + and helps to make you blunt and shy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mamma,’ said Sophy, ‘tell me one thing. Did you ever think yourself + pretty?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have thought myself looking so, under favourable circumstances, but + that’s all. You are as far from ugliness as I am, and have as little need + to think of it. As far as features go, there’s the making of a much + handsomer woman in you than in me.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy laughed. A certain yearning for personal beauty was a curious part + of her character, and she would have been ashamed to own the pleasure + those few words had given her, or how much serenity and forbearance they + were worth; and her good-humour was put to the proof that evening, for + grandmamma had a tea-party, bent on extracting the full description of the + great Algernon Greenaway Cavendish Dusautoy, Esquire. Lucy’s first sight + was less at her ease. Elizabeth Osborn, with whom she kept up a fitful + intimacy, summoned her mysteriously into her garden, to show her a + peep-hole through a little dusty window in the tool-house, whence could be + descried the vicarage garden, and Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy, as, with a cigar + in his mouth, and his hands in his pockets, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Stately stept he east the wa’, and stately stept he west.’ +</pre> + <p> + Lucy was so much amused, that she could not help reporting it at home, + where Gilbert forgot his sorrows, in building up a mischievous romance in + honour of the hole in the ‘sweet and lovely wall.’ + </p> + <p> + But the parents’ feud did not seem likely to hold out. A hundred thousand + pounds on one side of the wall, and three single daughters on the other, + Mrs. Osborn was not the woman to trust to the ‘wall’s hole;’ and so Mr. + Dusautoy’s enemy laid down her colours; and he was too kind-hearted to + trace her sudden politeness to the source. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dusautoy acceded to the scheme devised by his wife, and measures were + at once taken for engaging the curate. When Albinia went to talk the + matter over at the parsonage, Lucy accompanied her; but the object of her + curiosity was not in the room; and when she had heard that he was fond of + drawing, and that his horses were to be kept at the King’s Head stables, + the conversation drifted away, and she grew restless, and begged Mrs. + Dusautoy to allow her to replenish the faded bouquets on the table. No + sooner was she in the garden, than Mrs. Dusautoy put on an arch look, and + lowering her voice, said, + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! it is such fun! He does despise us so immensely.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Despise—you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is a good, boy, faithful to his training. Now his poor mother’s axioms + were, that the English are vulgar, country English more vulgar, Fanny + Dusautoy the most vulgar! I wish we always as heartily accepted what we + are taught.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He must be intolerable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, he is very condescending and patronizing to the savages. He really is + fond of his uncle; and John is so much hurt it I notice his peculiarities, + that I have been dying to have my laugh out.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Can Mr. Dusautoy bear with pretension?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is not pretension, only calm faith in the lessons of his youth. Look,’ + she added, becoming less personal at Lucy’s re-entrance, and pointing to a + small highly-varnished oil-painting of a red terra cotta vase, holding a + rose, a rhododendron before it, and half a water-melon grinning behind, + newly severed by a knife. + </p> + <p> + ‘Is that what people bring home from Italy now-a-days?’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘That is an original production.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy do that?’ cried Lucy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Genre is his style,’ was the reply. ‘His mother was resolved he should be + an amateur, and I give his master great credit.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Especially for that not being a Madonna,’ said Albinia. ‘I congratulate + you on his having so safe an amusement.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes; it disposes of him and of the spare room. He cannot exist without an + atelier.’ + </p> + <p> + Just then the Vicar entered. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! Algernon’s picture,’ began he, who had never been known to look at + one, except the fat cattle in the Illustrated News. ‘What do you think of + it? Has he not made a good hand of the pitcher?’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia gratified him by owning that the pitcher was round; and Lucy was + in perfect rapture at the ‘dear little spots’ in the rhododendron. + </p> + <p> + ‘A poor way of spending a lad’s time,’ said the uncle; ‘but it is better + than nothing; and I call the knife very good: I declare you might take it + up,’ and he squeezed up his eyes to enhance the illusion. + </p> + <p> + A slow and wide opening of the door admitted the lofty presence of + Algernon Cavendish Dusautoy, with another small picture in his hand. + Becoming aware of the visitors, he saluted them with a dignified movement + of his head, and erecting his chin, gazed at them over it. + </p> + <p> + ‘So you have brought us another picture, Algernon,’ said his uncle. ‘Mrs. + Kendal has just been admiring your red jar.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you a taste for art?’ demanded Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy, turning to + her with magnificent suavity. + </p> + <p> + ‘I used to be very fond of drawing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Genre is my style,’ he pursued, almost overthrowing her gravity by the + original of his aunt’s imitation. ‘I took lessons of old Barbouille—excellent + master. Truth and nature, those were his maxims; and from the moment I + heard them, I said, “This is my man.” We used positively to live in the + Borghese. There!’ as he walked backwards, after adjusting his production + in the best light. + </p> + <p> + ‘A snipe,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘A snipe that I killed in the Pontine marshes.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is very good shooting about Anxur,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘You have been at Rome?’ He permitted himself a little animation at + discovering any one within the pale of civilization. + </p> + <p> + ‘For one fortnight in the course of a galloping tour with my two + brothers,’ said Albinia. ‘All the Continent in one long vacation!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That was much to be regretted. It is my maxim to go through every museum + thoroughly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t regret,’ said Albinia. ‘I should be very sorry to give up my + bright indistinct haze of glorious memories, though I was too young to + appreciate all I saw.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘For my part, I have grown up among works of art. My whole existence has + been moulded on them, and I feel an inexpressible void without them. I + shall be most happy to introduce you into my atelier, and show you my + notes on the various Musees. I preserved them merely as a trifling + memorial; but many connoisseurs have told me that I ought to print them as + a Catalogue raisonnee, for private circulation, of course. I should be + sorry to interfere with Murray, but on the whole I decided otherwise: I + should be so much bored with applications.’ + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Dusautoy’s wicked glance had so nearly demolished the restraint on + her friend’s dimples, that she turned her back on her, and commended the + finish of a solitary downy feather that lay detached beside the bird. + </p> + <p> + ‘My maxim is truth to nature, at any cost of pains,’ said the youth, not + exactly gratified, for homage was his native element, but graciously + proceeding to point out the merits of the composition. + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s composure could endure no more, and she took her leave, Mr. + Dusautoy coming down the hill with her to repeat, and this time somewhat + wistfully, + </p> + <p> + ‘A fine lad, is he not, poor fellow?’ + </p> + <p> + With perfect sincerity, she could praise his good looks. + </p> + <p> + ‘He has had a quantity of sad stuff thrust on him by the people who have + been about his poor mother,’ said Mr. Dusautoy. ‘She could never bear to + part with him, and no wonder, poor thing; and she must have let a very odd + sort of people get about her abroad—they’ve flattered that poor lad + to the top of his bent, you see, but he’s a very good boy for all that, + very warm-hearted.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He must be very amiable for his mother to have been able to manage him + all this while.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Just what I say!’ cried the Vicar, his honest face clearing. ‘Many youths + would have run into all that is bad, brought up in that way; but only + consider what disadvantages he has had! When we get him to see his real + standing a little better—I say, could not you let us have your young + people to come up this evening, have a little music, and make it lively? I + suppose Fanny and I are growing old, though I never thought so before. + Will you come, Lucy, there’s a good girl, and bring your brother and + sister? The lads must be capital friends.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy promised with sparkling eyes, and the Vicar strode off, saying he + should depend on the three. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert ‘supposed he was in for it,’ but ‘did not see the use of it,’ he + was sick of the name of ‘that polysyllable,’ and ‘should see enough of him + when Mr. Hope came, worse luck.’ + </p> + <p> + The result of the evening was, that Lacy was enraptured at the discovery + that this most accomplished hero sang Italian songs to the loveliest + guitar in the world, and was very much offended with Sophy for wishing to + know whether mamma really thought him so very clever. + </p> + <p> + Immediately after the Ordination arrived Mr. Hope, a very youthful, small, + and delicate-looking man, whom Mr. Dusautoy could have lifted as easily as + his own Fanny, with short sight, timid nature, scholarly habits, weak + nerves, and an inaudible voice. + </p> + <p> + Of great intellect, having read deeply, and reading still more deeply, he + had the utmost dread of ladies, and not even his countrywoman, Mrs. + Dusautoy, could draw him out. He threw his whole soul into the work, + winning the hearts of the infant-school and the old women, but + discomfiting the congregation by the weakness of his voice, and the length + and depth of his sermons. There was one in especial which very few heard, + and no one entered into except Sophy, who held an hour’s argument over it + with her father, till they arrived at such lengthy names of heresies, that + poor grandmamma asked if it were right to talk Persian on a Sunday + evening. + </p> + <p> + He conscientiously tutored his two pupils, but there was no common ground + between him and them. Excepting his extra intellect, there was no boyhood + in him. A town-bred scholar, a straight constitutional upon a clean road + was his wildest dream of exercise; he had never mounted a horse, did not + know a chicken from a partridge, except on the table, was too + short-sighted for pictures, and esteemed no music except Gregorians. + </p> + <p> + The two youths were far more alive to his deficiencies than to his + endowments: Algernon contemned him for being a book-seller’s son, with + nothing to live on but his fellowship and curacy, and Gilbert looked down + on his ignorance of every matter of common life, and excessive + bashfulness. Mr. Dusautoy would have had less satisfaction in the growing + intimacy between the lads, had he known that it had been cemented by + inveigling poor Mr. Hope into a marsh in search of cotton-grass, which, at + Gilbert’s instigation, Algernon avouched to be a new sort of Indian corn, + grown in Italy for feeding silkworms. + </p> + <p> + An intimacy there was, rather from constant intercourse than from positive + liking. Gilbert saw through and disdained young Dusautoy’s dulness and + self-consequence; but good-natured, kindly, and unoccupied, he had no + objection to associate with him, showing him English ways, trying to + hinder him from needlessly exposing himself, and secretly amused with his + pretension. Algernon, with his fine horses, expensive appointments, and + lofty air, was neither a discreditable nor unpleasing companion. Mr. + Kendal had given his son a horse, which, without costing the guineas that + Algernon had ‘refused’ for each of his steeds, was a very + respectable-looking animal, and the two young gentlemen, starting on their + daily ride, were a grand spectacle for more than little Maurice. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert had suffered some eclipse. Once he had been the grand parti, the + only indisputable gentleman, but now Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy had entirely + surpassed him both in self-assertion and in the grounds for it. His + incipient dandyisms faded into insignificance beside the splendours of the + heir of thousands; and he, who among all his faults had never numbered + conceit or forwardness, had little chance beside such an implicit believer + in his own greatness. + </p> + <p> + Nor was Bayford likely to diminish that faith. The non-adorers might be + easily enumerated—his uncle and aunt, his tutor, his groom, Mr. and + Mrs. Kendal, Gilbert and Sophy; the rest all believed in him as thoroughly + as he did in himself. His wealth was undoubted, his accomplishments were + rated at his own advertisement, and his magnanimous condescension was + esteemed at full value. Really handsome, good-natured and sociable, he + delighted to instruct his worshippers by his maxims, and to bend + graciously to their homage. The young ladies had but one cynosure! Few + eyes were there that did not pursue his every movement, few hearts that + did not bound at his approach, few tongues that did not chronicle his + daily comings and goings. + </p> + <p> + ‘It would save much trouble,’ said Albinia, ‘if a court circular could be + put into the Bayford paper.’ + </p> + <p> + The Kendals were the only persons whom Algernon regarded as in any way on + a footing with him. Finding that the lady was a Ferrars, and had been in + Italy, he regarded her as fit company, and whenever they met, favoured her + with the chief and choicest of his maxims, little knowing how she and his + aunt presumed to discuss him in private. + </p> + <p> + Without being ill-disposed, he had been exceedingly ill taught; his + mother, the child of a grasping vulgar father, had little religious + impression, and that little had not been fostered by the lax habits of a + self-expatriated Englishwoman, and very soon after his arrival at Bayford + his disregard of ordinary English proprieties had made itself apparent. On + the first Sunday he went to church in the morning, but spent the evening + in pacing the garden with a cigar; and on the afternoon of that day week + his aunt was startled by the sound of horse’s hoofs on the road. Mr. + Dusautoy was at school, and she started up, met the young gentleman, and + asked him what strange mistake could have been made. He made her a slight + bow, and loftily said he was always accustomed to ride at that hour! ‘But + not on Sunday!’ she exclaimed. He was not aware of any objection. She told + him his uncle would be much displeased, he replied politely that he would + account to his uncle for his conduct, begged her pardon, but he could not + keep his horse waiting. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Dusautoy went back, fairly cried at the thought of her husband’s + vexation, and the scandal to the whole town. + </p> + <p> + The Vicar was, of course, intensely annoyed, though he still could make + excuses for the poor boy, and laid all to the score of ignorance and + foreign education. He made Algernon clearly understand that the Sunday + ride must not be repeated. Algernon mumbled something about compromising + his uncle and offending English prejudices, by which he reserved to + himself the belief that he yielded out of magnanimity, not because he + could not help it; but he could not forgive his aunt for her peremptory + opposition; he became unpleasantly sullen and morose as regularly as the + Sunday came round, and revenged himself by pacing the verandah with his + cigar, or practising anything but sacred music on his key-bugle in his + painting-room. + </p> + <p> + The youth was really fond of his uncle, but he had imbibed all his + mother’s contempt for her sister-in-law. Used to be wheedled by an + idolizing mother, and to reign over her court of parasites, he had no + notion of obeying, and a direct command or opposition roused his sullen + temper of passive resistance. When he found ‘that little nobody of a Mrs. + John Dusautoy’ so far from being a flatterer, or an adorer of his + perfections, inclined to laugh at him, and bent on keeping him in order, + all the enmity of which he was capable arose in his mind, and though in + general good-natured and not aggressive, he had a decided pleasure in + doing what she disapproved, and thus asserting the dignity of a Greenaway + Cavendish Dusautoy. + </p> + <p> + The atelier was a happy invention. Certainly wearisome noises, and an + aroma of Havannahs would now and then proceed therefrom, but he was + employed there the chief part of the day, and fortunately his pictures + were of small size, and took an infinite quantity of labour, so that they + could not speedily outrun all the Vicarage walls. + </p> + <p> + He favoured the University of Oxford by going up with Gilbert for + matriculation, when, to the surprise of Mr. Hope, he was not plucked. They + were to begin their residence at the Easter term. Mrs. Dusautoy did not + confess even to Albinia how much she looked forward to Easter. + </p> + <p> + In early spring, a sudden and short illness took away Madame Belmarche’s + brave spirit to its rest, after sixty years of exile and poverty, + cheerfully borne. + </p> + <p> + There had been no time to summon Genevieve, and her aunt would not send + for her, but decided on breaking up the school, which could no longer be + carried on, and going to live in the Hadminster convent. And thus, as Mr. + Kendal hoped, all danger of renewed intercourse between his son and + Genevieve ended. Gilbert looked pale and wretched, and Sophy hoped it was + with compunction at having banished Genevieve at such a moment, but not a + word was said—and that page of early romance was turned! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. + </h2> + <p> + It was a beautiful July afternoon, the air musical with midsummer hum, the + flowers basking in the sunshine, the turf cool and green in the shade, and + the breeze redolent of indescribable freshness and sweetness compounded of + all fragrant odours, the present legacy of a past day’s shower. Like the + flowers themselves, Albinia was feeling the delicious repose of refreshed + nature, as in her pretty pink muslin, her white drapery folded round her, + and her bright hair unbonnetted, she sat reclining in a low garden chair, + at the door of the conservatory, a little pale, a little weak, but with a + sweet happy languor, a soft tender bloom. + </p> + <p> + There was a step in the conservatory, and before she could turn round, her + brother Maurice bent over her, and kissed her. + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice! you have come after all!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, the school inspection is put off. How are you?’ as he sat down on + the grass by her side. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, quite well! What a delicious afternoon we shall have! Edmund will be + at home directly. Mrs. Meadows has absolutely let Gilbert take her to + drink tea at the Drurys! Only I am sorry Sophy should miss you, for she + was so good about going, because Lucy wanted to do something to her + fernery. Of course you are come for Sunday, and the christening?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,—that is, to throw myself on Dusautoy’s mercy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We will send Mr. Hope to Fairmead,’ said Albinia, ‘and see whether + Winifred can make him speak. We can’t spare the Vicar, for he is our + godfather, and you must christen the little maiden.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought the three elder ones were to be sponsors.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert is shy,’ said Albinia, ‘afraid of the responsibility, and perhaps + he is almost too near, the very next to ourselves. His father would have + preferred Mr. Dusautoy from the first, and only yielded to my wish. I wish + you had come two minutes sooner, she was being paraded under that wall, + but now she is gone in asleep.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Her father writes grand things of her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Does he?’ said Albinia, colouring and smiling at what could not be heard + too often; ‘he is tolerably satisfied with the young woman! And he thinks + her like Edmund, and so she must be, for she is just like him. She will + have such beautiful eyes. It is very good of her to take after him, since + Maurice won’t!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And she is to be another Albinia.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I represented the confusion, and how I always meant my daughter to be + Winifred, but there’s no doing anything with him! It is only to be a + second name. A. W. K.! Think if she should marry a Mr. Ward!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, she would not be awkward, if she were so a-warded.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It wont spell, Maurice,’ cried Albinia, laughing as their nonsense, as + usual, rose to the surface, ‘but how is Winifred?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As well as could be hoped under the affliction of not being able to come + and keep you in order.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She fancied me according to the former pattern,’ said Albinia, smiling, + ‘I could have shown her a better specimen, not that it was any merit, for + there were no worries, and Edmund was so happy, that it was pleasure + enough to watch him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I was coming every day to judge for myself, but I thought things could + not be very bad, while he wrote such flourishing accounts.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, there were no more ponds!’ said Albinia, ‘and grandmamma happily was + quite well, cured, I believe, by the excitement. Lucy took care of her, + and Sophy read to me—how we have enjoyed those readings! Oh! and + Aunt Gertrude has found a delightful situation for Genevieve, a + barrister’s family, with lots of little children—eighty pounds a + year, and quite ready to value her, so she is off my mind.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice, boy! come here,’ she called, as she caught sight of a creature + prancing astride on one stick, and waving another. On perceiving a + visitor, the urchin came careering up, bouncing full tilt upon her, and + clasping her round with both his stalwart arms. ‘Gently, gently, boy,’ she + said, bending down, and looking with proud delight at her brother, as she + held between her hands a face much like her own, as fair and freshly + tinted, but with a peculiar squareness of contour, large blue eyes, with + dark fringes, brimming over with mischief and fun, a bold, broad brow, and + thick, light curls. There was a spring and vigour as of perpetual + irrepressible life about the whole being, and the moment he had accepted + his uncle’s kiss, he poised his lance, and exclaimed, ‘You are Bonaparte, + I’m the Duke!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed,’ said Mr. Ferrars, at once seizing a wand, and bestriding the + nearest bench. Two or three charges rendered the boy so uproarious, that + presently he was ordered off, and to use the old apple tree as Bonaparte. + </p> + <p> + ‘What a stout fellow!’ said Mr. Ferrars, as he went off at a plunging + gallop, ‘I should have taken him for at least five years old!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So he might be,’ said Albinia, ‘for strength and spirit—he is + utterly fearless, and never cries, much as he knocks himself about! He + will do anything but learn. The rogue! he once knew all his letters, but + no sooner did he find they were the work of life, than he forgot every + one, and was never so obstreperous as when called upon to say them. I gave + up the point, but I foresee some fine scenes.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘His minding no one but you is an old story. I hope at least the exception + continues.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have avoided testing it. I want all my forces for a decisive battle. I + never heard of such a masterful imp,’ she continued, with much more + exultation than anxiety, ‘his sisters have no chance with him, he rules + them like a young Turk. There’s the pony! Sophy will let him have it as a + right, and it is the work of my life to see that she is not defrauded of + her rides.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t mean that that child rides anything but a stick.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘One would think he had been born in boots and spurs. Legitimately he only + rides with some one leading the pony, but I have my suspicions that by + some preternatural means he has been on the pony’s back, and round the + yard alone, and that papa prudentially concealed it from me!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I confess I should not like it,’ said her brother gravely. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I don’t mind that kind of thing. A real boy can’t be hurt, and I + don’t care how wild he runs, so long as he is obedient and truthful. And + true I think he is to the backbone, and I know he is reverend. We had such + a disturbance because he would not say his prayers.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Proof positive!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, it was,’ said Albinia. ‘It did not seem to him orthodox without me, + and when he was let into my room again, it was the prettiest sight! When + he had been told of his little sister, all he said was that he did not + want little girls—girls were stupid—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! that came of your premature introduction to my Albinia,’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not at all. It was partly as William’s own nephew, and partly because + pleasure was expected from him. But when he actually saw the little thing, + that sturdy face grew so very soft and sweet, and when we told him he was + her protector, he put both his hands tight together, and said, “I’ll be so + good!” When he is with her, another child seems to shine out under the + bluff pickle he generally is—he walks so quietly, and thinks it such + an honour to touch her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She will be his best tutor,’ said Maurice, smiling, but breaking off— + </p> + <p> + A sudden shriek of deadly terror rang out over the garden from the river! + A second or two sufficed to show them Lucy at the other end of the + foot-bridge, that led across the canal to the towing-path. She did not + look round, till Albinia, clutching her, demanded, ‘Where is he?’ + </p> + <p> + Unable to speak, Lucy pointed down the towing-path, along which a horse + was seen rushing wildly—a figure pursuing it. ‘It was hitched up + here—he must have scrambled up by the gate! Oh! mamma! mamma! He has + run after him, but oh!’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars gave Lucy’s arm a squeeze, a hint not to augment the horror. + Something he said of ‘Let me—and you had better—’ but Albinia + heard nothing, and was only bent on pressing forward. + </p> + <p> + The canal and path took a wide sweep round the meadow, and the horse was + still in sight, galloping at full speed, with a small heap on its back, as + they trusted, but the rapid motion, and their eyes strained and misty with + alarm, caused an agony of uncertainty. + </p> + <p> + Albinia pointed across the meadows in anguish at not being able to make + herself understood, and hoarsely said, ‘The gate!’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars caught her meaning, and the next moment had leaped over the + gutter, and splashed into the water meadow, but in utter hopelessness of + being beforehand with the runaway steed! How could that gate be other than + fatal? The horse was nearing it—the pursuer far behind—Mr. + Ferrars not half way over the fields. + </p> + <p> + There was a loud cry from Lucy.—‘He is caught! caught!’ + </p> + <p> + A loud shout came back, was caught up, and sent on by both the pursuers, + ‘All right!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia had stood in an almost annihilation of conscious feeling. Even + when her brother strode back to her repeating ‘All safe, thanks be to + God,’ she neither spoke nor relaxed that intensity of watching. A few + seconds more, and she sprang forward again as the horse was led up by a + young man at his side; and on his back, laughing and chattering, sat + Master Maurice. Algernon Dusautoy strode a few steps behind, somewhat + aggrieved, but that no one saw. + </p> + <p> + The elder Maurice lifted down the younger one, who, as he was clasped by + his mother, exclaimed, ‘Oh! mamma, Bamfylde went so fast! I am to ride + home again! He said so—he’s my cousin!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia scarcely heard; her brother however had turned to thank the + stranger for her, and exclaimed, ‘I should say you were an O’More.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m Ulick, from the Loughside Lodge,’ was the answer. ‘Is cousin Winifred + here?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, this is my sister, Mrs. Kendal, but—’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia held out her hand, and grasped his; ‘I can’t—Maurice, + speak,’ she said. + </p> + <p> + The little Maurice persisted in his demand to be remounted for the twelve + yards to their own gate, but nobody heard him; his uncle was saying a few + words of explanation to the stranger, and Algernon Dusautoy was + enunciating something intended as a gracious reception of the apologies + which no one was making. All Albinia thought of was that the little unruly + hand was warm and struggling, prisoned in her own; all her brother cared + for was to have her safely at home. He led her across the bridge, and into + the garden, where they met Mr. Kendal, who had taken alarm from her + absence; Lucy ran up with her story, and almost at the same moment, + Albinia, springing to him, murmured, ‘Oh! Edmund, the great mercy—Maurice;’ + but there she found herself making a hoarse shriek; with a mingled sense + of fright and shame, she smothered it, but there was an agony of + suffocation, she felt her husband’s arms round her, heard his voice, and + her boy’s scream of terror—felt them all unable to help her, and + sank into unconsciousness. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars helped Mr. Kendal to carry his wife’s inanimate form to her + room. They used all means of restoration, but it was a long, heavy swoon, + and a slow, painful revival. Mr. Kendal would have been in utter despair + at hearing that the doctor was out, but for his brother, with his ready + resources and cheerful encouragement; and finally, she lifted her eyelids, + and as she felt the presence of her two dearest guardians, whispered, + ‘Where is he?’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy reported that he was with Susan, and Albinia, after hearing her + husband again assure her that he was quite safe, lay still from + exhaustion, but so calm, that her brother thought them best alone, and + drew Lucy away. + </p> + <p> + In about a quarter of an hour Mr. Kendal came down, saying that she was + quietly asleep, and he had left the nurse with her. He had yet to hear the + story, and when he understood that the child had been madly careering + along the towing-path, on the back of young Dusautoy’s most spirited + hunter, and had been only stopped when the horse was just about to leap + the tall gate, he was completely overcome. When he spoke again, it was + with the abrupt exclamation, ‘That child! Lucy, bring him down!’ + </p> + <p> + In marched the boy, full of life and mischief, though with a large red + spot beneath each eye. + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice!’ Gilbert had often heard that tone, but Maurice never, and he + tossed back his head with an innocent look of fearless wonder. ‘Maurice, I + find you have been a very naughty, disobedient boy. When you rode the pony + round the yard, did not I order you never to do so again?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I did not do it again,’ boldly rejoined Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Speak the truth, sir. What do you mean by denying what you have done?’ + exclaimed his father, angrily. + </p> + <p> + ‘I didn’t ride the pony,’ indignantly cried the child, ‘I rode a horse, + saddled and bridled!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t answer me in that way!’ thundered Mr. Kendal, and much incensed by + the nice distinction, and not appreciating the sincerity of it, he gave + the child a shake, rough enough to bring the red into his face, but not a + tear. ‘You knew it was very wrong, and you were as near as possible + breaking your neck. You have frightened your mamma, so as to make her very + ill, and I am sorry to find you most mischievous and unruly, not to be + trusted out of sight. Now, listen to me, I shall punish you very severely + if you act in this disobedient way again.’ + </p> + <p> + Papa angry, was a novel spectacle, at which Maurice looked as innocently + and steadily as ever, so completely without fear or contrition, that he + provoked a stern, ‘Do you hear me, sir?’ and another shake. Maurice + flushed, and his chest heaved, though he did not sob, and his father, + uncomfortable at such sharp dealing with so young a child, set him aside, + with the words, ‘There now, recollect what I have told you!’ and walked to + the window, where he stood silent for some seconds, while the boy stood + with rounded shoulders, perplexed eye, and finger on his pouting lip, and + Mr. Ferrars, newspaper in hand, watched him under his eyelids, and + speculated what would be the best sort of mediation, or whether the young + gentleman yet deserved it. He knew that his own Willie would have been a + mere quaking, sobbing mass of terror, under such a shake, and he would + like to have been sure whether that sturdy silence were obstinacy or + fortitude. + </p> + <p> + The sound of the door-bell made Mr. Kendal turn round, and laying his hand + on the little fellow’s fair head, he said, ‘There, Maurice, we’ll say no + more about it if you will be a good boy. Run away now, but don’t go into + your mamma’s room.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice looked up, tossed his curls out of his eyes, shook himself, felt + the place on his arm where the grip of the hand had been, and galloped off + like the young colt that he was. + </p> + <p> + Albinia awoke, refreshed, though still shaken and feeble, and surprised to + find that dinner was going on downstairs. Her own meal presently put such + new force into her, that she felt able to speak Maurice’s name without + bursting into tears, and longing to see both her little ones beside her, + she told the nurse to fetch the boy, but received for answer, ‘No, Master + Maurice said he would not come,’ and the manner conveyed that it had been + defiantly said. Master Maurice was no favourite in the nursery, and he was + still less so, when his mamma, disregarding all mandates, set out to seek + him. Already she heard from the stairs the wrangling with Susan that + accompanied all his toilettes, and she found him the picture of firm, + solid fairness, in his little robe de nuit, growling through the combing + of his tangled locks. Though ordinarily scornful of caresses, he sprang to + her and hugged her, as she sat down on a low chair, and he knelt in her + lap, whispering with his head on her shoulder, and his arms round her + neck, ‘Mamma, were you dead?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, Maurice,’ she answered with something of a sob, ‘or I should not have + my dear, dear little boy throttling me now! But why would you not come + down to me?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Papa said I must not.’ + </p> + <p> + Oh, that was quite right, my boy;’ and though she unclasped the tight + arms, she drew him nestling into her bosom. ‘Oh, Maurice, it has been a + terrible day! Does my little boy know how good the great God has been to + him, and how near he was never seeing mamma nor his little sister again.’ + </p> + <p> + Her great object was to make him thankful for his preservation, but with a + child, knowing nothing of death and heedless of fear, this was very + difficult. The rapid motion had been delightful excitement, or if there + had been any alarm, it was forgotten in the triumph. She had to change her + note, and represent how the poor horse might have run into the river, or + against a post! Maurice looked serious, and then she came to the high + moral tone—mounting strangers’ horses without leave—would + papa, would Gilbert, think of such a thing? The full lip was put out, as + though under conviction, and he hung his head. ‘You wont do it again?’ + said she. + </p> + <p> + ‘No.’ + </p> + <p> + She told him to say his prayers, guiding the confession and thanksgiving + that she feared he did not fully follow. As he rose up, and saw the tears + on her cheeks, he whispered, ‘Mamma, did it make you <i>so</i>?’ + </p> + <p> + Cause and effect were a great puzzle to him, but that swoon was the only + thing that brought home to him that he had been guilty of something + enormous, and when she owned that his danger had been the occasion, he + stood and looked; then, standing bolt upright, with clasped hands, and + rosy feet pressed close together, he said, with a long breath, ‘I’ll never + get on Bamfylde again till I’m a big boy.’ + </p> + <p> + As he spoke, Mr. Kendal pushed open the half-closed door, and Albinia, + looking up, said, ‘Here’s a boy who knows he has done wrong, papa.’ + </p> + <p> + Never was more welcome excuse for lifting the gallant child to his breast, + and lavishing caresses that would have been tender but for the strong + spirit of riot which turned them into a game at romps, cut short by Mr. + Kendal, as soon as the noise grew very outrageous. ‘That’s enough + to-night; good night.’ And when they each had kissed the monkey face + tossing about among the clothes, Maurice might have heard more pride than + pain in the ‘I never saw such a boy!’ with which they shut the door. + </p> + <p> + ‘This is not prudent!’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you think I could have rested till I had seen him? and he said you had + told him not to come down.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I would have brought him to you. You are looking very ill; you had better + go to bed at once.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I should not sleep. Pray let me grow quiet first. Now you know you + trust Maurice,—old Maurice, and I’ll lie on the sofa like any mouse, + if you’ll bring him up and let him talk. You know it will be an + interesting novelty for you to talk, and me to listen! and he has not seen + the baby.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia gained her point, but Mr. Kendal and Lucy first tucked her up upon + the sofa, till she cried out, ‘You have swathed me hand and foot. How am I + to show off that little Awk?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll take care of that,’ said Mr. Kendal; and so he did, fully doing the + honours of the little daughter, who had already fastened on his heart. + </p> + <p> + ‘But,’ cried Albinia, breaking into the midst, ‘who or what are we, + ungrateful monsters, never to have thought of the man who caught that + dreadful horse!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You shall see him as soon as you are strong enough,’ said Mr. Kendal; + ‘your brother and I have been with him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, I am glad; I could not rest if he had not been thanked. And can + anything be done for him? What is he? I thought he was a gentleman.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice smiled, and Mr. Kendal answered, ‘Yes, he is Mr. Goldsmith’s + nephew, and I am pleased to find that he is a connexion of your brother.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘One of the O’Mores,’ cried Albinia. ‘Oh, Maurice, is it really one of + Winifred’s O’Mores?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Even so,’ replied Mr. Ferrars; the very last person I should have + expected to meet on the banks of the Baye! It was that clever son of the + captain’s for whose education Mr. Goldsmith paid, and it seems had sent + for, to consider of his future destination. He only arrived yesterday.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A very fine young man,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘I was particularly pleased with + his manner, and it was an act of great presence of mind and dexterity.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is all a maze and mystery to me,’ said Albinia; ‘do tell me all about + it. I can’t make out how the horse came there.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I understood that young Dusautoy was calling here,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘I + wondered at even his coolness in coming in by that way, and at your + letting him in.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I saw nothing of him,’ said Albinia. ‘Perhaps he was looking for + Gilbert.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Lucy, looking up from her work, with a slight blush, and demure + voice of secret importance; ‘he had only stepped in for a minute, to bring + me a new fern.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed,’ said her father; ‘I was not aware that he took interest in your + fernery.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He knows everything about ferns,’ said Lucy. ‘Mrs. Cavendish Dusautoy + once had a conservatory filled with the rarest specimens, and he has given + me a great many directions how to manage them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! if he could get you to listen to his maxims, I don’t wonder at + anything,’ exclaimed Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘He had only just come in with the Adiantium, and was telling me how + hydraulic power directed a stream of water near the roots among his + mother’s Fuci,’ said Lucy, rather hurt. ‘He had fastened up his horse + quite securely, and nobody could have guessed that Maurice could have + opened that gate to cross the bridge, far less have climbed up the rail to + the horse’s back. I never shall forget my fright, when we heard the + creature’s feet, and Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy began to run after it + directly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As foolish a thing as he could have done,’ said Mr. Kendal, not impressed + with Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy’s condescension in giving chase. ‘It was well + poor little Maurice was not abandoned to your discretion, and his + resources.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It seems,’ continued Mr. Ferrars, ‘that young O’More was taking a walk on + the towing-path, and was just so far off as to see, without being able to + prevent it, this little monkey scramble from the gate upon the horse’s + neck. How it was that he did not go down between, I can’t guess; the beast + gave a violent start, as well it might, jerked the reins loose, and set + off full gallop. Seeing the child clinging on like a young panther, he + dashed across the meadow, to cut him off at the turn of the river; and it + was a great feat of swiftness, I assure you, to run so lightly through + those marshy meadows, so as to get the start of the runaway; then he crept + up under cover of the hedge, so as not to startle the horse, and had hold + of the bridle, just as he paused before leaping the gate! He said he could + hardly believe his eyes when he saw the urchin safe, and looking more + excited than terrified.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, he was exceedingly struck with Maurice’s spirit,’ said Mr. Kendal, + who, when the fright and anger were over, could begin to be proud of the + exploit. + </p> + <p> + ‘They fraternized at once,’ said Mr. Ferrars. ‘Maurice imparted that his + name was Maurice Ferrars Kendal, and Ulick, in all good faith and Irish + simplicity, discovered that they were cousins!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Edmund, he must come to the christening dinner!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mind,’ said Maurice, ‘you, know he is not even my wife’s cousin; only + nephew to her second cousin’s husband.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘For shame, Maurice, cousin is that cousinly does!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very well, only don’t tell the aunts that Winifred saddled all the + O’Mores upon you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not an O’More but should be welcome for his sake!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor an Irishman,’ said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + Albinia suffered so much from the shock, that she could not make her + appearance till noon on the following day. Then, after sitting a little + while in the old study, to hear that grandmamma had not been able to sleep + all night for thinking of Maurice’s danger, and being told some terrible + stories of accidents with horses, she felt one duty done, and moved on to + the drawing-room in search of her brother. + </p> + <p> + She found herself breaking upon a tete-a-tete. A sweet, full voice, with + strong cadences, was saying something about duty and advice, and she would + have retreated, but her brother and the stranger both sprang up, and made + her understand that she was by no means to go away. No introduction was + wanted; she grasped the hand that was extended to her, and would have said + something if she could, but she found herself not strong enough to keep + from tears, and only said, ‘I wish little Maurice were not gone out with + his brother, but you will dine with us, and see him to-morrow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘With the greatest pleasure, if my uncle and aunt will spare me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They must,’ said Albinia, ‘you must come to meet your old friend and <i>cousin</i>,’ + she added, mischievously glancing at Maurice, but he did not look inclined + to disavow the relationship, and the youth was not a person whom any one + would wish to keep at a distance. He seemed about nineteen or twenty years + of age, not tall, but well made, and with an air of great ease and + agility, rather lounging and careless, yet alert in a moment. The cast of + his features at once betrayed his country, by the rounded temples, with + the free wavy hair; the circular form of the eyebrow; the fully opened + dark blue eye, looking almost black when shaded; the short nose, and the + well-cut chin and lips, with their outlines of sweetness and of fun, all + thoroughly Irish, but of the best style, and with a good deal of thought + and mind on the brow, and determination in the mouth. Albinia had scarcely + a minute, however, for observation, for he seemed agitated, and in haste + to take leave, nor did her brother press him to remain, since she was + still looking very white and red, and too fragile for anything but rest. + With another squeeze of the hand she let him go, while he, with murmured + thanks, and head bent in enthusiastic honour to the warm kindness of one + so sweet and graceful, took leave. Mr. Ferrars followed him into the hall, + leaving the door open, so that she heard the words, ‘Good-bye, Ulick; I’ll + do my best for you. All I can say is, that I respect you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t respect me too soon,’ he answered; ‘maybe you’ll have to change + your mind. The situation may like me no better than I the situation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, what you will, you can do; I trust to your perseverance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As my poor mother does! Well, with patience the snail got to Rome, and if + it is to lighten her load, I must bear it. Many thanks, Mr. Ferrars. Good + morning.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Good morning; only, Ulick, excuse me, but let me give you a hint; if the + situation is to like you, you must mind your Irish.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you must not warm my heart with your kindness,’ was the answer. ‘No, + no, never fear, when I’m not with any one who has seen Ballymakilty, I can + speak English so that I could not be known for a Galway man. Not that I’m + ashamed of my country,’ he added; and the next moment the door shut behind + him. + </p> + <p> + ‘How could you scold him for his Irish?’ exclaimed Albinia, as her brother + re-entered; ‘it sounds so pretty and characteristic.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I fear Mr. Goldsmith may think it too characteristic!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure Edmund might well call him prepossessing. I hope Mr. Goldsmith + is going to do something handsome for him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor lad! Mr. Goldsmith considers that he has purchased him for a + permanent fixture on a high stool. It is a sad disappointment, for he had + been doing his utmost to prepare himself for college, and he has so far + distinguished himself at school, that I see that a very little help would + soon enable him to maintain himself at the University. I could have found + it in my heart to give it to him myself; it would please Winifred.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, let us help; I am sure Edmund would be glad.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no, this is better for all. Remember this is the Goldsmith’s only + measure of conciliation towards their sister since her marriage, and it + ought not to be interfered with. Poor Ulick says he knows this is the + readiest chance of being of any use to his family, and that his mother has + often said she should be happy if she could but see one of the six + launched in a way to be independent! There are those three eldest, little + better than squireens, never doing a thing but loafing about with their + guns. I used to long for a horse-whip to lay about them, till they spoke + to me, and then not one of the rogues but won my heart with his fun and + good-nature.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then I suppose it is a great thing to have one in the way of + money-making.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hem! The Celtic blood is all in commotion! This boy’s business was to ask + my candid opinion whether there were anything ungentlemanlike in a + clerkship in a bank. It was well it was not you!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, Maurice, don’t you know how glad I should have been if Gilbert would + have been as wise!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, you have some common sense after all, which is more than Ulick + attributes to his kith and kin. When I had proved the respectability of + banking to his conviction, I’ll not say satisfaction, he made me promise + to write to his father. He is making up his mind to what is not only a + great vexation to himself, and very irksome employment, but he knows he + shall be looked down upon as having lost caste with all his family!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It really is heroism!’ cried Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is,’ said Mr. Ferrars; ‘he does not trust himself to face the clan, + and means to get into harness at once, so as to clench his resolution, and + relieve his parents from his maintenance immediately.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is he to live with that formal Miss Goldsmith?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No. In solitary lodgings, after that noisy family and easy home! I can’t + think how he will stand it. I should not wonder if the Galwegian was too + strong after all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We must do all we can for him,’ cried Albinia; ‘Edmund likes him already. + Can’t he dine with us every Sunday?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know you will be kind,’ said Mr. Ferrars. ‘Only see how things turn out + before you commit yourself. Ah! I have said the unlucky word which always + makes you fly off!’ + </p> + <p> + There was little fear that Ulick O’More would not win his way with Mr. and + Mrs. Kendal, recommended as he was, and with considerable attractions in + the frankness and brightness of his manner. He was a very pleasant + addition to the party who dined at Willow Lawn, after the christening. No + one had time to listen to Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy’s maxims, and he retired + rather sullenly, to lean against the mantelpiece, and marvel why the + Kendals should invite an Irish banker’s clerk to meet <i>him</i>. Gilbert + likewise commented on the guest with a muttered observation on his + sisters’ taste; ‘Last year it was all the Polysyllable, now it would be + all the Irishman!’ + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. + </h2> + <p> + There was a war of supremacy in the Kendal household. Albinia and her son + were Greek to Greek, and if physical force were on her side, her own + tenderness was against her. As to allies, Maurice had by far the majority + of the household; the much-tormented Susan was her mistress’s sole + supporter; Mr. Kendal and Sophy might own it inexpedient to foster his + outrecuidance, but they so loved to do his bidding, so hated to thwart + him, and so grieved at his being punished, that they were little better + than Gilbert, Lucy, grandmamma, or any of the maids or men. + </p> + <p> + The moral sense was not yet stirred, and the boy seemed to be trying the + force of his will like the strength of his limbs. Even as he delighted to + lift a weight the moment he saw that it was heavy, so a command was to him + a challenge to see how much he would undergo rather than obey, but his + resistance was so open, gay, and free, that it could hardly be called + obstinacy, and he gloried in disappointing punishment. The dark closet + lost all terror for him; he stood there blowing the horn through his hand, + content to follow an imaginary chase, and when untimely sent to bed, he + stole Susan’s scissors, and cut a range of stables in the sheets. The + short, sharp infliction of pain answered best, but his father, though he + could give a shake when angry, could <i>not</i> strike when cool, and + Albinia was forced to turn executioner, though with such tears and + trembling that her culprit looked up reassuringly, saying, ‘Never mind, + mamma, I shan’t!’ He did, however, <i>mind</i> her tears, they bore in + upon him the sense of guilt; and after each transgression, he could not be + at peace till he had marched up to her, holding out his hand for the blow, + and making up his face not to wince, and then would cling round her neck + to feel himself pardoned. Justice came to him in a most fair and motherly + shape! The brightest, the merriest of all his playmates was mamma; he + loved her passionately, and could endure no cloud between himself and her, + so that he was slowly learning that submission to her was peace and + pleasure, and rebellion mere pain to both. She established ten minutes of + daily lessons, but even she could not reach beyond the capture of his + restless person, his mind was out of reach, and keen as he was in + everything else, towards “a + b = ab” he was an unmitigated dunce. Nor did + he obey any one who did not use authority and force of will, and though + perfectly simple and sincere, he was too young to restrain himself without + the assistance of the controlling power, so that in his mother’s absence + he was tyrannical and violent, and she never liked to have him out of her + sight, and never was so sure that he was deep in mischief as when she had + not heard his voice for a quarter of an hour. + </p> + <p> + ‘Albinia,’ said Mr. Kendal, one relenting autumn day, when November strove + to look like April, ‘I thought of walking to pay Farmer Graves for the + corn. Will you come with me?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Delightful, I want to see what Maurice will say to the turkey-cock.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is it not too far for him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He would run quite as many miles in the garden,’ said Albinia, who would + have walked in dread of a court of justice on her return, had not the + scarlet hose been safely prancing on the road before her. + </p> + <p> + ‘This way, then,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘I must get this draft changed at the + bank. Come, Maurice, you will see a friend there.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you know, Edmund,’ said Albinia, as they set forth, ‘my conscience + smites me as to that youth; I think we have neglected him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot see what more we could have done. If his uncle does not bring + him forward in society, we cannot interfere.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It must be a forlorn condition,’ said Albinia; ‘he is above the other + clerks, and he seems to be voted below the Bayford Elite, since the + Polysyllable has made it so very refined! One never meets him anywhere now + it is too dark to walk after the banking hours. Cannot we ask him to come + in some evening?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We cannot have our evenings broken up,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘I should be + glad to show him any kindness, but his uncle seems to have ruled it that + he is to be considered more as his clerk than as one of his family, and I + doubt if it would be doing him any service to interfere.’ + </p> + <p> + They were now at the respectable old freestone building, with ‘Goldsmith’ + inscribed on the iron window-blinds, and a venerable date carved over the + door. Inside, those blinds came high, and let in but little light over the + tall desks, at which were placed the black-horsehair perches of the + clerks, old Mr. Goldsmith himself occupying a lower throne, more + accessible to the clients. One of the high stools stood empty, and Albinia + making inquiry, Mr. Goldsmith answered, with a dry, dissatisfied cough, + that More, as he called him, had struck work, and gone home with a + headache. + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed,’ said Albinia, ‘I am sorry to hear it. Mr. Hope said he thought + him not looking well.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He has complained of headache a good deal lately,’ said Mr. Goldsmith. + ‘Young men don’t find it easy to settle to business.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s heart smote her for not having thought more of her son’s + rescuer, and she revolved what could or what might have been done. It + really was not easy to show him attention, considering Gilbert’s prejudice + against his accent, and Mr. Kendal’s dislike to an interrupted evening, + and all she could devise was a future call on Miss Goldsmith. But for + Maurice, it would have been a silent walk, and though her mind was a + little diverted by his gallant attempt to bestride the largest pig in the + farm-yard, she was sure Mr. Kendal was musing on the same topic, and was + not surprised when, as they returned, he exclaimed, ‘I have a great mind + to go and see after that poor lad.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This way, then,’ said Albinia, turning down a narrow muddy street + parallel with the river. + </p> + <p> + ‘Impossible!’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘he can never live at the Wharves?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Albinia; ‘he told me that he lodged with an old servant of the + Goldsmiths, Pratt’s wife, at the Lower Wharf.’ + </p> + <p> + She pointed to the name of Pratt over a shop-window in a house that had + once seen better days, but which looked so forlorn, that Mr. Kendal would + not look the slatternly maid in the face while so absurd a question was + asked as whether Mr. O’More lived there. + </p> + <p> + The girl, without further ceremony, took them up a dark stair, and opened + the door of a twilight room, where Albinia’s first glimpse showed her the + young man with his head bent down on his arms on the table, as close as + possible to the forlorn, black fire, of the grim, dull, sulky coal of the + county, which had filled the room with smoke and blacks. The window, + opened to clear it, only admitted the sickly scent of decaying weed from + the river to compete with the perfume of the cobbler’s stock-in-trade. + Ulick started up pale and astonished, and Mr. Kendal, struck with + consternation, chiefly thought of taking away his wife and child from the + infected atmosphere, and made signs to Albinia not to sit down; but she + was eagerly compassionate. + </p> + <p> + ‘It was nothing,’ said Ulick, ‘only his head was rather worse than usual, + and he thought it time to give in when the threes put lapwings’ feathers + in their caps just like the fives.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Are you subject to these headaches?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is only home-sickness,’ he said. ‘I’ll have got over it soon.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I must come and see after you, my good friend,’ said Mr. Kendal, with + suppressed impatience and anxiety. ‘I shall return in a moment or two, but + I am sure you are not well enough for so many visitors taking you by + surprise. Come.’ + </p> + <p> + He was so peremptory, that Albinia found herself on the staircase before + she knew what she was about. The fever panic had seized Mr. Kendal in full + force; he believed typhus was in the air, and insisted on her taking + Maurice home at once, while he went himself to fetch Mr. Bowles. She did + not in the least credit fever to be in the chill touch of that lizard + hand, and believed that she could have been the best doctor; but there was + no arguing while he was under this alarm, and she knew that she might be + thankful not to be ordered to observe a quarantine. + </p> + <p> + When Mr. Kendal returned home he looked much discomposed, though his first + words were, ‘Thank Heaven, it is no fever! Albinia, we must look after + that poor lad; he is positively poisoned by that pestiferous river and bad + living! Bowles said he was sure he was not eating meat enough. I dare say + that greasy woman gives him nothing fit to eat! Albinia, you must talk to + him—find out whether old Goldsmith gives him a decent salary!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He ought not to be in those lodgings another day. I suppose Miss + Goldsmith had no notion what they were. I fancy she never saw the Lower + Wharf in her life.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never did till to-day,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘It was all of a piece—the + whole street—the room—the furniture—why the paper was + coming off the walls! What could they be dreaming of! And there he was, + trying to read a little edition of Prodentius, printed at Salamanca, which + he picked up at a bookstall at Galway. It must have belonged to some + priest educated in Spain. He says any Latin book was invaluable to him. He + is infinitely too good for his situation, and the Goldsmiths are + neglecting him infamously. Look out some rooms fit for him, Albinia.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will try. Let me see—if I could only recollect any; but Mr. Hope + has the only really nice ones in the place.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Somewhere he must be, if it is in this house.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is poor old Madame Belmarche’s still empty, with Bridget keeping + it. I wish he could have rooms there.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, why not? Pettilove told me it must be let as two tenements. If the + old woman could take half, a lodger would pay her rent,’ said Mr. Kendal, + promptly. ‘You had better propose it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And the Goldsmiths?’ asked Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘I will show him the Lower Wharf.’ + </p> + <p> + The next afternoon Mr. Kendal desired his wife to go to the Bank and + borrow young O’More for her walking companion. + </p> + <p> + ‘Really I don’t know whether I have the impudence.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will come and do it for you. You will do best alone with the lad; I + want you to get into his confidence, and find out whether old Goldsmith + treats him properly. I declare, but that I know John Kendal so well, this + would be enough to make me rejoice that Gilbert is not thrown on the + world!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia knew herself to be so tactless, that she saw little hope other + doing anything but setting him against his relations; but her husband was + in no frame to hear objections, so she made none, and only trusted she + should not be very foolish. At least, the walk would be a positive + physical benefit to the slave of the desk. + </p> + <p> + Ulick O’More was at his post, and said his head was well, but his hair + stuck up as if his fingers had been many times run through it; he was much + thinner, and the wearied countenance, whitened complexion, and spiritless + sunken eyes, were a sad contrast to the glowing freshness and life that + had distinguished him in the summer. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal told the Banker that it had been decided that his nephew needed + exercise, and that Mrs. Kendal would be glad of his company in a long + walk. Mr. Goldsmith seemed rather surprised, but consented, whereupon the + young clerk lighted up into animation, and bounded out of his prison + house, with a springy step learnt upon mountain heather. Mr. Kendal only + waited to hear whither they were bound. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! as far as we can go on the Woodside road,’ said Albinia. ‘I think the + prescription I used to inflict on poor Sophy will not be thrown away here. + I always fancy there is a whiff of sea air upon the hill there.’ + </p> + <p> + Ulick smiled at such a fond delusion, bred up as he had been upon the + wildest sea-coast, exposed to the full sweep of the Atlantic storm! She + set him off upon his own scenery, to the destruction of his laborious + English, as he dwelt on the glories of his beloved rocks rent by fierce + sea winds and waves into fantastic, grotesque, or lovely shapes, with + fiords of exquisite blue sea between, the variety of which had been to him + as the gentle foliage of tamer countries. Not a tree stood near the ‘town’ + of Ballymakilty, but the wild crags, the sparkling waters, the broad open + hills, and the bogs, with their intensely purple horizon, held fast upon + his heart; and he told of white sands, reported to be haunted by mermaids, + and crevices of rock where the tide roared, and gave rise to legends of + sea monsters, and giants turned to stone. He was becoming confidential and + intimate when, in a lowered voice, he mentioned the Banshee’s crag, where + the shrouded messenger of doom never failed to bewail each dying child of + the O’More, and where his own old nurse had actually beheld her keening + for the uncle who was killed among the Caffres. Albinia began to know how + she ought to respect the O’Mores. + </p> + <p> + They were skirting the side of the hill, with a dip of green meadow-land + below them, rising on the other side into coppices. The twang of the horn, + and the babbling cry of the hounds, reminded Albinia that the hunting + season had begun, and looking over a gate, she watched the parti-coloured + forms of the dogs glancing among the brushwood opposite, and an occasional + red coat gleaming out through the hedge above. Just then the cry ceased, + the dogs became silent, and scattered hither and thither bewildered. Ulick + looked eagerly, then suddenly vaulted over the gate, went forward a few + steps, looked again, pointed towards some dark object which she could + barely discern, put his finger in his ear, and uttered an unearthly + screech, incomprehensible to her, but well understood by the huntsman, and + through him by the dogs, which at once simultaneously dashed in one + direction, and came pouring into the meadow over towards him, down went + their heads, up went their curved tails, the clatter and rushing of hoofs, + and the apparition of red coats, showed the hunters all going round the + copse, while at the same moment, away with winged steps bounded her + companion, flying headlong like the wind, so as to meet the hunt. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Ask me not what the lady feels, + Left in that dreadful hour alone,’ +</pre> + <p> + laughed Albinia to herself. ‘Well done, speed! Edmund might be satisfied + there’s not much amiss! Through the hedge—over the meadow—a + flying leap over the stream—it is more like a bird than a man—up + again. Does he mean to follow the hunt all the rest of the way? Rather + Irish, I must say! And I do believe they will all come down this lane! I + must walk on; it wont do to be overtaken here between these high hedges. + Ah! I thought he was too much of a gentleman to leave me—here he + comes. How much in his way I must be! I never saw such a runner; not a bit + does he slacken for the hill—and what bright cheeks and eyes! What + good it must have done him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg ten thousand pardons!’ cried he, as he came up, scarcely out of + breath. ‘I declare I forgot you, I could not help it, when I saw them at a + check!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You feel for the hunter as I do for the fox,’ said Albinia. ‘Is yours one + of the great hunting neighbourhoods?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That it is!’ he cried. ‘My grandfather had the grand stud! He and his + seven sons were out three times in the week, and there was a mount for + whoever wanted it!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And this generation is not behind the last?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! and why would it be?’ exclaimed the boy, the last remnant of English + pronunciation forsaking him. ‘My Uncle Connel has the best mare on this + side the bridge of Athlone! I mean that side.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And how is it with you?’ asked Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘We’ve got no horses—that is, except my father’s mare, and the colt, + and Fir Darrig—the swish-tailed pony—and the blind donkey that + brings in the turf. So we younger ones mostly go hunting on foot; and + after all I believe that’s the best sport. Bryan always comes in before + any of the horses, and we all think it a shame if we don’t!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I see where you learnt the swiftness of foot that was so useful last + July,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘That? oh! but Bryan would have been up long before me,’ said Ulick. ‘He’d + have made for the lock, not the gate! You should see what sport we have + when the fox takes to the Corrig Dearg up among the rocks—and little + Rosie upon Fir Darrig, with her hair upon the wind, and her colour like + the morning cloud, glancing in and out among the rocks like the fairy of + the glen. There are those that think her the best part of the hunt; they + say the English officers at Ochlochtimore would never think it worth + coming out but for her. I don’t believe that, you know,’ he added, + laughing, ‘though I like to fetch a rise out of Ulick at the great house + by telling him of it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How old is she?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fifteen last April, and she is like an April wind, when it comes warm and + frolicking over the sea! So wild and free, and yet so gentle and soft! + Ellen and Mary are grave and steady, and work hard—every stitch of + my stockings was poor Mary’s knitting, except what poor old Peggy would + send up for a compliment; but Rosie—I don’t think she does a thing + but sing, and ride, and row the boat, and keep the house alive! My mother + shakes her head, but I don’t know what she’ll say when she gets my aunt’s + letter. My Aunt Goldsmith purses up her lips, and says, “I’ll write to + advise my sister to send her daughters to some good school.” Ellen, maybe, + might bear one, but ah! the thought of little Rosie in a good school!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Like her brother Ulick in a good bank, eh?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why,’ he cried, ‘they always called me the steady Englishman!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia laughed, but at that moment the sounds of the hunt again occupied + them, and all were interpreted by Ulick with the keenest interest, but he + would not run away again, though she exhorted him not to regard her. + Presently it swept on out of hearing, and by-and-bye they reached the + summit of the hill, and looked forth on the dark pine plantations on the + opposite undulation, standing out in black relief against a sky golden + with a pale, pure, pearly November sunset, a ‘daffodil sky’ flecked with + tiny fleeces of soft bright-yellow light, reminding Albinia of Fouque’s + beautiful dream of Aslauga’s golden hair showing the gates of Heaven to + her devoted knight. She looked for her companion’s sympathy in her + admiration, but the woods seemed to oppress him, and his panting sigh + showed how real a thing was <i>he-men</i>. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! my poor sun!’ he broke out, ‘I pity you for having to go down before + your time into these black, stifling woods that rise up to smother you + like giants—and not into your own broad, cool Atlantic, laughing up + your own sparkles of light.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We inland people can hardly appreciate your longing for space.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It’s a very prison,’ said Ulick; ‘the horizon is choked all round, and + one can’t breathe in these staid stiff hedges and enclosures!’ And he + threw out his arms and flapped them over his breast with a gesture of + constraint. + </p> + <p> + ‘You seem no friend to cultivation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, your meadows would be pretty things if they were a little greener,’ + said Ulick; ‘but one gets tired of them, and of those straight lines of + ploughed field. There’s no sense of liberty; it is like the man whose + prison walls closed in upon him!’ And he gave another weary sigh, his step + lost elasticity, and he moved on heavily. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are tired; I have brought you too far.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Tired by a bit of a step like this?’ cried the boy, disdainfully, as he + straightened himself, and resumed his brisk tread. But it did not last. + </p> + <p> + ‘I had forgotten that you had not been well,’ she said. + </p> + <p> + ‘Pshaw!’ muttered Ulick; then resumed, ‘Aye, Mr. Kendal brought in the + doctor upon me—very kind of him—but I do assure you ‘tis + nothing but home sickness; I was nearly as bad when I went to St. Columba, + but I got over it then, and I will again!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It may be so in part,’ said Albinia, kindly; ‘but let me be impertinent, + Ulick, for my sister Winifred told me to look after you; surely you give + it every provocation. Such a change of habits is enough to make any one + ill. Should you not ask your uncle for a holiday, and go home for a little + while?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t name it, I beg of you,’ cried the poor lad in an agitated voice, + ‘it would only bring it all over again! I’ve promised my mother to do my + part, and with His help I <i>will</i>! Let the columns run out to all + eternity, and the figures crook themselves as spitefully as they will, + I’ve vowed to myself not to stir till I’ve got the better of the + villains!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah!’ said Albinia, ‘they have blackened your eyes like the bruises of + material antagonists! Yes, it is a gallant battle, but indeed you must + give yourself all the help you can, for it would be doing your mother no + good to fall ill.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ve no fears,’ said Ulick; ‘I know very well what is the matter with me, + and that if I don’t give way, it will go off in time. You’ve given it a + good shove with your kindness, Mrs. Kendal,’ he added, with deep emotion + in his sensitive voice; ‘only you must not talk of my going home, or + you’ll undo all you have done.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then I won’t; we must try to make you a home here. And in the first + place, those lodgings of yours; you can never be comfortable in them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you saw my fire smoking. I never shall learn to make a coal fire + burn.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not only that,’ said Albinia, ‘but you might easily find rooms much + better furnished, and fitter for you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do assure you,’ exclaimed Ulick, ‘you scarcely saw it! Why, I don’t + think there’s a room at the big house in better order, or so good!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘At least,’ said Albinia, repressing her deduction as to the big house of + Ballymakilty, ‘you have no particular love for the locality—the + river smell—the stock of good leather, &c.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It’s all Bayford and town smell together,’ said Ulick; ‘I never thought + one part worse than another, begging your pardon, Mrs. Kendal.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And I am sure,’ she continued, ‘that woman can never make your meals + comfortable. Yes, I see I am right, and I assure you hard head-work needs + good living, and you will never be a match for the rogues in black and + white without good beef-steaks. Now confess whether she gives you dinners + of old shoe-leather.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A man can’t sit down to dinner by himself,’ cried Ulick, impatiently. + ‘Tea with a book are all that is bearable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you never go out—never see any one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I dine at my uncle’s every Sunday,’ said Ulick. + </p> + <p> + ‘Is that all the variety you have?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, my uncle told me he would not have me getting into what he calls + idle company. I’ve dined once at the vicarage, and drunk tea twice with + Mr. Hope, but it is no use thinking of it—I couldn’t afford it, and + that’s the truth.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you any books? What can you find to do all the evening?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have a few that bear reading pretty often, and Mr. Hope as lent me + some. I’ve been trying to keep up my Greek, and then I do believe there’s + some way of simplifying those accounts by logarithms, if I could but work + it out. But my mother told me to walk, and I assure you I do take a + constitutional as soon as I come out at half-past four every day.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I have designs, and mind you don’t traverse them, or I shall have + to report you at home. I have a lodging in my eye for you, away from the + river, and a nice clean, tidy Irishwoman to keep you in order, make your + fires, and cram you, if you wont eat, and see if she does not make a man + of you—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Stop, stop, Mrs. Kendal!’ cried Ulick, distressed. ‘You are very kind, + but it can’t be.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Excuse me, it is economy of the wrong sort to live in a gutter, and catch + agues and fevers. Only think, if it was my boy Gilbert, should I not be + obliged to any one that would tyrannize over him for his good! Besides, + what I propose is not at all beyond such means as Mr. Kendal tells me are + the least Mr. Goldsmith ought to give you. Do you dislike going into + particulars with me? You know I am used to think for Gilbert, and I am a + sort of cousin.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are kindness itself,’ said Ulick; ‘and there! I suppose I must go to + the bottom of it, and it is no news that pence are not plenty among the + O’Mores, though it is no fault of my uncle. See there what my poor dear + mother says.’ + </p> + <p> + He drew a letter from his pocket, and gave a page to her. + </p> + <p> + ‘I miss you sorely, my boy,’ it said; ‘I know the more what a support and + friend you have been to me now that you are so far away; but all is made + up to me in knowing you to be among my own people, and the instrument of + reconciliation with my brother, as you well know how great has been the + pain of the estrangement caused by my own pride and wilfulness. I cannot + tell you how glad I am that he approves of you, and that you are beginning + to get used to the work that was my own poor father’s for so long. Bred up + as you have been, my mountain lad, I scarcely dared to hope that you would + be able to sit down quietly to it, with all our hopes of making you a + scholar so suddenly frustrated; but I might have put faith in your loving + heart and sense of duty to carry you through anything. I feel as if a load + were off my mind since you and Bryan are so happily launched. The boy has + not once applied for money since he joined; and if you write to him, pray + beg him to be careful, for it would well-nigh drive your father mad to be + pressed any more—the poor mare has been sold at a dead loss and the + Carrick-humbug quarry company pays no dividends, so how we are to meet the + Christmas bills I cannot guess. But, as you remember, we have won over + worse times, and now Providence has been so good to you and Bryan, what + have I to do but be thankful and hope the best.’ + </p> + <p> + Ulick watched her face, and gave her another note, saying mournfully, ‘You + see they all, but my mother, think, that if I am dragging our family + honour through the mire, I’ve got something by it. Poor Bryan, he knows no + better—he’s younger than me by two years.’ + </p> + <p> + The young ensign made a piteous confession of the first debt he had been + able to contract, for twenty pounds, with a promise that if his brother + would help him out of this one scrape, he would never run into another. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am very sorry for you, Ulick,’ said Albinia, ‘and I hate to advise you + to be selfish, but it really is quite impossible for you to be paymaster + for all your brothers’ debts.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If it were Connel, I know it would be of no use,’ said Ulick. ‘But Bryan—you + see he has got a start—they gave him a commission, and he is the + finest fellow of us all, and knows what his word is, and keeps it! Maybe, + if I get on, I may be able to save, and help him to his next step, and + then if Redmond could get to college, my mother would be a happy woman, + and all thanks to my uncle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then it is this twenty pounds that is pinching you now? Is that it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You see my uncle said he would give me enough to keep me as a gentleman + and his nephew, but not enough to keep all the family, as he said. After + my Christmas quarter I shall be up in the world again, and then there will + be time to think of the woman you spoke of—a Connaught woman, did + you say?’ + </p> + <p> + When Albinia reported this dialogue to her husband, he was much moved by + this simple self-abnegation. + </p> + <p> + ‘There is nothing for it,’ he said, ‘but to bring him here till Christmas, + and by that time we will take care that the new lodgings are cheap enough + for him. He must not be left to the mercy of old Goldsmith and his + sister!’ + </p> + <p> + Even Albinia was astonished, but Mr. Kendal carried out his intentions, + and went in quest of his new friend; while no one thought of objecting + except grandmamma. + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose, my dear,’ she said, ‘that you know what Mr. Goldsmith means to + do for this young man.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure I don’t,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Really! Ah! well, I’m an old woman, and I may be wrong, but my poor dear + Mr. Meadows would never encourage a banker’s clerk about the house unless + he knew what were his expectations. Irish too! If there was a thing Mr. + Meadows disliked more than another, it was an Irishman! He said they were + all adventurers.’ + </p> + <p> + However, Ulick’s first evening at Willow Lawn was on what he called ‘a + headache day.’ He could not have taken a better measure for overcoming + grandmamma’s objections. Poor dear Mr. Meadows’ worldly wisdom was not + sufficiently native to her to withstand the sight of anything so pale and + suffering, especially as he did not rebel against answering her close + examination, which concluded in her pronouncing these intermitting attacks + to be agueish, and prescribing quinine. To take medicines is an effectual + way of gaining an old lady’s love. Ulick was soon established in her mind + as ‘a very pretty behaved young gentleman.’ + </p> + <p> + In the evenings, when Mr. Kendal read aloud, Ulick listened, and enjoyed + it from the corner where he sheltered his eyes from the light. He was told + that he ought to go to bed quickly, but after the ladies were in their + rooms, a long buzzing murmur was heard in the passage, and judicious + peeping revealed the two gentlemen, each, candle in hand, the one with his + back against the wall at the top of the stairs, the other leaning upon the + balusters three steps below, and there they stayed, till the clock struck + one, and Ulick’s candle burnt out. + </p> + <p> + ‘What could you be talking about?’ asked the aggrieved Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Prometheus Vinctus,’ composedly returned Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + Ulick’s eagerness in collecting every crumb of scholarship was a great + bond of union; but there was still more in the bright, open, demonstrative + nature of the youth, which had a great attraction for the reserved, + serious Mr. Kendal, and scarcely a day had passed before they were on + terms of intimacy, almost like an elder and younger brother. Admitted into + the family as a connexion, Ulick at once viewed the girls as cousins, and + treated them with the same easy grace of good-natured familiarity as if + they had been any of the nineteen Miss O’Mores around Ballymakilty. + </p> + <p> + ‘How is your head now?’ asked Mr. Kendal. ‘You are late this evening.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Ulick, entering the drawing-room, which was ruddy with + firelight, and fragrant with the breath of the conservatory, and leaning + over an arm-chair, as he tried to rub the aching out of his brow; ‘there + were some accounts to finish up and my additions came out different every + time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A sure sign that you ought to have left off.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I was just going to have told my uncle I was good for nothing to-day, + when I heard old Johns mumbling something to him about Mr. More being + unwell, and looking up, I saw that cold grey eye twinkling at me, as much + as to say he was proud to see how soon an Irishman could be beaten. So + what could I do but give him look for look, and go on with eight and + seven, and five and two, as unconcerned as he was.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘you know I think that your uncle’s apparent + indifference may be his fashion of being your best friend.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’d take it like sunshine in May from a stranger, and be proud to + disappoint him,’ said Ulick, ‘but to call himself my uncle, and use my + mother’s own eyes to look at me that way, that’s the stroke! and to think + that I’m only striving to harden myself by force of habit to be exactly + like him! I’d rather enlist to-morrow, if that would not be his greatest + triumph!’ he cried, pressing his hands hard on his temple. ‘It is very + childish, but I could forgive him anything but using my mother’s eyes that + way!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You will yet rejoice in the likeness,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘You must believe + in more than you can trace, and when your perseverance has conquered his + esteem, the rest will follow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Follow? The rest, as you call it, would go before at home,’ sighed Ulick, + wearily. ‘Esteem is like fame! what I want begins without it, and lives as + well with or without it!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps,’ said his friend, ‘Mr. Goldsmith would think it weakness to show + preference to a relation before it was earned.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah then,’ cried Ulick, in a quaint Irish tone, ‘Heaven have mercy on the + little children!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, the doctrine can only be consistently held by a solitary man.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where would we be but for inconsistency?’ exclaimed Ulick. + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not like to hear you talk in that manner,’ said Sophy. + ‘Inconsistency is mere weakness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! then you are the dangerous character,’ said Ulick, with a droll + gesture of sheltering himself behind the chair. + </p> + <p> + ‘I did not call myself consistent, I wish I were,’ she said, gravely. + </p> + <p> + ‘How she must love the French!’ returned Ulick, confidentially turning to + her father. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not at all, I detest them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you are inconsistent, for they’re the very models of uncompromising + consistency.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, to bad principles,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Robespierre was a prime specimen of consistency to good principle!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy turned to her father, and with an odd dubious look, asked him, ‘Is + be teasing me?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He’d be proud to have the honour,’ Ulick made answer, so that Mr. + Kendal’s smile grew broad. It was the funniest thing to see Ulick sporting + with Sophy’s gravity, constraining her to playfulness, with something of + the compulsion exercised by a large frolicsome puppy upon a sober old dog + of less size and strength. + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not like to see powers wasted on paradox,’ she said, even as the + grave senior might roll up his lip and snarl. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m in earnest, Sophy,’ pursued Ulick, changing his note to eagerness. + ‘La grande nation herself finds that logic was her bane. Consistency was + never made for man! Why where would this world be if it did not go two + ways at once?’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy did laugh at this Irish version of the centripetal and centrifugal + forces, but she held out. ‘The earth describes a circle; I like straight + lines.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Much we shall have of the right direction, unless we are content to turn + right about face,’ said Ulick. ‘The best path of life is but a + herring-bone pattern.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What does he know of herring-boning?’ asked Mrs. Kendal, coming in at the + moment, with a white cashmere cloak folded picturesquely over her delicate + blue silk. Ulick in a moment assumed a less careless attitude, as he + answered— + </p> + <p> + ‘I found my poetical illustration on the motion of the earth too much for + her, so I descended to the herring-bone as more suited to her capacity.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There he is, mamma,’ said Sophy, ‘pleading that consistency is the most + ruinous thing in the world.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought as much,’ said Albinia. ‘Prometheus and his kin do most abound + when Ulick’s head is worst, and papa is in greatest danger of being late.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal turned round, looked at the time-piece, and marched off. + </p> + <p> + ‘But mamma!’ continued Sophy, driving straight at her point, ‘what do you + think of consistency?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma!’ cried Lucy, coming into the room in a flutter of white; + ‘there you are in your beautiful blue! Have you really put it on for the + Drurys?’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy bit her lip, neither pleased at the interruption, nor at the taste. + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you a graduated scale of dresses for all your friends, Lucy? asked + Ulick. + </p> + <p> + ‘Everybody has, I suppose,’ said Lucy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! then I shall know how to judge how I stand in your favour. I never + knew so well what the garb of friendship meant.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You must know which way her scale goes,’ said Albinia, laughing at + Sophy’s evident affront at the frivolous turn the conversation had taken. + </p> + <p> + ‘That needs no asking,’ quoth Ulick, ‘Unadorned, adorned the most for the + nearest the hearth.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s all conceit,’ said Lucy. ‘Maybe familiarity breeds contempt.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no, when young ladies despise, they use a precision that says, “‘Tis + myself I care for, and not you.”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What an observer!’ cried Lucy. ‘Now then, interpret my dress to-night!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How can you, Lucy!’ muttered the scandalized Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, Sophy, as you will have him to torment with philosophy this whole + evening, I think you might give him a little respite,’ said Lucy, + good-humouredly. ‘I want to know what my dress reveals to him!’ and + drawing up her head, where two coral pins contrasted with her dark braids, + and spreading out her full white skirts and cerise trimmings, she threw + her figure into an attitude, and darted a merry challenge from her lively + black eyes, while Ulick availed himself of the permission to look + critically, and Sophy sank back disgusted. + </p> + <p> + ‘Miss Kendal can, when she is inclined, produce as much effect with her + beams of the second order as with all her splendours displayed.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Stuff,’ said Lucy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Stuff indeed,’ more sincerely murmured Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Say something in earnest,’ said Lucy. ‘You professed to tell what I + thought of the people.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope you’ll never put on such new white gloves where I’m the party + chiefly concerned.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you mean?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They are a great deal too unexceptionable.’ + </p> + <p> + If there were something coquettish in the manner of these two, it did not + give Albinia much concern. It was in him ‘only Irish;’ and Fred Ferrars + had made her believe that it was rather a sign of the absence of love than + of its presence. She saw much more respect and interest in his mischievous + attacks on Sophy’s gravity, and though Lucy both pitied him and liked + chattering with him, it was all the while under the secret protest that he + was only a banker’s clerk. + </p> + <p> + Sophy was glad of the presence of a third person to obviate the perils of + her evenings with grandmamma, and she beheld the trio set off to their + dinner-party, without the usual dread of being betrayed into wrangling. + Mr. O’More devoted himself to the old lady’s entertainment, he amused her + with droll stories, and played backgammon with her. Then she composed + herself to her knitting, and desired them not to mind her, she liked to + hear young people talk cheerfully; whereupon Sophy, by way of light and + cheerful conversation, renewed the battle of consistency with a whole + broadside of heavy metal. + </p> + <p> + When the diners-out came home, they found the war raging as hotly as ever; + a great many historical facts and wise sayings having been fired off on + both sides, and neither having found out that each meant the same thing. + </p> + <p> + However, the hours had gone imperceptibly past them, which could not be + said for the others. The half-yearly dinners at Mr. Drury’s were Albinia’s + dread nearly as much as Mr. Kendal’s aversion. He was certain, whatever he + might intend, to fall into a fit of absence, and she was almost equally + sure to hear something unpleasant, and to regret her own reply. On the + whole, however, Mr. Kendal came away on this evening the least + dissatisfied, for Mr. Goldsmith had asked him with some solicitude, + whether he thought ‘that lad, young More,’ positively unwell; and had gone + the length of expressing that he seemed to be fairly sharp, and stuck to + his work. Mr. Kendal seized the moment for telling his opinion, of Ulick, + and though Mr. Goldsmith coughed and looked dry and almost contemptuous, + he was perceptibly gratified, and replied with a maxim evidently intended + both as an excuse for himself and as a warning to the Kendals, that young + men were always spoilt by being made too much of—in his younger days—&c. + </p> + <p> + Lucy, meantime, was undergoing the broad banter of her unrefined cousins + on the subject of the Irish clerk. A very little grace in the perpetration + would have made it grateful to her vanity, but this was far too broad + raillery, and made her hold up her head with protestations of her perfect + indifference, to which her cousins manifested incredulity, visiting on her + with some petty spite their small jealousies of her higher pretensions, + and of the attention which had been paid to her by Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not that he will ever look at you again, Lucy, you need not flatter + yourself,’ said the amiable Sarah Anne. ‘Harry Wolfe writes that he was + flirting with a beautiful young lady who came to see Oxford, and that he + is spending quantities of money.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is nothing to me, I am sure,’ retorted Lucy. ‘Besides, Gilbert says no + such thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert! oh, no!’ exclaimed Miss Drury; ‘why, he is just as bad himself. + Papa said, from what Mrs. Wolfe told him, he would not take 500 pounds to + pay Mr. Gilbert’s bills.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia had been hearing much the same story from Mrs. Drury, though not + so much exaggerated, and administered with more condolence. She did not + absolutely believe, and yet she could not utterly disbelieve, so the + result was a letter to Gilbert, with an anxious exhortation to be careful, + and not to be deluded into foolish expenditure in imitation of the + Polysyllable; and as no special answer was returned, she dismissed the + whole from her mind as a Drury allegation. + </p> + <p> + The horse chanced to be lame, so that Gilbert could not be met at + Hadminster on his return from Oxford, but much earlier than the omnibus + usually lumbered into Bayford, he astonished Sophy, who was lying on the + sofa in the morning-room, by marching in with a free and easy step, and a + loose coat of the most novel device. + </p> + <p> + ‘No one else at home?’ he asked. + </p> + <p> + ‘Only grandmamma. We did not think the omnibus would come in so soon, but + I suppose you took a fly, as there were three of you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As if we were going to stand six miles of bus with the Wolfe cub! No, + Dusautoy brought his horse down with him, and I took a fly!’ said Gilbert. + ‘Well, and what’s the matter with Captain; has the Irishman been riding + him?’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy bit her lip to prevent an angry answer, and was glad that Maurice + rushed in, fall of uproarious joy. ‘Hollo! boy, how you grow! What have + you got there?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It’s my new pop-gun, that Ulick made me, I’ll shoot you,’ cried Maurice, + retiring to a suitable distance. + </p> + <p> + ‘I declare the child has caught the brogue! Is the fellow here still?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What fellow?’ coldly asked Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, this pet of my father’s.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Bang!’ cried Maurice, and a pellet passed perilously close to Gilbert’s + eyes. + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t, child. Pray is this banker’s clerk one of our fixtures, Sophy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know why you despise him, unless it is because it is what you + ought to be yourself,’ Sophy was provoked into retorting. + </p> + <p> + ‘Apparently my father has a monomania for the article.’ Gilbert intended + to speak with provoking coolness; but another fraternal pellet hit him + fall in the nose, and the accompanying shout of glee was too much for an + already irritated temper. With passion most unusual in him, he caught hold + of the child, and exclaiming, ‘You little imp, what do you mean by it?’ he + wrenched the weapon out of his hand, and dashed it into the fire, in the + midst of an energetic ‘For shame!’ from his sister. Maurice, with a + furious ‘Naughty Gilbert,’ struck at him with both his little fists + clenched, and then precipitated himself over the fender to snatch his + treasure from the grate, but was instantly captured and pulled back, + struggling, kicking, and fighting with all his might, till, to the equal + relief of both brothers, Sophy held up the pop-gun in the tongs, one end + still tinged with a red glow, smoky, blackened, and perfumed. Maurice made + one bound, she lowered it into his grasp as the last red spark died out, + and he clasped it as Siegfried did the magic sword! + </p> + <p> + ‘There, Maurice, I didn’t mean it,’ said Gilbert, heartily ashamed and + sorry; ‘kiss and make it up, and then put on your hat, and we’ll come up + to old Smith’s and get such a jolly one!’ + </p> + <p> + The forgiving child had already given the kiss, glad to atone for his + aggressions, but then was absorbed in rubbing the charred wood, amazed + that while so much black came off on his fingers, the effect on the weapon + was not proportionate, and then tried another shot in a safer direction. + ‘Come,’ said Gilbert, ‘put that black affair into the fire, and come + along.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No!’ said Maurice; ‘it is my dear gun that Ulick made me, and it shan’t + be burnt.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What, not if I give you a famous one—like a real one, with a stock + and barrel?’ said Gilbert, anxious to be freed from the tokens of his + ebullition. + </p> + <p> + ‘No! no!’ still stoutly said the constant Maurice. ‘I don’t want new guns; + I’ve got my dear old one, and I’ll keep him to the end of his days and + mine!’ and he crossed his arms over it. + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s right, Maurice,’ said Sophy; ‘stick to old friends that have borne + wounds in your service!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, it’s his concern if he likes such a trumpery old thing,’ said + Gilbert. ‘Come here, boy; you don’t bear malice! Come and have a ride on + my back.’ + </p> + <p> + The practical lesson, ‘don’t shoot at your brother’s nose,’ would never + have been impressed, had not mamma, on coming in, found Maurice and his + pop-gun nearly equally black, and by gradual unfolding of cause and + effect, learnt his forgotten offence. She reminded him of ancient promises + never to aim at human creatures, assured him that Gilbert was very kind + not to have burnt it outright; and to the great displeasure, and temporary + relief of all the family, sequestrated the weapon for the rest of the + evening. + </p> + <p> + Sophy told her in confidence that Gilbert had been the most to blame, + which she took as merely an instance of Sophy’s blindness to Maurice’s + errors; for the explosion had so completely worked off the Oxford dash, + that he was perfectly meek and amiable. Considering the antecedents, such + a contrast to himself as young O’More could hardly fail to be an eyesore, + walking tame about the home, and specially recommended to his friendship; + but so good-natured was he, and so attractive was the Irishman, that it + took much influence from Algernon Dusautoy to keep up a thriving aversion. + Albinia marvelled at the power exercised over Gilbert by one whose + intellect and pretensions he openly contemned, but perceived that + obstinacy and undoubting self-satisfaction overmastered his superior + intelligence and principle, and that while perceiving all the follies of + the Polysyllable, Gilbert had a strange propensity for his company, and + therein always resumed the fast man, disdainful of the clerk. He did not + like Ulick better for being the immediate cause of the removal of the last + traces of the Belmarche family from their old abode, which had been + renovated by pretty shamrock chintz furniture, the pride of the two Irish + hearts. Indeed it was to be feared that Bridget would assist in the + perpetuation of those rolling R’s which caused Mr. Goldsmith’s brow to + contract whenever his nephew careered along upon one. + </p> + <p> + His departure from Willow Lawn was to take place at Christmas. The Ferrars + party were coming to keep the two consecutive birthdays of Sophy and + Maurice at Bayford, would take him back for Christmas-day to Fairmead, and + on his return he would take possession of his new rooms. + </p> + <p> + Maurice’s fete was to serve as the occasion of paying off civilities to a + miscellaneous young party; but as grandmamma’s feelings would have been + hurt, had not Sophy’s been equally distinguished, it was arranged that + Mrs. Nugent should then bring her eldest girl to meet the Ferrarses at an + early tea. + </p> + <p> + Just as Albinia had descended to await her guests, Gilbert came down, and + presently said, with would-be indifference, ‘Oh, by-the-by, Dusautoy said + he would look in.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The Polysyllable!’ cried Albinia, thunderstruck; ‘what possessed you to + ask him, when you knew I sacrificed Mr. Dusautoy rather than have him to + spoil it all?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I didn’t ask him exactly,’ replied Gilbert; ‘it was old Bowles, who met + us, and tried to nail us to eat our mutton with him, as he called it. I + had my answer, and Dusautoy got off by saying he was engaged to us, and + desired me to tell you he would make his excuses in person.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He can make no excuse for downright falsehood.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hem!’ quoth Gilbert. ‘You wouldn’t have him done into drinking old + Bowles’s surgery champagne.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘One comfort is that he wont get any dinner,’ said Albinia, vindictively. + ‘I hope he’ll be ravenously hungry.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He may not come after all,’ said Gilbert; and Albinia, laying hold of + that hope, had nearly forgotten the threatened disaster, as her party + appeared by instalments, and Winifred owned to her that Sophy had grown + better-looking than could have been expected. Her eyes had brightened, the + cloudy brown of her cheeks was enlivened, she held herself better, and the + less childish dress was much to her advantage. But above all, the moody + look of suffering was gone, and her face had something of the grave + sweetness and regular beauty of that of her father. + </p> + <p> + ‘Seventeen,’ said Mrs. Ferrars; ‘by the time she is seventy, she may be a + remarkably handsome woman!’ + </p> + <p> + The tea-drinking was in lively operation, when after a thundering knock, + Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy was ushered in, with the air of a prince honouring + the banquet of his vassals, saying, ‘I told Kendal I should presume on + your hospitality, I beg you will make no difference on my account.’ + </p> + <p> + Of which gracious permission Albinia was resolved to avail herself. She + left all the insincerity to her husband, and would by no means allow + grandmamma to abdicate the warm corner. She suspected that he wanted an + introduction to Mrs. Nugent, and was resolved to defeat this object, + unless he should condescend to make the request, so she was well satisfied + to see him wedged in between papa and Sophy, while a prodigious quantity + of Irish talk was going on between Mrs. Nugent and Mr. O’More, with + contributions of satire from Mr. Ferrars which kept every one laughing + except little Nora Nugent and Mary Ferrars, who were deep in the + preliminaries of an eternal friendship, and held the ends of each other’s + crackers like a pair of doves. Lucy, however, was ill at ease at the + obscurity which shrouded the illustrious guest, and in her anxiety, gave + so little attention to her two neighbours, that Willie Ferrars, affronted + at some neglect, exclaimed, ‘Why, Lucy, what makes you screw your eyes + about so! you can’t attend to any one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is because Polly Silly is there,’ shouted Master Maurice from his + throne beside his mamma. + </p> + <p> + To the infinite relief of the half-choked Albinia, little Mary Ferrars, + with whom her cousin had been carrying on a direful warfare all day, + fitted on the cap, shook her head gravely at him, and after an appealing + look of indignation, first at his mamma, then at her own, was overheard + confiding to Nora Nugent that Maurice was a very naughty boy—she was + sorry to say, a regular spoilt child. + </p> + <p> + ‘But how should you hinder Miss Kendal from attending?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll tell you, darling. Poor Lucy! she is very fond of me, and I dare say + she wanted me to sit next to her, but you know she will have me for three + days, and I have you only this one evening. I’ll go and speak to her after + tea, when we go into the drawing-room, and then she wont mind.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy, after an agony of blushes, had somewhat recovered on finding that no + one seemed to apply her brother’s speech, and when the benevolent Mary + made her way to her, and thrust a hand into hers, only a feeble pressure + replied to these romantic blandishments, so anxious was she to carry to + Mrs. Kendal the information that Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy had been so + obliging as to desire his servant to bring his guitar and key-bugle. + </p> + <p> + ‘We are much obliged,’ said Albinia, ‘but look at that face!’ and she + turned Lucy towards Willie’s open-mouthed, dismayed countenance. You must + tell him the company are not sufficiently advanced in musical science.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But mamma, it would gratify him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very likely’—and without listening further, Albinia turned to + Willie, who had all day been insisting that papa should introduce her to + the new game of the Showman. + </p> + <p> + Infinitely delighted to be relieved from the fear of the guitar, Willie + hunted all who would play into another room; whence they were to be + summoned, one by one, back to the drawing-room by the showman, Mr. + Ferrars, who shrugged his shoulders at the task, but undertook it, and + first called for Mrs. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + She found him stationed before the red curtains, which were closely drawn, + and her husband and the three elder ladies sitting by as audience. + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray, madam, may I ask what animal you would desire to have exhibited to + you, out of the vast resources that my menagerie contains. Choose freely, + I undertake that whatever you may select, you shall not be disappointed.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What, not if I were to ask for a black spider monkey?’ said Albinia, to + whom it was very charming to be playing with Maurice again. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal looked up in entertained curiosity, Mrs. Nugent smiled as if + she thought the showman’s task impossible, and Winifred stretched out to + gain a full view. + </p> + <p> + ‘A black spider monkey,’ he said, slowly. ‘Allow me to ask, madam, if you + are acquainted with the character of the beast?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It doesn’t scratch, does it?’ said she, quickly. + </p> + <p> + ‘That is for you to answer.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never knew it do so. It does chatter a great deal, but it never + scratched that I knew of.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor I,’ said the showman, ‘since it was young. Do you think age renders + it graver and steadier?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not a bit. It is always frisky and troublesome, and I never knew it get a + bit better as it grew older.’ + </p> + <p> + Winifred laughed outright. Mr. Kendal’s lips were parted by his smile. ‘I + wonder what sort of a mother it would make?’ said the showman. + </p> + <p> + ‘All animals are good mothers, of course.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I meant, is it a good disciplinarian?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If you mean cuffing its young one for playing exactly the same tricks as + itself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Exactly; and what would be the effect of letting it and its young one + loose in a great scholar’s study?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There wouldn’t be much study left.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And would it be for his good?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Really, Mr. Showman, you ask very odd questions. Shall we try?’ said + Albinia, with a skip backward, so as to lay her hand on the shoulder of + her own great scholar, while the showman drew back the curtain, observing—‘I + wish, ma’am, I could show “it and its young one” together, but the young + specimen is unfortunately asleep. Behold the original black spider + monkey!’ + </p> + <p> + There stood the monkey, with sunny brown locks round the laughing glowing + face, and one white paw still lying on the scholar’s shoulder—while + his face made no assurance needful that it was very good for him! The + mirror concealed behind the curtains was the menagerie! Albinia clapped + her hands with delight, and pronounced it the most perfect of games. + </p> + <p> + ‘And now let us have Willie,’ said Mrs. Ferrars; ‘it will conduce to the + harmony of the next room.’ + </p> + <p> + Willie, already initiated, hoped to puzzle papa as a platypus + ornithoryncus, but was driven to allow that it was a nondescript animal, + neither fish, flesh, nor good red-herring, useless, and very fond of + grubbing in the mud; and if it were not at Botany Bay, it ought to be! The + laughter that hailed his defence of its nose as ‘well, nothing + particular,’ precipitated the drawing up of the curtain and his apparition + in the glass: and then Nora Nugent being called, the inseparable Mary + accompanied her, arm-in-arm, simpering an announcement that they liked + nothing so well as a pair of dear little love-birds. + </p> + <p> + Oh, unpitying papa! to draw from the unsuspicious Nora the admission that + they were very dull little birds, of no shape at all, who always sat + hunched up in a corner without any fun, and people said their love was all + stupidity and pretence; in fact, if she had one she should call it Silly + Polly or Polly Silly! + </p> + <p> + To silence Willie’s exultation in his sister’s discomfiture, he was sent + to fetch Lucy, whose impersonation of an argus pheasant would not have + answered well but for a suggestion of Albinia, that she was eyes all over + for any delinquency in school. Ulick O’More, owning with a sigh that he + should like to see no beast better than a snipe, gave rise to much + ingenuity by being led to describe it as of a class migratory, hard to + catch, food for powder, given to long bills. There he guessed something, + and stood on the defensive, but could not deny that its element was bogs, + but that it had been seen skimming over water meadows, and finding + sustenance in banks, whereupon the curtain rose. Ulick rushed upon the + battles of his nation, and was only reduced to quiescence by the entrance + of Sophy, who expressed a desire to see a coral worm, apparently + perplexing the showman, who, to gain time, hemmed, and said, ‘A very + unusual species, ma’am,’ which set all the younger ones in a double + giggle, such as confused Sophy, to find herself standing up, with every + one looking at her, and listening for her words. ‘I thought you undertook + for any impossibility in earth air or water.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, ma’am, do you take me for a mere mountebank? But when ladies and + gentlemen take such unusual fancies—and for an animal that—you + would not aver that it is often found from home?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never, I should say.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor that it is accessible?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Certainly not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And why is it so, ma’am?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why,’ said Sophy, bewildered into forgetting her natural history, ‘it + lives at the bottom of the sea; that’s one thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where Truth lives,’ said a voice behind. + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg to differ,’ observed Albinia. ‘Truth is a fresh water fish at the + bottom of a well; besides, I thought coral worms were always close to the + surface.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But below it—not in everybody’s view,’ said Sophy—an answer + which seemed much to the satisfaction of the audience, but the showman + insisted on knowing why, and whether it did not conceal itself. ‘It makes + stony caves for itself, out of sight,’ said Sophy, almost doubting whether + she spoke correctly. ‘Well, surely it does so.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Most surely,’ said an acclamation so general that she did not like it. If + she had been younger, she would have turned sulky upon the spot, and Mr. + Ferrars almost doubted whether to bring ont his final query. ‘Pray, ma’am, + do you think this creature out of reach in its self-made cave, at the + bottom—no, below the surface of the sea, would be popular enough to + repay the cost of procuring it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! that’s too bad,’ burst out the Hibernian tones. ‘Why, is not the best + of everything hidden away from the common eye? Out of sight—stony + cave—It is the secret worker that lays the true solid foundation, + raises the new realms, and forms the precious jewels.’ The torrent of r’s + was irresistible! + </p> + <p> + ‘Police! order!’ cried the showman. ‘An Irish mob has got in, and there’s + an end of everything.’ So up went the curtain, and the polyp appeared, + becoming rapidly red coral as she perceived what the exhibition was, and + why the politeness of the Green Isle revolted from her proclaiming her own + unpopularity. But all she did was to turn gruffly aside, and say, ‘It is + lucky there are no more ladies to come, Mr. Showman, or the mob would turn + everything to a compliment.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert’s curiosity was directed to the Laughing Jackass, and with too + much truth he admitted that it took its tone from whatever it associated + with, and caught every note, from the song of the lark to the bray of the + donkey; then laughed good-humouredly when the character was fitted upon + himself. + </p> + <p> + ‘That is all, is it not?’ asked the showman. ‘I may retire into private + life.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh no,’ cried Willie; ‘you have forgotten Mr. Dusautoy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I was afraid you had,’ said Lucy, ‘or you could not have left him to the + last.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am tempted to abdicate,’ said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ Albinia said. ‘He must have his share, and no one but you can do it. + Where can he be? the pause becomes awful!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Willie is making suggestions,’ said Gilbert; ‘his imagination would never + stretch farther than a lion. It’s what he thinks himself and no mistake.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is big enough to be the elephant,’ said little Mary. + </p> + <p> + ‘The half-reasoning!’ said Ulick, softly; ‘and I can answer for his trunk, + I saw it come off the omnibus.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ladies and gentlemen, if you persist in such disorderly conduct, the + exhibition will close,’ cried the showman, waving his wand as Willie + trumpeted Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy in, and on the demand what animal he + wanted to see, twitched him as Flibbertigibbet did the giant warder, and + caused him to respond—‘The Giraffe.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Has it not another name, sir? A short or a long one, more or less + syllables!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Camelopard. A polysyllabic word, certainly,’ said Algernon, looking with + a puzzled expression at the laughers behind; and almost imagining it + possible that he could have made an error, he repeated, ‘Camel-le-o-pard. + Yes, it is a polysyllable’—as, indeed, he had added an unnecessary + syllable. + </p> + <p> + ‘Most assuredly,’ said the showman, looking daggers at his suffocating + sister. ‘May I ask you to describe the creature?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Seventeen feet from the crown to the hoof, but falls off behind,’ said + the accurate Mr. Dusautoy; ‘beautiful tawny colour.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nearly as good as a Lion,’ added Gilbert; but Algernon, fancying the game + was by way of giving useful instruction to the children, went on in full + swing. ‘Handsomely mottled with darker brown; a ruminating animal; so + gentle that in spite of its size, none of my little friends need be + alarmed at its vicinity. Inhabits the African deserts, but may be bred in + more temperate latitudes. I myself saw an individual in the Jardin des + Plantes, which was popularly said never to bend its neck to the ground, + but I consider this a vulgar delusion, for on offering it food, it mildly + inclined its head.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let us hope the present specimen is equally condescending,’ said Mr. + Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + ‘Eh! what! I see myself!’ said Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy, with a tone so + inappreciably grand in mystification, that the showman had no choice but + to share the universal convulsion of laughter, while Willie rolling on the + floor with ecstasy, shouted, ‘Yes, it is you that are the thing with such + a long name that it can’t bend its head to the ground!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But too good-natured to be annoyed at folly,’ said Mr. Ferrars, + perceiving that it was no sport to him. + </p> + <p> + ‘This is the way my mischievous uncle has served us all in turn,’ said + Lucy, advancing; ‘we have all been shown up, and there was mamma a monkey, + and I an argus pheasant—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! I see,’ said the gentleman. ‘These are your rural pastimes of the + season. Yes, I can take my share in good part, just as I have pelted the + masks at the Carnival.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Even a giraffe can bend his head and do at Rome as Rome does,’ murmured + Ulick. But instead of heeding the audacious Irishman, Algernon patronized + the showman by thanks for his exhibition; and then sitting down by Lucy, + asked if he had ever told her of the tricks that he and il Principe + Odorico Moretti used to play at Ems on the old Baron Sprawlowsky, while + Mr. Ferrars, leaning over his sister’s chair, said aside, ‘I beg your + pardon, Albinia; I should not have yielded to Willie. This “rural pastime” + is only in season en famille.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind, it served him right.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It may have served him right, but had we the right to serve him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I forgive your prudence for the sake of your folly. Could not Oxford have + lessened his pomposity?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It comes too late,’ said Maurice. + </p> + <p> + Before Ulick went to bed his pen and ink had depicted the entire caravan. + The love-birds were pressed up together, with the individual features of + the two young ladies, and completely little parrots; the snipe ran along + the bars of the cage, looking exactly like all the O’Mores. The monkey + showed nothing but the hands, but one held Maurice, and the other was + clenched as if to cuff him, and grandest of all was, as in duty bound, + Camelopardelis giraffa, thrown somewhat backwards, with such a majestic + form, such a stalking attitude, loftily ruminating face, and legs so like + the Cavendish Dusautoy’s last new pair of trousers, that Albinia could not + help reserving it for the private delectation of his Aunt Fanny. + </p> + <p> + ‘It and its young one,’ said Mr. Kendal, as he looked at her portrait; and + the name delighted him so much, that he for some time applied it with a + smile whenever his wife gave him cause to remember how much there was of + the monkey in her composition. + </p> + <p> + It was the merriest Christmas ever known at Willow Lawn, and the first + time there had been anything of the atmosphere of family frolic and fun. + The lighting up of Sophy was one great ingredient; hitherto mirth had been + merely endured by her, whereas now, improved health and spirits had made + her take her share, amuse others and be amused, and cease to be hurt by + the jarring of chance words. Lucy was lively as usual, but rather more + excited than Albinia altogether liked; she was doubly particular about her + dress; more disdainful of the common herd, and had a general air of + exaltation that made Albinia rejoice when the Polysyllable, the horses, + the key-bugle, and genre painting disappeared from the Bayford horizon. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. + </h2> + <p> + If the end of the vacation were a relief on Lucy’s account, Albinia would + gladly have lengthened it on Gilbert’s. Letters from his tutor had + disquieted his father; there had been an expostulation followed by + promises, and afterwards one of the usual scenes of argument, complaint, + excuse, lamentation, and wish to amend; but lastly, a murmur that it was + no use to talk to a father who had never been at the University, and did + not know what was expected of a man. + </p> + <p> + The aspect of Oxford had changed in Albinia’s eyes since the days of her + brother. Alma Mater had been a vision of pealing bells, chanting voices, + cloistered shades, bright waters—the source of her most cherished + thoughts, the abode of youth walking in the old paths of pleasantness and + peace; and she knew that to faithful hearts, old Oxford was still the + same. But to her present anxious gaze it had become a field of snares and + temptations, whither she had been the means of sending one, unguarded and + unstable. + </p> + <p> + Once under the influence of a good sound-hearted friend, he might have + been easily led right, but his intimacy with young Dusautoy seemed to + cancel all hope of this, and to be like a rope about his neck, drawing him + into the same career, and keeping aloof all better influences. Algernon, + with his pride, pomposity, and false refinement, was more likely to run + into ostentations expenditure, than into coarse dissipation, and it might + still be hoped that the two youths would drag through without public + disgrace; but this was felt to be a very poor hope by those who felt each + sin to be a fatal blot, and trembled at the self-indulgent way of life + that might be a more fatal injury than even the ban of the authorities. + </p> + <p> + She saw that the anxiety pressed heavily on Mr. Kendal, and though both + shrank from giving their uneasiness force by putting it into words, each + felt that it was ever-present with the other. Mr. Kendal was deeply + grieving over the effects, for the former state of ignorance and apathy of + the evils of which he had only recently become fully sensible. Living for + himself alone, without cognizance of his membership in one great universal + system, he had needed the sense of churchmanship to make him act up to his + duties as father, neighbour, citizen, and man of property; and when + aroused, he found that the time of his inaction had bound him about with + fetters. A tone of mind had grown up in his family from which only Sophy + had been entirely freed; seeds of ineradicable evil had been sown, + mischiefs had grown by neglect, abuses been established by custom; and his + own personal disadvantages, his mauvaise honte, his reserved, apparently + proud manner, his slowness of speech, dislike to interruption, and + over-vehemence when excited, had so much increased upon him, as, in spite + of his efforts, to be serious hindrances. Kind, liberal, painstaking, and + conscientious as he had become, he was still looked upon as hard, stern, + and tyrannical. His ten years of inertness had strewn his path with thorns + and briars, even beyond his own household; and when he looked back to his + neglect of his son, he felt that even the worst consequences would be but + just retribution. + </p> + <p> + Once such feelings would have wrapt him in morbid gloom; now he strove + against his disposition to sit inert and hidden, he did his work manfully, + and endeavoured not to let his want of spirits sadden the household. + </p> + <p> + Nor was he insensible to the cheerful healthy atmosphere of animation + which had diffused itself there; and the bright discussions of the + trifling interests of the day. Ulick O’More was also a care to him, which + did him a great deal of good. + </p> + <p> + That young gentleman now lived at his lodgings, but was equally at home at + Willow Lawn, and his knock at the library door, when he wished to change a + book, usually led to some ‘Prometheus’ discussion, and sometimes to a + walk, if Mr. Kendal thought him looking pale; or to dining and to spending + the evening. + </p> + <p> + His scrapes were peculiar. He had thoroughly mastered his work, and his + active mind wanted farther scope, so that he threw himself with avidity + into deeper studies, and once fell into horrible disgrace for being + detected with a little Plato on his desk. Mr. Goldsmith nearly gave him up + in despair, and pronounced that he would never make a man of business. He + made matters worse by replying that this was the best chance of his not + being a man of speculation. If he were allowed to think of nothing but + money, he should speculate for the sake of something to do! + </p> + <p> + Before Mr. Goldsmith had half recovered the shock, Mr. Dusautoy and Mr. + Hope laid violent hands upon young O’More for the evening school twice a + week, which almost equally discomposed his aunt. She had never got over + the first blow of Mr. Dusautoy’s innovations, and felt as if her nephew + had gone over to the enemy. She was doubly ungracious at the Sunday + dinner, and venomously critical of the choir’s chanting, Mr. Hope’s voice, + and the Vicar’s sermons. + </p> + <p> + The worst scrape came in March. The Willow Lawn ladies were in the lower + end of the garden, which, towards the river, was separated from the lane + that continued Tibb’s Alley, by a low wall surmounted by spikes, and with + a disused wicket, always locked, and nearly concealed by a growth of + laurels; when out brake a horrible hullabaloo in that region of evil + report, the shouts and yells coming nearer, and becoming so distinct that + they were about to retreat, when suddenly a dark figure leapt over the + gate, and into the garden, amid a storm of outcries. As he disappeared + among the laurels, Albinia caught up Maurice, Lucy screamed and prepared + to fly, and Sophy started forward, exclaiming, ‘It is Ulick, mamma; his + face is bleeding!’ But as he emerged, she retreated, for she had a nervous + terror of the canine race, and in his hand, at arm’s length he held by the + neck a yellow dog, a black pot dangling from its tail. + </p> + <p> + ‘Take care,’ he shouted, as Albinia set down Maurice, and was running up + to him; ‘he may be mad.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice was caught up again, Lucy shrieked, and Sophy, tottering against + an apple-tree, faintly said, ‘He has bitten you!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, not he; it was only a stone,’ said Ulick, as best he might, with a + fast bleeding upper lip. ‘They were hunting the poor beast to death—I + believe he’s no more mad than I am—only with the fright—but + best make sure.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fetch some milk, Lucy,’ said Albinia. ‘Take Maurice with you. No, don’t + take the poor thing down to the river, he’ll only think you are going to + drown him. Go, Maurice dear.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice safe, Albinia was able to find ready expedients after Sir Fowell + Buxton’s celebrated example. She brought Ulick the gardener’s thick + gauntlets from the tool-house, and supplied him with her knife, with which + he set the poor creature free from the instrument of torture, and then let + him loose, with a pan of milk before him, in the old-fashioned + summer-house, through the window of which he could observe his motions, + and if he looked dangerous, shoot him. + </p> + <p> + Nothing could look less dangerous; the poor creature sank down on the + floor and moaned, licked its hind leg, and then dragged itself as if + famished to the milk, lapped a little eagerly, but lay down again whining, + as if in pain. Ulick and Albinia called to it, and it looked up and tried + to wag its tail, whining appealingly. ‘My poor brute!’ he cried, ‘they’ve + treated you worse than a heathen. That’s all—let me see what I can + do for you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, but yourself, Ulick,’ said Albinia, as in his haste he took down his + handkerchief from his mouth; ‘I do believe your lip is cut through! You + had better attend to that first.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no, thank you,’ said Ulick, eagerly, ‘they’ve broken the poor + wretch’s leg!’ and he was the next moment sitting on the summer-house + floor, lifting up the animal tenderly, regardless of her expostulation + that the injured, frightened creature might not know its friends. But she + did it injustice; it wagged its stumpy tail, and licked his fingers. + </p> + <p> + She offered to fetch rag for his surgery, and he farther begged for some + slight bits of wood to serve as splints, he and his brothers had been + dog-doctors before. As she hurried into the house, Sophy, who had sunk on + a sofa in the drawing-room, looking deadly pale, called out, ‘Is he + bitten?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no,’ cried Albinia, hurrying on, ‘the dog is all safe. It has only + got a broken leg.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice, with whom Lucy had all this time been fighting, came out with her + to see the rest of the adventure; and thought it very cruel that he was + not permitted to touch the patient, which bore the operation with + affecting fortitude and gratitude, and was then consigned to a basket + lined with hay, and left in the summer-house, Mr. Kendal being known to + have an almost eastern repugnance to dogs. + </p> + <p> + Then Ulick had leisure to be conducted to the morning-room, and be + rendered a less ghastly spectacle, by some very uncomfortable + sticking-plaster moustaches, which hardly permitted him to narrate his + battle distinctly. He thought the boys, even of Tibb’s Alley, would hardly + have ventured any violence after he had interfered, but for some young men + who aught to have known better; he fancied he had seen young Tritton of + Robbles Leigh, and he was sure of an insolent groom whom Mr. Cavendish + Dusautoy, to the great vexation of his uncle, had recently sent down with + a horse to the King’s Head. They had stimulated the boys to a shout of + Paddy and a shower of stones, and Ulick expected credit for great + discretion, in having fled instead of fought. ‘Ah! if Brian and Connel had + but been there, wouldn’t we have put them to the rout?’ + </p> + <p> + Nothing would then serve him but going back to Tibb’s Alley to trace the + dog’s history, and meantime Lucy, from the end of the passage, beckoned to + Albinia, and whispered mysteriously that ‘Sophy would not have any one + know it for the world—but,’ said Lucy, ‘I found her absolutely + fainting away on the sofa, only she would not let me call you, and ordered + that no one should know anything about it. But, mamma, there was a red-hot + knitting-needle sticking out of the fire, and I am quite sure that she + meant if Ulick was bitten, to burn out the place.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia believed Sophy capable of both the resolution and its consequence; + but she agreed with Lucy that no notice should be taken, and would not + seem aware that Sophy was much paler than usual. + </p> + <p> + The dog, as well as Ulick could make out, was a waif or stray, belonging + to a gipsy deported that morning by the police, and on whom its master’s + sins had been visited. So without scruple he carried the basket home to + his lodgings, and on the way, had the misfortune to encounter his uncle, + while shirtfront, coat, and waistcoat were fresh from the muddy and bloody + fray, and his visage in the height of disfigurement. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Goldsmith looked on the whole affair as an insult to every Goldsmith + of past ages! A mere street row! He ordered Mr. More to his lodgings, and + said he should hear from him to-morrow. Ulick came down to Willow Lawn in + the dark, almost considering himself as dismissed, not knowing whether to + be glad or sorry; and wanting to consult Mr. Kendal whether it would be + possible to work his way at college as Mr. Hope had done, or even + wondering whether he might venture to beg for a recommendation to ‘Kendal + and Kendal.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal was so strongly affected, that he took up his hat and went + straight to Mr. Goldsmith, ‘to put the matter before him in a true light.’ + </p> + <p> + True light or false, it was intolerable in the banker’s eyes, and it took + a great deal of eloquence to persuade him that his nephew was worth a + second trial. Fighting in Tibb’s Alley over a gipsy’s dog, and coming back + looking like a ruffian! Mr. Goldsmith wished him no harm, but it would be + a disgrace to the concern to keep him on, and Miss Goldsmith, whom Mr. + Kendal heartily wished to gag, chimed in with her old predictions of the + consequences of her poor sister’s foolish marriage. The final argument, + was Mr. Kendal’s declaration of the testimonials with which he would at + once send him out to Calcutta, to take the situation once offered to his + own son. No sooner did Mr. Goldsmith hear that his nephew had an + alternative, than he promised to be lenient, and finally dispatched a + letter to U. More, Esquire, with a very serious rebuke, but a promise that + his conduct should be overlooked, provided the scandal were not repeated, + and he should not present himself at the bank till his face should be fit + to be seen. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal mounted him the next morning on Gilbert’s horse, and sent him + to Fairmead. The dog was left in charge of Bridget, who treated it with + abundant kindness, but failed to obtain the exclusive affection which the + poor thing lavished upon its rescuer. By the time Ulick came home, it had + arrived at limping upon three legs, and was bent on following him wherever + he went. Disreputable and heinously ugly it was, of tawny currish yellow + (whence it was known as the Orange-man), with a bull-dog countenance; and + the legs that did not limp were bandy. Albinia called it the Tripod, but + somehow it settled into the title of Hyder Ali, to which it was said to + ‘answer’ the most readily, though it would in fact answer anything from + Ulick, and nothing from any one else.. + </p> + <p> + Ever at his heels, the ‘brazen Tripod’ contrived to establish an entrance + at Willow Lawn; scratched till Mr. Kendal would interrupt a ‘Prometheus + talk’ to let him in at the library door; and gradually made it a matter of + course to come into the drawing-room, and repose upon Sophy’s flounces. + </p> + <p> + This was by way of compensation for his misadventures elsewhere. He was + always bringing Ulick into trouble; shut or tie him up as he might, he was + sure to reappear when least wanted. He had been at church, he had been in + Miss Goldsmith’s drawing-room, he had been found times without number + curled up under Ulick’s desk. Mr. Goldsmith growled hints about hanging + him, and old Mr. Johns, who really was fond of his bright young fellow + clerk, gave grave counsel; but Ulick only loved his protege the better, + and after having exhausted an Irish vocabulary of expostulation, succeeded + in prevailing on him to come no farther than the street; except on very + wet days, when he would sometimes be found on the mat in the entry, + looking deplorably beseeching, and bringing on his master an irate, + ‘Here’s that dog again!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Would that no one fell into worse scrapes,’ sighed Mr. Dusautoy, when he + heard of Ulick’s disasters with Hyder Ali, and it was a sigh that the + house of Kendal re-echoed. + </p> + <p> + Nobody could be surprised when, towards the long vacation, tidings came to + Bayford, that after long forbearance on the part of the authorities, the + insubordination and riotous conduct of the two young men could be endured + no longer. It appeared that young Dusautoy, with his weak head and + obstinate will, had never attempted to bend to rules, but had taken every + reproof as an insult and defiance. Young men had not been wanting who were + ready to take advantage of his lavish expenditure, and to excite his + disdain for authorities. They had promoted the only wit he did understand, + broad practical jokes and mischief; and had led him into the riot and + gambling to which he was not naturally prone. Gilbert Kendal, with more + sense and principle, had been led on by the contagion around him, and at + last an outrageous wine party had brought matters to a crisis. The most + guilty were the most cunning, and the only two to whom the affair could + actually be brought home, were Dusautoy and Kendal. The sentence was + rustication, and the tutor wrote to Mr. Dusautoy, as the least immediately + affected, to ask him to convey the intelligence to Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + The vicar was not a man to shrink from any task, however painful, but he + felt it the more deeply, as, in spite of his partiality, he was forced to + look on his own favourite Algernon as the misleader of Gilbert; and when + he overtook the sisters on his melancholy way down the hill, he consulted + them how their father would bear it. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I don’t know,’ said Lucy; ‘he’ll be terribly angry. I should not + wonder if he sent Gilbert straight off to India; should you, Sophy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope he will do nothing in haste,’ exclaimed Mr. Dusautoy. ‘I do + believe if those two lads were but separated, or even out of such company, + they would both do very well.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ exclaimed Lucy; ‘and, after all, they are such absurd regulations, + treating men like schoolboys, wanting them to keep such regular + troublesome hours. Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy told me that there was no + enduring the having everything enforced.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If things had been enforced on poor Algernon earlier, this might never + have been,’ sighed his uncle. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m sure I don’t see why papa should mind it so much,’ continued Lucy. + ‘Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy told me his friend Lord Reginald Raymond had been + rusticated twice, and expelled at last.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you think of it, Sophy?’ asked the vicar, anxiously. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t feel as if any of us could ever look up again,’ she answered very + low. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, no; not that exactly. It is not quite the right way to take these + things, Sophy,’ said Mr. Dusautoy. ‘Boys may be very foolish and + wrong-headed, without disgracing their family.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy did not answer—it was all too fresh and sore, and she did not + find much consolation in the number of youths whom Lucy reckoned up as + having incurred the like penalty. When they entered the house, and Mr. + Dusautoy knocked at the library door, she followed Lucy into the garden, + without knowing where she was going, and threw herself down upon the + grass, miserable at the pain which was being inflicted upon her father, + and with a hardened resentful feeling, between contempt and anger, against + the brother, who, for very weakness, could so dishonour and grieve him. + She clenched her hand in the intensity of her passionate thoughts and + impulses, and sat like a statue, while Lucy, from time to time, between + the tying up of flowers and watering of annuals, came up with inconsistent + exhortations not to be so unhappy—for it was not expulsion—it + was sure to be unjust—nobody would think the worse of them because + young men were foolish—all men of spirit did get into scrapes— + </p> + <p> + It was lucky for Lucy that all this passed by Sophy’s ear as unheeded as + the babbling of the brook. She did not move, till roused by Ulick O’More, + coming up from the bridge, telling that he had met some Irish haymakers in + the meadows, and saying he wanted to beg a frock for one of their + children. + </p> + <p> + ‘I think I can find you one,’ said Lucy, ‘if you will wait a minute; but + don’t go in, Mr. Dusautoy is there.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is anything the matter?’ he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + ‘Every one must soon know,’ said Lucy; ‘it is of no use to keep it back, + Sophy. Only my brother and Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy have got into a scrape + about a wine party, and are going to be rusticated. But wait, I’ll fetch + the frock.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy had almost run away while her sister spoke, but the kind look of + consternation and pity on Ulick’s face deterred her, he in soliloquy + repeated, as if confounded by the greatness of the misfortune, ‘Poor + Gilbert!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Gilbert!’ burst from Sophy in irritation at misplaced sympathy; ‘I + thought it would be papa and mamma you cared for!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘With reason,’ returned Ulick, ‘but I was thinking how it must break his + heart to have pained such as they.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish he would feel it thus,’ exclaimed Sophy; ‘but he never will!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! banish that notion, Sophy,’ cried Ulick, recoiling at the indignation + in her dark eyes, ‘next to grieving my mother, I declare nothing could + crush me like meeting a look such as that from a sister of mine.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How can I help it?’ she said, reserve breaking down in her vehemence, + ‘when I think how much papa has suffered—how much Gilbert has to + make up to him—how mamma took him for her own—how they have + borne with him, and set their happiness on him, and yielded to his + fancies, only for him to disappoint them so cruelly, and just because he + can’t say No! I hope he wont come home; I shall never know how to speak to + him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But all that makes it so much the worse for him,’ said Ulick, in a tone + of amazement. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, you can’t understand,’ she answered; ‘if he had had one spark of + feeling like you, he would rather have died than have gone on as he has + done.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Surely many a man may be overtaken in a fault, and never be wrong at + heart,’ said Ulick. ‘There’s many a worse sin than what the world sets a + blot upon, and I believe that is just why homes were made.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy came back with the frock, and Ulick, thanking her, sped away; while + Sophy slowly went upstairs and hid herself on her couch. For a woman to + find a man thinking her over-hard and severe, is sure either to harden or + to soften her very decidedly, and it was a hard struggle which would be + the effect. There was an inclination at first to attribute his surprise to + the lax notions and foolish fondness of his home, where no doubt far worse + disorders than Gilbert’s were treated as mere matters of course. But such + strong pity for the offender did not seem to accord with this; and the + more she thought, the more sure she became that it was the fresh charity + and sweetness of an innocent spirit, ‘believing all things,’ and + separating the fault from the offender. His words had fallen on her ear in + a sense beyond what he meant. Pride and uncharitable resentment might be + worse sins than mere weakness and excess. She thought of the elder son in + the parable, who, unknowing of his brother’s temptation and sorrow, closed + his heart against his return; and if her tears would have come, she would + have wept that she could not bring herself to look on Gilbert otherwise + than as the troubler of her father’s peace. + </p> + <p> + When her mother at last came upstairs, she only ventured to ask gently, + ‘How does papa bear it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It did not come without preparation,’ was the answer; ‘and at first we + were occupied with comforting Mr. Dusautoy, who takes to himself all the + shame his nephew will not feel, for having drawn poor Gilbert into such a + set.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And papa?’ still asked Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘He is very quiet, and it is not easy to tell. I believe it was a great + mistake, though not of his making, to send Gilbert to Oxford at all, and I + doubt whether he will ever go back again. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma, not conquer this, and live it down!’ cried Sophy; but then + changing, she sighed and said, ‘If he would—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, a great deal depends upon how he may take this, and what becomes of + Algernon Dusautoy; though I suppose there is no lack of other tempters. + Your papa has even spoken of India again; he still thinks he would be more + guarded there, but all depends on the spirit in which we find him. One + thing I hope, that I shall leave it all to his father’s judgment, and not + say one word.’ + </p> + <p> + The next post brought a penitent letter from Gilbert, submitting + completely to his father; only begging that he might not see any one at + home until he should have redeemed his character, and promising to work + very hard and deny himself all relaxation if he might only go to a tutor + at a distance. + </p> + <p> + This did not at all accord with Mr. Kendal’s views. He had an unavowed + distrust of Gilbert’s letters, he did not fancy a tutor thus selected, and + believed the boy to be physically incapable of the proposed amount of + study. So he wrote a very grave but merciful summons to Willow Lawn. + </p> + <p> + Albinia went to meet the delinquent at Hadminster, and was struck by the + different deportment of the two youths. Algernon Dusautoy, whose servant + had met him, sauntered up to her as if nothing had happened, carelessly + hoped all were well at Bayford, and, in spite of her exceeding coldness, + talked on with perfect ease upon the chances of a war with Russia, and had + given her three or four maxims, before Gilbert came up with the luggage + van, with a bag in his hand, and a hurried bewildered manner, unable to + meet her eye. He handed her into the carriage, seated himself beside her, + and drove off without one unnecessary word, while Algernon, mounting his + horse, waved them a disengaged farewell, and cantered on. Albinia heard a + heavy sigh, and saw her companion very wan and sorrowful, dejection in + every feature, in the whole stoop of his figure, and in the nervous twitch + of his hands. The contrast gave an additional impulse to her love and + pity, and the first words she said were, ‘Your father is quite ready to + forgive.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I knew he would be so,’ he answered, hardly able to command his voice; ‘I + knew you would all be a great deal too kind to me, and that is the worst + of all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, Gilbert, not if it gives you resolution to resist the next time.’ + </p> + <p> + He groaned; and it was not long before she drew from him a sincere avowal + of his follies and repentance. He had been led on by assurances that + ‘every one’ did the like, by fear of betraying his own timidity, by absurd + dread of being disdained as slow; all this working on his natural + indolence and love of excitement, had combined to involve him in habits + which had brought on him this disgrace. It was a hopeful sign that he + admitted its justice, and accused no one of partiality; the reprimand had + told upon him, and he was too completely struck down even to attempt to + justify himself; exceedingly afraid of his father, and only longing to + hide himself. Such was his utter despair, that Albinia had no scruples in + encouraging him, and assuring him with all her heart, that if taken + rightly, the shock that brought him to his senses, might be the blessing + of his life. He did not take comfort readily, though soothed by her + kindness; he could not get over his excessive dread of his father, and + each attempt at reassurance fell short. At last it came out that the very + core of his misery was this, that he had found himself for part of the + journey, in the same train with Miss Durant and two or three children. He + could not tell her where he was going nor why, and he had leant back in + the carriage, and watched her on the platform by stealth, as she moved + about, ‘lovelier and more graceful than ever!’ but how could he present + himself to her in his disgrace and misery? ‘Oh, Mrs. Kendal, I forgive my + father, but my life was blighted when I was cut off from her!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, Gilbert, you are wrong. There is no blighting in a worthy, + disinterested attachment. To be able to love and respect such a woman is a + good substantial quality in you, and ought to make you a higher and better + man.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert turned round a face of extreme amazement. ‘I thought,’ he said, ‘I + thought you—’ and went no farther. + </p> + <p> + ‘I respect your feeling for her more than when it was two years younger,’ + she said; ‘I should respect it doubly if instead of making you ashamed, it + had saved you from the need of shame.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you give me any hope?’ cried Gilbert, his face gleaming into sudden + eager brightness. + </p> + <p> + ‘Things have not become more suitable,’ said Albinia; and his look lapsed + again into despondency; but she added, ‘Each step towards real manhood, + force of character, and steadiness, would give you weight which might make + your choice worth your father’s consideration, and you worth that of + Genevieve.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! would you but have told me so before!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was evident to your own senses,’ said Albinia; and she thought of the + suggestion that Sophy had made. + </p> + <p> + ‘Too late! too late!’ sighed Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, never too late! You have had a warning; you are very young, and it + cannot be too late for winning a character, and redeeming the time!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you tell me I may love her!’ repeated Gilbert, so intoxicated with + the words, that she became afraid of them. + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not tell you that you may importune her, or disobey your father. I + only tell you that to look up and work and deny yourself, in honour of one + so truly noble, is one of the best and most saving of secondary motives. I + shall honour you, Gilbert, if you do so use it as to raise and support + you, though of course I cannot promise that she can be earned by it, and + even that motive will not do alone, however powerful you may think it.’ + </p> + <p> + Neither of them said more, but Gilbert sighed heavily several times, and + would willingly have checked their homeward speed. He grew pale as they + entered the town, and groaned as the gates swung back, and they rattled + over the wooden bridge. It was about four o’clock, and he said, hurriedly, + as with a sort of hope, ‘I suppose they are all out.’ + </p> + <p> + He was answered by a whoop of ecstasy, and before he was well out of the + carriage, he was seized by the joyous Maurice, shouting that he had been + for a ride with papa, without a leading rein. Happy age for both, too + young to know more than that the beloved playfellow was at home again! + </p> + <p> + Little Albinia studied her brother till the small memory came back, and + she made her pretty signs for the well-remembered dancing in his arms. + From such greetings, Gilbert’s wounded spirit could not shrink, much as he + dreaded all others; and, carrying the baby and preceded by Maurice, while + he again muttered that of course no one was at home, he went upstairs. + </p> + <p> + Albinia meantime tapped at the library door. She knew Mr. Kendal to be + there, yearning to forgive, but thinking it right to have his pardon + sought; and she went in to tell him of his son’s keen remorse, and deadly + fear. Displeased and mournful, Mr. Kendal sighed. ‘He has little to fear + from me, would he but believe so! He ought to have come to me, but—’ + </p> + <p> + That ‘but’ meant repentance for over-sternness in times past. + </p> + <p> + ‘Let me send him to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will come,’ said Mr. Kendal, willing to spare his son the terror of + presenting himself. + </p> + <p> + There was a pretty sight in the morning-room. Gilbert was on the floor + with the two children, Maurice intent on showing how nearly little Albinia + could run alone, and between ordering and coaxing, drawing her gently on; + her beautiful brown eyes opened very seriously to the great undertaking, + and her round soft hands, with a mixture of confidence and timidity, + trusted within the sturdy ones of her small elder, while Gilbert knelt on + one knee, and stretched out a protecting arm, really to grasp the little + one, if the more childish brother should fail her, and his countenance, + lighted up with interest and affection, was far more prepossessing than + when so lately it had been, full of cowering, almost abject apprehension. + </p> + <p> + Was it a sort of instinctive feeling that the little sister would be his + best shelter, that made him gather the child into his arms, and hold her + before his deeply blushing face as he rose from the floor? She merrily + called out, ‘Papa!’ Maurice loudly began to recount her exploits, and thus + passed the salutation, at the end of which Gilbert found that his father + was taking the little one from him, and giving her to her mother, who + carried her away, calling Maurice with her. + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you nothing to say to me?’ said Mr. Kendal, after waiting for some + moments; but as Gilbert only looked up to him with a piteous, scared, + uncertain glance, be added; ‘You need not fear me; I believe you have + erred more from weakness than from evil inclinations, and I trust in the + sincerity of your repentance.’ + </p> + <p> + These kind words softened Gilbert; he assured his father of his thanks for + his kindness, no one could grieve more deeply, or be more anxious to atone + in any possible manner for what he had unwittingly done. + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe you, Gilbert,’ said his father; ‘but you well know that the + only way of atoning for the past, as well as of avoiding such wretchedness + and disgrace for the future, is to show greater firmness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know it is,’ said Gilbert, sorrowfully. + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot look into your heart,’ added Mr. Kendal. ‘I can only hope and + believe that your grief for the sin is as deep, or deeper, than that for + the public stigma, for which comparatively, I care little.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert exclaimed that so indeed it was, and this was no more than the + truth. Out of sight of temptation, and in that pure atmosphere, the loud + revel and coarse witticisms that had led him on, were only loathsome and + disgusting, and made him miserable in the recollection. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am ready to submit to anything,’ he added, fervently. ‘As long as you + forgive me, I am ready to bear anything.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I forgive you from my heart,’ said Mr. Kendal, warmly. ‘I only wish to + consider what may be most expedient for you. I should scarcely like to + send you back to Oxford to retrieve your character, unless I were sure + that you would be more resolute in resisting temptation. No, do not reply; + your actions during this time of penance will be a far more satisfactory + answer than any promises. I had thought of again applying to your cousin + John, to take you into his bank, though you could not now go on such terms + as you might have done when there was no error in the background, and I + still sometimes question whether it be not the safer method.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Whatever you please,’ said Gilbert; ‘I deserve it all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, do not look upon my decision, whatever it may be, as punishment, but + only as springing from my desire for your real welfare. I will write to + your cousin and ask whether he still has a vacancy, but without absolutely + proposing you to him, and we will look on the coming months as a period of + probation, during which we may judge what may be the wisest course. I will + only ask one other question, Gilbert, and you need not be afraid to answer + me fully and freely. Have you any debts at Oxford?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A few,’ stammered Gilbert, with a great effort. + </p> + <p> + ‘Can you tell me to whom, and the amount?’ + </p> + <p> + He tried to recollect as well as he could, while completely frightened and + confused by the gravity with which his father was jotting them down in his + pocket-book. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, Gilbert,’ he concluded, ‘you have dealt candidly with me, and you + shall never have cause to regret having done so. And now we will only feel + that you are at home, and dwell no longer on the cause that has brought + you. Come out, and see what we have been doing in the meadow.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert seemed more overthrown and broken down by kindness than by + reproof. He hardly exerted himself even to play with Maurice, or to amuse + his grandmother; and though his sisters treated him as usual, he never + once lifted up his eyes to meet Sophy’s glance, and scarcely used his + voice. + </p> + <p> + Nothing could be more disarming than such genuine sorrow; and Sophy, + pardoning him with all her heart, and mourning for her past want of + charity, watched him, longing to do something for his comfort, and to + evince her tenderness; but only succeeded in encumbering every petty + service or word of intercourse with a weight of sad consciousness. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. + </h2> + <p> + ‘I had almost written to ask your pardon,’ said Mrs. Dusautoy, as Albinia + entered her drawing-room on the afternoon following. ‘I should like by way + of experiment to know what <i>would</i> put that boy out of countenance. + He listened with placid graciousness to his uncle’s lecture, and then gave + us to understand that he was obliged for his solicitude, and that there + was a great deal of jealousy and misrepresentation at Oxford; but he + thought it best always to submit to authorities, however unreasonable. And + this morning, after amiably paying his respects to me, he said he was + going to inquire for Gilbert. I intimated that Willow Lawn was the last + place where he would be welcome, but he was far above attending to me. Did + Gilbert see him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert was in the garden with us when we were told he was in the house. + Poor fellow, he shuddered, and looked as if he wanted me to guard him, so + I sent him out walking with Maurice while I went in, and found Lucy + entertaining the gentleman. I made myself as cold and inhospitable as I + could, but I am afraid he rather relishes a dignified retenue.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor boy! I wonder what on earth is to be done with him. I never before + knew what John’s love and patience were.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you think he will remain here?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot tell; we talk of tutors, but John is really, I believe, happier + for having him here, and besides one can be sure the worst he is doing is + painting a lobster. However, much would depend on what you and Mr. Kendal + thought. If he and Gilbert were doing harm to each other, everything must + give way.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If people of that age will not keep themselves out of harm’s way, nobody + can do it for them,’ said Albinia, ‘and as long as Gilbert continues in + his present mood, there is more real separation in voluntarily holding + aloof, than if they were sent far apart, only to come together again at + college.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert did continue in the same mood. The tender cherishing of his home + restored his spirits; but he was much subdued, and deeply grateful, as he + manifested by the most eager and affectionate courtesy, such as made him + almost the servant of everybody, without any personal aim or object, + except to work up his deficient studies, and to avoid young Dusautoy. He + seemed to cling to his family as his protectors, and to follow the + occupations least likely to lead to a meeting with the Polysyllable; he + was often at church in the week, rode with his father, went parish + visiting with the ladies, and was responsible when Maurice fished for + minnows in the meadows. Nothing could be more sincerely desirous to atone + for the past and enter on a different course, and no conduct could be more + truly humble or endearing. + </p> + <p> + The imaginary disdain of Ulick O’More was entirely gone, and perceiving + that the Irishman’s delicacy was keeping him away from Willow Lawn, + Gilbert himself met him and brought him home, in the delight of having + heard of a naval cadetship having been offered to his brother, and full of + such eager joy as longed for sympathy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Happy fellow!’ Gilbert murmured to himself. + </p> + <p> + Younger in years, more childish in character, poor Gilbert had managed to + make his spirit world-worn and weary, compared with the fresh manly heart + of the Irishman, all centered in the kindred ‘points of Heaven and home,’ + and enjoying keenly, for the very reason that he bent dutifully with all + his might to a humble and uncongenial task. + </p> + <p> + Yet somehow, admire and esteem as he would, there arose no intimacy or + friendship between Gilbert and Ulick; their manners were frank and easy, + but there was no spontaneous approach, no real congeniality, nor exchange + of mind and sympathy as between Ulick and Mr. Kendal. Albinia had a theory + that the friendship was too much watched to take; Sophy hated herself for + the recurring conviction that ‘Gilbert was not the kind of stuff,’ though + she felt day by day how far he excelled her in humility, gentleness, and + sweet temper. + </p> + <p> + When the Goldsmiths gave their annual dinner-party, Albinia felt a sudden + glow at the unexpected sight of Ulick O’More. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am only deputy for the Orange man,’ he said; ‘it is Hyder Ali who ought + to be dining here! Yes, it is his doing, I’d back him against any + detective!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What heroism have you been acting together?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We had just given Farmer Martin L120 in notes, when as he went out, we + heard little Hyder growling and giving tongue, and a fellow swearing as if + he was at the fair of Monyveagh, and the farmer hallooing thieves. I found + little Hyder had nailed the rascal fast by the leg, just as he had the + notes out of the farmer’s pouch. I collared him, Johns ran for the police, + and the rascal is fast.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What a shame to cheat Mr. Kendal of the committal.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The policeman said he was gone out, so we had the villain up to the + Admiral with the greater satisfaction, as he was a lodger in one of the + Admiral’s pet public-houses in Tibb’s Alley.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, when Gilbert is of age,’ said Albinia, ‘woe to Tibb’s! So you are a + testimonial to the Tripod?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So I suspect, for I found an invitation when I came home, I would have + run down to tell you, but I had been kept late, and one takes some getting + up for polite society.’ + </p> + <p> + There was a great deal of talk about Hyder’s exploit, and some disposition + to make Mr. O’More the hero of the day; but this was quickly nipped by his + uncle’s dry shortness, and the superciliousness with which Mr. Cavendish + Dusautoy turned the conversation to the provision of pistols, couriers, + and guards, for travelling through the Abruzzi. The polysyllabic courage, + and false alarms on such a scale, completely eclipsed a real pick-pocket, + caught by a gipsy’s cur and a banker’s clerk. + </p> + <p> + Not that Ulick perceived any disregard until later in the evening, when + the young Kendals arrived, and of course he wanted each and all to hear of + his Tripod’s achievement. He met with ready attention from Sophy and + Gilbert, who pronounced that as the cat was to Whittington, so was Hyder + to O’More; but when in his overflowing he proceeded to Lucy, she had + neither eyes nor ears for him, and when the vicar told her Mr. O’More was + speaking to her, she turned with an air of petulance, so that he felt + obliged to beg her pardon and retreat. + </p> + <p> + The Bayford parties never lasted later than a few minutes after ten, but + when once Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy and Miss Kendal had possession of the + piano and guitar, there was no conclusion. Song succeeded song, they + wanted nothing save their own harmony, and hardly waited for Miss + Goldsmith’s sleepy thanks. The vicar hated late hours, and the Kendals + felt every song a trespass upon their hosts, but the musicians had their + backs to the world, and gave no interval, so that it was eleven o’clock + before Mr. Kendal, in desperation, laid his hand on his daughter, and + barbarously carried her off. + </p> + <p> + The flirtation was so palpable, that Albinia mused on the means of + repressing it; but she believed that to remonstrate, would only be to give + Lucy pleasure, and held her peace till a passion for riding seized upon + the young lady. The old pony had hard service between Sophy’s needs and + Maurice’s exactions, but Lucy’s soul soared far above ponies, and fastened + upon Gilbert’s steed. + </p> + <p> + ‘And pray what is Gilbert to ride?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! papa does not always want Captain, or Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy would + lend him Bamfylde.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you,’ returned Gilbert, satirically. + </p> + <p> + Next morning Lucy, radiant with smiles, announced that all was settled. + Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy’s Lady Elmira would be brought down for her to try + this afternoon, so Gilbert might keep his own horse and come too, which + permission he received with a long whistle and glance at Mrs. Kendal, and + then walked out of the room. + </p> + <p> + ‘How disobliging!’ said Lucy. ‘Well then, Sophy, you must make your old + hat look as well as you can, for I suppose it will not quite do to go + without anyone.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy, like her brother, looked at Mrs. Kendal, and with an eye of + indignant appeal and entreaty, while Albinia’s countenance was so full of + displeasure, that Lucy continued earnestly, ‘O, mamma, you can’t object. + You used to go out riding with papa when he was at Colonel Bury’s.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, Lucy!’ exclaimed her sister, ‘I did not think even you capable of + such a comparison.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It’s all the same,’ said Lucy tartly, blushing a good deal. + </p> + <p> + Sophy leapt up to look at her, and Albinia trying to be calm and + judicious, demanded, ‘What is the same as what?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, Algernon and <i>me</i>,’ was the equally precise reply. + </p> + <p> + In stately horror, Sophy rose and seriously marched away, leaving, by her + look and manner, a species of awe upon both parties, and some seconds + passed ere, with crimson blushes, Albania ventured to invite the dreaded + admission, by demanding, ‘Now, Lucy, will you be so good as to tell me the + meaning of this extraordinary allusion?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, to be sure—I know it was very different. Papa was so old, and + <i>there were us</i>,’ faltered Lucy, ‘but I meant, you would know how it + all is—how those things—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Stop, Lucy, am I to understand by those things, that you wish me to + believe you and Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy are on the game terms as—No, + I can’t say it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know what you mean,’ said Lucy, growing frightened, ‘I never + thought there could be such an uproar about my just going out riding.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have led me to infer so much more, that it becomes my duty to have an + explanation, at least,’ she added, thinking this sounded cold, ‘I should + have hoped you would have given me your confidence.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘O, but you always would make game of him!’ cried Lucy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not now; this is much too serious, if you have been led to believe that + his attentions are not as I supposed, because you are the only girl about + here whom he thinks worthy of his notice.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It’s a great deal more,’ said Lucy, with more feeling and less vanity + than had yet been apparent. + </p> + <p> + ‘And what has he been making you think, my poor child?’ said Albinia. ‘I + know it is very distressing, but it would be more right and safe if I knew + what it amounts to.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not much after all,’ said Lucy, her tone implying the reverse, and though + her cheeks were crimson, not averse to the triumph of the avowal, nor + enduring as much embarrassment as her auditor, ‘only he made me sure of it—he + said—(now, mamma, you have made me, so I must) that he had changed + his opinion of English beauty—you know, mamma. And another time he + said he had wandered Europe over to—to find loveliness on the banks + of the Baye. Wasn’t it absurd? And he says he does not think it half so + much that a woman should be accomplished herself, as that she should be + able to appreciate other people’s talents—and once he said the + Principessa Bianca di Moretti would be very much disappointed.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, my dear,’ said Albinia, kindly putting her arm round Lucy’s waist, + ‘perhaps by themselves the things did not so much require to be told. I + can hardly blame you, and I wish I had been more on my guard, and helped + you more. Only if he seems to care so little about disappointing this lady + might he not do the same by you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But she’s an Italian, and a Roman Catholic,’ exclaimed Lucy. + </p> + <p> + Albinia could not help smiling, and Lucy, perceiving that this was hardly + a valid excuse for her utter indifference towards her Grandison’s + Clementina, continued, ‘I mean—of course there was nothing in it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very possibly; but how would it be, if by-and-by he told somebody that + Miss Kendal would be very much disappointed?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘O, mamma,’ cried Lucy, hastily detaching herself, ‘you don’t know!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot tell, my poor Lucy,’ said Albinia. ‘I fear there must be grief + and trouble any way, if you let yourself attend to him, for you know, even + if he were in earnest, it would not be right to think of a person who has + shown so little wish to be good.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy stood for a few moments before the sense reached her mind, then she + dropped into a chair, and exclaimed, + </p> + <p> + ‘I see how it is! You’ll treat him as grandpapa treated Captain Pringle, + but I shall break my heart, quite!’ and she burst into tears. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear, your father and I will do our best for your happiness, and we + would never use concealment. Whatever we do shall be as Christian people + working together, not as tyrants with a silly girl.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy was pleased, and let Albinia take her hand. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then I will write to decline the horse. It would be far too marked.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But oh, mamma! you wont keep him away!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall not alter our habits unless I see cause. He is much too young for + us to think seriously of what he may have said; and I entreat you to put + it out of your mind, for it would be very sad for you to fix your thoughts + on him, and then find him not in earnest, and even if he were, you know it + would be wrong to let affection grow up where there is no real dependence + upon a person’s goodness.’ + </p> + <p> + The kindness soothed Lucy, and though she shed some tears, she did not + resist the decision. Indeed she was sensible of that calm determination of + manner, which all the family had learnt to mean that the measures thus + taken were unalterable, whereas the impetuous impulses often were + reversed. + </p> + <p> + Many a woman’s will is like the tide, ever fretting at the verge of the + boundary, but afraid to overpass it, and only tempting the utmost limit in + the certainty of the recall, and Lucy perhaps felt a kind of protection in + the curb, even while she treated it as an injury. She liked to be the + object of solicitude, and was pleased with Albinia’s extra kindness, + while, perhaps, there was some excitement in the belief that Algernon was + missing her, so she was particularly amenable, and not much out of + spirits. + </p> + <p> + The original Meadows character, and Bayford breeding, had for a time been + surmounted by Albinia’s influence and training; but so ingrain was the old + disposition, that a touch would at once re-awaken it, and the poor girl + was in a neutral state, coloured by whichever impression had been most + recent. Albinia’s hopes of prevailing in the end increased when Mrs. + Dusautoy told her, with a look of intelligence, that Algernon was going to + stay with a connexion of his mother, a Mr. Greenaway, with six daughters, + very stylish young ladies. + </p> + <p> + Six stylish young ladies! Albinia could have embraced them all, and + actually conferred a cordial nod on Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy when she met + him on the way home. + </p> + <p> + But as she entered the house, so ominous a tone summoned her to the + library, that she needed not to be told that Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy had + been there. + </p> + <p> + ‘I told him,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘that he was too young for me to entertain + his proposal, and I intimated that he had character to redeem before + presenting himself in such capacity.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope you made the refusal evident to his intellect.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He drove me to be more explicit than I intended. I think he was + astonished. He stared at me for full three minutes before he could believe + in the refusal. Poor lad, it must be real attachment, there could be no + other inducement.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And Lucy is exceedingly pretty.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal glanced at the portrait over the mantelpiece smiled sadly, and + shook his head. + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor dear,’ continued Albinia, ‘what a commotion there will be in her + head; but she has behaved so well hitherto, that I hope we may steer her + safely through, above all, if one of the six cousins will but catch him in + the rebound! Have you spoken to her?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is it necessary?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So asked her grandfather,’ said Albinia, smiling, as he, a little out of + countenance, muttered something of ‘foolish affair—mere child—and + turn her head—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s done!’ said Albinia, ‘we have only to try to get it straight. + Besides, it would hardly be just to let her think he had meant nothing, + and I have promised to deal openly with her, otherwise we can hardly hope + for plain dealing from her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you think it will be a serious disappointment?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She is highly flattered by his attention, but I don’t know how deep it + may have gone.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish people would let one’s daughters alone!’ exclaimed Mr. Kendal. + ‘You will talk to her then, Albinia, and don’t let her think me more harsh + than you can help, and come and tell me how she bears it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Won’t you speak to her yourself?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you think I must?’ he said, reluctantly; ‘you know so much better how + to manage her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think you must do this, dear Edmund,’ she said, between decision and + entreaty. ‘She knows that I dislike the man, and may fancy it my doing it + she only hears it at second hand. If you speak, there will be no appeal, + and besides there are moments when the really nearest should have no + go-betweens.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We were not very near without you,’ he said. ‘If it were Sophy, I should + know better what to be about.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy would not put you in such a fix.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So I have fancied—’ he paused, smiling, while she waited in eager + curiosity, such as made him finish as if ashamed. ‘I have thought our + likings much the same. Have you never observed what I mean?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I never observe anything. I did not find out Maurice and Winifred + till he told me. Who do you think it is? I always thought love would be + the making of Sophy. I see she is another being. What is your guess, Mr. + Hope?’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal made a face of astonishment at such an improbable guess, and + was driven into exclaiming, ‘How could any one help thinking of O’More?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! only too delightful!’ cried Albinia. ‘Why didn’t I think of it—but + then his way is so free and cousinly with us all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There may be nothing in it,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘and under present + circumstances it would hardly be desirable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If old Mr. Goldsmith acts as he ought,’ continued Albinia, ‘we should + never lose our Sophy—and what a son we should have! he has so + exactly the bright temper that she needs.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, well, that is all in the clouds,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘I wish the + present were equally satisfactory.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, I had better call poor Lucy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Come back with her, pray,’ called Mr. Kendal, nervously. + </p> + <p> + Albinia regretted her superfluous gossip when Lucy appeared with eyes so + sparkling, and cheeks so flushed, that it was plain that she had been in + all the miseries of suspense. Her countenance glowed with feeling, that + lifted her beyond her ordinary doll-like prettiness. Albinia’s heart sank + with compassion as she held her hand, and her father stood as if struck by + something more like the vision or his youth than he had been prepared for; + each feeling that something genuine was present, and respecting it + accordingly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Lucy,’ said Mr. Kendal, tenderly, ‘I see I need not tell you why I have + sent for you. You are very young, my dear, and you must trust us to care + for your happiness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes.’ Lucy looked up wistfully. + </p> + <p> + ‘This gentleman has some qualities such as may make him shine in the eyes + of a young lady; but it is our duty to look farther, and I am afraid I + know nothing of him that could justify me in trusting him with anything so + precious to me.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy’s face became full of consternation, her hand lay unnerved in + Albinia’a pressure, and Mr. Kendal turned his eyes from her to his wife, + as he proceeded, + </p> + <p> + ‘I have seen so much wretchedness caused by want of religious principle, + that even where the morals appeared unblemished, I should feel no + confidence where I saw no evidence of religion, and I should consider it + as positively wrong to sanction an engagement with such a person. Now you + must perceive that we have every means of forming an opinion of this young + man, and that he has given us no reason to think he would show the + unselfish care for your welfare that we should wish to secure.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia tried to make it comprehensible. ‘You know, my dear, we have + always seen him resolved on his own way, and not caring how he may + inconvenience his uncle and aunt. We know his temper is not always + amiable, and differently as you see him, you must let us judge.’ + </p> + <p> + Wrenching her hand away, Lucy burst into tears. Her father looked at + Albinia, as if she ought to have saved him this infliction, and she began + a little whispering about not distressing papa, which checked the sobs, + and enabled him to say, ‘There, that’s right, my dear, I see you are + willing to submit patiently to our judgment, and I believe you will find + it for the best. We will do all in our power to help you, and make you + happy,’ and bending down he kissed her, and left her to his wife. + </p> + <p> + In such family scenes, logic is less useful than the power of coming to a + friendly conclusion; Lucy’s awe of her father was a great assistance, she + was touched with his unwonted softness, and did not apprehend how total + was the rejection. But what he was spared, was reserved for Albinia. There + was a lamentable scene of sobbing and weeping, beyond all argument, and + only ending in physical exhaustion, which laid her on the bed all the rest + of the day. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert and Sophy could not but be aware of the cause of her distress. The + former thought it a great waste. + </p> + <p> + ‘Tell Lucy,’ he said, ‘that if she wishes to be miserable for life, she + has found the best way! He is a thorough-bred tyrant at heart, pig-headed, + and obstinate, and with the very worst temper I ever came across. Not a + soul can he feel for, nor admire but himself. His wife will be a perfect + slave. I declare I would as soon sell her to Legree.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s views of the gentleman were not more favourable, but she was in + terror lest Lucy should have a permanently broken heart, after the + precedent of Aunt Maria. And on poor Sophy fell the misfortune of being + driven up by grandmamma’s inquiries, to own that the proposal had been + rejected. + </p> + <p> + Shade of poor dear Mr. Meadows, didst thou not stand aghast! Five thousand + a year refused! Grandmamma would have had a fit if she had not conceived a + conviction, that imparted a look of shrewdness to her mild, simple old + face. Of course Mr. Kendal was only holding off till the young man was a + little older. He could have no intention of letting his daughter miss such + a match, and dear Lucy would have her carriage, and be presented at court. + </p> + <p> + Sophy argued vehemently against this, and poor grandmamma, who had with + difficulty been taught worldly wisdom as a duty, and always thought + herself good when she talked prudently, began to cry. Sophy, quite + overcome, was equally distressing with her apologies; Albinia found them + both in tears, and Sophy was placed on the sick-list by one of her + peculiar headaches of self-reproach. + </p> + <p> + It was a time of great perplexity. Lucy cried incessantly, bursting out at + every trifle, but making no complaints, and submitting so meekly, that the + others were almost as unhappy as herself. + </p> + <p> + She was first cheered by the long promised visit from Mrs. Annesley and + Miss Ferrars. Albinia had now no fears of showing off home or children, + and it was a great success. + </p> + <p> + The little Awk was in high beauty, and graciously winning, and Maurice’s + likeness to his Uncle William enchanted the aunts, though they were + shocked at his mamma’s indifference to his constant imperilling of life + and limb, and grievously discomfited his sisters by adducing children who + talked French and read history, whereas he could not read d-o-g without + spelling, and had peculiar views as to b and d, p and q. However, if he + could not read he could ride, and Mrs. Annesley scarcely knew the extent + of the favour she conferred, when she commissioned Gilbert to procure for + him a pony as his private property. + </p> + <p> + Miss Ferrars had not expected one of the thirty-six O’Mores to turn up + here. She gave some good advice about hasty intimacies, and as it was + received with a defence of the gentility of the O’Mores, the two good + ladies agreed that dear Albinia was quite a child still, not fit for the + care of those girls, and it would be only acting kindly to take Lucy to + Brighton, and show her something of the world, or Albinia would surely let + her fall a prey to that Irish clerk. + </p> + <p> + They liked Lucy’s pretty face and obliging ways, and were fond of having a + young lady in their house; they saw her looking ill and depressed, and + thought sea air would be good for her, and though Lucy fancied herself + past caring for gaiety, and was very sorry to leave home and mamma, she + was not insensible to the refreshment of her wardrobe, and the excitement + and honour of the invitation. At night she cried lamentably, and clung + round Albinia’a neck, sobbing, ‘Oh, mamma, what will become of me without + you?’ but in the morning she went off in very fair spirits, and Albinia + augured hopefully that soon her type of perfection would be no longer + Polysyllabic. Her first letters were deplorable, but they soon became + cheerful, as her mornings were occupied by lessons in music and drawing, + and her evenings in quiet parties among the friends whom the aunts met at + Brighton. Aunt Gertrude wrote to announce that her charge had recovered + her looks and was much admired, and this was corroborated by the + prosperous complacency of Lucy’s style. Albinia was more relieved than + surprised when the letters dwindled in length and number, well knowing + that the Family Office was not favourable to leisure; and devoid of the + epistolary gift herself, she always wondered more at people’s writing than + at their silence, and scarcely reciprocated Lucy’s effusions by the + hurried notes which she enclosed in the well-filled envelopes of Gilbert + and Sophy, who, like their father, could cover any amount of sheets of + paper. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. + </h2> + <p> + ‘There!’ cried Ulick O’More, ‘I may wish you all good-bye. There’s an end + of it.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal stood aghast. + </p> + <p> + ‘He’s insulted my father and my family,’ cried Ulick, ‘and does he think + I’ll write another cipher for him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Your uncle?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t call him my uncle. I wish I’d never set eyes on his wooden old + face, to put the family name and honour in the power of such as he.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What has he done to you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He has offered to take me as his partner,’ cried Ulick, with flashing + eyes; and as an outcry arose, not in sympathy with his resentment, he + continued vehemently, ‘Stay, you have not heard! ‘Twas on condition I’d + alter my name, leave out the O that has come down to me from them that + were kings and princes before his grandfathers broke stones on the road.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He offered to take you into partnership,’ repeated Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you think I could listen to such terms!’ cried the indignant lad. + ‘Give up the O! Why, I would never be able to face my brothers!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, Ulick—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t talk to me, Mr. Kendal; I wouldn’t sell my name if you were to + argue to me like Plato, nor if his bank were the Bank of England. I might + as well be an Englishman at once.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then this was the insult?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And enough too, but it wasn’t all. When I answered, speaking as coolly, I + assure you, as I’m doing this minute, what does he do, but call it a + folly, and taunt us for a crew of Irish beggars! Beggars we may be, but + we’ll not be bought by him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, this must have been an unexpected reception of such a proposal.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You may say that! The English think everything may be bought with money! + I’d have overlooked his ignorance, poor old gentleman, if he would not + have gone and spoken of my O as vulgar. Vulgar! So when I began to tell + him how it began from Tigearnach, the O’More of Ballymakilty, that was + Tanist of Connaught, in the time of King Mac Murrough, and that killed + Phadrig the O’Donoghoe in single combat at the fight of Shoch-knockmorty, + and bit off his nose, calling it a sweet morsel of revenge, what does he + do but tell me I was mad, and that he would have none of my nonsensical + tales of the savage Irish. So I said I couldn’t stand to hear my family + insulted, and then—would you believe it? he would have it that it + was I that was insolent, and when I was not going to apologize for what I + had borne from him, he said he had always known how it would be trying to + deal with one of our family, no better than making a silk purse out of a + sow’s ear. “And I’m obliged for the compliment,” said I, quite coolly and + politely, “but no Irish pig would sell his ear for a purse;” and so I came + away, quite civilly and reasonably. Aye, I see what you would do, Mr. + Kendal, but I beg with all my heart you won’t. There are some things a + gentleman should not put up with, and I’ll not take it well of you if you + call it my duty to hear my father and his family abused. I’ll despise + myself if I could. <i>You</i> don’t—’ cried he, turning round to + Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, no, but I think you should try to understand Mr. Goldsmith’s point of + view.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I understand it only too well, if that would do any good. Point of view—why, + ‘tis the farmyard cock’s point of view, strutting on the top of that bank + of his own, and patronizing the free pheasant out in the woods. More fool + I for ever letting him clip my wings, but he’s seen the last of me. No, + don’t ask me to make it up. It can’t be done—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What can be done to the boy?’ asked Albinia; ‘how can he be brought to + hear reason?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Leave him alone,’ Mr. Kendal said, aside; while Ulick in a torrent of + eager cadences protested his perfect sanity and reason, and Mr. Kendal + quietly left the room, again to start on a peace-making mission, but it + was unpromising, for Mr. Goldsmith began by declaring he would not hear a + single word in favour of the ungrateful young dog. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal gathered that young O’More had become so valuable, and that + cold and indifferent as Mr. Goldsmith appeared, he had been growing so + fond and so proud of his nephew, as actually to resolve on giving him a + share of the business, and dividing the inheritance which had hitherto + been destined to a certain Andrew Goldsmith, brought up in a relation’s + office at Bristol. Surprised at his own graciousness, and anticipating + transports of gratitude, his dismay and indignation at the reception of + his proposal were extreme, especially as he had no conception of the + offence he had given regarding the unfortunate O as a badge of + Hibernianism and vulgarity. ‘I put it to you, Mr. Kendal, as a sensible + man, whether it would not be enough to destroy the credit of the bank to + connect it with such a name as that, looking like an Irish haymaker’s. I + should be ashamed of every note I issued.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is unlucky,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘and a difficulty the lad could hardly + appreciate, since it is a good old name, and the O is a special mark of + nobility.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what has a banker to do with nobility? Pretty sort of nobility too, + at that dog-kennel of theirs in Ireland, and his father, a mere adventurer + if ever there lived one! But I swore when he carried off poor Ellen that + his speculation should do him no good, and I’ve kept my word. I wish I + hadn’t been fool enough to meddle with one of the concern! No, no, ‘tis no + use arguing, Mr. Kendal, I have done with him! I would not make him a + partner, not if he offered to change his name to John Smith! I never + thought to meet with such ingratitude, but it runs in the breed! I might + have known better than to make much of one of the crew. Yet it is a pity + too, we have not had such a clear-headed, trustworthy fellow about the + place since young Bowles died; he has a good deal of the Goldsmith in him + when you set him to work, and makes his figures just like my poor father. + I thought it was his writing the other day till I looked at the date. + Clever lad, very, but it runs in the blood. I shall send for Andrew + Goldsmith.’ + </p> + <p> + One secret of Mr. Kendal’s power was that he never interrupted, but let + people run themselves down and contradict themselves; and all he observed + was, ‘However it may end, you have done a great deal for him. Even if you + parted now, he would be able to find a situation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why—yes,’ said Mr. Goldsmith, ‘the lad knew nothing serviceable + when he came, we had an infinity of maggots about algebra and logarithms + to drive out of his head; but now he really is nearly as good an + accountant as old Johns.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You would be sorry to part with him, and I cannot help hoping this may be + made up.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t bring me any message! I’ve said I’ll listen to nothing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; the poor boy’s feelings are far too much wounded,’ said Mr. Kendal. + ‘Whether rightly or wrongly, he fancies that his father and family have + been slightingly spoken of, and he is exceedingly hurt.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘His father! I’m sure I did not say a tenth part of what the fellow richly + deserves. If the young gentleman is so touchy, he had better go back to + Ireland again.’ + </p> + <p> + Nothing more favourable could Mr. Kendal obtain, though he thought Mr. + Goldsmith uneasy, and perhaps impressed by the independence of his + nephew’s attitude. + </p> + <p> + It was an arduous office for a peace-maker, where neither party could + comprehend the feelings of the other, but on his return he found that + Ulick had stormed himself into comparative tranquillity, and was listening + the better to the womankind, because they had paid due honour to the + amiable ancestral Tigearnach and all his guttural posterity, whose savage + exploits and bloody catastrophes acted as such a sedative, that by the + time he had come down to Uncle Bryan of the Kaffir war, he actually owned + that as to the mighty ‘O,’ Mr. Goldsmith might have erred in sheer + ignorance. + </p> + <p> + ‘After all,’ said Albinia, ‘U. O’More is rather personal in writing to a + creditor.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It might be worse,’ said Ulick, laughing, ‘if my name was John. I. O’More + would be a dangerous confession. But I’ll not be come round even by your + fun, Mrs. Kendal, I’ll not part with my father’s name.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, that would be base,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Who would wish to persuade you?’ added Albinia. ‘I am sure you are right + in refusing with your feelings; I only want you to forgive your uncle, and + not to break with him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’d forgive him his ignorance, but my mother herself could not wish me to + forgive what he said of my father.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And how if he thinks this explosion needs forgiveness?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He must do without it,’ said Ulick. ‘No, I was cool, I assure you, cool + and collected, but it was not fit for me to stand by and hear my father + insulted.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia closed the difficult discussion by observing that it was time to + dress, and Sophy followed her from the room burning with indignant + sympathy. ‘It would be meanly subservient to ask pardon for defending a + father whom he thought maligned,’ said Albinia, and Sophy took exception + at the word ‘thought.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! of course <i>he</i> cannot be deceived!’ said Albinia—but no + sooner were the words spoken than she was half-startled, half-charmed by + finding they had evoked a glow of colour. + </p> + <p> + ‘How do you think it will end?’ asked Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I can hardly fancy he will not be forgiven, and yet—it might be + better.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I do think he would get on faster in India,’ said Sophy eagerly; ‘he + could do just as Gilbert might have done.’ + </p> + <p> + Was it possible for Albinia to have kept out of her eyes a significant + glance, or to have disarmed her lips of a merry smile of amused + encouragement! How she had looked she knew not, but the red deepened on + Sophy’s whole face, and after one inquiring gaze from the eyes they were + cast down, and an ineffable brightness came over the expression, softening + and embellishing. + </p> + <p> + ‘What have I done?’ thought Albinia. ‘Never mind—it must have been + all there, or it would not have been wakened so easily—if he goes + they will have a scene first.’ + </p> + <p> + But when Mr. Kendal came back he only advised Ulick to go to his desk as + usual the next day, as if nothing had happened. + </p> + <p> + And Ulick owned that, turn out as things might, he could not quit his work + in the first ardour of his resentment, and with a great exertion of + Christian forgiveness, he finally promised not to give notice of his + retirement unless his uncle should repeat the offence. This time Albinia + durst not look at Sophy. + </p> + <p> + Rather according to his friend’s hopes than his own, he was able to report + at the close of the next day, that he had not ‘had a word from his uncle, + except a nod;’ and thus the days passed on, Andrew Goldsmith did not + appear, and it became evident that he was to remain on sufferance as a + clerk. Nor did Albinia and Sophy venture to renew the subject between + themselves. At first there was consciousness in their silence; soon their + minds were otherwise engrossed. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Meadows was suddenly stricken with paralysis, and was thought to be + dying. She recovered partial consciousness in the course of the next day, + but was constantly moaning the name of her eldest and favourite + granddaughter, and when telegraph and express train brought home the + startled and trembling Lucy, she was led at once to the sick bed—where + at her name there was the first gleam of anything like pleasure. + </p> + <p> + ‘And where have you been, my dear, this long time?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ve been at—at Brighton, dear grandmamma,’ said Lucy, so much + agitated as scarcely to be able to recall the name, or utter the words. + </p> + <p> + ‘And—I say, my dear love,’ said Mrs. Meadows, earnestly and + mysteriously, ‘have you seen <i>him</i>?’ + </p> + <p> + Poor Lucy turned scarlet with distress and confusion, but she was held + fast, and grandmamma pursued, ‘I’m sure he has not his equal for + handsomeness and stateliness, and there must have been a pair of you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear grandmamma, we must let Lucy go and take off her things; she shall + come back presently, but she has had a long journey,’ interposed Albinia, + seeing her ready to sink into the earth. + </p> + <p> + But Mrs. Meadows had roused into eagerness, and would not let her go. ‘I + hope you danced with him, dear,’ she went on; ‘and it’s all nonsense about + his being high and silent. Your papa is bent on it, and you’ll live like a + princess in India.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She takes you for your mother—she means papa, whispered Albinia, + not without a secret flash at once of indignation at perceiving how his + first love had been wasted, yet of exultation in finding that no one but + herself had known how to love him; but poor Lucy, completely and + helplessly overcome, could only exclaim in a faltering voice: ‘Oh, + grandmamma, don’t—’ and Albinia was forced to disengage her, support + her out of the room, and leaving her to her sister, hasten back to soothe + the old lady, who had been terrified by her emotion. It had been a great + mistake to bring her in abruptly, when tired with her journey, and not + fully aware what awaited her. But there was at that time reason to think + all would soon be over, and Albinia was startled and confused. + </p> + <p> + Albinia had hitherto been the only efficient nurse of the family. Sophy’s + presence seemed to stir up instincts of the old wrangling habits, and the + invalid was always fretful when left to her, so that to her own exceeding + distress she was kept almost entirely out of the sick room. + </p> + <p> + Lucy, on the other hand, was extremely valuable there, her bright manner + and unfailing chatter always amused if needful, and her light step and + tender hand made her useful, and highly appreciated by the regular nurse. + </p> + <p> + For the first few days, they watched in awe for the last dread summons, + but gradually it was impossible not to become in a manner habituated to + the suspense, so that common things resumed their interest, and though + Sophy was pained by the incongruity, it could not have been otherwise + without the spirits and health giving way under the strain. Nothing could + be more trying than to have the mind wrought up to hourly anticipation of + the last parting, and then the delay, without the reaction of recovery, + the spirit beyond all reach of intercourse, and the mortal frame + languishing and drooping. Mr. Kendal had from the first contemplated the + possibility of the long duration of such lingering, and did his utmost to + promote such enlivenment and change for the attendants as was consistent + with their care of the sufferer. They never dared to be all beyond call at + once, since a very little agitation might easily suffice to bring on a + fatal attack, and Albinia and Lucy were forced to share the hours of + exercise and employment between them, and often Albinia could not leave + the house and garden at all. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was an excellent auxiliary, and would devote many an hour to the + cheering of the poor shattered mind. His entrance seldom failed to break + the thread of melancholy murmurs, and he had exactly the gentle, bright + attentive manner best fitted to rouse and enliven. Nothing could be more + irreproachable, than his conduct, and his consideration and gentleness so + much endeared him, that he had never been so much at peace. All he dreaded + was the leaving what was truly to him the sanctuary of home, he feared + alike temptation and the effort of resistance and could not bear to go + away when his grandmother was in so precarious a state, and he could so + much lighten Mrs. Kendal’s cares both by being with her, and by watching + over Maurice. His parents were almost equally afraid of trusting him in + the world; and the embodiment of the militia for the county offered a + quasi profession, which would keep him at home and yet give him + employment. He was very anxious to be allowed to apply for a commission, + and pleaded so earnestly and humbly that it would be his best hope of + avoiding his former errors, that Mr. Kendal yielded, though with doubt + whether it would be well to confine him to so narrow a sphere. Meantime + the corps was quartered at Bayford, and filled the streets with awkward + louts in red jackets, who were inveterate in mistaking the right for the + left, Gilbert had a certain shy pride in his soldiership, and Maurice + stepped like a young Field Marshal when he saw his brother saluted. + </p> + <p> + Nothing had so much decided this step as the finding that young Dusautoy + was to return to his college after Easter. He was at the Vicarage again, + marking his haughty avoidance of the Kendal family, and to their great + joy, Lucy did not appear distressed, she was completely absorbed in her + grandmother, and shrank from all allusion to her lover. Had the small + flutter of vanity been cured by a glimpse beyond her own corner of the + world? + </p> + <p> + But soon Albinia became sensible of an alteration in Gilbert. He had no + sooner settled completely into his new employment, than a certain restless + dissatisfaction seemed to have possessed him. He was fastidious at his + meals, grumbled at his horse, scolded the groom, had fits of petulance + towards his brother, and almost neglected Mrs. Meadows. No one could + wonder at a youth growing weary of such attendance, but his tenderness and + amiability had been his best points, and it was grievous to find them + failing. Albinia would have charged the alteration on his brother + officers, if they had not been a very steady and humdrum set, whose + society Gilbert certainly did not prefer. She was more uneasy at finding + that he sometimes saw Algernon Dusautoy, though for Lucy’s sake, he always + avoided bringing his name forward. + </p> + <p> + A woman was ill in the bargeman’s cottage by the towing-path, and Albinia + had walked to see her. As she came down-stairs, she heard voices, and + beheld Mr. Hope evidently on the same errand with herself, talking to + Gilbert. She caught the words, ere she could safely descend the rickety + staircase, Gilbert was saying, + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! some happy pair from the High Street!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg your pardon,’ said Mr. Hope, ‘I am so blind, I really took it for + your sister, but our shopkeepers’ daughters do dress so!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia looking in the same direction, beheld in a walk that skirted the + meadow towards the wood, two figures, of which only one was clearly + visible, it was nearly a quarter of a mile off, but there was something + about it that made her exclaim, ‘Why, that’s Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy! whom + can he be walking with?’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert started violently at hearing her behind him, and a word or two of + greeting passed with Mr. Hope, then there was some spying at the pair, but + they were getting further off, and disappeared in the wood, while Gilbert, + screwing up his eyes, and stammering, declared he did not know; it might + be, he did not think any one could be recognised at such a distance; and + then saying that he had fallen in with Mr. Hope by chance, he hastened on. + The curate made a brief visit, and walked home with her, examining her on + her impression that the gentleman was young Dusautoy, and finally + consulting her on the expediency of mentioning the suspicion to the vicar, + in case he should be deluding some foolish tradesman’s daughter. Albinia + strongly advised his doing so; she had much faith in her own keen + eyesight, and could not mistake the majestic mien of Algernon; she thought + the vicar ought at once to be warned, but felt relieved that it was not + her part to speak. + </p> + <p> + She was very glad when Mr. Hope took an opportunity of telling her that + young Dusautoy was going to the Greenaways in a day or two. + </p> + <p> + As to Gilbert, it was as if this departure had relieved him from an + incubus; he was in better spirits from that moment, and returned to his + habits of kindness to both grandmamma and Maurice. + </p> + <p> + The manifold duties of head sick-nurse, governess, and housekeeper, were + apt to clash, and valiant and unwearied as Albinia was, she was obliged + perforce to leave the children more to others than she would have + preferred. Little Albinia was all docility and sweetness, and already did + such wonders with her ivory letters, that the exulting Sophy tried to + abash Maurice by auguring that she would be the first to read; to which, + undaunted, he replied, ‘She’ll never be a boy!’ Nevertheless Maurice was + developing a species of conscience, rendering him trustworthy and obedient + out of sight, better, in fact, alone with his own honour and his mother’s + commands, than with any authority that he could defy. He knew when his + father meant to be obeyed, and Gilbert managed him easily; but he warred + with Lucy, ruled Sophy, and had no chivalry for any one but little + Albinia, nor obedience except for his mother, and was a terror to + maid-servants and elder children. With much of promise, he was anything + but an agreeable child, and whilst no one but herself ever punished, + contradicted, or complained of him, Albinia had a task that would have + made her very uneasy, had not her mind been too fresh and strong for + over-sense of responsibility. Each immediate duty in its turn was + sufficient for her. + </p> + <p> + Maurice’s shadow-like pursuit of Gilbert often took him off her hands. It + might sometimes be troublesome to the elder brother, and now and then + rewarded with a petulant rebuff, but Maurice was only the more + pertinacious, and on the whole his allegiance was requited with ardent + affection and unbounded indulgence. Nay, once when Maurice and his pony, + one or both, were swept on by the whole hunt, and obliged to follow the + hounds, Gilbert in his anxiety took leaps that he shuddered to remember, + while the urchin sat the first gallantly, and though he fell into the next + ditch, scrambled up on the instant, and was borne by his spirited pony + over two more, amid universal applause. Mr. Nugent himself rode home with + the brothers to tell the story; papa and mamma were too much elated at his + prowess to scold. + </p> + <p> + The eventful year 1854 had begun, and General Ferrars was summoned from + Canada to a command in the East. On his arrival in England, he wrote to + his brother and sister to meet him in London, and the aunts, delighted to + gather their children once more round them, sent pressing invitations, + only regretting that there was not room enough in the Family Office for + the younger branches. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars’ first measure was to ride to Willow Lawn. Knocking at the + door of his sister’s morning-room, he found Maurice with a pouting lip, + back rounded, and legs twisted, standing upon his elbows, which were + planted upon the table on either side of a calico spelling-book. Mr. + Kendal stood up straight before the fire, looking distressed and + perplexed, and Albinia sat by, a little worn, a little irritable, and with + the expression of a wilful victim. + </p> + <p> + All greeted the new-comer warmly, and Maurice exclaimed, ‘Mamma, I may + have a holiday now!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not till you have learnt your spelling.’ There was some sharpness in the + tone, and Maurice’s shoulder-blades looked sulky. + </p> + <p> + ‘In consideration of his uncle,’ began Mr. Kendal, but she put her hand on + the boy, saying, ‘You know we agreed there were to be no holidays for a + week, because we did not use the last properly.’ + </p> + <p> + He moved off disconsolately, and his father said, ‘I hope you are come to + arrange the journey to London. Is Winifred coming with you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; a hurry and confusion, and the good aunts would be too much for her, + you will be the only one for inspection.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, take him with you, Maurice,’ said Albinia, ‘he must see William.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You must be the exhibitor, then,’ her brother replied. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, Maurice, I know what you are come for, but you ought to know better + than to persuade me, when you know there are six good reasons against my + going.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know of one worth all the six.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘I have been telling her that she is convincing me + that I did wrong in allowing her to burthen herself with this charge.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s nothing to the purpose,’ said Albinia; ‘having undertaken it, when + you all saw the necessity, I cannot forsake it now—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If Mrs. Meadows were in the same condition as she was in two months ago, + there might be a doubt,’ said Mr. Kendal; but she is less dependent on + your attention, and Lucy and Gilbert are most anxious to devote themselves + to her in your absence.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know they all wish to be kind, but if anything went wrong, I should + never forgive myself!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not if you went out for pleasure alone,’ said her brother; ‘but + relationship has demands.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Of course,’ she said, petulantly, ‘if Edmund is resolved, I must go, but + that does not convince me that it is right to leave everything to run riot + here.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal looked serious, and Mr. Ferrars feared that the winter cares + had so far told on her temper, that perplexity made her wilful in + self-sacrifice. There was a pause, but just as she began to perceive she + had said something wrong, the lesser Maurice burst out in exultation, + </p> + <p> + ‘There, it is not indestructible!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What mischief have you been about?’ The question was needless, for the + table was strewn with snips of calico. + </p> + <p> + ‘This nasty spelling-book! Lucy said it was called indestructible, because + nobody could destroy it, but I’ve taken my new knife to it. And see + there!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And now can you make another?’ said his uncle. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t want <i>to</i>.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor <i>one</i> either, sir,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘What shall we have to tell + Uncle William about you! I’m afraid you are one of the chief causes of + mamma not knowing how to go to London.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice did not appear on the way to penitence, but his mother said, + ‘Bring me your knife.’ + </p> + <p> + He hung down his head, and obeyed without a word. She closed it, and laid + it on the mantel-shelf, which served as a sort of pound for properties in + sequestration. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, then, go,’ she said, ‘you are too naughty for me to attend to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But when will you, mamma?’ laying a hand on her dress. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know. Go away now.’ + </p> + <p> + He slowly obeyed, and as the door shut, she said, ‘There!’ in a tone as if + her view was established. + </p> + <p> + ‘You must send him to Fairmead,’ said the uncle. + </p> + <p> + ‘To “terrify” Winifred? No, no, I know better than that; Gilbert can look + after him. I don’t so much care about that.’ + </p> + <p> + The admission was eagerly hailed, and objection after objection removed, + and having recovered her good humour, she was candid, and owned how much + she wished to go. ‘I really want to make acquaintance with William. I’ve + never seen him since I came to my senses, and have only taken him on trust + from you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish equally that he should see you,’ said her brother. ‘It would be + good for him, and I doubt whether he has any conception what you are + like.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’d better stay at home, to leave you and Edmund to depict for his + benefit a model impossible idol—the normal woman.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice looked at her, and shook his head. + </p> + <p> + ‘No—it would be rather—it and its young one, eh?’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice took both her hands. ‘I should not like to tell William what I + shall believe if you do not come.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, what—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That Edmund is right, and you have been overtasked till you are careful + and troubled about many things.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Only too much bent on generous self-devotion,’ said Mr. Kendal, eagerly; + ‘too unselfish to cast the balance of duties.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hush, Edmund,’ said Albinia. ‘I don’t deserve fine words. I honestly + believe I want to do what is right, but I can’t be sure what it is, and I + have made quite fuss enough, so you two shall decide, and then I shall be + made right anyway. Only do it from your consciences.’ + </p> + <p> + They looked at each other, taken aback by the sudden surrender. Mr. + Ferrars waited, and her husband said, ‘She ought to see her brother. She + needs the change, and there is no sufficient cause to detain her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She must be content sometimes to trust,’ said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + ‘Aye, and all that will go wrong, when my back is turned.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let it,’ said her brother. ‘The right which depends on a single human eye + is not good for much. Let the weeds grow, or you can’t pull them up.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let the mice play, that the cat may catch them,’ said Albinia, striving + to hide her care. ‘One good effect is, that Edmund has not begun to + groan.’ + </p> + <p> + Indeed, in his anxiety that she should consent to enjoy herself, he had + not had time to shrink from the introduction. + </p> + <p> + Outside the door they found Maurice waiting, his spelling learnt from a + fragment of the indestructible spelling-book, and the question followed, + ‘Now, mamma, you wont say I’m too naughty for you to go to London and see + Uncle William?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, my little boy, I mean to trust you, and tell Uncle William that my + young soldier is learning the soldier’s first duty—obedience.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And may I have my knife, mamma?’ + </p> + <p> + Papa had settled that question by himself taking it off the chimney-piece + and restoring it. If mamma wished the penance to have been longer, she + neither looked it nor said it. + </p> + <p> + The young people received the decision with acclamation, and the two elder + ones vied with one another in attempts to set her mind at rest by + undertaking everything, and promising for themselves and the children + perfect regularity and harmony. Sophy, with a bluntness that King Lear + would have highly disapproved, said, ‘She was glad mamma was going, but + she knew they should be all at sixes and sevens. She would do her best, + and very bad it would be.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not if you don’t make up your mind beforehand that it must be bad,’ said + her uncle. + </p> + <p> + Sophy smiled, she was much less impervious to cheerful auguries, and spoke + with gladness of the pleasure it would give her friend Genevieve to see + Mrs. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars had a short interview with Ulick, and was amused by observing + that little Maurice had learnt as much Irish as Ulick had dropped. After + the passing fever about his O had subsided, he was parting with some of + his ultra-nationality. The whirr of his R’s and his Irish idioms were far + less perceptible, and though a word of attack on his country would put him + on his mettle, and bring out the Kelt in full force, yet in his reasonable + state, his good sense and love of order showed an evident development, and + instead of contending that Galway was the most perfect county in the + world, he only said it might yet be so. + </p> + <p> + ‘Isn’t he a noble fellow?’ cried Albinia, warmly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said her brother; ‘I doubt whether all the O’Mores put together + have ever made such a conquest as he has.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was fun to see how the aunts were dismayed to find one of the horde in + full force here. I believe it was as a measure of precaution that they + took Lucy away. I was very glad for Lucy to go, but hers was not exactly + the danger.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ha!’ said Maurice; and Albinia blushed. Whereupon he said + interrogatively, ‘Hem?’ which made her laugh so consciously that he added, + ‘Don’t you go and be romantic about either of your young ladies, or there + will be a general burning of fingers.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If you knew all our secrets, Maurice, you would think me a model of + prudence and forbearance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ho!’ was his next interjection, ‘so much the worse. For my own part, I + don’t expect prudence will come to you naturally till the little Awk has a + lover.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Won’t it come any other way?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, in <i>one</i> way,’ he said, gravely. + </p> + <p> + ‘And that way is not easily found by those who have neither humility nor + patience,’ she said, sadly, ‘who rush on their own will.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, Albinia, it is being sought, I do believe; and remember the lines— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Thine own mild energy bestow, + And deepen while thou bidst it flow, + More calm our stream of love.”’ +</pre> + <p> + Forced to resign herself to her holiday, Albinia did so with a good grace, + in imitation of her brother, who assured her that he had brought a bottle + of Lethe, and had therein drowned wife, children, and parish. Mr. Kendal’s + spirits, as usual, rose higher every mile from Bayford, and they were a + very lively party when they arrived in Mayfair. + </p> + <p> + The good aunts were delighted to have round them all those whom they + called their children; all except Fred, whom the new arrangements had sent + to rejoin his regiment in Ireland. + </p> + <p> + Sinewy, spare, and wiry, with keen gray eyes under straight brows, narrow + temples, a sunburnt face, and alert, upright bearing and quick step, + William Ferrars was every inch a soldier; but nothing so much struck Mr. + and Mrs. Kendal as the likeness to their little Maurice, though it + consisted more in air and gesture than in feature. His speech was brief + and to the point, softened into delicately-polished courtesy towards + womankind, in the condescension of strength to weakness—the quality + he evidently thought their chief characteristic. + </p> + <p> + Albinia was amused as she watched him with grown-up eyes, and compared + present with past impressions. She could now imagine that she had been an + inconvenient charge to a young soldier brother, and that he had been glad + to make her over to the aunts, only petting and indulging her as a child; + looking down on her fancies, and smiling at her sauciness when she was an + enthusiastic maiden—treatment which she had so much resented, that + she had direfully offended Maurice by pronouncing William a mere martinet, + when she was hurt at his neither reading the Curse of Kehama, nor entering + into her plans for Fairmead school. + </p> + <p> + Having herself become a worker, she could better appreciate a man who had + seen and acted instead of reading, recollected herself as an emanation of + conceit, and felt shy and anxious, even more for her husband than for + herself. How would the scholar and the soldier fare together? and could + she and Maurice keep them from wearying of each other? She had little + trust in her own fascinations, though she saw the General’s eye + approvingly fixed on her, and believing herself to be a more pleasing + object in her womanly bloom than in her unformed girlhood. + </p> + <p> + ‘How does the Montreal affair go on?’ she asked. + </p> + <p> + ‘What affair?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fred and Miss Kinnaird.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sorry to say he has not put it out of his head.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Surely she is a very nice person.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pshaw! He has no right to think of a wife these dozen years.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not even think? When he is not to have one at any rate till he is a field + officer!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And he is a fool to have one then. A mere encumbrance to himself and the + entire corps.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I know,’ said Albinia, ‘she always gets the best cabin.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And that is no place for her! No man, as I have told Fred over and over + again, ought to drag a woman into hardships for which she is not fitted, + and where she interferes with his effectiveness and the comfort of every + one else.’ + </p> + <p> + The identical lecture of twelve years since, when he had feared Albinia’s + becoming this inconvenient appendage! If he had repeated it on all like + occasions, she did not wonder that it had wearied his aide-de-camp. + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps,’ she said, ‘the backwoods may have fitted Miss Emily for the + life; and I can’t but be glad of Fred’s having been steady to anything.’ + </p> + <p> + Considering this speech like the Kehama days, the General went on to + dilate on the damage that marriage was to the ‘service,’ removing the best + officers, first from the mess, and then from the army. + </p> + <p> + ‘What a pity William was born too late to be a Knight of St. John!’ said + Albinia. + </p> + <p> + All laughed, but she doubted whether he were pleased, for he addressed + himself to one of the aunts, while Maurice spoke to her in an under tone—‘I + believe he is quite right. Homes are better for the individual man, but + not for the service. How remarkably the analogy holds with this other + service!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You mean what St. Paul says of the married and unmarried?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I always think he and his sayings are the most living lessons I know on + the requirements of the other army.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia mused on the insensible change in Maurice. He had not embraced his + profession entirely by choice. It had always been understood that one of + the younger branches must take the family living; and as Fred had spurned + study, he had been bred up to consider it as his fate, and if he had ever + had other wishes, he had entirely accepted his destiny, and sincerely + turned to his vocation. The knowledge that he must be a clergyman had + ruled him and formed him from his youth, and acting through him on his + sister, had rendered her more than the accomplished, prosperous young lady + her aunts meant to have made her. Yet, even up to a year or two after his + Ordination, there had been a sense of sacrifice; he loved sporting, and + even balls, and it had been an effort to renounce them. He had avoided + coming to London because his keen enjoyment of society tended to make him + discontented with his narrow sphere; she had even known him to hesitate to + ride with the staff at a review, lest he should make himself liable to + repinings. And now how entirely had all this passed away, not merely by + outgrowing the enterprising temper and boyish habits, nor by contentment + in a happy home, but by the sufficiency and rest of his service, the + engrossment in the charge from his great Captain. Without being himself + aware of it, he had ceased to distrust a holiday, because it was no longer + a temptation; and his animation and mirth were the more free, because + self-regulation was so thoroughly established, that restraint was no + longer felt. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Annesley was talking of the little Kendals, who she had ruled should + be at Fairmead. + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Maurice, ‘Albinia thought her son too mighty for Winifred. Our + laudable efforts at cousinly friendship usually produce war-whoops that + bring the two mammas each to snatch her own offspring from the fray, with + a scolding for the sake of appearances though believing the other the only + guilty party.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, Maurice,’ cried Albinia, ‘you confess how fond Mary is of setting + people to rights.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well—when Maurice bullies Alby.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Aye, you talk of the mammas, and you only want to make out poor Maurice + the aggressor.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind, they will work in better than if they were fabulous children. + Ah, you are going to contend that yours is a fabulous child. Take care I + don’t come on you with the indestructible—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Take care I don’t come on you with Mary’s lessons to Colonel Bury on the + game-law.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Does it not do one good to see those two quarrelling just like old + times?’ exclaimed one aunt to the other. + </p> + <p> + ‘And William looking on as contemptuous as ever?’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not at all. I rejoice to have this week with you. I should like to see + your boy. Maurice says he is a thorough young soldier.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal looked pleased. + </p> + <p> + The man of study had a penchant for the man of action, and the + brothers-in-law were drawing together. Mars, the great geographical + master, was but opening his gloomy school on the Turkish soil, and the + world was discovering its ignorance beyond the Pinnock’s Catechisms of its + youth. Maurice treated Mr. Kendal as a dictionary, and his stores of + Byzantine, Othman, and Austrian lore, chimed in with the perceptions of + the General, who, going by military maps, described plans of operations + which Mr. Kendal could hardly believe he had not found in history, while + he could as little credit that Mr. Kendal had neither studied tactics, nor + seen the spots of which he could tell such serviceable minutiae. + </p> + <p> + They had their heads together over the map the whole evening, and the next + morning, when the General began to ask questions about Turkish, his sister + was proud to hear her husband answering with the directness and precision + dear to a military man. + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s an uncommonly learned man, Albinia’s husband,’ began the General, + as soon as he had started with his brother on a round of errands. + </p> + <p> + ‘I never met a man of more profound and universal knowledge.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t see that he is so grave and unlike other people. Fred reported + that he was silence itself, and she might as well have married Hamlet’s + ghost.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fred saw him at a party,’ said Maurice; then remembering that this might + not be explanatory, he added, ‘He shines most when at ease, and every year + since his marriage has improved and enlivened him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am satisfied. I hardly knew how to judge, though I did not think myself + called upon to remonstrate against the marriage, as the aunts wished. I + knew I might depend on you, and I thought it high time that she should be + settled.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have been constantly admiring her discernment, for I own that at first + his reserve stood very much in my way, but since she has raised his + spirits, and taught him to exert himself, he has been a most valuable + brother to me. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you think her happy? I was surprised to see her such a fine-looking + woman; my aunts had croaked so much about his children and his mother, + that I thought she would be worn to a shadow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very happy. She has casual troubles, and a great deal of work, but that + is what she is made for.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How does she get on with his children?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hearty love for them has carried her through the first difficulties, + which appalled me, for they had been greatly mismanaged. I am afraid that + she has not been able to undo some of the past evil; and with all her good + intentions, I am sometimes afraid whether she is old enough to deal with + grown-up young people.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t mean that Kendal’s children are grown up? I should think him + younger than I am.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is so, but civil servants marry early, and not always wisely; and the + son is about twenty. Poor Albinia dotes on him, and has done more for him + than ever his father did; but the lad is weak and tender every way, with + no stamina, moral or physical, and with just enough property to do him + harm. He has been at Oxford and has failed, and now he is in the militia, + but what can be expected of a boy in a country town, with nothing to do? I + did not like his looks last week, and I don’t think his being there, + always idle, is good for that little manly scamp of Albinia’s own.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why don’t they put him into the service?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is too old.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not too old for the cavalry!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He can ride, certainly, and is a tall, good-looking fellow; but I should + not have thought him the stuff to make a dragoon. He has always been + puling and delicate, unfit for school, wanting force.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Wanting discipline,’ said the General. ‘I have seen a year in a good + regiment make an excellent officer of that very stamp of youngster, just + wanting a mould to give him substance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The regiment should be a very good one,’ said Mr. Ferrars; ‘he would be + only too easily drawn in by the bad style of subaltern.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Put him into the 25th Lancers,’ said the General, ‘and set Fred to look + after him. Rattlepate as he is, he can take excellent care of a lad to + whom he takes a fancy, and if Albinia asked him, he would do it with all + his heart.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish you would propose it, though I am afraid his father will never + consent. I would do a great deal to get him away before he has led little + Maurice into harm.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This consideration moved the Rector of Fairmead himself to broach the + subject, but neither Mr. Kendal nor Albinia could think of venturing their + fragile son in the army, though assured that there was little chance that + the 25th Lancers would be summoned to the east, and they would only hold + out hopes of little Maurice by and by. + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s martial ardour was revived as she listened with greater grasp of + comprehension to subjects familiar in her girlhood. She again met old + friends of her father, the lingering glories of the Peninsula and + Waterloo, who liked her for her own sake as well as for her father’s, + while Maurice looked on, amused by her husband’s silent pride in her, and + her hourly progress in the regard of the General, who began to talk of + making a long visit to Fairmead, after what he expected would be a slight + demonstration on the Danube. He even began to regret the briefness of the + time that he could spend in their society. + </p> + <p> + Much was crowded into that week, but Albinia contrived to find an hour for + a call on her little French friend, to whom she had already forwarded the + parcels she had brought from home—a great barm-brack from Biddy, and + a store of delicate convent confections from Hadminster. + </p> + <p> + She was set down at a sober old house in the lawyers’ quarter of the + world, and conducted to a pretty, though rather littered drawing-room, + where she found a delicate-looking young mamma, and various small + children. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m so glad,’ said little Mrs. Rainsforth, ‘that you have been able to + come; it will be such a pleasure to dear Miss Durant; and while one of the + children was sent to summon the governess, the lady continued, nervously + but warmly, ‘I hope you will think Miss Durant looking well; I am afraid + she shuts herself up too much. I’m sure she is the greatest comfort, the + greatest blessing to us.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s reply was prevented by a rush of children, followed by the dear + little trim, slight figure. There was no fear that Genevieve did not look + well or happy. Her olive complexion was healthy; her dark eyes lustrous + with gladness; her smile frank and unquelled; her movements full of + elastic life. + </p> + <p> + She led the way to the back parlour, dingy by nature, but bearing living + evidence to the charm which she infused into any room. Scratched table, + desks, copybooks, and worn grammars, had more the air of a comfortable + occupation than of the shabby haunt of irksome taskwork. There were + flowers in the window, and the children’s treasures were arranged with + taste. Genevieve loved her school-room, and showed off its little + advantages with pretty exultation. If Mrs. Kendal could only see how well + it looked with the curtains down, after tea! + </p> + <p> + And then came the long, long talk over home affairs, and the history of + half the population of Bayford, Genevieve making inquiries, and drinking + in the answers as if she could not make enough of her enjoyment. + </p> + <p> + Not till all the rest had been discussed, did she say, with dropped + eyelids, and a little blush, ‘Is Mr. Gilbert Kendal quite strong?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you, he has been much better this winter, and so useful and kind in + nursing grandmamma!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, he was always kind.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He was going to beg me to remember him to you, but he broke off, and said + you would not care.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I care for all goodness towards me,’ answered Genevieve, lifting her eyes + with a flash of inquiry. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am afraid he is as bad as ever, poor fellow,’ said Albinia, with a + little smile and sigh; ‘but he has behaved very well. I must tell you that + you were in the same train with him on his journey from Oxford, and he was + ashamed to meet your eye.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, I remember well. I thought I saw him. I was bringing George and Fanny + from a visit to their aunts, and I was sure it must be Mr. Gilbert.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As prudent as ever, Genevieve.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It would not have been right,’ she said, blushing; ‘but it was such a + treat to see a Bayford face, that I had nearly sprung out of the + waiting-room to speak to him at the first impulse.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My poor little exile!’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, that is not my name. Call me my aunt’s bread-winner. That’s my pride! + I mean my cause of thankfulness. I could not have earned half so much at + home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope indeed you have a home here.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That I have,’ she fervently answered. ‘Oh, without being a homeless + orphan, one does not learn what kind hearts there are. Mr. and Mrs. + Rainsforth seemed only to fear that they should not be good enough to me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you mean that you found it a little oppressive?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fi donc, Madame! Yet I must own that with her timid uneasy way, and his + so perfect courtesy, they did alarm me a little at first. I pitied them, + for I saw them so resolved not to let me feel myself de trop, that I knew + I was in their way.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did not that vex you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, I suppose they set their inconvenience against the needs of their + children, and my concern was to do my duty, and be as little troublesome + as possible. They pressed me to spend my evenings with them, but I thought + that would be too hard on them, so I told them I preferred the last hours + alone, and I do not come in unless there are others to prevent their being + tete-a-tete.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very wise. And do you not find it lonely?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is my time for reading—my time for letters—my time for + being at home!’ cried Genevieve. ‘Now however that I hope I am no longer a + weight on them, Mrs. Rainsforth will sometimes ask me to come and sing to + him, or read aloud, when he comes home so tired that he cannot speak, and + her voice is weak. Alas! they are both so fragile, so delicate.’ + </p> + <p> + Her soul was evidently with them and with her charges, of whom there was + so much to say, that the carriage came all too soon to hurry Albinia away + from the sight of that buoyant sweetness and capacity of happiness. + </p> + <p> + She was rather startled by Miss Ferrars saying, ‘By-the-by, Albinia, how + was it that you never told us of the development of the Infant prodigy? + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know what you mean, Aunt Gertrude.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t you remember that boy, that Mrs. Dusautoy Cavendish’s son, whom + that poor little companion of hers used to call l’Enfant prodigue. I did + not know he was a neighbour of yours, as I find from Lucy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What did Lucy tell you about him? She did not meet him!’ cried Albinia, + endeavouring not to betray her alarm. ‘I mean, did she meet him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed,’ said Miss Ferrars, ‘you should have warned us if you had any + objection, my dear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, but what did happen?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, nothing alarming, I assure you. They met at a ball at Brighton; Lucy + introduced him, and said he was your vicar’s nephew; they danced together. + I think only once.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish you had mentioned it. When did it happen?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can hardly tell. I think she had been about a fortnight with us, but + she seemed so indifferent that I should never have thought it worth + mentioning. I remember my sister thought of asking him to a little evening + party of ours, and Lucy dissuading her. Now, really, Albinia, don’t look + as if we had been betraying our trust. You never gave us any reason to + think—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no. I beg your pardon, dear aunt. I hope there’s no harm done. If I + could have thought of his turning up, I would—But I hope it is all + right.’ + </p> + <p> + Such good accounts came from both homes, and the General was so unwilling + to part with his brother and sister, that he persuaded them to accompany + him to Southampton for embarkation. They all felt that these last days, + precious now, might be doubly precious by-and-by, and alone with them and + free from the kindly scrutiny of the good aunts, William expanded and + evinced more warm fraternal feeling than he had ever manifested. He + surprised his sister by thanking her warmly for having come to meet him. + ‘I am glad to have been with you, Albinia; I am glad to have seen your + husband. I have told Maurice that I am heartily rejoiced to see you in + such excellent hands.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You must come and see the children, and know him better.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope so, when this affair is over, and I expect it will be soon + settled. Anyway, I am glad we have been together. If we meet again, we + will try to see more of one another.’ + </p> + <p> + He had said much more to his brother, expressing regret that he had been + so much separated from his sister. Thorough soldier as he was, and ardent + for active service, the sight of her and her husband had renewed gentler + thoughts, and he was so far growing old that the idea of home and rest + came invitingly before him. He was softened at the parting, and when he + wrung their hands for the last time on the deck of the steamer, they were + glad that his last words were, ‘God bless you.’ + </p> + <p> + There had been some uncertainty as to the time of his sailing, and + Fairmead and Bayford had been told that unless their travellers arrived by + the last reasonable train on Friday, they were not to be expected till the + same time on Saturday, Maurice having concocted a scheme for crossing by + several junction lines, so as to save waiting; but they had not reckoned + on the discourtesies of two rival companies whose lines met at the same + station, and the southern train was only in time to hear the parting snort + of the engine that it professed to catch. + </p> + <p> + The Ferrars’ nature, above all when sore with farewells, was not made to + submit to having time wasted by treacherous trains on a cold wintry day, + and at a small new station, with an apology for a waiting-room, no + bookstall, and nothing to eat but greasy gingerbread and hard apples. + </p> + <p> + Maurice relieved his feelings by heartily rowing all the officials, but he + could obtain no redress, as he knew full well the whole time, nor would + any train pick them up for full three hours. + </p> + <p> + So indignant was he, that amusement rendered Albinia patient, especially + when he took to striding up and down the platform, devising cases in which + the delay might be actionable, and vituperating the placability of Mr. + Kendal, who having wrapt up his wife in plaids and seated her on the top + of the luggage, had set his back to the wall, and was lost to the present + world in a book. + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind, Maurice,’ said Albinia; ‘in any other circumstances we should + think three hours of each other a great boon.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If anything could be an aggravation, it would be to see Albinia + philosophical.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You make me so on the principle of the Helots and Spartans.’ + </p> + <p> + It was possible to get to Hadminster by half-past seven, and on to Bayford + by nine o’clock, but Fairmead lay further from the line, and the next + train did not stop at the nearest station, so Maurice agreed to sleep at + Bayford that night; and this settled, set out with his sister to explore + the neighbourhood for eatables and church architecture. They made an + ineffectual attempt to rouse Mr. Kendal to go with them, but he was far + too deep in his book, and only muttered something about looking after the + luggage. They found a stale loaf of bread, and a hideous church, but it + was a merry walk, and brought them back in their liveliest mood, which + lasted even to pronouncing it ‘great fun’ that the Hadminster flies were + all at a ball, and that the omnibus must convey them home by the full + moonlight. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. + </h2> + <p> + Slowly the omnibus rumbled over the wooden bridge, and then with a sudden + impulse it thundered up to the front door. + </p> + <p> + Albinia jumped out, and caught Sophy in her arms, exclaiming, ‘And how are + you all, my dear?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We had quite given you up,’ Gilbert was saying. ‘The fire is in the + library,’ he added, as Mr. Kendal was opening the drawing-room door, and + closing it in haste at the sight of a pale, uninviting patch of moonlight, + and the rush of a blast of cold wind. + </p> + <p> + ‘And how is grandmamma? and the children? My Sophy, you don’t look well, + and where’s Lucy?’ + </p> + <p> + Ere she could receive an answer, down jumped, two steps at a time, a + half-dressed figure, all white stout legs and arms which were speedily + hugging mamma. + </p> + <p> + ‘There’s my man!’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘a good boy, I know.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No!’ cried the bold voice. + </p> + <p> + ‘No?’ (incredulously) what have you been doing?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I broke the conservatory with the marble dog, and—’ he looked at + Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘There’s my brave boy,’ said Mr. Kendal, who had suffered so much from his + elder son’s equivocation as to be ready to overlook anything for the sake + of truth. ‘Here, Uncle Maurice, shake hands with your godson, who always + tells truth.’ + </p> + <p> + The urchin folded his arms on his bosom, and looked like a young + Bonaparte. + </p> + <p> + ‘Where’s your hand? said his uncle. ‘Wont you give it to me?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He will be wiser to-morrow, if you are so good as to try him again,’ said + Albinia, who knew nothing did him more harm than creating a commotion by + his caprices; ‘he is up too late, and fractious with sleepiness. Go to bed + now, my dear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall not be wiser to-morrow,’ quoth the child, marching out of the + room in defiance. + </p> + <p> + ‘Monkey! what’s the matter now?’ exclaimed Albinia; ‘I suppose you have + all been spoiling him. But what’s become of Lucy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert said she was at the Dusautoys,’ replied Sophy; ‘but if you would + but come to grandmamma! She found out that you were expected, and she is + in such a state that we have not known what to do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll come, only, Sophy dear, please order tea and something to eat. Your + uncle looks ravenous.’ + </p> + <p> + She broke off, as there advanced into the room a being like Lucy, but + covered with streams and spatters of flowing sable tears, like a heraldic + decoration, over face, neck, and dress. + </p> + <p> + All unconscious, she came with outstretched hands and words of welcome, + but an astonished cry of ‘Lucy!’ met her, and casting her eyes on her + dress, she screamed, ‘Oh goodness! it’s ink!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where can you have been? what have you been doing?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I—don’t know—Oh! it was the great inkstand, and not the scent—Oh! + it is all over me! It’s in my hair!’ shuddering. ‘Oh, dear! oh dear! I + shall never get it out!’ and off she rushed, followed by Gilbert, and was + soon heard calling the maids to bring hot water to her room. + </p> + <p> + ‘What is all this?’ asked Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not know,’ mournfully answered Sophy. + </p> + <p> + Albinia left the library, and taking a candle, went into the empty + drawing-room. The moonlight shone white upon the table, and showed the + large cut-glass ink-bottle in a pool of its own contents; and the + sofa-cover had black spots and stains as if it had partaken of the + libation. + </p> + <p> + Sophy saw, and stood like a statue. + </p> + <p> + ‘You know nothing, I am sure,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing!’ repeated Sophy, with a blank look of wretchedness. + </p> + <p> + ‘If you please, ma’am,’ said the nurse at the door, ‘could you be kind + enough to come to Mrs. Meadows, she will be quieter when she has seen + you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy dear, we must leave it now,’ said Albinia. ‘You must see to their + tea, they have had nothing since breakfast.’ + </p> + <p> + She hastened to the sick room, where she found Mrs. Meadows in a painful + state of agitation and excitement. The nurse said that until this evening, + she had been as usual, but finding that Mrs. Kendal was expected, she had + been very restless; Miss Kendal was out, and neither Miss Sophy nor Mr. + Gilbert could soothe her. + </p> + <p> + She eagerly grasped the hand of Albinia who bent down to kiss her, and + asked how she had been. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! my dear, very unwell, very. They should not leave me to myself so + long, my dear. I thought you would never come back,’ and she began to cry, + and say, ‘no one cared for an old woman.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia assured her that she was not going away, and restrained her own + eager and bewildered feelings to tranquillize her, by prosing on in the + lengthy manner which always soothed the poor old lady. It was a great + penance, in her anxiety to investigate the mysteries that seemed to swarm + in the house, but at last she was able to leave the bedside, though not + till she had been twice summoned to tea. + </p> + <p> + Sophy, lividly pale, was presiding with trembling hands; Gilbert, flushed + and nervous, waiting on every one, and trying to be lively and at ease, + but secret distress was equally traceable in each. + </p> + <p> + She durst only ask after the children, and heard that her little namesake + had been as usual as good and sweet as child could be. And Maurice? + </p> + <p> + ‘He’s a famous fellow, went on capitally,’ said Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, till yesterday,’ hoarsely gasped Sophy, sincerity wrenching out the + protest by force. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, what has he been doing to the conservatory?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He let the little marble dog down from the morning-room window with my + netting silk; it fell, and made a great hole,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘What, as a form of dawdling at his lessons?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, but he has not been at all tiresome about them except to-day and + yesterday.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And he has told the exact truth,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘his gallant + confession has earned the little cannon I promised him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe,’ said Albinia, ‘that it would be greater merit in Maurice to + learn forbearance than to speak truth and be praised for it. I have never + seen his truth really tried.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I value truth above all other qualities,’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘So do I,’ said Albinia, ‘and it is my greatest joy in that little fellow; + but some time or other it must cost him something, or it will not be + tested.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal did not like this, and repeated that he must have his cannon. + Albinia fancied that she heard something like a groan from Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + When they broke up for the night, she threw her arm round Sophy as they + went upstairs, saying, ‘My poor dear, you look half dead. Have things been + going very wrong?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Only these two days,’ said Sophy, ‘and I don’t know that they have + either. I am glad you are come!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What kind of things?’ said Albinia, following her into her room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t ask,’ at first began Sophy, but then, frowning as if she could + hardly speak, she added, ‘I mean, I don’t know whether it is my own horrid + way, or that there is really an atmosphere of something I don’t make out.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Didn’t you tell me Lucy was at the Vicarage?’ said Albinia, suddenly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert said yes, when I asked if she could be with the Dusautoys,’ said + Sophy, ‘when grandmamma wanted her and she did not come. Mamma, please + don’t think of what I said, for very likely it is only that I am cross, + because of being left alone with grandmamma so long this evening, and then + Maurice being slow at his lessons.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are not cross, Sophy; you are worn out, and perplexed, and unhappy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! not now you are come home,’ and Sophy laid her head on her shoulder + and cried with relief and exhaustion. Albinia caressed her, saying, + </p> + <p> + ‘My trust, my mainstay, my poor Sophy! There, go to bed and sleep, and + don’t think of it now. Only first tell me one thing, is that Algernon at + home?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No!’ said Sophy, vehemently, ‘certainly not!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia breathed more freely. + </p> + <p> + ‘Everybody,’ said Sophy, collecting herself, ‘has gone on well, Gilbert + and Lucy have been as kind as could be, and Maurice very good, but + yesterday morning he went on in his foolish way at lessons, and Gilbert + took him out riding before he had finished them. They came in very late, + and I think Maurice must have been overtired, for he was so idle this + morning, that I threatened to tell, and put him in mind of the cannon papa + promised him; but somehow I must have managed badly for he only grew more + defiant, and ended by letting the marble dog out of window, so that it + went through the roof of the conservatory.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, of course it was your fault, or the marble dog’s,’ said Albinia, + smiling, and stroking her fondly. ‘Ah! we ought to have come home at the + fixed time, and not left you to their mercy; but one could not hurry away + from William, when he was so much more sorry to leave us than we ever + expected.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! mamma, don’t talk so! We were so glad. If only we could help being + such a nuisance!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia contrived to laugh, and withdrew, intending to make a visit of + inquiry to Lucy, but she could not refuse herself the refreshment of a + kiss to the little darling who could have no guile to hide, no wrong to + confess. She had never so much realized the value of the certainty of + innocence as when she hung over the crib, and thought that when those dark + fringed lids were lifted, the eyes would flash with delight at meeting + her, without one drawback. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly a loud roar burst from the little room next to Gilbert’s, in + which Maurice had lately been installed. She hurried swiftly in that + direction, but a passage and some steps lay between, and Gilbert had been + beforehand with her. + </p> + <p> + She heard the words, ‘I don’t care! I don’t care if it is manly! I will + tell; I can’t bear this!’ then as his brother seemed to be hushing him, he + burst out again, ‘I wouldn’t have minded if papa wouldn’t give me the + cannon, but he will, and that’s as bad as telling a lie!’ I can’t sleep if + you wont let me off my promise!’ + </p> + <p> + Trembling from head to foot, her voice low and quivering with + concentrated, incredulous wrath, Albinia advanced. ‘Are you teaching my + child falsehood?’ she said; and Gilbert felt as if her look were worse to + him than a thousand deaths. + </p> + <p> + ‘O mamma! mamma! Gilbert! let me tell her,’ cried the child; and Albinia, + throwing herself on her knees, clasped him in her arms, as though + snatching him from the demon of deceit. + </p> + <p> + ‘Tell all, Maurice,’ said Gilbert, folding his arms; ‘it is to your + credit, if you would believe so. I shall be glad to have this misery ended + any way! It was all for the sake of others.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mamma,’ Maurice said, in the midst of these mutterings of his unhappy + brother, ‘I can’t have the cannon without papa knowing it all. I couldn’t + shake hands with Uncle Maurice for telling the truth, for I had not told + it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what is it, my boy?’ tell me now, no one can hinder you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I scratched and fought him—Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy—I kicked + down the decanter of wine. They told me it was manly not to tell, and I + promised.’ + </p> + <p> + He was crying with the exceeding pain and distress of a child whose tears + were rare, and Albinia rocked him in her arms. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert cautiously shut the door, and said sadly, ‘Maurice behaved nobly, + if he would only believe so. You would be proud of your son if you had + seen him. They wanted to make him drink wine, and he was fighting them + off.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And where were you, Gilbert, you to whom I trusted him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could not help it,’ said Gilbert; then as her lip curled with contempt, + and her eye spoke disappointment, he cast himself on the ground, + exclaiming, ‘Oh, if you knew how I have been mixed up with others, and + what I have gone through, you would pity me. Oh, Maurice, don’t cry, when + I would give worlds to be like you. Why do you let him cry? why don’t you + tell him what a brave noble boy he is?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know what to think or believe,’ said Albinia, coldly, but + returning vehemently to her child, she continued, ‘Maurice, my dear, no + one is angry with you! You, at least, I can depend on. Tell me where you + have been, and what they have been doing to you.’ + </p> + <p> + Even with Gilbert’s explanations, she could hardly understand Maurice’s + narrative, but she gathered that on Thursday, the brothers had ridden out, + and were about to turn homewards, when Archie Tritton, of whom to her + vexation Maurice spoke familiarly, had told Gilbert that a friend was + waiting for him at the inn connected with the training stables, three + miles farther on. Gilbert had demurred, but was told the matter would + brook no delay, and yielded on being pressed. He tried to suppress the + friend’s name, but Maurice had called him Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy. + </p> + <p> + While Gilbert was engaged with him, Tritton had introduced Maurice to the + horses and stable boys, whose trade had inspired him with such emulation, + that he broke off in the midst of his confession to ask whether he could + be a jockey and also a gentleman. All this had detained them till so late, + that they had been drawn into staying to dinner. Maurice had gone on very + happily, secure that he was right in Gilbert’s hands, and only laying up a + few curious words for explanation; but when he was asked to drink wine, he + stoutly answered that mamma did not allow it. + </p> + <p> + Idle mischief prompted Dusautoy and Tritton to set themselves to overpower + his resistance. Gilbert’s feeble remonstrances were treated as a jest, and + Algernon, who could brook no opposition, swore that he would conquer the + little prig. Maurice found himself pinioned by strong arms, but determined + and spirited, he made a vigorous struggle, and so judiciously aimed a + furious kick, that Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy staggered back, stumbling + against the table, and causing a general overthrow. + </p> + <p> + The victory was with Maurice, but warned as he had often been against + using his natural weapons, he thought himself guilty of a great crime. The + others, including, alas! Gilbert, strove to persuade him it was a joke, + and, above all, to bind him to silence, for Tritton and Dusautoy would + never have ventured so far, could they have imagined the possibility of + such terms as those on which he lived with his parents. They attacked the + poor child on the score of his manly aspirations, telling him it was + babyish to tell mamma and sisters everything, a practice fit for girls, + not for boys or men. These assurances extracted a pledge of secrecy, which + was kept as long as his mother was absent, and only rendered him reckless + by the sense that he had forfeited the prize of good conduct; but the + sight of her renewed the instinct of confidence, and his father’s reliance + on his truth so acted on his sense of honour, that he could not hold his + peace. + </p> + <p> + ‘May I tell papa? and will he let me have the cannon?’ he finished. + </p> + <p> + ‘You shall certainly tell him, my dear, dear little boy, and we will see + what he says about the cannon,’ she said, fervently kissing him. ‘It will + be some comfort for him to hear how you have behaved, my precious little + man. I thank God with all my heart that He has saved you from putting + anything before truth. I little thought I was leaving you to a tempter!’ + </p> + <p> + The child did not fully understand her. His was a very simple nature, and + he was tired out by conflicting emotions. His breast was relieved, and his + mother caressed him; he cared for nothing more, and drawing her hand so as + to rest his cheek on it, he looked up in her face with soft weary + happiness in his eyes, then let the lids sink over them, and fell + peacefully asleep, while the others talked on. ‘At least you will do me + the poor justice of believing it was not willingly,’ said Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish you would not talk to me,’ she answered, averting her face and + speaking low as if to cut the heart; ‘I don’t want to reproach you, and I + can’t speak to you properly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If you would only hear me, my only friend and helper! But it was all that + was wanting! I have forfeited even your toleration! I wonder why I was + born!’ + </p> + <p> + He was taking up his light to depart, but Albinia’s fear of her own temper + made her suspect that she had spoken vindictively, and she said, ‘What can + I do, Gilbert? Here is this poor child, whom I trusted to you, who can + never again be ignorant of the sound of evil words, and only owes it to + God’s mercy on his brave spirit that this has not been the beginning of + destruction. I feel as if you had been trying to snatch away his soul!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And will you, can you not credit,’ said Gilbert, nearly inaudibly, ‘that + I did not act by my free will? I had no notion that any such thing could + befall him, and would never have let them try to silence him, but to + shield others.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Others! Yes, Archie Tritton and Algernon Dusautoy! I know what your + free-will is in their hands, and yet I thought you cared for your brother + enough to guard him, if not yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If you knew the coercion,’ muttered Gilbert. ‘I protest, as I would to my + dying day, that I had no intention of going near the stables when I set + out, and would never have consented could I have helped it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And why could not you help it?’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert gasped. ‘Tritton brought me a message from Dusautoy, insisting on + my meeting him there. It was too late to take Maurice home, and I could + not send him with Archie. I expected only to exchange a few words at the + door. It was Tritton who took Maurice away to the stables.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hear, but I do not see the compulsion, only the extraordinary weakness + that leads you everywhere after those men.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I must tell you, I suppose,’ groaned Gilbert; ‘I can bear anything but + this. There’s a miserable money entanglement that lays me under a certain + obligation to Dusautoy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Your father believed you had told him of all your debts,’ she said, in a + tone of increased scorn and disappointment. + </p> + <p> + ‘I did—I mean—Oh! Mrs. Kendal, believe me, I intended to have + told him the utmost farthing—I thought I had done so—but this + was a thing—Dusautoy had persuaded me into half consenting to have + some wine with him from a cheating Portuguese—then ordered more than + ever I knew of, and the man went and became bankrupt, and sent in a great + abominable bill that I no more owned, nor had reason to expect than my + horse.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So you preferred intriguing with this man to applying openly to your + father?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was no doing of mine. It was forced upon me, and, in fact, the account + was mixed up with his. It was the most evil hour of my life when I + consented. I’ve not had a moment’s peace or happiness since, and it was + the promise of the bill receipted that led me to this place.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And why was this place chosen for the meeting? You and Mr. Cavendish + Dusautoy live only too near one another.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is not at the Vicarage,’ faltered Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + Albinia suddenly grew pale with apprehension. ‘Gilbert,’ she said, ‘there + is only one thing that could make this business worse;’ and as she saw his + change of countenance, she continued, ‘Then it is so, and Lucy is his + object.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He did not speak, but his face was that of a convicted traitor, and fresh + perceptions crowded on her, as she exclaimed, horror struck, ‘The ink! + Yes, when you said she was with the Dusautoys! I understand! He has been + in hiding, he has been here! And this expedition was to arrange a + clandestine meeting between them under your father’s own roof! You + conniving! you who said you would sooner see your sister sold to Legree!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is all true,’ said Gilbert, moodily, his elbows on the table and his + face in his hands, ‘and if the utmost misery for weeks past could be any + atonement, it would be mine. But at least I have done nothing willingly to + bring them together. I have only gone on in the hope and trust that I was + some protection to poor Lucy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fine protection,’ sighed Albinia. ‘And how has it been? how does it + stand?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, they met at Brighton, I believe. She used to walk on the chain pier + before breakfast, and he met her there. If he chooses, he can make any one + do what he likes, because he does not understand no for an answer. Then + when she came home, he used to meet her on the bridge, when you sent her + out for a turn in the evening, and sometimes she would make me take her + out walking to meet him. Don’t you see how utterly miserable it was for + me; when they had volunteered this help all out of kindness, it was + impossible for me to speak to you.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia made a sound of contempt, and said, ‘Go on.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That time when you and Mr. Hope saw them, Lucy was frightened, and they + had a quarrel, he went away, and I hoped and trusted it had died out. I + heard no more till yesterday, when I was dragged into giving him this + meeting. It seems that he had only just discovered your absence, and + wanted to take the opportunity of seeing her. I was in hopes you would + have come back; I assured him you would; but he chose to watch, till + evening, and then Lucy was to meet him in the conservatory. Poor Lucy, you + must not be very angry with her, for she was much averse to it, and I + enclosed a letter from her to forbid him to come. I thought all was safe, + till I actually heard their voices, and grandmamma got into an agitation, + and Sophy was running about wild to find Lucy. When you came home, papa’s + opening the door frightened Lucy, and it seems that Dusautoy thought that + she was going to faint and scream, and laid hold of the ink instead of the + eau-de-cologne. There! I believe the ink would have betrayed it without + me. Now you have heard everything, Mrs. Kendal, and can believe there is + not a more wretched and miserable creature breathing than I am.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia slowly rose, and put her hand to her brow, as though confused with + the tissue of deceit and double dealing. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Mrs. Kendal, will you not speak to me?’ I solemnly declare that I + have told you all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am thinking of your father.’ + </p> + <p> + With a gesture of acquiescent anguish and despair, he let her pass, held + open the door, and closed it softly, so as not to awaken the happy + sleeper. + </p> + <p> + ‘Good night,’ she said, coldly, and turned away, but his mournful, + resigned ‘Good night,’ was so utterly broken down that her heart was + touched, and turning she said, ‘Good night, Gilbert, I am sorry for you; I + believe it is weakness and not wickedness.’ + </p> + <p> + She held out her hand, but instead of being shaken, it was pressed to his + lips, and the fingers were wet with his tears. + </p> + <p> + Feeling as though the bad dreams of a night had taken shape and life, + Albinia stood by the fire in her sitting-room the next morning, trying to + rally her judgment, and equally dreading the sight of those who had caused + her grief, and of those who would share the shock she had last night + experienced. + </p> + <p> + The first knock announced one whom she did not expect—Gilbert, + wretchedly pale from a sleepless night, and his voice scarcely audible. + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg your pardon,’ he said; ‘but I thought I might have led you to be + hard on Lucy: I do believe it was against her will.’ + </p> + <p> + Before she could answer, the door flew wide, and in rushed Maurice, + shouting, ‘Good morning, mamma;’ and at his voice Mr. Kendal’s + dressing-room door was pushed back, and he called, ‘Here, Maurice.’ + </p> + <p> + As the boy ran forward, he was met and lifted to his father’s breast, + while, with a fervency he little understood, though he never forgot it, + the words were uttered, + </p> + <p> + ‘God bless you, Maurice, and give you grace to go on to withstand + temptation, and speak the truth from your heart!’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice was impressed for a moment, then he recurred to his leading + thought— + </p> + <p> + ‘May I have the cannon, papa? I did kick—I broke the bottle, but may + I have the cannon?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice, you are too young to understand the value of your resistance. + Listen to me, my boy, for you must never forget this: you have been taken + among persons who, I trust, will never be your companions.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh!’ interrupted Maurice, ‘must I never be a jockey?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, Maurice. Horses are perverted to bad purposes by thoughtless men, and + you must keep aloof from such. You were not to blame, for you refused to + do what you knew to be wrong, and did not know it was an improper place + for you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert took me,’ said Maurice, puzzled at the gravity, which convinced + him that some one was in fault, and of course it must be himself. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert did very wrong,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘and henceforth you must learn + that you must trust to your own conscience, and no longer believe that all + your brother tells you is right.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice gazed in inquiry, and perceiving his brother’s downcast air, ran + to his mother, crying, ‘Is papa angry?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Gilbert, willing to spare her the pain of a reply, ‘he is + justly angry with me for having exposed you to temptation. Oh, Maurice, if + I had been made such as you, it would have been better for us all!’ + </p> + <p> + It was the first perception that a grown person could do wrong, and that + person his dear Gilbert. As if the grave countenances were insupportable, + he gave a long-drawn breath, hid his face on his mother’s knee, and burst + into an agony of weeping. He was lifted on her lap in a moment, father and + mother both comforting him with assurances that he was a very good boy, + and that papa was much pleased with him, Mr. Kendal even putting the + cannon into his hand, as a tangible evidence of favour; but the child + thrust aside the toy, and sliding down, took hold of his brother’s + languid, dejected hand, and cried, with a sob and stamp of his foot, + </p> + <p> + ‘You shan’t say you are naughty: I wont let you!’ + </p> + <p> + Alas! it was a vain repulsion of the truth that this is a wicked world. + Gilbert only put him back, saying, + </p> + <p> + ‘You had better go away from me, Maurice: you cannot understand what I + have done. Pray Heaven you may never know what I feel!’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice did but cling the tighter, and though Mr. Kendal had not yet + addressed the culprit, he respected the force of that innocent love too + much to interfere. The bell rang, and they went down, Maurice still + holding by his brother, and when his uncle met them, it was touching to + see the generous little fellow hanging back, and not giving his own hand + till he had seen Gilbert receive the ordinary greeting. + </p> + <p> + Though Mr. Ferrars had been told nothing, he could not but be aware of the + symptoms of a family crisis—the gravity of some, and the pale, jaded + looks of others. Lucy was not one of these; she came down with little + Albinia in her arms, and began to talk rather airily, excusing herself for + not having come down in the evening because that ‘horrid ink’ had got into + her hair, and tittering a little over the absurdity of her having picked + up the inkstand in the dark. Not a word of response did she meet, and her + gaiety died away in vague alarm. Sophy, the most innocent, looked + wretched, and Maurice absolutely began to cry again, at the failure of + some manoeuvre to make his father speak to Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + His tears broke up the breakfast-party. His mother led him away to reason + with him, that, sad as it was, it was better that people should be grieved + when they had transgressed, as the only hope of their forgiveness and + improvement. Maurice wanted her to reverse the declaration that Gilbert + had done wrong; but, alas! this could not be, and she was obliged to send + him out with his little sister, hoping that he would work off his grief by + exercise. It was mournful to see the first shadow of the penalty of sin + falling on the Eden of his childhood! + </p> + <p> + With an aching heart, she went in search of Lucy, who had taken sanctuary + in Mrs. Meadows’s room, and was not easily withdrawn from thence to a + tete-a-tete. Fearful of falsehood, Albinia began by telling her she knew + all, and how little she had expected such a requital of trust. + </p> + <p> + Lucy exclaimed that it had not been her fault, she had always wanted to + tell, and gradually Albinia drew from her the whole avowal, half + shamefaced, half exultant. + </p> + <p> + She had never dreamt of meeting Algernon at Brighton—it was quite by + chance that she came upon him at the officers’ ball when he was staying + with Captain Greenaway. He asked her to dance, and she had said yes, all + on a sudden, without thinking, and then she fancied he would go away; she + begged him not to come again, but whenever she went out on the chain-pier + before breakfast, there he was. + </p> + <p> + Why did she go thither? She hung her head. Mrs. Annesley had desired her + to walk; she could not help it; she was afraid to write and tell what was + going on—besides, he would come, though she told him she would not + see him; and she could not bear to make him unhappy. Then, when she came + home, she had been in hopes it was all over, but she had been very + unhappy, and had been on the point of telling all about it many times, + when mamma looked at her kindly; but then he came to the Vicarage, and he + would wait for her at the bridge, and write notes to her, and she could + not stop it; but she had always told him it was no use, she never would be + engaged to him without papa’s consent. She had only promised that she + would not marry any one else, only because he was so very desperate, and + she was afraid to break it off entirely, lest he should go and marry the + Principessa Bianca, a foreigner and Papist, which would be so shocking for + him and his uncle. Gilbert could testify how grieved she was to have any + secrets from mamma; but Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy was so dreadful when she + talked of telling, that she did not know what would happen. + </p> + <p> + When he went away, and she thought it was all over—mamma might + recollect how hard it was for her to keep up, and what a force she put + upon herself—but she would rather have pined to death than have said + one word to bring him back, and was quite shocked when Gilbert gave her + his note, to beg her to let him see her that evening, before the party + returned; she said, with all her might, that he must not come, and when he + did, she was begging him all the time to go away, and she was so + dreadfully frightened when they actually came, that she had all but gone + into hysterics, or fainted away, and that was the way he came to throw the + ink at her—she was so very much shocked, and so would he be—and + really she felt the misfortune to the beautiful new sofa-cover as a most + serious calamity and aggravation of her offence. + </p> + <p> + It was not easy to know how to answer; Albinia was scornful of the + sofa-cover, and yet it was hard to lay hold of a tangible subject on which + to show Lucy her error, except in the concealment, which, by her own + showing, she had lamented the whole time. She had always said no, but, + unluckily, her noes were of the kind that might easily be made to mean + yes, and she evidently had been led on partly by her own heart, partly by + the force of the stronger will, though her better principles had filled + her with scruples and misgivings at every stage. She had been often on the + point of telling all, and asking forgiveness; and here it painfully + crossed Albinia, that if she herself had been less hurried, and less + disposed to take everything for granted, a little tenderness might have + led to a voluntary confession. + </p> + <p> + Still Lucy defended herself by the compulsion exercised on her, and she + would hear none of the conclusions Albinia drew therefrom; she would not + see that the man who drove her to a course of disobedience and subterfuge + could be no fit guide, and fired up at a word of censure, declaring that + she knew that mamma had always hated him, and that now he was absent, she + would not hear him blamed. The one drop of true love made her difficult to + deal with, for the heart was really made over to the tyrant, and Albinia + did not feel herself sufficiently guiltless of negligence and imprudence + to rebuke her with a comfortable conscience. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal had been obliged to attend to some justice business—better + for him, perhaps, than acting as domestic magistrate—and meanwhile + the Vicar of Fairmead found himself forgotten. He wanted to be at home, + yet did not like to leave his sister in unexplained trouble, though not + sure whether he might not be better absent. + </p> + <p> + Time passed on, he finished the newspaper, and wrote letters, and then, + seeing no one, he had gone into the hall to send for a conveyance, when + Gilbert, coming in from the militia parade, became the recipient of his + farewells, but apparently with so little comprehension, that he broke off, + struck by the dejected countenance, and wandering eye. + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg your pardon,’ Gilbert said, passing his hand over his brow, ‘I did + not hear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I was only asking you to tell my sister that I would not disturb her, and + leaving my good-byes with you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are not going?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you; I think my wife will grow anxious.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I had hoped’—Gilbert sighed and paused—‘I had thought that + perhaps—’ + </p> + <p> + The wretchedness of his tone drove away Mr. Ferrars’s purpose of immediate + departure, and returning to the drawing-room he said, ‘If there were any + way in which I could be of use.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you do not know?’ said Gilbert, veiling his face with his hand, as + he leant on the mantel-shelf. + </p> + <p> + ‘I know nothing. I could only see that something was amiss. I was wishing + to know whether my presence or absence would be best for you all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! don’t go!’ cried Gilbert. Nobody must go who can be any comfort to + Mrs. Kendal.’ + </p> + <p> + A few kind words drew forth the whole piteous history that lay so heavily + on his heart. Reserves were all over now; and irregularly and incoherently + he laid open his griefs and errors, his gradual absorption into the + society with which he had once broken, and the inextricable complication + of mischief in which he had been involved by his debt. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yet,’ he said, ‘all the time I longed from my heart to do well. It was + the very thing that led me into this scrape. I thought if the man applied + to my father, as he threatened, that I should be suspected of having + concealed this on purpose, and be sent to India, and I was so happy, and + thought myself so safe here. I did believe that home and Mrs. Kendal would + have sheltered me, but my destiny must needs hunt me out here, and + alienate even her!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The way to find the Devil behind the Cross, is to cower beneath it in + weak idolatry, instead of grasping it in courageous faith,’ said Mr. + Ferrars. ‘Such faith would have made you trust yourself implicitly to your + father. Then you would either have gone forth in humble acceptance of the + punishment, or else have stayed at home, free, pardoned, and guarded; but, + as it was, no wonder temptation followed you, and you had no force to + resist it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And so all is lost! Even dear little Maurice can never be trusted to me + again! And his mother, who would, if she could, be still merciful and + pitying as an angel, she cannot forget to what I exposed him! She will + never be the same to me again! Yet I could lay down my life for any of + them!’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars watched the drooping figure, crouching on his chairs, elbows + on knees, head bowed on the supporting hands, and face hidden, and, + listening to the meek, affectionate hopelessness of the tone, he + understood the fond love and compassion that had often surprised him in + his sister, but he longed to read whether this were penitence towards God, + or remorse towards man. + </p> + <p> + ‘Miserable indeed, Gilbert,’ he said, ‘but if all were irretrievably + offended, there still is One who can abundantly pardon, where repentance + is true.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought’—cried Gilbert—‘I thought it had been true before! + If pain, and shame, and abhorrence could so render it, I know it was when + I came home. And then it was comparative happiness; I thought I was + forgiven, I found joy and peace where they are promised’—the burning + tears dropped between his fingers—but it was all delusion; not + prayers nor sacraments can shield me—I am doomed, and all I ask is + to be out of the way of ruining Maurice!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This is mere despair,’ said Mr. Ferrars. ‘I cannot but believe your + contrition was sincere; but steadfast courage was what you needed, and you + failed in the one trial that may have been sent you to strengthen and + prove you. The effects have been terrible, but there is every hope that + you may retrieve your error, and win back the sense of forgiveness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If I could dare to hope so—but I cannot presume to take home to + myself those assurances, when I know that I only resolve, that I may have + resolutions to break.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you ever laid all this personally before Mr. Dusautoy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; I have thought of it, but, mixed up as this is with his nephew and my + sister, it is impossible! But you are a clergyman, Mr. Ferrars!’ he added, + eagerly. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars thought, and then said, + </p> + <p> + ‘If you wish it, Gilbert, I will gladly do what I can for you. I believe + that I may rightly do so.’ + </p> + <p> + His face gleamed for a moment with the light of grateful gladness, as if + at the first ray of comfort, and then he said, ‘I am sure none was ever + more grieved and wearied with the burden of sin—if that be all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think,’ said Mr. Ferrars, ‘that it might be better to give time to + collect yourself, examine the past, separate the sorrow for the sin from + the disgrace of the consequences, and then look earnestly at the sole + ground of hope. How would it be to come for a couple of nights to + Fairmead, at the end of next week?’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert gratefully caught at the invitation; and Mr. Ferrars gave him some + advice as to his reading and self-discipline, speaking to him as gently + and tenderly as Albinia herself. Both lingered in case the other should + have more to say, but at last Gilbert stood up, saying, + </p> + <p> + ‘I would thankfully go to Calcutta now, but the situation is filled up, + and my father said John Kendal had been enough trifled with. If I saw any + fresh opening, where I should be safe from hurting Maurice!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is no reason you and your brother should not be a blessing to each + other.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, there is. Till I lived at home, I did not know how impossible it is + to keep clear of old acquaintance. They are good-natured fellows—that + Tritton and the like—and after all that has come and gone, one would + be a brute to cut them entirely, and Maurice is always after me, and has + been more about with them than his mother knows. Even if I were very + different, I should be a link, and though it might be no great harm if + Maurice were a tame mamma’s boy—you see, being the fellow he is, up + to anything for a lark, and frantic about horses—I could never keep + him from them. There’s no such great harm in themselves—hearty, + good-natured fellows they are—but there’s a worse lot that they + meet, and Maurice will go all lengths whenever he begins. Now, so little + as he is now, if I were once gone, he would never run into their way, and + they would never get a hold of him.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars had unconsciously screwed up his face with dismay, but he + relaxed it, and spoke kindly. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are right. It was a mistake to stay at home. Perhaps your regiment + may be stationed elsewhere.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know how long it may be called out. If it were but possible to + make a fresh beginning.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did you hear of my brother’s suggestion?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish—but it is useless to talk about that. I could not presume to + ask my father for a commission—Heaven knows when I shall dare to + speak to him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have not personally asked his pardon after full confession.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘N-o—Mrs. Kendal knows all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did you ever do such a thing in your life?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t know what my father is.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Neither do you, Gilbert. Let that be the first token of sincerity.’ + </p> + <p> + Without leaving space for another word, Mr. Ferrars went through the + conservatory into the garden, where, meeting the children, he took the + little one in his arms, and sent Maurice to fetch his mamma. Albinia came + down, looking so much heated and harassed, that he was grieved to leave + her. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, Maurice, I am sorry! You always come in for some catastrophe,’ she + said, trying to smile. ‘You have had a most forlorn morning.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert has been with me,’ he said. ‘He has told me all, my dear, and I + think it hopeful: I like him better than I ever did before.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor feather, the breath of your lips has blown him the other way,’ said + Albinia, too unhappy for consolation. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, it seems to me that you have done more for him than I ever quite + believed. I did not expect such sound, genuine religious feeling.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He always had plenty of religious sentiment,’ said Albinia, sadly. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have asked him to come to us next week. Will you tell Edmund so?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes. He will be thankful to you for taking him in hand. Poor boy, I know + how attractive his penitence is, but I have quite left off building on + it.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars defended him no longer. He could not help being much moved by + the youth’s self-abasement, but that might be only because it was new to + him, and he did not even try to recommend him to her mercy; he knew her + own heart might be trusted to relent, and it would not hurt Gilbert in the + end to be made to feel the full weight of his offence. + </p> + <p> + ‘I must go,’ he said, ‘though I am sorry to leave you in perplexity. I am + afraid I can do nothing for you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing—but feel kindly to Gilbert,’ said Albinia. ‘I can’t do so + yet. I don’t feel as if I ever could again, when I think what he was doing + with Maurice. Yes, and how easily he could have brought poor Lucy to her + senses, if he had been good for anything! Oh! Maurice, this is sickening + work! You should be grateful to me for not scolding you for having taken + me from home!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not repent,’ said her brother. ‘The explosion is better than the + subterranean mining.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It may be,’ said Albinia, ‘and I need not boast of the good I did at + home! My poor, poor Lucy! A little discreet kindness and watchfulness on + my part would have made all the difference! It was all my running my own + way with my eyes shut, but then, I had always lived with trustworthy + people. Well, I wont keep you listening to my maundering, when Winifred + wants you. Oh! why did that Polysyllable ever come near the place?’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars said the kindest and most cheering things he could devise, and + drove away, not much afraid of her being unforgiving. + </p> + <p> + He was disposed to stake all his hopes of the young man on the issue of + his advice to make a direct avowal to his father. And Gilbert made the + effort, though rather in desperation than resolution, knowing that his + condition could not be worse, and seeing no hope save in Mr. Ferrars’ + counsel. He was the first to seek Mr. Kendal, and dreadful to him as was + the unaltering melancholy displeasure of the fixed look, the steadily + penetrating deep dark eyes, and the subdued sternness of the voice, he + made his confession fully, without reserve or palliation. + </p> + <p> + It was more than Mr. Kendal had expected, and more, perhaps, than he + absolutely trusted, for Gilbert had not hitherto inspired faith in his + protestations that he spoke the whole truth and nothing but the truth, nor + had he always the power of doing so when overpowered by fright. The manner + in which his father laid hold of any inadvertent discrepancy, treating it + as a wilful prevarication, was terror and agony; and well as he knew it to + be the meed of past equivocation, he felt it cruel to torture him by + implied suspicion. Yet how could it be otherwise, when he had been + introducing his little brother to his own corrupters, and conniving at his + sister’s clandestine correspondence with a man whom he knew to be + worthless?’ + </p> + <p> + The grave words that he obtained at last, scarcely amounted to pardon; + they implied that he had done irreparable mischief and acted + disgracefully, and such forgiveness as was granted was only made + conditional on there being no farther reserves. + </p> + <p> + Alas! even with all tender love and compassion, no earthly parent can + forgive as does the Heavenly Father. None but the Omniscient can test the + fulness of the confession, nor the sincerity of ‘Father, I have sinned + against Heaven and before Thee, and am no more worthy to be called Thy + son.’ This interview only sent the son away more crushed and overwhelmed, + and yearning towards the more deeply offended, and yet more compassionate + Father. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal, after this interview, so far relaxed his displeasure as to + occasionally address Gilbert when they met at luncheon after this + deplorable morning, while towards Lucy he observed a complete silence. It + was not at first that she perceived this, and even then it struck more + deeply on Sophia than it did on her. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal shrank from inflicting pain on the good vicar, and it was + decided that the wives should be the channel through which the information + should be imparted. Albinia took the children, sending them to play in the + garden while she talked to Mrs. Dusautoy. She found that keen little lady + had some shrewd suspicions, but had discovered nothing defined enough to + act upon, and was relieved to have the matter opened at last. + </p> + <p> + As to the ink, no mortal could help laughing over it; even Albinia, who + had been feeling as if she could never laugh again, was suddenly struck by + the absurdity, and gave way to a paroxysm of merriment. + </p> + <p> + ‘Properly managed, I do think it might put an end to the whole affair,’ + said Mrs. Dusautoy. ‘He could not stand being laughed at.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m afraid he never will believe that he can be laughed at.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, that is unlucky,’ said Mrs. Dusautoy, gravely; but recollecting that + she was not complimentary, she added, ‘You must not think we undervalue + Lucy. John is very fond of her, and the only objection is, that it would + require a person of more age and weight to deal with Algernon.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind speeches,’ sighed Albinia; ‘we know too well that nothing + could be worse for either. Can’t you give him a tutor and send him to + travel.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll talk to John; but unluckily he is of age next month, and there’s an + end of our power. And John would never keep him away from hence, for he + thinks it his only chance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose we must do something with Lucy. Heigh-ho! People used not to be + always falling in love in my time, except Fred, and that was in a rational + way; that could be got rid of!’ + </p> + <p> + The effect of the intelligence on the vicar was to make him set out at + once to the livery-stables in quest of his nephew, but he found that the + young gentleman had that morning started for London, whither he proposed + to follow him on the Monday. Lucy cried incessantly, in the fear that the + gentle-hearted vicar might have some truculent intentions towards his + nephew, and was so languid and unhappy that no one had the heart to scold + her; and comforting her was still more impossible. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal used to stride away from the sight of her swollen eyes, and ask + Albinia why she did not tell her that the only good thing that could + happen to her would be, that she should never see nor hear of the fellow + again. + </p> + <p> + Why he did not tell her so himself was a different question. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV. + </h2> + <p> + ‘Well, Albinia,’ said Mr. Kendal, after seeing Mr. Dusautoy on his return + from London. + </p> + <p> + There was such a look of deprecation about him, that she exclaimed, ‘One + would really think you had been accepting this charming son-in-law.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Suppose I had,’ he said, rather quaintly; then, as he saw her hands held + up, ‘conditionally, you understand, entirely conditionally. What could I + do, when Dusautoy entreated me, with tears in his eyes, not to deprive him + of the only chance of saving his nephew?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Umph,’ was the most innocent sound Albinia could persuade herself to + make. + </p> + <p> + ‘Besides,’ continued Mr. Kendal, ‘it will be better to have the affair + open and avowed than to have all this secret plotting going on without + being able to prevent it. I can always withhold my consent if he should + not improve, and Dusautoy declares nothing would be such an incentive.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘May it prove so!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You see,’ he pursued, ‘as his uncle says, nothing can be worse than + driving him to these resorts, and when he is once of age, there’s an end + of all power over him to hinder his running straight to ruin. Now, when he + is living at the Vicarage, we shall have far more opportunity of knowing + how he is going on, and putting a check on their intercourse, if he be + unsatisfactory.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If we can.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘After all, the young man has done nothing that need blight his future + life. He has had great disadvantages, and his steady attachment is much in + his favour. His uncle tells me he promises to become all that we could + wish, and, in that case, I do not see that I have the right to refuse the + offer, when things have gone so far—conditionally, of course.’ He + dwelt on that saving clause like a salve for his misgivings. + </p> + <p> + ‘And what is to become of Gilbert and Maurice, with him always about the + house?’ exclaimed Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘We will take care he is not too much here. He will soon be at Oxford. + Indeed, my dear, I am sorry you disapprove. I should have been as glad to + avoid the connexion as you could be, but I do not think I had any + alternative, when Mr. Dusautoy pressed me so warmly, and only asked that + he should be taken on probation; and besides, when poor Lucy’s affections + are so decidedly involved.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia perceived that there had been temper in her tone, and could object + no further, since it was too late, and as she could not believe that her + husband had been weak, she endeavoured to acquiesce in his reasoning, and + it was a strong argument that they should see Lucy bright again. + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose,’ he said, ‘that you would prefer that I should announce my + decision to her myself!’ + </p> + <p> + It was a more welcome task than spreading gloom over her countenance, but + she entered in great trepidation, prepared to sink under some stern + mandate, and there was nothing at first to undeceive her, for her father + was resolved to atone for his concession by sparing her no preliminary + thunders, and began by depicting her indiscretion and deceit, as well as + the folly of attaching herself to a man without other recommendations than + figure and fortune. + </p> + <p> + How much Lucy heard was uncertain; she leant on a chair with drooping head + and averted face, trembling, and suppressing a sob, apparently too much + frightened to attend. Just when the exordium was over, and ‘Therefore I + lay my commands on you’ might have been expected, it turned into, + ‘However, upon Mr. Dusautoy’s kind representation, I have resolved to give + the young man a trial, and provided he convinces me by his conduct that I + may safely entrust your happiness to him, I have told his uncle that I + will not withhold my sanction.’ + </p> + <p> + With a shriek of irrepressible feeling, Lucy looked from father to mother, + and clasped her hands, unable to trust her ears. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, Lucy,’ said Albinia, ‘your father consents, on condition that + nothing further happens to excite his doubts of Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy. It + rests with yourself now, it is not too late. After all that has passed, + you would incur much deserved censure if you put an end to the affair; but + even that would be better, far better, than entering into an engagement + with a man without sound principle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Your mother is quite right, Lucy,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘This is the only + time. Gratified vanity has led you too far, and you have acted as I hoped + no child of mine would ever act, but you have not forfeited our tenderest + care. You are not engaged to this man, and no word of yours would be + broken. If you hesitate to commit yourself to him, you have only to speak, + and we would gladly at once do everything that could conduce to make you + happy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t want me to give him up!’ cried Lucy. ‘Oh! mamma, did not he say + he had consented?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I said it rested with yourself Lucy. Do not answer me now. Come to me at + six o’clock, and tell me, after full reflection, whether I am to consider + you as ready to pledge yourself to this young man.’ + </p> + <p> + It was all that could be done. Albinia had a dim hope that the sense of + responsibility, and dread of that hard will and selfish temper, might so + rise upon Lucy as to startle her, but then, as Mr. Kendal observed, if she + should decide against him, she would have used him so extremely ill, that + they should feel nothing but shame. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Albinia, ‘but it would be better to be ashamed of a girl’s + folly, than to see her made miserable for life. Poor Lucy! if she decide + against him, she will become a woman at once, if not, I’m afraid it will + be the prediction about Marie Antoinette over again—very gay, and + coming right through trial.’ + </p> + <p> + They were obliged to tell Sophy of the state of things. She stood up + straight, and said, slowly and clearly, ‘I do not like the world at all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t quite see what you mean.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Every one does what can’t be helped, and it is not <i>the</i> thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Explain yourself, Sophy,’ said her father, amused. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t think Lucy ought to be making the decision at all,’ said Sophy. + She did that long ago, when first, she attended to what he said to her. If + she does not take him now, it will be swearing to her neighbour, and + disappointing him, because it is to her own hindrance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, Sophy; but I believe it is better to incur the sin of breaking a + promise, than to go on when the fulfilment involves not only suffering, + but mischief. Lucy has repeatedly declared there was no engagement.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know it could not be helped; but Mr. Dusautoy ought not to have asked + papa.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor papa to have consented, my Suleiman ben Daood,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘Ah! + Sophy, we all have very clear, straightforward views at eighteen of what + other people ought to do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Papa—I never meant—I did not think I was saying anything + wrong. I only said I did not like the world.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And I heartily agree with you, Sophy, and if I had lived in it as short a + time as you have, perhaps “considerations” would not affect my judgment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am always telling Sophy she will be more merciful as she grows older,’ + said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘If it were only being more merciful, it would be very well,’ said Mr. + Kendal; ‘but one also becomes less thorough-going, because practice is + more painful than theory, and one remembers consequences that have made + themselves felt. It is just as well that there should be young people to + put us in mind what our flights once were.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia and Sophy left Lucy to herself; they both wished to avoid the + useless ‘What shall I do?’ and they thought that, driven back on her own + resources, even <i>her</i> own mind might give her better counsel than the + seven watchmen aloft in a high tower. + </p> + <p> + She came down looking exceedingly pale. Mr. Kendal regarded her anxiously, + and held his hand out to her kindly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Papa,’ she said, simply, ‘I can’t give it up. I do love him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very well, my dear,’ he answered, ‘there is no more to be said than that + I trust he will merit your affection and make you happy.’ + </p> + <p> + Good Mr. Dusautoy was as happy as a king; he took Lucy in his arms, and + kissed her as if she had been his child, and with her hands folded in his + own, he told her how she was to teach his dear Algernon to be everything + that was good, and to lead him right by her influence. She answered with + caresses and promises, and whoever had watched her eye, would have seen it + in a happy day-dream of Algernon’s perfection, and his uncle thanking her + for it. + </p> + <p> + She had expected that grandmamma would have been very happy; but marriage + had, with the poor old lady, led to so much separation, that her weakened + faculties took the alarm, and she received the tidings by crying bitterly, + and declaring that every one was going away and leaving her. Lucy assured + her over and over again that she was never going to desert her, and as Mr. + Kendal had made it a condition that Algernon should finish his Oxford + career respectably, there was little chance that poor Mrs. Meadows would + survive until the marriage. + </p> + <p> + All along Gilbert made no remark. Though he had been left out of the + family conclaves, and his opinion not asked, he submitted with the utmost + meekness, as one who knew that he had forfeited all right to be treated as + son and heir. The more he was concerned at the engagement, the greater + stigma he would place on his own connivance; so he said nothing, and only + devoted himself to his grandmother, as though the attendance upon her were + a refuge and relief. More gentle and patient than ever, he soothed her + fretfulness, invented pleasures for her, and rendered her so placid and + contented, that her health began to improve. + </p> + <p> + Not for a moment did he seem to forget his error; and Albinia’s resolution + to separate Maurice from him, could not hold when he himself silently + assumed the mournful necessity, and put the child from him when clamorous + for rides, till there was an appeal to papa and mamma. Mr. Kendal gave one + look of inquiry at Albinia, and she began some matter-of-course about + Gilbert being so kind—whereupon the brothers were together as + before. When Albinia visited her little boy at night, she found that + Gilbert had been talking to him of his eldest brother, and she heard more + of Edmund’s habits and tastes from the little fellow who had never seen + him, than from either the twin-brother or the sister who had loved him so + devotedly. It was as if Gilbert knew that he could be doing Maurice no + harm when leading him to think of Edmund, and perhaps he felt some + intrinsic resemblance in the deep loving strength of the two natures. + </p> + <p> + The invitation to Fairmead spared him the pain and shame of Algernon + Dusautoy’s first reception as Lucy’s accepted lover. He went early on + Saturday morning, and young Dusautoy, arriving in the evening, was first + ushered into the library; while Albinia did her best to soothe the excited + nerves and fluttering spirits of Lucy, who was exceedingly ashamed to meet + him again under the eyes of others, after such a course of stolen + interviews, and what she had been told of her influence doing him good + only alarmed her the more. + </p> + <p> + Well she might, for if ever character resembled that of the iron pot borne + down the stream in company with the earthen one, it was the object of her + choice. Poor pipkin that Gilbert was, the contact had cost him a smashing + blow, and for all clay of the more fragile mould, the best hope was to + give the invulnerable material a wide berth. Talk of influence! Mr. + Dusautoy might as well hope that a Wedgwood cream-jug would guide a copper + cauldron and keep verdigris aloof. + </p> + <p> + His attraction for Lucy had always been a mystery to her family, who + perhaps hardly did justice to the magnetism of mere force of purpose. + Better training might have ennobled into resolution that which was now + doggedness and obstinacy, and, even in that shape, the real element of + strength had a tendency to work upon softer natures. Thus it had acted in + different ways with the Vicar, with Gilbert, and with Lucy; each had + fallen under the power of his determination, with more or less of their + own consent, and with Lucy the surrender was complete; she no sooner sat + beside Algernon than she was completely his possession, and his complacent + self-satisfaction was reflected on her face in a manner that told her + parents that she was their own no longer, but given up to a stronger + master. + </p> + <p> + Albinia liked neither to see nor to think about it, and kept aloof as much + as she could, dividing herself between grandmamma and the children. On + Tuesday morning, during Maurice’s lessons, there was a knock at the + sitting-room door. She expected Gilbert, but was delighted to see her + brother. + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought you were much too busy to come near us?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So I am; I can’t stay; so if Kendal be not forthcoming you must give this + fellow a holiday.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is gone to Hadminster, so—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where’s Gilbert?’ broke in little Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘He went to his room to dress to go up to parade,’ said Mr. Ferrars, and + off rushed the boy without waiting for permission. + </p> + <p> + Albinia sighed, and said, ‘It is a perfect passion.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t mourn over it. Love is too good a thing to be lamented over, and + this may turn into a blessing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I used to be proud of it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So you shall be still. I am very much pleased with that poor lad.’ + </p> + <p> + She would not raise her eyes, she was weary of hoping for Gilbert, and his + last offence had touched her where she had never been touched before. + </p> + <p> + ‘Whatever faults he has,’ Mr. Ferrars said, ‘I am much mistaken if his + humility, love, and contrition be not genuine, and what more can the best + have?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sincerity!’ said Albinia, hopelessly. ‘There’s no truth in him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You should discriminate between deliberate self-interested deception, and + failure in truth for want of moral courage. Both are bad enough, but the + latter is not “loving a lie,” not such a ruinous taint and evidence of + corruption as the former.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is curious to hear you repeating my old excuses for him,’ said + Albinia, ‘now that he has cast his glamour over you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not wrongly,’ said her brother. ‘He is in earnest; there is no acting + about him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, that I believe; I know he loves us with all his heart, poor boy, + especially Maurice and me, and I think he had rather go right than wrong, + if he could only be let alone. But, oh! it is all “unstable as water.” Am + I unkind, Maurice? I know how it would be if I let him talk to me for ten + minutes, or look at me with those pleading brown eyes of his!’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars knew it well, and why she was steeled against him, but he put + this aside, saying that he was come to speak of the future, not of the + past, and that he wanted Edmund to reconsider William’s advice. He told + her what Gilbert had said of the difficulty of breaking off old + connexions, and the danger to Maurice from his acquaintance. An exchange + into another corps of militia might be for the worse, the occupation was + uncertain, and Mr. Ferrars believed that a higher position, companions of + a better stamp, and the protection of a man of lively manners, quick + sympathy, and sound principle, like their cousin Fred, might be the + opening of a new life. He had found Gilbert most desirous of such a step, + regarding it as his only hope, but thinking it so offensively presumptuous + to propose it to his father under present circumstances, his Oxford terms + thrown away, and himself disgraced both there and at home, that the matter + would hardly have been brought forward had not Mr. Ferrars undertaken to + press it, under the strong conviction that remaining at home would be + destruction, above all, with young Dusautoy making part of the family. + </p> + <p> + ‘I declare,’ said Mr. Ferrars, ‘he looked so much at home in the + drawing-room, and welcomed Gilbert with such an air of patronage, that I + could have found it in my heart to have knocked him down!’ + </p> + <p> + It was a treat to hear Maurice speak so unguardedly, and Albinia laughed, + and asked whether he thought it very wrong to hope that the Polysyllable + would yet do something flagrant enough to open Lucy’s eyes. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll allow you to hope that <i>if</i> he should, her eyes <i>may</i> be + opened,’ said Maurice. + </p> + <p> + Albinia began a vehement vindication for their having tolerated the + engagement, in the midst of which her brother was obliged to depart, + amused at her betrayal of her own sentiments by warfare against what he + had never said. + </p> + <p> + She had treated his counsel as chimerical, but when she repeated it to her + husband, she thought better of it, since, alas! it had become her great + object to part those two loving brothers. Mr. Kendal first asked where the + 25th Lancers were, then spoke of expense, and inquired what she knew of + the cost of commissions, and of her cousin’s means. All she could answer + for was, that Fred’s portion was much smaller than Gilbert’s inheritance, + but at least she knew how to learn what was wanted, and if her friends, + the old Generals, were to be trusted, she ought to have no lack of + interest at the Horse Guards. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert was taken into counsel, and showed so much right spirit and good + sense, that the discussion was friendly and unreserved. It ended in the + father and son resorting to Pettilove’s office to ascertain the amount of + ready money in his hands, and what income Gilbert would receive on coming + of age. The investigation somewhat disappointed the youth, who had never + thoroughly credited what his father told him of the necessity of his + exerting himself for his own maintenance, nor understood how heavy a drain + on his property were the life-interests of his father and grandmother, and + the settlement on his aunt. By-and-by, he might be comparatively a rich + man, but at first his present allowance would be little more than doubled, + and the receipts would be considerably diminished by an alteration of + existing system of rents, such as had so long been planned. It was plain + that the almshouses were the unsubstantial fabric of a dream, but no one + now dared to refer to them, and Mr. Kendal desired Albinia to write to + consult her cousin. + </p> + <p> + Captain Ferrars was so much flattered at her asking his protection for + anything, that he would have promised to patronize Cousin Slender himself + for her sake. He praised the Colonel and lauded the mess to the skies, and + economy being his present hobby, he represented himself as living upon + nothing, and saving his pay. He further gave notice of impending + retirements, and advised that the application should be made without loss + of time, lamenting grievously himself that there was no chance for the + 25th, of a touch at the Russians. + </p> + <p> + Something in his letter put every one into a hurry, and a correspondence + began, which resulted in Gilbert’s being summoned to Sandhurst for an + examination, which he passed creditably. The purchase-money was deposited, + and the household was daily thrown into a state of excitement by the + arrival of official-looking envelopes, which turned out to contain + solicitations from tailors and outfitters, bordered with portraits of + camp-beds and portable baths, until, at last, when the real document + appeared, Gilbert tossed it aside as from ‘another tailor:’ but Albinia + knew the article too well to mistake it, and when the long blue cover was + opened, it proved to convey more than they had reckoned upon. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert Kendal held a commission in the 25th Lancers, and the corps was + under immediate orders for the East. The number of officers being + deficient, he was to join the headquarters at Cork, without going to the + depot, and would thence sail with a stated minimum of baggage. + </p> + <p> + Albinia could not look up. She knew her husband had not intended thus to + risk the last of his eldest-born sons; and though her soldier-spirit might + have swelled with exultation had her own brave boy been concerned, she + dreaded the sight of quailing or dismay in Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + ‘Going really to fight the Russians,’ shouted Maurice, as the meaning + reached him. ‘Oh! Gibbie, if I was but a man to go with you!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You will do your duty, my boy,’ said his father. + </p> + <p> + ‘By God’s help,’ was the reverent answer which emboldened Albinia to look + up at him, as he stood with Maurice clinging by both hands to him. She had + done him injustice, and her heart bounded at the sight of the flush on his + cheek, the light in his eyes, and the expression on his lips, making his + face finer and more manly than she had ever seen it, as if the grave + necessity, and the awe of the unseen glorious danger, were fixing and + elevating his wandering purpose. To have no choice was a blessing to an + infirm will, and to be inevitably out of his own power braced him and gave + him rest. She held out her hand to him, and there was a grasp of + inexpressible feeling, the first renewal of their old terms of sympathy + and confidence. + </p> + <p> + There was no time to be lost; Mr. Kendal would go to London with him by + the last train that day, to fit him out as speedily as possible, before he + started for Cork. + </p> + <p> + Every one felt dizzy, and there was no space for aught but action. Perhaps + Albinia was glad of the hurry, she could not talk to Gilbert till she had + learnt to put faith in him, and she would rather do him substantial + kindnesses than be made the sharer of feelings that had too often proved + like the growth of the seed which found no depth of earth. + </p> + <p> + She ran about for him, worked for him, contrived for him, and gave him + directions; she could not, or would not, perceive his yearning for an + effusion of penitent tenderness. He looked wistfully at her when he was + setting out to take leave at the Vicarage, but she had absorbed herself in + flannel shirts, and would not meet his eye, nor did he venture to make the + request that she would come with him. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, confidences there could be but few, for Maurice and Albinia hung + on either side of him, so that he could hardly move, but he resisted all + attempt to free him even from the little girl, who was hardly out of his + arms for ten minutes together. It was only from her broken words that her + mother understood that from the vicarage he had gone to the church. Poor + little Albinia did not like it at all. ‘Why was brother Edmund up in the + church, and why did Gilbert cry?’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice angrily enunciated, ‘Men never cry,’ but not a word of the visit + to the church came from him. + </p> + <p> + Algernon Dusautoy had wisely absented himself, and the two sisters devoted + themselves to the tasks in hand. Sophy worked as hard as did Mrs. Kendal, + and spoke even less, and Lucy took care of Mrs. Meadows, whose nerves were + painfully excited by the bustle in the house. It had been agreed that she + should not hear of her grandson’s intention till the last moment, and then + he went in, putting on a cheerful manner, to bid her good-bye, only + disclosing that he was going to London, but little as she could + understand, there was an instinct about her that could not be deceived, + and she began to cry helplessly and violently. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Kendal and Lucy were summoned in haste; Gilbert lingered, trying to + help them to restore her to composure. But time ran short; his father + called him, and they hardly knew that they had received his last hurried + embrace, nor that he was really gone, till they heard Maurice shouting + like a Red Indian, as he careered about in the garden, his only resource + against tears; and Sophy came in very still, very pale, and incapable of + uttering a word or shedding a tear. Albinia was much concerned, for she + could not bear to have sent him away without a more real adieu, and word + of blessing and good augury; it made her feel herself truly unforgiving, + and perhaps turned her heart back to him more fully and fondly than any + exchange of sentiment would have done. But she had not much time to dwell + on this omission, for poor Mrs. Meadows missed him sorely, and after two + days’ constant fretting after him, another paralytic stroke renewed the + immediate danger, so that by the time Mr. Kendal returned from London she + was again hovering between life and death. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal, to his great joy, met Frederick Ferrars at the ‘Family + Office.’ The changes in the regiment had given him his majority, and he + had flashed over from Ireland to make his preparations for the campaign. + His counsel had been most valuable in Gilbert’s equipment, especially in + the knotty question of horses, and he had shown himself so amiable and + rational that Mr. Kendal was quite delighted, and rejoiced in committing + Gilbert to his care. He had assumed the trust in a paternal manner, and, + infected by his brilliant happiness and hopefulness, Gilbert had gone off + to Ireland in excellent spirits. + </p> + <p> + ‘Another thing conduced to cheer him,’ said Mr. Kendal afterwards to his + wife, with a tone that caused her to exclaim, ‘You don’t mean that he saw + Genevieve?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are right. We came upon her in Rivington’s shop, while we were + looking for the smallest Bible. I saw who it was chiefly by his change of + colour, and I confess I kept out of the way. The whole did not last five + minutes; she had her pupils with her, and soon went away; but he thanked + me, and took heart from that moment. Poor boy, who would have thought the + impression would have been so lasting?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, by the time he is a field-officer, even William will let him please + himself,’ said Albinia, lightly, because her heart was too full for her to + speak seriously. + </p> + <p> + She tried, by a kind letter, to atone for the omitted farewell, and it + seemed to cheer and delight Gilbert. He wrote from Cork as if he had + imbibed fresh hope and enterprise from his new companions, he liked them + all, and could not say enough of the kindness of Major Ferrars. Everything + went smoothly, and in the happiest frame he sailed from Cork, and was + heard of again at Malta and Gallipoli, direfully sea-sick, but reviving to + write most amusing long descriptive letters, and when he reached the camp + at Yarna, he reported as gratefully of General Ferrars as the General did + kindly of him. + </p> + <p> + Those letters were the chief pleasures in a harassing spring and summer. + It was well that practice had trained Sophia in the qualities of a nurse, + for Lucy was seldom available when Algernon Dusautoy was at home; she was + sure to be riding with him, or sitting for her picture, or the good Vicar, + afraid of her overworking herself, insisted on her spending the evening at + the vicarage. + </p> + <p> + She yielded, but not with an easy conscience, to judge by her numerous + apologies, and when Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy returned to Oxford, she devoted + herself with great assiduity to the invalid. Her natural gifts were far + more efficient than Sophy’s laboriously-earned gentleness, and her + wonderful talent for prattling about nothing had a revivifying influence, + sparing much of the plaintive weariness which accompanied that mournful + descent of life’s hill. + </p> + <p> + Albinia had reckoned on a rational Lucy until the Oxford term should be + over. She might have anticipated a failure in the responsions, (who, in + connexion with the Polysyllable, could mention being plucked for the + little-go?) but it was more than she did expect that his rejection would + send him home in sullen resentment resolved to punish Oxford by the + withdrawal of his august name. He had been quizzed by the young, + reprimanded by the old, plucked by the middle-aged, and he returned with + his mouth, full of sentences against blind, benighted bigotry, and the + futility of classical study, and of declamations, as an injured orphan, + against his uncle’s disregard of the intentions of his dear deceased + parent, in keeping him from Bonn, Jena, Heidelberg, or any other of the + outlandish universities whose guttural names he showered on the meek + Vicar’s desponding head. + </p> + <p> + He was twenty-one, and could not be sent whither he would not go. His + uncle’s resource was Mr. Kendal, who strongly hoped that the link was + about to snap, when, summoning the gentleman to the library, he gave him + to understand that he should consider a refusal to resume his studies as + tantamount to a dissolution of the engagement. A long speech ensued about + dear mothers, amiable daughters, classics, languages, and foreign tours. + That was all the account Mr. Kendal could give his wife of the dialogue, + and she could only infer that Algernon’s harangue had sent him into such a + fit of abstraction, that he really could not tell the drift of it. + However, he was clear that he had himself given no alternative between + returning to Oxford and resigning Lucy. + </p> + <p> + That same evening, Lucy, all blushes and tears, faltered out that she was + very unwilling, she could not bear to leave them all, nor dear grandmamma, + but dear Algernon had prevailed on her to say next August! + </p> + <p> + When indignant astonishment permitted Albinia to speak, she reminded Lucy + that a respectable career at Oxford had been the condition. + </p> + <p> + ‘I know,’ said Lucy, ‘but dear Algernon convinced papa of the + unreasonableness of such a stipulation under the circumstances.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia felt the ground cut away under her feet, and all she could attempt + was a dry answer. ‘We shall see what papa says; but you, Lucy, how can you + think of marrying with your grandmamma in this state, and Gilbert in that + camp of cholera—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I told Algernon it was not to be thought of,’ said Lucy, her tears + flowing fast. But I don’t know what to do, no one can tell how long it may + go on, and we have no right to trifle with his feelings.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If he had any feelings for you, he would not ask it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, mamma, indeed!’ cried Lucy, earnestly; ‘it was his feeling for me; he + said I was looking quite languid and emaciated, and that he could not + allow my—good looks and vivacity to be diminished by my attendance + in a sick chamber. I told him never to mind, for it did not hurt me; but + he said it was incumbent on him to take thought for me, and that he could + not present me to his friends if I were not in full bloom of beauty; yes, + indeed, he said so; and then he said it would be the right season for + Italy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is impossible you can think of going so far away! Oh, Lucy! you should + not have consented.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could not help it,’ said Lucy, sobbing. ‘I could not bear to contradict + him, but please, mamma, let papa settle it for me. I don’t want to go + away; I told him I never would, I told him I had promised never to leave + dear grandmamma; but you see he is so resolute, and he cannot bear to be + without me. Oh! do get him to put it off—only if he is angry and + goes to Italy without me, I know I shall die!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We will take care of you, my dear. I am sure we shall be able to show him + how impossible a gay wedding would be at present; and I do not think he + can press it,’ said Albinia, moved into soothing the present distress, and + relieved to find that there was no heartlessness on Lucy’s side. + </p> + <p> + What a grand power is sheer obstinacy! It has all the momentum of a stone, + or cannon-ball, or any other object set in motion without inconvenient + sensations to obstruct its course! + </p> + <p> + Algernon Dusautoy had decided on being married in August, and taking his + obedient pupil-wife through a course of lectures on the continental + galleries of art; and his determined singleness of aim prevailed against + the united objections and opposition of four people, each of double or + quadruple his wisdom and weight. + </p> + <p> + His first great advantage was, that, as Albinia surmised, Mr. Kendal could + not recal the finale of their interview, and having lost the thread of the + rigmarole, did not know to what his silence had been supposed to assent. + Next, Algernon conquered his uncle by representing Lucy as on the road to + an atrophy, and persuading him that he should be much safer on the + Continent with a wife than without one: and though the two ladies were + harder to deal with in themselves, they were obliged to stand by the + decision of their lords. Above all, he made way by his sincere habit of + taking for granted whatever he wished, and by his magnanimous oblivion of + remonstrance and denial; so that every day one party or the other found + that assumed, as fixed in his favour, which had the day before been most + strenuously refused. + </p> + <p> + ‘If you consented to this, I thought I could not refuse that.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I consent! I told him it was the last thing I could think of.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I own I was surprised, but he told me you had readily come into his + views.’ + </p> + <p> + Such was the usual tenor of consultations between the authorities, until + their marvel at themselves and each other came to a height when they found + themselves preparing for the wedding on the very day originally chosen by + Algernon. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal’s letter to Gilbert was an absolute apology. Gilbert in Turkey + was a very different person from Gilbert at Bayford, and had assumed in + his father’s mind the natural rights of son and heir; he seemed happy and + valued, and the heat of the climate, pestiferous to so many, seemed but to + give his Indian constitution the vigour it needed. When his comrades were + laid up, or going away for better air, much duty was falling on him, and + he was doing it with hearty good-will and effectiveness. Already the rapid + changes had made him a lieutenant, and he wrote in the highest spirits. + Moreover, he had fallen in with Bryan O’More, and had been able to do him + sundry kindnesses, the report of which brought Ulick to Willow Lawn in an + overflow of gratitude. + </p> + <p> + It was a strange state of affairs there. Albinia was ashamed of the plea + of ‘could not help it,’ and yet that was the only one to rest on; the + adherence to promises alone gave a sense of duty, and when or how the + promises had been given was not clear. + </p> + <p> + Besides, no one could be certain even about poor Lucy’s present + satisfaction; she sometimes seemed like a little bird fluttering under the + fascination of a snake. She was evidently half afraid of Algernon, and + would breathe more freely when he was not at hand; but then a restlessness + would come on if he did not appear as soon as she expected, as if she + dreaded having offended him. She had violent bursts of remorseful tears, + and great outpourings of fondness towards every one at home, and she + positively did look ill enough to justify Algernon in saying that the + present condition of matters was hurtful to her. Still she could not + endure a word that remotely tended towards advising her to break off the + engagement, or even to retard the wedding, and her admiration of her + intended was unabated. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, his affection could not be doubted; he liked her adoration of all + his performances, and he regarded her with beneficent protection, as a + piece of property; he made her magnificent presents, and conceded to her + that the wedding tour should not be beyond Clifton, whence they would + return to Willow Lawn, and judge ere deciding on going abroad. + </p> + <p> + He said that it would be ‘de bon ton’ to have the marriage strictly + private. Even he saw the incongruity of festivity alongside of that + chamber of decay and death; and besides, he had conceived such a distaste + to the Drury family, that he had signified to Lucy that they must not make + part of the spectacle. + </p> + <p> + Albinia and Sophy thought this so impertinent, that they manfully fought + the battles of the Drurys, but without prevailing; Albinia took her + revenge, by observing that this being the case, it was impossible to ask + her brother and little Mary, whose well-sounding names she knew Algernon + ambitionated for the benefit of the county paper. + </p> + <p> + Always doing what was most contrary to the theories with which she started + in life, Albinia found herself taking the middle course that she + contemned. She was marrying her first daughter with an aching, foreboding + heart, unable either to approve or to prevent, and obliged to console and + cheer just when she would have imagined herself insisting upon a rupture + at all costs. + </p> + <p> + Sophy had said from the first that her sister could not go back. She + expected her to be unhappy, and believed it the penalty of the wrongdoings + in consenting to the clandestine correspondence; and treated her with + melancholy kindness as a victim under sentence. She was very affectionate, + but not at all consoling when Lucy was sad, and she was impatient and + gloomy when the trousseau, or any of the privileges of a fiancee brought a + renewal of gaiety and importance. A broken heart and ruined fortunes were + the least of the consequences she augured, and she went about the house as + if she had realized them both herself. + </p> + <p> + The wedding-day came, and grandmamma was torpid and only half conscious, + so that all could venture to leave her. The bride was not allowed to see + her, lest the agitation should overwhelm both; for the poor girl was + indeed looking like the victim her sister thought her, pale as death, with + red rings round her extinguished eyes, and trembling from head to foot, + the more at the apprehension that Algernon would think her a fright. + </p> + <p> + After all that lavender and sal-volatile could do for her, she was such a + spectacle, that when her father came to fetch her he was shocked, and + said, tenderly, ‘Lucy, my child, this must not be. Say one word, and all + shall be over, and you shall never hear a word of reproach.’ + </p> + <p> + But Lucy only cast a frightened glance around, and rising up with the + accents of perfect sincerity, said, ‘No, papa; I am quite ready; I am + quite happy. I was only silly.’ + </p> + <p> + Her mind was evidently made up, and it was past Albinia’s divination + whether her agitation were composed of fear of the future and remorse for + the past, or whether it were mere love of home and hurry of spirits, + exaggerated by belief that a bride ought to weep. Probably it was a + compound of all, and the whole of her reply perfect truth, especially the + final clause. + </p> + <p> + So they married her, poor child, very much as if they had been attending + her to the block. Sophy’s view of the case had infected them all beyond + being dispelled by the stately complacency of the bridegroom, or the + radiant joy and affection of his uncle. + </p> + <p> + They put her into a carriage, watched her away, and turned back to the + task which she had left them, dreading the effects of her absence. She was + missed, but less than they feared; the faculties had become too feeble for + such strong emotion as had followed Gilbert’s departure; and the void was + chiefly perceptible by the plaintive and exacting clinging to Albinia, who + had less and less time to herself and her children, and was somewhat + uneasy as to the consequences as regarded Maurice. While Gilbert was at + home, the child had been under some supervision; but now his independent + and unruly spirit was left almost uncontrolled, except by his own + intermittent young conscience, his father indulged him, and endured from + him what would have been borne from no one else; and Sophy was his willing + slave, unable to exact obedience, and never complaining, save under the + most stringent necessity or sense of duty. He was too young for school, + and there was nothing to be done but to go on, from day to day, in the + trust that no harm could eventually ensue in consequence of so absolute a + duty as the care of the sufferer; and that while the boy’s truth and + generosity were sound, though he might be a torment, his character might + be all the stronger afterwards for that very indocility. + </p> + <p> + It was not satisfactory, and many mothers would have been miserable; but + it was not in Albinia’s nature to be miserable when her hands were full, + and she was doing her best. She had heard her brother say that when good + people gave their children sound principles and spoilt them, they gave the + children the trouble of self-conquest instead of doing it for them. She + had great faith in Maurice’s undertaking this task in due time; and while + she felt that she still had her hand on the rein she must be content to + leave it loose for a while. + </p> + <p> + Besides, when his father and sisters, and, least of all, herself, did not + find him a plague, did it much matter if other people did? + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV. + </h2> + <p> + Exulting peals rang out from the Bayford tower, and as Mr. and Mrs. + Cavendish Dusautoy alighted from their carriage at Willow Lawn, the cry of + the vicar and of the assembled household was, ‘Have you heard that + Sebastopol is taken?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Any news of Gilbert?’ was Lucy’s demand. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, the cavalry were not landed, so he had nothing to do with it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I say, uncle,’ said Algernon, ‘shall I send up a sovereign to those + ringers?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Eh! poor fellows, they will be very glad of it, thank you; only I must + take care they don’t drink it up. I’m sure they must be tired enough; + they’ve been at it ever since the telegraph came in!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There!’ exclaimed Algernon; ‘Barton must have telegraphed from the + station when we set out!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You? Did you think the bells were ringing for <i>you</i>,’ exclaimed his + uncle, ‘when there’s a great battle won, and Sebastopol taken?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Telegraphs are always lies!’ quoth Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy, tersely, ‘I + don’t believe anything has happened at all!’ and he re-pocketed the + sovereign. + </p> + <p> + Meantime Lucy was in a rapture of embracing. She was spread out with stiff + silk flounces and velvet mantle, so as to emulate her husband’s + importance, and her chains and bracelets clattered so much, that Mr. + Kendal could not help saying, ‘You should have taken lessons of your Ayah, + to learn how to manage your bangles.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! papa,’ said she, with a newly-learnt little laugh, ‘I could not help + it; Louise could not find room for them in my dressing-case.’ + </p> + <p> + They were not, however, lost upon the whole of the family. Grandmamma’s + dim eyes lighted when she recognised her favourite grand-daughter in such + gorgeous array, and that any one should have come back again was so new + and delightful, that it constantly recurred as a fresh surprise and + pleasure. + </p> + <p> + All were glad to have her again—their own Lucy, as she still was, + though somewhat of the grandiose style and self-consequence of her husband + had overlaid the original nature. She was as good-natured and obliging as + ever, and though beginning by conferring her favours as condescensions, + she soon would forget that she was the great Mrs. Cavendish Dusautoy, and + quickly become the eager, helpful Lucy. She was in very good looks, and + bright and happy, admiring Algernon, rejoicing to obey his behests, and + enhancing his dignity and her own by her discourses upon his talents and + importance. How far she was at ease with him, Albinia sometimes doubted; + there now and then was an air of greater freedom when he left the room, + and some of her favourite old household avocations were tenderly resumed + by stealth, as though she feared he might think them unworthy of his wife. + </p> + <p> + She gave her spare time to the invalid, who was revived by her presence as + by a sunbeam; and Albinia, in her relief and gratitude, did her utmost to + keep Algernon happy and contented. She resigned a room to him as an + atelier, and let the little Awk be captured to have her likeness taken, + she promoted the guitar and key-bugle, and abstained from resenting his + strictures on her dinners. + </p> + <p> + Such a guest reduced Mr. Kendal to absolute silence, but she did not think + he suffered much therefrom, and he was often relieved, for all the + neighbourhood asked the young couple to dinner. Mrs. Cavendish Dusautoy’s + toilette was as good as a play to the oldest and youngest inhabitants of + the house, her little sister used to stand by the dressing-table with her + small fingers straightened to sustain a column of rings threaded on them, + and her arm weighed down with bracelets, and grandmamma’s happiest moments + were when she was raised up to contemplate the costly robes, jewelled + neck, and garlanded head of her darling. + </p> + <p> + When it turned out that Sebastopol was anything but taken, Mr. Cavendish + Dusautoy’s incredulity was a precious confirmation of his esteem for his + own sagacity, more especially as Ulick O’More and Maurice had worn out the + little brass piece of ordnance in firing feux de joie. + </p> + <p> + ‘But,’ said Maurice, ‘papa always said it was not true. Now you only said + so when you found the bells were ringing for that, and not for you.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice’s observations were not always convenient. Algernon, with much + pomp, had caused a horse to be led to the door, for which he had lately + paid eighty guineas, and he was expatiating on its merits, when Maurice + broke out, ‘That’s Macheath, the horse that Archie Tritton bought of Mr. + Nugent’s coachman for twenty pounds.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hush, Maurice!’ said his father, ‘you know nothing of it; and Mr. + Cavendish Dusautoy pursued, ‘It was bred at Lord Lewthorp’s, and sold + because it was too tall for its companion. Laing was on the point of + sending it to Tattersalls, where he was secure of a hundred, but he was + willing to oblige me, as we had had transactions before.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Papa!’ cried Maurice, ‘I know it is Macheath, for Mr. Tritton showed him + to Gilbert and me, when he had just got him, and said he was a showy + beast, but incurably lame, so he should get what he could for him from + Laing. Now, James, isn’t it?’ he called to the servant who was sedulously + turning away a grinning face, but just muttered, ‘Same, sir.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal charitably looked the other way, and Algernon muttered some + species of imprecation. + </p> + <p> + Thenceforth Maurice took every occasion of inquiring what had become of + Macheath, whether Laing had refunded the price, and what had been done to + him for telling stories. + </p> + <p> + If the boy began in innocence, he went on in mischief; he was just old + enough to be a most aggravating compound of simplicity and malice. He was + fully aware that Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy was held cheap by his own + favourites, and had been partly the cause of his dear Gilbert’s troubles, + and his sharp wits and daring nature were excited to the utmost by the + solemn irritation that he produced. Not only was it irresistibly droll to + tease one so destitute of fun, but he had the strongest desire to see how + angry it was possible to make the big brother-in-law, of whom every one + seemed in awe. + </p> + <p> + First, he had recourse to the old term Polysyllable, and when Lucy + remonstrated, he answered, ‘I’ve a right to call my brother what I + please.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You know how angry mamma would be to hear you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mamma calls him the Polysyllable herself,’ said Maurice, looking full at + his victim. + </p> + <p> + Lucy, who would have given the world to hinder this epithet from coming to + her husband’s knowledge, began explaining something about Gilbert’s + nonsense before he knew him, and how it had been long disused. + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s not true, Lucy,’ quoth the tormentor. ‘I heard mamma tell Sophy + herself this morning to write for some fish-sauce, because she said that + Polysyllable was so fanciful about his dinner.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucy was ready to cry, and Algernon, endeavouring to recal his usual + dignity, exclaimed, ‘If Mrs. Kendal—I mean, Mrs. Kendal has it in + her power to take liberties, but if I find you repeating such again, you + little imp, it shall be at your risk.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What will you do to me?’ asked the sturdy varlet. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear Maurice, I hope you’ll never know! Pray don’t try!’ cried Lucy; but + if she had had any knowledge of character, she would have seen that she + had only provoked the little Berserkar’s curiosity, and had made him + determined on proving the undefined threat. So the unfortunate Algernon + seldom descended the stairs without two childish faces being protruded + from the balusters of the nursery-flight over-head, pursuing him with + hissing whispers of ‘Polysyllable’ and ‘Polly-silly,’ and if he ventured + on indignant gestures, Maurice returned them with nutcracker grimaces and + provoking assurances to his little sister that he could not hurt her. + </p> + <p> + Algernon could not complain without making himself ridiculous, and Albinia + was too much engaged to keep watch over her son, so that the persecution + daily became more intolerable, and barren indications of wrath were so + diverting to the little monkey, that the presence of the heads of the + family was the sole security from his tricks. Poor Lucy was the chief + sufferer, unable to restrain her brother, and enduring the brunt of her + husband’s irritation, with the great disappointment of being unable to + make him happy at her home, and fearing every day that he would fulfil his + threat of not staying another week in the house with that intolerable + child, for the sake of any one’s grandmother. + </p> + <p> + Tidings came, however, that completely sobered Maurice, and made them + unable to think of moving. It was the first rumour of the charge of + Balaklava, with the report that the 25th Lancers were cut to pieces. In + spite of Algernon’s reiteration that telegraphs were lies, all the + household would have been glad to lose the sense of existence during the + time of suspense. Albinia’s heart was wrung as she thought of the cold + hurried manner of the last farewell, and every look she cast at her + husband’s calm melancholy face, seemed to be asking pardon that his son + was not safe in India. + </p> + <p> + Late that evening the maid came hurriedly in with a packet of papers. ‘A + telegraph, ma’am, come express from Hadminster.’ + </p> + <p> + It was to Mrs Kendal from one of her friends at the Horse Guards. She did + not know how she found courage to turn her eyes on it, but her shriek was + not of sorrow. + </p> + <p> + ‘Major the Honourable F. Ferrars, severely wounded—right arm + amputated.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Lieutenant Gilbert Kendal, slightly wounded—contusion, rib broken.’ + </p> + <p> + She saw the light of thankfulness break upon Mr. Kendal’s face, and the + next moment flew up to her boy’s bed-side. He started up, half asleep, but + crying out, Mamma, where’s Gibbie?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Safe, safe! Maurice dearest, safe; only slightly wounded! Oh, Maurice, + God has been very good to us!’ + </p> + <p> + He flung his arms round her neck, as she knelt beside his crib in the + dark, and thus Mr. Kendal found the mother and son. As he bent to kiss + them, Maurice exclaimed, with a sort of anger, ‘Oh, mamma, why have I got + a bullet in my throat?’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia laughed a little hysterically, as if she had the like bullet. + </p> + <p> + ‘It was very kind of Lord H——,’ fervently exclaimed Mr. + Kendal; ‘you must write to thank him, Albinia. Gilbert may be considered + safe while he is laid up. Perhaps he may be sent home. What should you say + to that, Maurice?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I wouldn’t come home to lose the fun,’ said Maurice. ‘Oh, mamma, let + me get up to tell Awkey, and run up to Ulick! Gilbert will be the colonel + when I’m a cornet! Oh! I must get up!’ + </p> + <p> + His outspoken childish joy seemed to relieve Albinia’s swelling heart, too + full for the expression of thankfulness, and the excitement was too much + even for the boy, for he burst into passionate sobs when forbidden to get + up and waken his little sister. + </p> + <p> + The sobering came in Mr. Kendal’s mention of Fred. Albinia was obliged to + ask what had happened to him, and was shocked at having overlooked so + terrible a misfortune; but Maurice seemed to be quite satisfied. ‘You + know, mamma, it said they were cut to pieces. Can’t they make him a wooden + arm?’ evidently thinking he could be repaired as easily as the creatures + in his sister’s Noah’s Ark. Even Algernon showed a heartiness and + fellow-feeling that seemed to make him more like one of the family. + Moreover, he was so much elevated at the receipt of a telegraph direct + from the fountain-head, that he rode about the next day over all the + neighbourhood with the tidings and comported himself as though he had + private access to all Lord Raglan’s secrets. + </p> + <p> + The unwonted emotion tamed Maurice for several days, and his behaviour was + the better for his daily rides with papa to Hadminster, to forestall the + second post. At last, on his return, his voice rang through the house. + ‘Mamma, where are you? The letter is come, and Gilbert shot two Russians, + and saved Cousin Fred!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I opened your letter, Albinia,’ said Mr. Kendal; and, as she took it from + him, he said, ‘Thank God, I never dared hope for such a day as this!’ + </p> + <p> + He shut himself into the library, while Albinia was sharing with Sophy the + precious letter, but with a moment’s disappointment at finding it not from + Gilbert, but from her brother William. + </p> + <p> + ‘Before you receive this,’ he wrote, ‘you will have heard of the affair of + to-day, and that our two lads have come out of it better than some others. + There are but nine officers living, and only four unhurt out of the 25th + Lancers, and Fred’s escape is entirely owing to your son.’ + </p> + <p> + Then followed a brief narrative of the events of Balaklava, that fatal + charge so well described as ‘magnifique mais pas la guerre,’ a history + that seemed like a dream in connexion with the timid Gilbert. His + individual story was thus:—He safely rode the ‘half a league’ + forward, but when more than half way back, his horse was struck to the + ground by a splinter of the same shell that overthrew Major Ferrars, at a + few paces’ distance from him. Quickly disengaging himself from his horse, + Gilbert ran to assist his friend, and succeeded in extricating him from + his horse, and supporting him through the remainder of the terrible space + commanded by the batteries. Fred, unable to move without aid, and to whom + each step was agony, had entreated Gilbert to relinquish his hold, and not + peril himself for a life already past rescue; but Gilbert had not seemed + to hear, and when several of the enemy came riding down on them, he had + used his revolver with such effect, as to lay two of the number prostrate, + and deter the rest from repeating the attack. + </p> + <p> + ‘All this I heard from Fred,’ continued the General; ‘he is in his usual + spirits, and tells me that he feels quite jolly since his arm has been + off, and he has been in his own bed, but I fear he has a good deal to + suffer, for his right side is terribly lacerated, and I shall be glad when + the next few days are over. He desires me to say with his love that the + best turn you ever did him was putting young Kendal into the 25th. Tell + your husband that I congratulate him on his son’s conduct, and am afraid + that his promotion without purchase is only too certain. Gilbert’s only + message was his love. Speaking seems to give him pain, and he is + altogether more prostrated than so slight a wound accounts for; but when I + saw him, he had just been told of the death of his colonel and several of + his brother officers, among them young Wynne, who shared his tent; and he + was completely overcome. There is, however, no cause for uneasiness; he + had not even been aware that he was hurt, until he fainted while Fred was + under the surgeon’s hands, and was then found to have an ugly contusion of + the chest, and a fracture of the uppermost rib on the left side. A few + days’ rest will set all that to rights, and I expect to see him on + horseback before we can ship poor Fred for Scutari. In the meantime they + are both in Fred’s tent, which is fairly comfortable.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia understood whence came Gilbert’s heroism. He had charged at first, + as he had hunted with Maurice, because there was no doing otherwise, and + in the critical moment the warm heart had done the rest, and equalled + constitutional courage: but then, she saw the gentle tender spirit sinking + under the slight injury, and far more at the suffering of his friend, the + deadly havoc among his comrades, and his own share in the carnage. The + General coolly mentioned the two enemies who had fallen by his pistol, and + Maurice shouted about them as if they had been two rabbits, but she knew + enough of Gilbert to be sure that what he might do in the exigency of + self-defence, would shock and sicken him in recollection. Poor Fred! how + little would she once have believed that his frightful wound could be a + secondary matter with her, only enhancing her gratitude on account of + another. + </p> + <p> + That was a happy evening; Maurice was sent to ask Ulick to dinner, and at + dessert drank the healths of his soldier relatives, among whom Mr. Kendal + with a smile at Ulick, included Bryan O’More. + </p> + <p> + In the universal good-will of her triumph, Albinia having read her + precious letter to every one, resolved to let the Drurys hear it, before + forwarding it to Fairmead. Lucy’s neglect of that family was becoming + flagrant, and Albinia was resolved to take her to make the call. + Therefore, after promulgating her intentions too decidedly for Algernon to + oppose them, she set out with Lucy in the most virtuous state of mind. + Maurice was to ride out with his father, and Sophy was taking care of + grandmamma, so she made her expedition with an easy mind, and absolutely + enjoyed the change of scenery. + </p> + <p> + The war had drawn every one nearer together, and Mrs. Drury was really + anxious about Gilbert, and grateful for the intelligence. Nor did Lucy + meet with anything unpleasant. Mrs. Cavendish Dusautoy, in waist-deep + flounces, a Paris bonnet, and her husband’s dignity, impressed her + cousins, and whatever use they might make of their tongues, it was not + till after she was gone. + </p> + <p> + As the carriage stopped at the door, Sophy came out with such a perturbed + an expression, as seemed to prelude fatal tidings; and Lucy was pausing to + listen, when she was hastily summoned by her husband. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! mamma, he has struck Maurice such a blow!’ cried Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Algernon? where’s Maurice? is he hurt?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is in the library with papa.’ + </p> + <p> + She was there in a moment. Maurice sat on his father’s knee, listening to + Pope’s Homer, leaning against him, with eye, cheek, and nose exceedingly + swelled and reddened; but these were symptoms of which she had seen enough + in past days not to be greatly terrified, even while she exclaimed aghast. + </p> + <p> + ‘Aye!’ said Mr. Kendal, sternly. ‘What do you think of young Dusautoy’s + handiwork?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What could you have done to him, Maurice?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I painted his image.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The children got into the painting-room,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘and did some + mischief; Maurice ought to have known better, but that was no excuse for + his violence. I do not know what would have been the consequence, if poor + little Albinia’s screams had not alarmed me. I found Algernon striking him + with his doubled fist.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But I gave him a dig in the nose,’ cried Maurice, in exultation; ‘I + pulled ever so much hair out of his whiskers. I had it just now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This sounds very sad,’ said Albinia, interrupting the search for the + trophy. ‘What were you doing in the painting-room? You know you had no + business there.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, mamma, little Awk wanted me to look at the pictures that Lucy shows + her. And then, don’t you know his image? the little white bare boy pulling + the thorn out of his foot. Awkey said he was naughty not to have his + clothes on, and so I thought it would be such fun to make a militiaman of + him, and so the paints were all about, and so I gave him a red coat and + black trousers.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, Maurice, Maurice, how could you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I couldn’t help it, mamma! I did so want to see what Algernon would do!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So he came up and caught us. And wasn’t he in a jolly good rage? that’s + all. He stamped, and called me names, and got hold of me to shake me, but + I know I kicked him well, and I had quite a handful out of his whisker; + but you see poor little Awkey is only a girl, and couldn’t help squalling, + so papa came up.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And in time!’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘he reeled against me, almost stunned, and + was hardly himself for some moments. His nose bled violently. That + fellow’s fist might knock down an ox.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But he didn’t knock <i>me</i> down,’ said Maurice. ‘You told me he did + not, papa.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s all he thinks of!’ said Mr. Kendal, in admiration. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not a cry nor a tear from first to last. I told Sophy to let me know when + Bowles came.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘For a black eye?’ cried the hard-hearted mother, laughing. ‘You should + have seen what Maurice and Fred used to do to each other.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, tell me, mamma,’ cried Maurice, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not now, master,’ she said, not thinking his pugnacity in need of such + respectable examples. ‘It would be more to the purpose to ask Mr. + Cavendish Dusautoy’s pardon for such very bad behaviour.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal looked at her in indignant surprise. ‘Ours is not the side for + the apology,’ he said. ‘If Dusautoy has a spark of proper feeling, he must + excuse himself for such a brutal assault.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am afraid Maurice provoked it; I hope my little boy is sorry for having + been so mischievous, and sees that he deserves—’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal silenced her by an impatient gesture, and feeling that anything + was better than the discussion before the boy, she tried to speak + indifferently, and not succeeding, left the room, much annoyed that alarm + and indignation had led the indulgent father to pet and coax the spirit + that only wanted to be taken down, and as if her discipline had received + its first real shock. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal followed her upstairs, no less vexed. ‘Albinia, this is + absurd,’ he said. ‘I will not have the child punished, or made to ask + pardon for being shamefully struck.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was shameful enough,’ said Albinia; ‘but, after all, I can’t wonder + that Algernon was in a passion; Maurice did behave very ill, and it would + be much better for him if you would not make him more impudent than he is + already.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I did not expect you to take part against your own child, when he has + been so severely maltreated,’ said he, with such unreasonable displeasure, + that almost thinking it play, she laughed and said, ‘You are as bad as the + mothers of the school-children, when they wont have them beaten.’ + </p> + <p> + He gave a look as if loth to trust his ears, walked into his room, and + shut the door. The thrill of horror came over her that this was the first + quarrel. She had been saucy when he was serious, and had offended him. She + sprang to the door, knocked and called, and was in agony at the moment’s + delay ere he returned, with his face still stern and set. Pleading and + earnest she raised her eyes, and surrendered unconditionally. ‘Dear + Edmund, don’t be vexed with me, I should not have said it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind,’ he said, affectionately; ‘I do not wish to interfere with + your authority, but it would be impossible to punish a child who has + suffered so severely; and I neither choose that Dusautoy should be made to + think himself the injured party, nor that Maurice should be put to the + pain of apologizing for an offence, which the other party has taken on + himself to cancel with interest.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was too much demolished to recollect her two arguments, that pride + on their side would only serve to make Algernon prouder, and that she did + not believe that asking pardon would be so bitter a pill to Maurice as his + father supposed. She could only feel thankful to have been forgiven for + her own offence. + </p> + <p> + When they met at dinner, all were formal, Algernon stiff and haughty, + ashamed, but too grand to betray himself, and Lucy restless and uneasy, + her eyes looking as if she had been crying. When Maurice came in at + dessert, the fourth part of his countenance emulating the unlucky cast in + gorgeous hues of crimson and violet, Algernon was startled, and turning to + Albinia, muttered something about ‘never having intended,’ and ‘having had + no idea.’ + </p> + <p> + He might have said more, if Mr. Kendal, with Maurice on his knee, had not + looked as if he expected it; and that look sealed Albinia’s lips against + expressing regret for the provocation; but Maurice exclaimed, ‘Never mind, + Algernon, it was all fair, and it doesn’t hurt now. I wouldn’t have + touched your image, but that I wanted to know what you would do to me. + Shake hands; people always do when they’ve had a good mill.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal looked across the table to his wife in a state of unbounded + exultation in his generous boy, and Albinia felt infinitely relieved and + grateful. Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy took the firm young paw, and said with an + attempt at condescension, ‘Very well, Maurice, the subject shall be + mentioned no more, since you have received a severer lesson than I + intended, and appear sensible of your error.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It wasn’t you that made me so,’ began Maurice, with defiant eye; but with + a strong sense of ‘let well alone,’ his father cut him short with, ‘That’s + enough, my man, you’ve said all that can be wished,’ lifted him again on + his knee, and stopped his mouth with almonds and raisins. + </p> + <p> + The subject was mentioned no more; Lucy considered peace as proclaimed, + and herself relieved from the necessity of such an unprecedented deed as + preferring an accusation against Maurice, and Albinia, unaware of the + previous persecution, did not trace that Maurice considered himself as + challenged to prove, that experience of his brother-in-law’s fist did not + suffice to make him cease from his ‘fun.’ + </p> + <p> + Two days after, Algernon was coming in from riding, when a simple voice + upon the stairs observed, ‘Here’s such a pretty picture!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Eh! what?’ said Algernon; and Maurice held it near to him as he stood + taking off his great coat. + </p> + <p> + ‘Such a pretty picture, but you mustn’t have it! No, it is Ulick’s.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Heavens and earth!’ thundered Algernon, as he gathered up the meaning. + ‘Who has dared—? Give it me—or—’ and as soon as he was + freed from the sleeves, he snatched at the paper, but the boy had already + sprung up to the first landing, and waving his treasure, shouted, ‘No, + it’s not for you, I’ll not give you Ulick’s picture.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ulick!’ cried Algernon, in redoubled fury. ‘You’re put up to this! Give + it me this instant, or it shall be the worse for you;’ but ere he could + stride up the first flight, Maurice’s last leg was disappearing round the + corner above, and the next moment the exhibition was repeated overhead in + the gallery. Thither did Algernon rush headlong, following the scampering + pattering feet, till the door of Maurice’s little room was slammed in his + face. Bursting it open, he found the chamber empty, but there was a shout + of elvish laughter outside, and a cry of dismay coming up from the garden, + impelled him to mount the rickety deal-table below the deep sunk dormer + window, when thrusting out his head and shoulders, he beheld his wife and + her parents gazing up in terror from the lawn. No wonder, for there was a + narrow ledge of leading without, upon which Maurice had suddenly appeared, + running with unwavering steps till in a moment he stooped down, and popped + through the similar window of Gilbert’s room. + </p> + <p> + While still too dizzy with horror to feel secure that the child was indeed + safe within, those below were startled by a frantic shout from Algernon: + ‘Let me out! I say, the imp has locked me in! Let me out!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia flew into the house and upstairs. Maurice was flourishing the key, + and executing a war-dance before the captive’s door, with a chant + alternating of war-whoops, ‘Promise not to hurt it, and I’ll let you out!’ + and ‘Pity poor prisoners in a foreign land!’ + </p> + <p> + She called to him to desist, but he was too wild to be checked by her + voice, and as she advanced to capture him, he shot like an arrow to the + other end of the passage, and down the back-stairs. She promised speedy + rescue, and hurried down, hoping to seize the culprit in the hall, but he + had whipped out at the back-door, and was making for the garden gate, when + his father hastened down the path to meet him, and seeing his retreat cut + off, he plunged into the bushes, and sprang like a cat up a + cockspur-thorn, too slender for ascent by a heavier weight, and thence + grinned and waved his hand to his prisoner at the window. + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice,’ called his father, ‘what does this mean?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I only want to take home Ulick’s picture. Then I’ll let him out.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What picture?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s my secret.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This is not play, Maurice,’ said Albinia. ‘Attend to papa.’ + </p> + <p> + The boy swung the light shrub about with him in a manner fearful to + behold, and looked irresolute. Lucy put in her cry, ‘You very naughty + child, give up the key this moment,’ and above, Algernon bawled appeals to + Mr. Kendal, and threats to Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Silence!’ said Mr. Kendal, sternly. ‘Maurice, this must not be. Come + down, and give me the key of your room.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will, papa,’ said Maurice, in a reasonable voice. ‘Only please promise + not to let Algernon have Ulick’s picture, for I got it without his knowing + it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I promise,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘Let us put an end to this.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice came down, and brought the key to his father, and while Lucy + hastened to release her husband, Mr. Kendal seized the boy, finding him + already about again to take flight. + </p> + <p> + ‘Papa, let me take home Ulick’s picture before he gets out,’ said Maurice, + finding the grasp too strong for him; but Mr. Kendal had taken the picture + out of his hand, and looked at it with changed countenance. + </p> + <p> + It depicted the famous drawing-room scene, in its native element, the moon + squinting through inky clouds at Lucy swooning on the sofa, while the + lofty presence of the Polysyllable discharged the fluid from the inkstand. + </p> + <p> + ‘Did Mr. O’More give you this?’ asked Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, it tumbled out of his paper-case. You know he said I might go to his + rooms and get the Illustrated News with the picture of Balaklava, and so + the newspaper knocked the paper-case down, and all the things tumbled out, + so I picked this up, and thought I would see what Algernon would say to + it, and then put it back again. Let me have it, papa, if he catches me, + he’ll tear it to smithereens.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t talk Irish, sir,’ said his father. ‘I see where your impertinence + comes from, and I will put a stop to it.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice gave back a step, amazed at his father’s unwonted anger, but far + greater wrath was descending in the person of Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy, who + came striding across the lawn, and planting himself before his + father-in-law, demanded, ‘I beg to know, sir, if it is your desire that I + should be deliberately insulted in this house?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No one can be more concerned than I am at what has occurred.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very well, sir; then I require that this intolerable child be soundly + flogged, that beggarly Irishman kicked out, and that infamous libel + destroyed!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, papa,’ cried Maurice, ‘you promised me the picture should be safe!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I promise you, you impudent brat,’ cried Algernon, ‘that you shall learn + what it is to insult your elders! You shall be flogged till you repent + it!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You will allow me to judge of the discipline of my own family,’ said Mr. + Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay! I knew how it would be! You encourage that child in every sort of + unbearable impudence; but I have endured it long enough, and I give you + warning that I do not remain another night under this roof unless I see + the impertinence flogged out of him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Papa never whips me,’ interposed Maurice. ‘You must ask mamma.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal bit his lips, and Albinia could have smiled, but their sense of + the ludicrous inflamed Algernon, and like one beside himself, he swung + round, and declaring he should ask his uncle if that were proper + treatment, he marched across the lawn, while Mr. Kendal exclaimed, ‘More + childish than Maurice!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma, what shall I do?’ was Lucy’s woful cry, as she turned back, + finding herself unable to keep up with his huge step, and her calls + disregarded. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear,’ said Albinia, affectionately, ‘you had better compose yourself + and follow him. His uncle will bring him to reason, and then you can tell + him how sorry we are.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You may assure him,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘that I am as much hurt as he can + be, that such an improper use should have been made of O’More’s intimacy + here, and I mean to mark my sense of it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And,’ said Lucy, ‘I don’t think anything would pacify him so much as + Maurice being only a little beaten, not to hurt him, you know.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If Maurice be punished, it shall not be in revenge,’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m afraid nothing else will do,’ said Lucy, wringing her hands. ‘He has + really declared that he will not sleep another night here unless Maurice + is punished; and whatever he says, he’ll do, and I know it would kill me + to go away in this manner.’ + </p> + <p> + Her father confidently averred that he would do no such thing, but she + cried so much as to move Maurice into exclaiming, ‘Look here, Lucy, I’ll + come up with you, and let him give me one good punch, and then we shall + all be comfortable again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know about the punching,’ said Albinia; ‘but I think the least + you can do, Maurice, is to go and ask his forgiveness for having been so + very naughty. You were not thinking what you were about when you locked + him in.’ + </p> + <p> + This measure was adopted, Mr. Kendal accompanying Lucy and the boy, while + Albinia went in search of Sophy, whom she found in grandmamma’s room, + looking very pale. ‘Well?’ was the inquiry, and she told what had passed. + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope Maurice will be punished,’ said Sophy; so unwonted a sentiment, + that Albinia quite started, though it was decidedly her own opinion. + </p> + <p> + ‘That meddling with papers was very bad,’ she said, with an extenuating + smile. + </p> + <p> + ‘Fun is a perfect demon when it becomes master,’ said Sophy. It was plain + that it was not Maurice that she was thinking of, but the caricature. Her + sister should have been sacred from derision. + </p> + <p> + ‘We must remember,’ she said, ‘that it was only through Maurice’s meddling + that we became aware of the existence of this precious work. It is not as + if he had shown it to any one. + </p> + <p> + ‘How many of the O’Mores have made game of it?’ asked Sophy, bitterly. + ‘No, I am glad I know of it, I shall not be deceived any more.’ + </p> + <p> + With these words she withdrew, evidently resolved to put an end to the + subject. Her face was like iron, and Albinia grieved for the deep + resentment that the man whom she had ventured to think of as devoted to + herself, had made game of her sister. Poor Sophy, to her that tryste had + been a subject of unmitigated affliction and shame, and it was a cruel + wound that Ulick O’More should, of all men, have turned it into ridicule. + What would be the effect on her? + </p> + <p> + In process of time Mr. Kendal returned. ‘Albinia,’ he said, ‘this is a + most unfortunate affair. He is perfectly impracticable, insists on + starting for Paris to-morrow, and I verily believe he will.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Lucy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She is in such distress, that I could not bear to look at her, but he + will not attend to her, nor to his uncle and aunt. Mrs. Dusautoy proposed + that they should come to the vicarage, where there would be no danger of + collisions with Maurice; but his mind can admit no idea but that he has + been insulted, and that we encourage it, and he thinks his dignity + concerned in resenting it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not much dignity in being driven off the field by a child of six years + old.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So his aunt told him, but he mixes it up with O’More, and insists on my + complaining to Mr. Goldsmith, and getting the lad dismissed for a + libellous caricaturist, as he calls it. Now, little as I should have + expected such conduct from O’More, it could not be made a ground of + complaint to his uncle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should think not. No one with more wit than Algernon would have dreamt + of it! But if Ulick came and apologized? Ah! but I forgot! Mr. Goldsmith + sent him to London this morning. Well, it may be better that he should be + out of the way of Algernon in his present mood.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Humph!’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘It is the first time I ever allowed a stranger + to be intimate in my family, and it shall be the last. I never imagined + him aware of the circumstance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor I; I am sure none of us mentioned it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice told him, I suppose. It is well that we should be aware who has + instigated the child’s impertinence. I shall keep him as much as possible + with me; he must be cured of Irish brogue and Irish coolness before they + are confirmed.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal’s conscience was evidently relieved by transferring to the + Irishman the imputation of fostering Maurice’s malpractices. + </p> + <p> + They were interrupted by Lucy’s arrival. She was come to take leave of + home, for her lord was not to be dissuaded from going to London by the + evening’s train. The greater the consternation, the sweeter his revenge. + Never able to see more than one side of a question, he could not perceive + how impossible it was for the Kendals to fulfil his condition with regard + to Ulick O’More, and he sullenly adhered to his obstinate determination. + Lucy was in an agony of grief, and perhaps the most painful blow was the + perception how little he was swayed by consideration for her. Her maid + packed, while her parents tried to console her. It was easier when she + bewailed the terrors of the voyage, and the uncertainty of hearing of dear + grandmamma and dear Gilbert, than when she sobbed about Algernon having no + feeling for her. It might be only too true, but her wifely submission + ought not to have acknowledged it, and they would not hear when they could + not comfort; and so they were forced to launch her on the world, with a + tyrant instead of a guide, and dreading the effect of dissipation on her + levity of mind, as much as they grieved for her feeble spirit. It was a + piteous parting—a mournful departure for a bride—a heavy + penalty for vanity and weakness. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately the result is to an action as the lens through which it is + viewed, and the turpitude of the deed seems to increase or diminish + according to the effect it produces. + </p> + <p> + Had it been in Algernon Dusautoy’s nature to receive the joke + good-humouredly, it might have been regarded as an audacious exercise of + wit, and have been quickly forgotten, but when it had actually made a + breach between him and his wife’s family, and driven him from Bayford when + everything conspired to make his departure unfeelingly cruel, the + caricature was regarded as a serious insult and an abuse of intimacy. Even + Mr. Kendal was not superior to this view, feeling the offence with all the + sensitiveness of a hot-tempered man, a proud reserved guardian of the + sanctities of home, and of a father who had seen his daughter’s weakest + and most faulty action turned into ridicule, and he seemed to feel himself + bound to atone for not going to all the lengths to which Algernon would + have impelled him, by showing the utmost displeasure within the bounds of + common sense. + </p> + <p> + Albinia, better appreciating the irresistibly ludicrous aspect of the + adventure, argued that the sketch harmlessly shut up in a paper-case + showed no great amount of insolence, and that considering how the + discovery had been made, it ought not to be visited. She thought the + drawing had better be restored without remarks by the same hand that had + abstracted it; but Mr. Kendal sternly declared this was impossible, and + Sophy’s countenance seconded him. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, then,’ said Albinia, ‘put it into my hands. I’m a bad manager in + general, but I can promise that Ulick will come down so shocked and + concerned, that you will not have the heart not to forgive him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The question is not of forgiveness,’ said Sophy, in the most rigid of + voices, as she saw yielding in her father’s face; if any one had to + forgive, it was poor Lucy and Algernon. All we have to do, is to be on our + guard for the future.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy is right,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘intimacy must be over with one who has + so little discretion or good taste.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then after his saving Maurice, he is to be given up, because he quizzed + the Polysyllable?’ cried Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not give him up,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘I highly esteem his good + qualities, and should be happy to do him a service, but I cannot have my + family at the mercy of his wit, nor my child taught disrespect. We have + been unwisely familiar, and must retreat.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what do you mean us to do?’ exclaimed Albinia. ‘Are we to cut him + systematically?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not know what course you may adopt,’ said Mr. Kendal, in a tone + whose grave precision rebuked her half petulant, half facetious inquiry. + ‘I have told you that I do not mean to do anything extravagant, nor to + discontinue ordinary civilities, but I think you will find that our former + habits are not resumed.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And Maurice must not be always with him,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Certainly not; I shall keep the boy with myself.’ + </p> + <p> + It was with the greatest effort that Albinia held her tongue. To have + Sophy not only making common cause against her, but inciting her father to + interfere about Maurice, was well-nigh intolerable, and she only endured + it by sealing her lips as with a bar of iron. + </p> + <p> + By-and-by came the reflection that if poor Sophy had a secret cause of + bitterness, it was she herself who had given those thoughts substance and + consciousness, and she quickly forgave every one save herself and + Algernon. + </p> + <p> + As to her little traitor son, she took him seriously in hand at bedtime, + and argued the whole transaction with him, representing the dreadful + consequences of meddling with people’s private papers under trust. Here + was poor Lucy taken away from home, and papa made very angry with Ulick, + because Maurice had been meddlesome and mischievous; and though he had not + been beaten for it, he would find it a worse punishment not to be trusted + another time, nor allowed to be with Ulick. + </p> + <p> + Maurice turned round with mouth open at hearing of papa’s anger with + Ulick, and the accusation of having brought his friend into trouble. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, Maurice, you remember how unhappy we were, Gilbert and all. It was + because it was sadly wrong of Gilbert and Lucy to have let Algernon in + without papa’s knowing it, and it was not right or friendly in Ulick to + laugh at what was so wrong, and grieved us all so much.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was such fun,’ said Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, Maurice; but fun is no excuse for doing what is unkind and + mischievous. Ulick would not have been amused if he had cared as much for + us as we thought he did, but, after all, his drawing the picture would + have done no harm but for a little boy, whom he trusted, never thinking + that an unkind wish to tease, would betray this foolish action, and set + his best friends against him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I did not know I should,’ said Maurice, winking hard. + </p> + <p> + ‘No; you did not know you were doing what, if you were older, would have + been dishonourable.’ + </p> + <p> + That word was too much! First he hid his face from his mother, and cried + out fiercely, ‘I’ve not—I’ve not been that and clenched his fist. + ‘Don’t say it, mamma.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If you had known what you were doing, it would have been dishonourable,’ + she repeated, gravely. ‘It will be a long time before you earn trust and + confidence again.’ + </p> + <p> + There was a great struggle with his tears. She had punished him, and + almost more than she could bear to see, but she knew the conquest must be + secured, and she tried, while she caressed him, to make him look at the + real cause of his lapse; he declared that it was ‘such fun’ to provoke + Algernon, and a little more brought out a confession of the whole course + of persecution, the child’s voice becoming quite triumphant as he told of + the success of his tricks, and his mother, though appalled at their + audacity, with great difficulty hindering herself from manifesting her + amusement. + </p> + <p> + She did not wonder at Algernon’s having found it intolerable, and though + angry with him for having made himself such fair game, she set to work to + impress upon Maurice his own errors, and the hatefulness of practical + jokes, and she succeeded so far as to leave him crying himself to sleep, + completely subdued, while she felt as if all the tears ought to have been + shed by herself for her want of vigilance. + </p> + <p> + Conflicting duties! how hard to strike the balance! She had readily given + up her own pleasures for the care of Mrs. Meadows, but when it came to her + son’s training, it was another question. + </p> + <p> + She much wished to see the note with which Mr. Kendal returned the + unfortunate sketch, but one of the points on which he was sensitive, was + the sacredness of his correspondence, and all that she heard was, that + Ulick had answered ‘not at all as Mr. Kendal had expected; he was nothing + but an Irishman, after all.’ But at last she obtained a sight of the note. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Bayford, Nov. 20th, 1854. +‘Dear Sir, +</pre> + <p> + ‘I was much astonished at the contents of your letter of this morning, and + greatly concerned that Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy should have done so much + honour to any production of mine, as to alter his arrangements on that + account. + </p> + <p> + ‘As the scrawl in question was not meant to meet the eye of any living + being, I should, for my own part, have considered it proper to take no + notice of what was betrayed by mere accident. I should have considered it + more conducive to confidence between gentlemen. I fully acquiesce in what + you say of the cessation of our former terms of acquaintance, and with + many thanks for past kindness, believe me, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Your obedient servant, + ‘U. O’MORE.’ +</pre> + <p> + Nothing was more evidently written in a passion at the invasion of these + private papers, and Albinia, though she had always feared he might + consider himself the aggrieved party, had hardly expected so much proud + irritation and so little regret. Mr. Kendal called him ‘foolish boy,’ and + tried to put the matter aside, but he was much hurt, and Ulick put himself + decidedly in the wrong by passing in the street with a formal bow, when + Mr. Kendal, according to his purpose of ordinary civility without an open + rupture, would have shaken hands. + </p> + <p> + Sophy looked white, stern, and cold, but said not a word; she deepened her + father’s displeasure quite sufficiently by her countenance. His was grave + disappointment in a youth whom he found less grateful than he thought he + had a right to expect; hers was the rankling of what she deemed an insult + to her sister, and the festering of a wound of which she was ashamed. She + meant to bear it well, but it made her very hard and rigid, and even the + children could hardly extract a smile from her. She seemed to have made a + determination to do all that Lucy or herself had ever done, and more too, + and listened to no entreaties to spare herself. Commands were met with + sullen resignation, entreaties were unavailing, and both in the sickroom + and the parish, she insisted on working beyond her powers. It was a + nightly battle to send her to bed, and Albinia suspected that she did not + sleep. Meantime Lucy had sailed, and was presently heard of in a whirl of + excitement that shortened her letters, and made them joyous and + self-important. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah!’ said Sophy, ‘she will soon forget that she ever had a home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor dear! Wait till trouble comes, and she will remember it only too + sadly,’ sighed Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Trouble is certain enough,’ said Sophy; ‘but I don’t think what we + deserve does us much good.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy could see nothing but the most ungentle and gloomy aspects. Gilbert + had not yet written, and she was convinced that he was either very ill, or + had only recovered to be killed at Inkermann, and she would only sigh at + the Gazette that announced Lieutenant Gilbert Kendal’s promotion to be + Captain, and Major the Honourable Frederick Ferrars to be + Lieutenant-Colonel. + </p> + <p> + The day after, however, came the long expected letter from the captain + himself. It was to Mrs. Kendal, and she detected a shade of disappointment + on her husband’s face, so she would have handed it to him at once, but he + said, ‘No, the person to whom the letter is addressed, should always be + the first to read it.’ + </p> + <p> + The letter began with Gilbert’s happiness in those from home, which he + called the greatest pleasure he had ever known. He feared he had caused + uneasiness by not writing sooner, but it had been out of his power while + Fred Ferrars was in danger. Then followed the account of the severe + illness from which Fred was scarcely beginning to rally, though that + morning, on hearing that he was to be sent home as soon as he could move, + he had talked about Canada and Emily. Gilbert said that not only time but + strength had been wanting for writing, for attendance on Fred had been all + that he could attempt, since moving produced so much pain and loss of + breath, that he had been forced to be absolutely still whenever he was not + wanted, but he was now much better. ‘Though,’ he continued, ‘I do not now + mind telling you that I had thought myself gone. You, who have known all + my feelings, and have borne with them so kindly, will understand the + effect upon me, when on the night previous to the 25th, I distinctly heard + my own name, in Edmund’s voice, at the head of my bed, just as he used to + call me when he had finished his lessons, and wanted me to come out with + him. As I started up, I heard it again outside the tent. I ran to the + door, but of course there was nothing, nor did poor Wynne hear anything. I + lay awake for some time, but slept at last, and had forgotten all by + morning. It did not even occur to me when I saw the pleasant race they had + cut out for us, nor through the whole affair. Do not ask me to describe + it, the scene haunts me enough. When I found that I had not come off + unhurt, and it seemed as if I could not ask for one of our fellows but to + hear he was dead or dying, poor Wynne among them, then the voice seemed a + summons. I was thoroughly done up, and could not even speak when General + Ferrars came to me; I only wanted to be let alone to die in peace. I fancy + I slept, for the next thing I heard was the Major’s voice asking for some + water, too feebly to wake the fellow who had been left in charge. I got + up, and found him in a state of high fever and great pain, and from that + time to the present, I have hardly thought of the circumstance, and know + not why I have now written it to you. Did my danger actually bring Edmund + nearer, or did its presence act on my imagination? Be that as it may, I + think, after the first impression of awe and terror, the having heard the + dear old voice braced me, and gave me a sense of being near home and less + lonely. Not that my hurt has been for an instant dangerous, and I am + mending every day; if it were warmer I should get on faster, but I cannot + stir into the air without bringing on cough. Tell Ulick O’More that we + entertained his brother at tea last evening, we were obliged to desire him + to bring his own cup, and he produced the shell of a land tortoise; it was + very like the fox and the crane. Poor fellow, it was the first good meal + he had for weeks, and I was glad he came in for some famous bread that the + General had sent us in. He made us much more merry than was convenient to + either of us, not being in condition for laughing. He is a fine lad, and + liked by all.’ Then came a break, and the letter closed with such tidings + of Inkermann as had reached the invalid’s tent. + </p> + <p> + A few lines from General Ferrars spoke of the improvement in both + patients, adding that Fred had had a hard struggle for his life, and had + only been saved, by Gilbert’s unremitting care by day and night. + </p> + <p> + Heroism had not transformed Gilbert, and Albinia’s old fondness glowed + with double ardour as she mused over his history of the battle-eve. His + father attributed the impression to a mind full of presage and excitement, + acted upon by strong memory; but woman-like, Albinia preferred the belief + that the one twin might have been an actual messenger to cheer and + strengthen the other for the coming trial. Sophy only said, ‘Gilbert’s + fancies as usual.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This was not like fancy,’ said Albinia. ‘This is an unkind way of taking + it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is common sense,’ she bluntly answered. ‘I don’t see why he should + think that Edmund has nothing better to do than to call him. It would be + childish.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia did not reply, disturbed by this display of jealousy and + harshness, as if every bud of tenderness had been dried up and withered, + and poor Sophy only wanted to run counter to any obvious sentiment. + </p> + <p> + Albinia was grateful for the message which gave her an excuse for seeking + Ulick out, and endeavouring to conciliate him. Mr. Kendal made no + objection, and expressed a hope that he might have become reasonable. She + therefore contrived to waylay him in the November darkness, holding out + her hand so that he took it at unawares, as if not recollecting that he + was offended, but in the midst his grasp relaxed, and his head went up. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have a message for you from Gilbert about your brother Bryan,’ she + said, and he could not defend himself from manifesting eager interest, as + she told of the tea-party; but that over, it was in stiff formal English + that he said, ‘I hope you had a good account.’ + </p> + <p> + It struck a chill, and she answered, almost imploringly, ‘Gilbert is much + better, thank you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am glad to hear it;’ and he was going to bow and pass on, when she + exclaimed, + </p> + <p> + ‘Ulick, why are we strangers?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was agreed on all hands that things past could not be undone,’ he + frigidly replied. + </p> + <p> + ‘Too true,’ she said; ‘but I do not think you know how sorry we are for my + poor little boy’s foolish trick.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I owe no displeasure to Maurice. He knew no more what he was doing than + if he had been a gust of wind; but if the wind had borne a private paper + to my feet, I would never have acted on the contents.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Unhappily,’ said Albinia, ‘some revelations, though received against our + will, cannot help being felt. We saw the drawing before we knew how he + came by it, and you cannot wonder that it gave pain to find that a scene + so distressing to us should have furnished you with amusement. It was + absurd in itself, but we had hoped it was a secret, and it wounded us + because we thought you would have been tender of our feelings.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t mean that it was fact!’ cried Ulick, stopping suddenly; and as + her silence replied, he continued, ‘I give you my word and honour that I + never imagined there was a word of truth in the farrago old Biddy told me, + and I’ll not deny that I did scrawl the scene down as the very picture of + a bit of slander. I only wonder I’d not brought it to yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray let me hear what she told you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! she said they two had been colloguing together by moonlight, and you + came home in the midst, and Miss Kendal fainted away, so he catches up the + ink and throws it over her instead of water, and you and Mr. Kendal came + in and were mad entirely; and Mr. Kendal threatened to brain him with the + poker if he did not quit it that instant, and sent Gilbert for a soldier + for opening the door to him, but you and Lucy went down on your bare knees + to get him to relent.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I own the poker does throw an air of improbability over the whole. + Minus that and the knees, I am afraid it is only too true. I suppose it + got abroad through the servants.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was an unlucky goose-quill that lay so handy,’ exclaimed Ulick; ‘but + you may credit me, no eye but my own ever saw the scrawl, nor would have + seen it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then, Ulick, if we all own that something is to be regretted, why do we + stand aloof, and persist in quarrelling?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I want no quarrel,’ said Ulick, stiffly. ‘Mr. Kendal intimated to me that + he did not wish for my company, and I’m not the man to force it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, Ulick, this is not what I hoped from you!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll tell you what, Mrs. Kendal, you could talk over the Giant’s Causeway + if you had a mind,’ said Ulick, with much agitation; ‘but you must not + talk over me, for your own judgment would be against it. You know what I + am, and what I came of, and what have I in the world except the honour of + a gentleman? Mr. Kendal and yourself have been my kindest friends, and + I’ll be grateful to my dying day; but if Mr. Kendal thinks I can submit + tamely when he resents what he never ought to have noticed, why, then, + what have I to do but to show him the difference? If his kindness was to + me as a gentleman and his equal, I love and bless him for it, but if it be + a patronizing of the poor clerk, why, then, I owe it to myself and my + people to show that I can stand alone, without cringing, and being + thankful for affronts.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did it ever occur to you to think whether pride be a sin?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘’Tis not pride!’ cried Ulick. It is my duty to my family and my name. + You’d say yourself, as you allowed before now, that it would be mere + meanness and servility to swallow insults for one’s own profit; and if I + were to say “you’re welcome, with many thanks, to shuffle over my private + papers, and call myself to account,” I’d better have given up my name at + once, for I’d have left the gentleman behind me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do believe it is solely for the O’Mores that you are making a duty of + implacability!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is a duty not to run from one’s word, and debase oneself for one’s own + advantage.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘One would think some wonderful advantage was held out to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The pleasantest hours of my life,’ murmured he sadly, under his breath. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, Ulick,’ she said, holding out her hand, ‘I’m not quite + dissatisfied; I think some day even an O’More will see that there is no + exception from the law of forgiveness in their special favour, and that + you will not be able to go on resenting what we have suffered from the + young of the spider-monkey.’ + </p> + <p> + Even this allusion produced no outward effect; he only shook hands + gravely, saying, ‘I never did otherwise than forgive, and regret the + consequences: I am very thankful for all your past kindness.’ + </p> + <p> + Worse than the Giant’s Causeway, thought Albinia as she parted from him. + Nothing is so hopeless as that sort of forgiveness, because it satisfies + the conscience. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal predicted that, the Keltic dignity having been asserted, good + sense and principle would restore things to a rational footing. What this + meant might be uncertain, but he certainly missed Prometheus, and found + Maurice a poor substitute. Indulgence itself could hardly hold out in + unmitigated intercourse with an obstreperous dunce not seven years old, + and Maurice, deprived of Gilbert, cut off from Ulick, with mamma busy, and + Sophy out of spirits, underwent more snubbing than had ever yet fallen to + his lot. Not that he was much concerned thereat; and Mr. Kendal would + resume his book after a lecture upon good manners, and then be roused to + find his library a gigantic cobweb, strings tied to every leg of table or + chair, and Maurice and the little Awk enacting spider and fly, heedless of + the unwilling flies who might suffer by their trap. Such being the case, + his magnanimity was the less amazing when he said, ‘Albinia, there is no + reason that O’More should not eat his Christmas dinner here.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very well. I trust he will not think it needful still to be + self-denying.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is not our part to press advances which are repelled,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed, Sophy,’ said her father, smiling, ‘I see nothing attractive in + the attitude of rocks rent asunder.’ + </p> + <p> + The undesigned allusion must have gone deep, for she coloured to a purple + crimson, and said in a freezing tone, ‘I thought you considered that to + take him up again would be a direct insult to Lucy and her husband.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They do not show much consideration for us,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘How long + ago was the date of her last letter?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nearly three weeks,’ said Albinia. ‘Poor child, how could she write with + the catalogue raisonnee of the Louvre to learn by heart?’ + </p> + <p> + The Dusautoys yearly gave a Christmas tea-party to the teachers in the + Sunday-school, who had of late become more numerous, as Mr. Dusautoy’s + influence had had more time to tell. Mrs. Kendal was reckoned on as one of + the chief supporters of the gaiety of the evening, but on this occasion + she was forced to send Sophia alone. + </p> + <p> + Sophy regarded it as a duty and a penance, and submitted the more readily + because it was so distasteful. It was, however, more than she had reckoned + on to find that the party had been extended to the male teachers, an + exceedingly good and lugubrious-looking youth lately apprenticed to Mr. + Bowles, and Ulick O’More. It was the first time she had met the latter + since his offence. She avoided seeing him as long as possible, though all + his movements seemed to thrill her, and so confused the conversation which + she was trying to keep up, that she found herself saying that Genevieve + Durant had lost an arm, and that Gilbert would spend Christmas in London. + </p> + <p> + She felt him coming nearer; she knew he was passing the Miss Northover in + the purple silk and red neck-ribbon; she heard him exchanging a few civil + words with the sister with the hair strained off her face; she knew he was + coming; she grew more eager in her fears for Mr. Rainsforth’s chest. + </p> + <p> + Tea was announced. Sophy held back in the general move, Ulick made a step + nearer, their eyes met, and if ever eyes spoke, hers ordered him to keep + his distance, while he glanced affront for affront, bowed and stepped + back. + </p> + <p> + Sophy sat by Miss Jane Northover, and endeavoured to make her talk. + Anything would have been better than the echoes of the sprightliness at + the lower end of the table, where Ulick was talking what he would have + called blarney to Miss Susan Northover and Miss Mary Anne Higgins, both at + once, till he excited them into a perpetual giggle. Mr. Dusautoy was + delighted, and evidently thought this brilliant success; Mrs. Dusautoy was + less at her ease—the mirth was less sober and more exclusive than + she had intended; and Sophy, finding nothing could be made of Miss Jane, + turned round to her other neighbour, Mr. Hope, and asked his opinion of + the Whewell and Brewster controversy on the Plurality of Worlds. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hope had rather a good opinion of Miss Sophia, and as she had never + molested him, could talk to her, so he straightway became engrossed in the + logical and theological aspects of the theory; and Mrs. Dusautoy could + hardly suppress her smile at this unconscious ponderous attempt at a + counter flirtation, with Saturn and Jupiter as weapons for light + skirmishing. + </p> + <p> + Ulick received the invitation to dinner, and did not accept it. He said he + had an engagement—Albinia wondered what it could be, and had reason + afterwards to think that he had the silent young apothecary to a Christmas + dinner in his own rooms—an act of charity at least, if not of + forgiveness. Mr. Johns, the senior clerk, whose health had long been + failing, was about to retire, and this announcement was followed by the + appearance of a smart, keen-looking young man of six or seven-and-twenty, + whom Miss Goldsmith paraded as her cousin, Mr. Andrew Goldsmith, and it + was generally expected that he would be taken into partnership, and + undertake old John’s work, but in a fortnight he disappeared, and young + O’More was promoted to the vacant post with an increase of salary. It was + mortifying only to be informed through Mr. Dusautoy, instead of by the lad + himself. + </p> + <p> + The Eastern letters were the chief comfort. First came tidings that + Gilbert, not having yet recovered his contusion, was to accompany Colonel + Ferrars to Scutari, and then after a longer interval came a brief and + joyous note—Gilbert was coming home! On his voyage from the Crimea + he had caught cold, and this had brought on severe inflammation on the + injured chest, which had laid him by for many days at Scutari. The colonel + had become the stronger of the two, in spite of a fragment of shell lodged + so deeply in the side, that the medical board advised his going to London + for its removal. Both were ordered home together with six months’ leave, + and Gilbert’s note overflowed with glad messages to all, including + Algernon, of whose departure he was still in ignorance. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal knew not whether he was most gratified or discomfited by the + insinuating ringer who touched his hat, hoping for due notice of the + captain’s arrival in time to welcome him with a peal of bells. Indeed, + Bayford was so excited about its hero, that there were symptoms of plans + for a grand reception with speeches, cheers, and triumphal arches, which + caused Sophy to say she hoped that he would come suddenly without any + notice, so as to put a stop to all that nonsense; while Albinia could not + help nourishing a strange vague expectation that his return would be the + beginning of better days. + </p> + <p> + At last, Sophia, with a touch of the old penny club fever, toiled over the + school clothing wilfully and unnecessarily for two hours, kept up till + evening without owning to the pain in her back, but finally returned so + faint and dizzy that she was forced to be carried helpless to her room, + and the next day could barely drag herself to the couch in the + morning-room, where she lay quite prostrated, and grieved at increasing + instead of lessening her mother’s cares. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma, don’t stay with me. You are much too busy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I am not. The children are out, and grandmamma asleep, and I am going + to write to Lucy, but there’s no hurry. Let me cool your forehead a little + longer.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How I hate being another bother!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I like you much better so, than when you would not let me speak to you, + my poor child.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could not,’ she said, stifling her voice on the cushion, and averting + her head; but in a few moments she made a great effort, and said, ‘You + think me unforgiving, mamma. It was not entirely that. It was hating + myself for an old fancy, a mere mistake. I have got over it; and I will + not be in error again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy dear, if you find strength in pride, it will only wound yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not think I am proud,’ said Sophy, quietly. ‘I may have been + headstrong, but I despise myself too much for pride.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Are you sure it was mere fancy? It was an idea that occurred to more than + to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hush!’ cried Sophy. ‘Had it been so, could he have ridiculed Lucy? Could + he have flown out so against papa? No; that caricature undeceived me, and + I am thankful. He treated us as cousins—no more—he would act + in the same manner by any of the Miss O’Mores of Ballymakilty, nay, by + Jane Northover herself. We did not allow for Irish manner.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If so, he had no right to do so. I shall never wish to see him here + again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, mamma, he did not know the folly he had to deal with. Next time I + meet him, I shall know how to be really indifferent. Now, this is the last + time we will mention the subject!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia obeyed, but still hoped. It was well that hope remained, for her + task was heavier than ever; Mrs. Meadows was feebler, but more restless + and wakeful, asking twenty times in an hour for Mrs. Kendal. The doctors + thought it impossible that she should hold out another fortnight, but she + lived on from day to day, and at times Albinia hardly could be absent from + her for ten minutes together. Sophy was so completely knocked up that she + could barely creep about the house, and was forbidden the sick-room; but + she was softened and gentle, and was once more a companion to her father, + while eagerly looking forward to devoting herself to Gilbert. + </p> + <p> + A letter with the Malta post-mark was eagerly opened, as the harbinger of + his speedy arrival. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Royal Hotel, Malta, + February 10th, 1855. +</pre> + <p> + ‘Dearest Mrs. Kendal, + </p> + <p> + ‘I am afraid you will all be much disappointed, though your grief cannot + equal mine at the Doctor’s cruel decree. We arrived here the day before + yesterday, but I had been so ill all the voyage with pain in the side and + cough, that there was no choice but to land, and call in Dr.——, + who tells me that my broken rib has damaged my lungs so much, that I must + keep perfectly quiet, and not think of going home till warm weather. If I + am well enough to join by that time, I shall not see you at all unless you + and my father could come out. Am I nourishing too wild a hope in thinking + it possible? Since Lucy has been so kind as to promise never to leave + grandmamma, I cannot help hoping you might be spared. I do not think my + proposal is selfish, since my poor grandmother is so little conscious of + your cares; and Ferrars insists on remaining with me till he sees me in + your hands, though they say that the splinter must be extracted in London, + and every week he remains here is so much suffering, besides delaying his + expedition to Canada. I have entreated him to hasten on, but he will not + hear of it. He is like a brother or a father to me, and nurses me most + tenderly, when he ought to be nursed himself. We are famishing for + letters. I suppose all ours have gone up to Balaklava, and thence will be + sent to England. If we were but there! We are both much better for the + quiet of these two days, and are to move to-morrow to a lodging that a + friend of Fred’s has taken for us at Bormola, so as to be out of the Babel + of these streets—we stipulated that it should be large enough to + take in you and my father. I wish Sophy and the children would come too—it + would do them all the good in the world; and Maurice would go crazy among + the big guns; I am only afraid we should have him enlisting as a drummer. + The happy pair would be very glad to have the house to themselves, and + would persuade themselves that it was another honeymoon. + </p> + <p> + ‘Good-bye. Instead of looking for a letter, I shall come down to meet you + at the Quarantine harbour. Love to all. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Your most affectionate + ‘GILBERT KENDAL.’ +</pre> + <p> + How differently Gilbert wrote when really ill, from his desponding style + when he only fancied himself so, thought Albinia, as, perplexed and + grieved, she handed the letter to her husband, and opened the enclosure, + written in the laboured, ill-formed characters of a left-hand not yet + accustomed to doing the offices of both. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear Albinia, + </p> + <p> + ‘Come, if possible. His heart is set upon it, though he does not realize + his condition, and I cannot bear to tell him. Only the utmost care can + save him. I am doing my best for him, but my nursing is as left-handed as + my writing. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Ever yours, + ‘F.F.’ +</pre> + <p> + His wife’s look of horror was Mr. Kendal’s preparation for this emphatic + summons, perhaps a shock less sudden to him than to her, for he had not + been without misgivings ever since he had heard of the situation of the + injury. He read and spoke not, till the silence became intolerable, and + she burst out almost with a scream, ‘Oh! Edmund, I knew not what I did + when I took grandmamma into this house!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This is very perplexing,’ he said, his feelings so intense that he dared + only speak of acting; ‘I must set out to-night.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Order me to come with you,’ she said breathlessly. ‘That will cancel + everything else.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Would Mrs. Drury take charge of her aunt?’ said he, with a moment’s + hesitation; and Albinia felt it implied his impression that they were + bound by her repeated promises never to quit the invalid, but she only + spoke the more vehemently— + </p> + <p> + ‘Mrs Drury? She might—she would, under the circumstances. She could + not refuse. If you desire me to come, I should not be doing wrong; and + grandmamma might never even miss me. Surely—oh surely, a young life, + full of hope and promise, that may yet be saved, is not to be set against + what cannot be prolonged more than a few weeks.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As to that,’ said Mr. Kendal, in the deliberate tone which denoted + dissatisfaction, ‘though of course it would be the greatest blessing to + have you with us, I think you may trust Gilbert to my care. And we must + consider poor Sophia.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She could not bear to be considered.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; but it would be leaving her in a most distressing position, when she + is far from well, and with most uncongenial assistants. You see, poor + Gilbert reckons on Lucy being here, which would make it very different. + But think of poor Sophia in the event of Mrs. Meadows not surviving till + our return!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are right! It would half kill her! My promise was sacred; I was a + wretch to think of breaking it. But when I think of my boy—my + Gilbert pining for me, and I deserting him—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘For the sake of duty,’ said her husband. ‘Let us do right, and trust that + all will be overruled for the best. I shall go with an easier mind if I + leave you with the other children, and I can be the sooner with him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could travel as fast.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I may soon bring him home to you. Or you might bring the others to join + us in the south of France. You will all need change.’ + </p> + <p> + The decision was made, and her judgment acquiesced, though she could + hardly have cast the balance for herself. She urged no more, even when + relentings came over her husband at the thought of the trials to which he + was leaving her, and of those which he should meet in solitude; yet not + without a certain secret desire to make himself sufficient for the care + and contentment of his own son. He cast about for all possible helpers for + her, but could devise nothing except a note entreating her brother to be + with her as much as possible, and commending her to the Dusautoys. It was + a less decided kindness that he ordered Maurice’s pony to be turned out to + grass, so as to prevent rides in solitude, thinking the boy too young to + be trusted, and warned by the example of Gilbert’s temptations. + </p> + <p> + Going up to the bank to obtain a supply of gold, he found young O’More + there without his uncle. The tidings of Gilbert’s danger had spread + throughout the town, and one heart at least was softened. Ulick wrung the + hand that lately he would not touch, and Mr. Kendal forgot his wrath as he + replied to the warm-hearted inquiry for particulars. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then Mrs. Kendal cannot go with you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, it is impossible. There is no one able to take charge of Mrs. + Meadows.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! and Mrs. Cavendish Dusautoy is gone! I grieve for the hour when my + pen got the better of me. Mr. Kendal, this is worse than I thought. Your + son will never forgive me when he knows I’m at the bottom of his + disappointment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is something to forgive on all hands,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘That + meddlesome boy of mine has caused worse results than we could have + contemplated. I believe it has been a lesson to him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know it has to some one else,’ said Ulick. ‘I wish I could do anything! + It would be the greatest comfort you could give me to tell me of a thing I + could do for Gilbert or any of you. If you’d send me to find Mr. Cavendish + Dusautoy, and tell him ‘twas all my fault, and bring them back—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Rather too wild a project, thank you,’ said Mr. Kendal, smiling. ‘No; the + only thing you could do, would be—if that boy of mine have not + completely forfeited your kindness—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice! Ah! how I have missed the rogue.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor little fellow, I am afraid he may be a burthen to himself and every + one else. It would be a great relief if you could be kind enough now and + then to give him the pleasure of a walk.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice did not attend greatly to papa’s permission to go out with Mr. + O’More. Either it was clogged with too many conditions of discretion, and + too many reminiscences of the past; or Maurice’s mind was too much bent on + the thought of his brother. Both children haunted the packing up, + entreating to send out impossible presents. Maurice could hardly be + persuaded out of contributing a perilous-looking boomerang, which he + argued had some sense in it; while he scoffed at the little Awk, who stood + kissing and almost crying over the china countenance of her favourite + doll, entreating that papa would take dear Miss Jenny because Gibbie loved + her the best of all, and always put her to sleep on his knees. At last + matters were compromised by Sophy, who roused herself to do one of the few + things for which she had strength, engrossing them by cutting out in paper + an interminable hunt with horses and dogs adhering together by the noses + and tails, which, when brilliantly painted according to their united + taste, they might safely imagine giving pleasure to Gilbert, while, at any + rate, it would do no harm in papa’s pocket-book. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI. + </h2> + <p> + The day after Mr. Kendal’s departure, Mrs. Meadows had another attack, but + a fortnight still passed before the long long task was over and the weary + spirit set free. There had been no real consciousness and no one could + speak of regret; of anything but relief and thankfulness that release had + come at last, when Albinia had redeemed her pledge and knew she should no + more hear of the dreary ‘very bad night,’ nor be greeted by the low, + restless moan. The long good-night was come, and, on the whole, there was + peace and absence of self-condemnation in looking back on the past + connexion. Forbearance and unselfishness were recompensed by the calm + tenderness with which she could regard one who at the outset had appeared + likely to cause nothing but frets and misunderstandings. + </p> + <p> + Had she and Sophy been left to themselves, there would have been nothing + to break upon this frame of mind, but early the next day arrived Mr. and + Mrs. Drury, upsetting all her arrangements, implying that it had been + presumptuous to exert any authority without relationship. It did seem hard + that the claims of kindred should be only recollected in order to unsettle + her plans, and offend her unostentatious tastes. + </p> + <p> + Averse both to the proposals, and to the discussion, she felt unprotected + and forlorn, but her spirit revived as she heard her brother’s voice in + the hall, and she hastened to put herself in his hands. He declined doing + battle, he said it would be better to yield than to argue, and leave a + grudge for ever. ‘It will not vex Edmund,’ he said, ‘and though you and + Sophy may be pained by incongruities, they will hurt you less than + disputing.’ + </p> + <p> + She felt that he was right, and by yielding the main points he contrived + amicably to persuade Mr. Drury out of the numerous invitations and grand + luncheon as well as to adhere to the day that she had originally fixed for + the funeral, after which he hoped to take her and the young ones home with + him and give her the thorough change and rest of which the over-energy of + her manner betrayed the need. + </p> + <p> + Not that she consented. She could not bear not to meet her letters at + once; or suppose Edmund and Gilbert should return to an empty, unaired + house, and she thought herself selfish, when it might do so much good to + Sophy, &c., &c., &c.—till Mr. Ferrars, going home for a + night, agreed with Winifred, that domineering would be the only way to + deal with her. + </p> + <p> + On his return he found Albinia on the stairs, and boxes and trunks carried + down after her. Running to him, she exclaimed, abruptly, ‘I am going to + Malta, Maurice, to-morrow evening!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Has Edmund sent for you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not exactly—he did not know—but Gilbert is dying, and + wretched at my not coming. I never wished him good-by—he thinks I + did not forgive him. Don’t say a word—I shall go.’ + </p> + <p> + He held her trembling hands, and said, ‘This is not the way to be able to + go. Come in here, sit down and tell me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is no use to argue. It is my duty now,’ said Albinia; but she let him + lead her into the room, where Sophy was changing the bright border of a + travelling-cloak to crape, and Maurice stood watching, as if stunned. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is settled,’ continued she, rapidly. ‘Sophy and the children go to the + vicarage. Yes, I know, you are very kind, but Maurice would be + troublesome, and Winifred is not well enough, and the Dusautoys wish it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, that may be the best plan, as I shall be absent.’ + </p> + <p> + She turned round, startled. + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot let you go alone.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nonsense—Winifred—Sunday—Lent—I don’t want any + one. Nothing could happen to me.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars caught Sophy’s eye beaming with sudden relief and gratitude, + and repeated, ‘If you go, I must take you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t wait for Sunday,’ she said. + </p> + <p> + ‘What have you heard?’ + </p> + <p> + She produced the letter, and read parts of it. The whole stood thus:— + </p> + <p> + ‘Bormola, 11 p.m., February 28th, 1855. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dearest Albinia, + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope all has gone fairly well with you in my absence, and that Sophia + is well again. Could I have foreseen the condition of affairs here, I + doubt whether I could have resolved on leaving you at home, though you may + be spared much by not being with us. I landed at noon to-day, and was met + in the harbour by your cousin, who had come off in a boat in hopes of + finding you on board. He did his best to prepare me for Gilbert’s + appearance, but I was more shocked than I can express. There can no longer + be any doubt that it is a case of rapid decline, brought on by exposure, + and, aggravated by the injury at Balaklava. Colonel Ferrars fancies that + Gilbert’s exertions on his behalf in the early part of his illness may + have done harm, by preventing the broken bone from uniting, and causing it + to press on the lungs; but knowing the constitutional tendency, we need + not dwell on secondary causes, and there is no one to whom we owe a deeper + debt of gratitude than to your cousin, for his most assiduous and + affectionate attendance at a time when he is very little equal to + exertion. They are like brothers together, and I am sure nothing has been + wanting to Gilbert that he could devise for his comfort. They are in a + tolerably commodious airy lodging, where I found Gilbert propped up with + cushions on a large chair by the window, flushed with eager watching. Poor + fellow, to see how his countenance fell when he found I was alone, was the + most cutting reproach I ever received in my life. He was so completely + overcome, that he could not restrain his tears, though he strove hard to + command himself in this fear of wounding my feelings; but there are + moments when the truth will have its way, and you have been more to him + than his father has ever been. May it be granted that he may yet know how + I feel towards him! His first impression was that you had never forgiven + him for his unfortunate adventure with Maurice, and could never feel + towards him as before; and though I trust I have removed this idea, + perhaps such a letter as you can write might set his heart at rest. + Ferrars says that hitherto his spirits have kept up wonderfully, though + latterly he had been evidently aware of his condition, but he has been + very much depressed this evening, probably from the reaction of excited + expectation. On learning the cause of Lucy’s desertion, he seemed to + consider that his participation in the transactions of that night had + recoiled upon himself, and deprived him of your presence. It was very + painful to see how he took it. He was eager to be told of the children, + and the only time I saw him brighten was when I gave him their messages. I + am writing while I hope he sleeps. I am glad to be here to relieve the + Colonel, who for several nights past has slept on the floor, in his room, + not thinking the Maltese servant trustworthy. He looks very ill and + suffering, but seems to have no thought but for Gilbert, and will not hear + of leaving him; and, in truth, they cling together so affectionately, that + I could not bear to urge their parting, even were Fred more fit to travel + home alone. I will close my letter to-morrow after the doctor’s visit.’ + </p> + <p> + The conclusion was even more desponding; the physician had spoken of the + case as hopeless, and likely to terminate rapidly; and Gilbert, who was + always at the worst in the morning, had shown no symptom that could lead + his father to retract his first impression. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars saw that it would be useless and cruel to endeavour to detain + his sister, and only doubted whether in her precipitation, she might not + cross and miss her husband in a still sadder journey homeward, and this + made him the more resolved to be her escort. When she dissuaded him + vehemently as though she were bent on doing something desperate, he + replied that he was anxious about Fred, and if she and her husband were + engrossed by their son, he should be of service in bringing him home; and + this somewhat reconciled her to what was so much to her benefit. Only she + gave notice that he must not prevent her from travelling day and night, to + which he made no answer, while Sophy hoarsely said that but for knowing + herself to be a mere impediment, she should have insisted on going, and + her uncle must not keep mamma back. Then Maurice imitatively broke out, + ‘Mamma, take me to Gilbert, I wont be a plague, I promise you.’ He was + scarcely silenced before Mr. Dusautoy came striding in to urge on her that + Fanny and himself should be much happier if he were permitted to conduct + Mrs. Kendal to Malta (the fact being that Fanny was persuaded that Mr. + Ferrars would obviate such necessity). Albinia almost laughed, as she had + declared that she had set all the parsons in the country in commotion, and + Mr. Dusautoy was obliged to limit his good offices to the care of the + children, and the responsibility of the Fairmead Sunday services. + </p> + <p> + The good hard-worked brother had hardly time to eat his luncheon, before + he started to inform his wife, and prepare for his journey. Winifred was a + very good sister on an emergency; she had not once growled since poor Mrs. + Meadows had been really ill; and though she had been feeding on hopes of + Albinia’s visit, and was far from strong, she quashed her husband’s + misgivings, and cheerily strove to convince him that he would be wanted by + no one, least of all by herself. A slight vituperation of the polysyllabic + pair was all the relief she permitted herself, and who could blame her for + that, when even Mr. Dusautoy called the one ‘that foolish fellow,’ and the + other ‘poor dear Lucy?’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia and Sophy safe over the fire that evening, after their sorrowful + tasks unable to turn to anything else, wondering how and when they should + meet again, and their words coming slowly, and with long intervals of + silence. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear child,’ said Albinia, ‘promise me to take care of yourself, and to + let Mrs. Dusautoy judge what you can do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m not worth taking care of,’ muttered Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘We think you worth our anxiety,’ said Albinia, tenderly. + </p> + <p> + ‘I will not make it worse for you,’ meekly replied Sophy. ‘I don’t think + I’m cross now, I could not be—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, indeed you are not, my dear. We have leant on each other, and when we + come home, you will make our welcome.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The children will.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! I think Maurice will behave well. He is very much subdued. I told him + he was to do no lessons, and he fairly burst out crying.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, mamma!’ exclaimed Sophy, hurt, indignant, and nearly ready to follow + his example. + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not think he has mastery over himself, so as to help being unruly + and idle, when he is chained to a spelling-book. I would not for the world + set him and you to worry each other for an hour a day, and I shall start + afresh with him all the better, when he knows what absence of lessons is, + and has forgotten all the old associations.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How could you make him cry?’ said Sophy, in reproach. + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe the tears only wanted an excuse. I <i>did</i> put it on his + naughtiness, which usually would have elated him; but his heart was so + full as to make even a long holiday a punishment. That boy often shows me + what a thorough Kendal he is; things sink into him as they never did into + us at the same age, when my aunts used to think I had no feeling. Oh, + Sophy! how will you comfort him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘His will be an unstained sorrow,’ said Sophy, from the depths of her + heart. ‘O, mamma, only tell Gilbert what you know I feel—no, you + don’t, no one can, but what I would not give, to change all I have felt + towards him? If I had been like Edmund, and prized his gentleness and + sweetness, and the humility that was the best worth of all, how different + it would be! But I was proud of despising where truth was wanting.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should have thought I should have done the same,’ said Albinia; but + there was no keeping from loving Gibbie. Besides, he was sincere, except + when he was afraid, and he was miserable when he was deceiving.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, after you came,’ said Sophy; ‘but I believe I helped him to think + truth disagreeable. I showed my scorn for his want of boldness, instead of + helping him. Think of my having fancied <i>he</i> had no courage.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Kindness taught him courage,’ said Albinia. ‘It might perhaps have + earlier taught him moral courage. If you and he could have leant against + each other, and been fused together, you would have made something like + what Edmund was, I suppose.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I drove him off,’ cried Sophy. ‘I was no sister to him. Will you bring me + his forgiveness?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed I will; and you may feel sure of it already, dearest. It will make + you gentler all your life.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I shall grow harder and harsher the longer I live, and the fewer I + have to love me in spite of myself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think not,’ said Albinia. ‘Humility will make your severity more + gentle, and you will soften, and win love and esteem.’ + </p> + <p> + She looked up, but cried, ‘I shall never make up to Gilbert nor to + grandmamma!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia felt it almost as hard to leave her as the two little ones. + </p> + <p> + When once on her journey, and feeling each moment an advance towards the + goal, Albinia was less unhappy than she could have thought possible; she + trusted to her brother, and enjoyed the absence of responsibility, and + while he let her go on, could give her mind to what pleased and interested + him, and he, who was an excellent courier, so managed that there were few + detentions to overthrow her equanimity on the way to Marseilles. + </p> + <p> + But when the Vectis came in sight of the rocky isle, with its white stony + heights, the heart-sickness of apprehension grew over her, and she saw, as + in a mist, the noble crescent-shaped harbour, the stately ramparts, mighty + batteries, the lofty terraces of flat-roofed dwellings, apparently rather + hewn out of, than built on, the dazzling white stone, between the intense + blue of the sky above and of the sea below. Her eye roamed as in a dream + over the crowds of gay boats with white awnings, and the motley crowds of + English and natives, the boatmen screaming and fighting for the luggage, + and beggars plaintively whining out their entreaties for small coins. Her + brother Maurice had been at Malta as a little boy, and remembered the + habits of the place enough, as soon as they had set foot on shore, to + secure a brown-skinned loiterer, in Phrygian cap, loose trousers, and + crimson sash, to act as guide and porter. + </p> + <p> + Along the Strada San Giovanni, a street of stairs, shut in by high stone + walls, with doors opening on either side, they went not as fast as + Albinia’s quivering limbs would fain have moved, yet too fast when her + breath came thick with anxiety—down again by the stone stairs called + ‘Nix Mangiare’ (nothing to eat), from the incessant cry of the beggars + that haunt them—then again in a boat, which carried them amid a + strange world of shipping to the bottom of the dockyard creek, where, + again landing, she was told she had but to ascend, and she would be at + Bormola. + </p> + <p> + She could have paused, in dread; and she leant heavily on her brother’s + arm when they presently turned up a lane, no broader than a passage, with + low stone steps at irregular intervals. They were come! + </p> + <p> + The summons at the door was answered by a dark-visaged Maltese, and while + Maurice was putting the question whether Colonel Ferrars and Captain + Kendal lived here, a figure appeared on the stairs, and beckoned, + ascending noiselessly with languid steps and slippered feet, and leading + the way into a slightly furnished room, with green balcony and striped + blind. There he turned and held out his hand; but Albinia hardly + recognised him till he said, ‘I thought I heard your voice, Maurice;’ and + then the low subdued tone, together with the gaunt wasted form, haggard + aged face, the long beard, and worn undress uniform, with the armless + sleeve, made her so realize his sufferings, that, clasping his remaining + hand in both her own, she could utter nothing but, ‘Oh! Fred! Fred!’ + </p> + <p> + He looked at her brother with such inquiry, perplexity, and compassion, + that almost in despair Maurice exclaimed, ‘We are not too late!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, thank God!’ said Frederick. ‘We did hope you might come! Sit down, + Albinia; I’ll—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Edmund! Is he there!’ she said, scarcely alive to what was passing, and + casting another expressively sorrowful look at Maurice, Fred answered, + ‘Yes, I will tell him: I will see if you can come in.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Stay,’ said Mr. Ferrars; ‘she should compose herself, or she will only + hurt herself and Gilbert.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know,’ murmured Fred, hastily leaving them. + </p> + <p> + Maurice understood that Gilbert was even then summoned by one who would + brook no delays; but Albinia, too much agitated to notice slight + indications, was about to follow, when her brother took her hand, and + checked her like a child. ‘Wait a minute, my dear, he will soon come + back.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where’s Edmund? Why mayn’t I go to Gilbert?’ she said, still bewildered. + </p> + <p> + ‘Fred is gone to tell them. Sit down, my dear; take off your bonnet, you + are heated, you will be better able to go to him, if you are quiet.’ + </p> + <p> + She passively submitted to be placed on a chair, and to remove her bonnet; + and seeing some dressing apparatus through an open door, Maurice brought + her some cold water to refresh her burning face. She looked up with a + smile, herself again. ‘There thank you, Maurice: I wont be foolish now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘God support you, my dear!’ said her brother, for the longer the Colonel + tarried, the worse were his forebodings. + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps the doctor is there,’ she proceeded. ‘That will be well. Ask him + everything, Maurice. But oh! did you ever see any one so much altered as + poor Fred! He looks twenty years older! Ah! I am quite good now! I may go + now!’ she cried, as the door opened. + </p> + <p> + But as Frederick returned, there was that written on his brow, which + lifted her out of the childishness of her agitation. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Albinia,’ he said in a trembling voice, ‘Mr. Kendal cannot leave + him to come to you. He has been much worse since last night,’ and as her + face showed that she was gathering his meaning, he pursued in a lower and + more awe-struck tone: ‘We think he is sensible, but we cannot tell. It + could not hurt him for you to come in, and perhaps he may know you, but + are you able to bear it? Is she, Maurice?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I am,’ she answered; and the calm firmness of her tone proved that + she was a woman again. Her hand shook less than did that of her cousin, as + silently and reverently he took it, and led her into another room on the + same floor. + </p> + <p> + There, in the subdued light, she saw her husband, seated on the bed, + holding in his arms his son, who lay lifted up and supported upon his + breast, with head resting on his shoulder, and eyes closed. There was no + greeting, no sound save the long, heavily drawn, gasping breaths. Mr. + Kendal raised his eyes to her; she silently knelt down and took the wasted + hand that lay helplessly on the coverlet, but it moved feebly from her as + though harassed by the touch. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gilbert, dear boy,’ said his father, earnestly, ‘she is come! Speak to + him, Albinia.’ + </p> + <p> + She hardly knew her own voice as she said, ‘Gilbert, Gibbie dear, here I + am.’ + </p> + <p> + Those large brown eyes were shown for a few moments beneath the heavy + lids, and met hers. The mouth, hitherto only gasping for air, endeavoured + to form a word; the hand sought hers. She kissed him, and his eyes opened + wide and brightened, while he said, ‘I think it is pardon now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pardon indeed!’ said his father, with a greater look of relief than + Albinia understood, ‘you are resting in His Merits.’ + </p> + <p> + Gilbert’s look brightened, and he said, ‘I know it now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank God,’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + His eyes closed, and Fred whispered to the father, ‘Maurice is here too.’ + </p> + <p> + Again the light woke in the eye, with almost a smile, the look that always + welcomed the little brother; and Albinia grieved to say, ‘Not little + Maurice, though he longed to come; it is my brother.’ But the air of + eagerness did not pass away, and he seemed satisfied when Mr. Ferrars came + in. It was as a priest, speaking words not his own; and Albinia and Fred + knelt with him. At the close of each prayer or psalm, Gilbert signed + imploringly for more, even like our mighty dying queen; and at each short + pause, the distressed agonized expression would again contract the brow, + though in the sound of the holy words all was peace. The Psalm of the Good + Shepherd with the Rod and Staff in the Valley of the Shadow of Death, + recurred so strongly to Maurice, that he repeated it like a cadence after + each penitential supplication, every time bringing a look of peace to the + countenance of the sufferer. + </p> + <p> + They must have remained long thus, Fred had grown exhausted with kneeling + and had been forced to sit on the floor, and Maurice’s voice waxed low and + hoarse; yet he durst not pause, though doubting whether Gilbert could + follow the meaning. At length the eyes were again raised. With a start as + of haste, Gilbert looked full at Albinia, and said, ‘Thank you. Tell + Maurice—’ He could not finish, and there was an agony for breath, + then as his father raised him, he contrived to say, ‘Father—mother—kiss + me; it is forgiven!’ + </p> + <p> + Another look brought Fred to press his hand, and he smiled his thanks. + </p> + <p> + There were a few more terrible minutes, from which they would fain have + led away Albinia, but suddenly his brow grew smooth, his eyes were eagerly + fixed as on something before him, and as if replying to a call, he said, + ‘Yes!’ with a start and a quiver of all his limbs, and then— + </p> + <p> + The first words were Mr. Kendal’s. ‘Edmund has come for him!’ + </p> + <p> + It was to the rest as if the father had been in some manner conscious of + the presence of the one twin-brother, and, were resigning the other to his + charge, for he calmly kissed the forehead, closed the eyes, laid down the + form, he had so long held in his arms, and after a few moments on his + knees, with his face hidden, in his hands, he rose with composure, and + said to his wife, ‘I am glad you were in time.’ + </p> + <p> + Had he given way, Albinia would have been strong, but there was no need to + support to counteract the force of disappointment and grief, acting upon + overwrought spirits, and a fatigued, exhausted frame. Were these + half-conscious looks and broken words all she had come for, all she should + ever have of Gilbert? This was the moment’s predominant sensation; she was + past thinking; and though she still controlled herself, she cast a wild, + piteous eye on her husband, and as he lifted her up, she sank on his + breast, not fainting, not sobbing, but utterly prostrated, and needing all + his support as he led her out, and laid her on a couch in the next room, + speaking softly as if hoping his voice would restore her. ‘We had some + faint hope of you; we knew you would wish it, so you see all is ready. But + you have done too much, my dear: Maurice should not have let you travel so + fast.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no,’ said Albinia, catching her breath. ‘Oh! not to have come + sooner!’ and she gave way to a violent burst of tears, during which he + fondled and soothed her till she suddenly said, ‘I did not come here to + behave in this way! I came to help you! Edmund, what shall I do?’ and she + would have started up. + </p> + <p> + ‘Only lie still, and let me take care of you,’ said he. ‘Nothing could be + to me like your coming,’ and she was forced to believe his glistening eyes + and voice of tenderness. + </p> + <p> + ‘Can you keep quiet a little while,’ said Mr. Kendal, wistfully, ‘while I + go to speak to your brother? It was very good in him to come! Don’t speak; + I will come back directly.’ + </p> + <p> + She did lie still, for she was too much spent to move, and the silence was + good for her; for if the overwhelming sensation of grief would sweep over + her, on the other hand, there was the remembrance of the look of peace, + and the perception that her husband was not as yet so struck to the earth + as she had feared. He was not long in returning, bringing some coffee for + her and for himself, and speaking with the same dreamy serenity, though + looking excessively pale. ‘Your brother told me to give you this,’ he + said. ‘I am glad the colonel is under such care, for he is terribly + distressed and not at all fit to bear it. I could not make him go to bed + all last night.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You were up all last night, and many nights before,’ said Albinia; ‘and + all alone! Oh! why was I not here to help!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fred was a great comfort,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘I cannot describe my + gratitude to him. And dearest—’ He paused, and added with + hesitation, ‘I do not now regret the having come out alone. After the + first disappointment, I think that my boy and I learnt to know each other + better. If he had left me nothing but the recollection that I had been too + severe and unsympathizing to win his confidence, I hardly know how I could + have borne it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He was able to talk to you, then?’ cried Albinia. ‘That was what I always + wished! Yes, it <i>was</i> right, so it came right. I had got between you + as I ought not to have done, and it was well you should have him to + yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not as you ought not,’ he fondly answered. ‘You always were his better + angel, and you came at last as a messenger of peace. There was relief and + hope from the moment that he knew you.’ + </p> + <p> + He told her what could scarcely have passed his lips save in those earlier + hours of affliction. It had been a time of grievous mental distress. + Neither natural temperament nor previous life had been such as to arm poor + Gilbert to meet the King of Terrors; and as day by day he felt the cold + grasp tightening on him, he had fluttered like a bird in the snare of the + fowler, physically affrighted at the death-pang, shrinking from the lonely + entrance into the unknown future, and despairing of the acceptableness of + his own repentance. He believed that he had too often relapsed, and he + could not take heart to grasp the hope of mercy and rest in the great + atonement. The last Communion had been melancholy, the contrite spirit + unable to lift itself up, and apparently only sunk the lower by the weight + of love and gratitude, deepening the sense of how much had been + disregarded. There had since been a few hopeful gleams, but dimmed by + bodily suffering and terror; and doubly mournful had been the weary hours + of the night and morning, while he lay gasping away his life upon his + father’s breast. Having at first taken the absence of his stepmother as a + sign that she had not forgiven him, he had only laid aside this notion for + a more morbid fancy that the deprivation was a token of wrath from above; + and there could be little doubt that her final appearance was hailed as a + seal of pardon not merely from her. Her brother, who had raised him up + after his last fall, was likewise the person above all others to bring the + message of mercy to speed him to the Unseen, where, as his look and + gesture had persuaded his father, his brother, or some yet more blessed + one, had received and welcomed the frail and trembling spirit. + </p> + <p> + That last farewell, that dawn of peace, so long prayed for, so ardently + desired, had given Mr. Kendal such thankfulness and relief as sustained + him, and enabled him to support his wife, who knew not how to meet her + first home grief; whereas to him sorrow had long been a household guest + more familiar than joy; and he was more at rest about his son than he had + been for many a year. He could dwell on him together with Edmund, instead + of connecting him with shame, grief, and pain; though how little could he + have borne to think that thus it would end, when in the springtime of his + manhood he had rejoiced over his beautiful twin boys. + </p> + <p> + He knew his son better than heretofore. After the first day’s + disappointment, Gilbert had found him all-sufficient, and had rested on + his tenderness. All sternness had ceased on one side, all concealment on + the other, and the sweetness of both characters had had full scope. + Gilbert’s ardent love of home had shown itself in every word, and his last + exertion, had been to write a long letter to his little brother, which had + been completed and despatched by a private hand a few days previously. He + had desired that Maurice should have his sword, and mentioned the books + which he wished his sisters to share, talking of Sophy as one whom he + honoured much, and wished he had known better; but much pained by hearing + nothing from Lucy, and lamenting his share in her union with Algernon. He + had said something about his wish that the almshouses should be built, but + his father had turned away the subject, knowing that in case of his dying + intestate and unmarried, the property was settled on the sisters, and + seeing little chance of any such work being carried out with the + co-operation of Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy. Latterly he had spoken of + Genevieve Durant; he knew better how unworthy of her he had been, and how + harassing his pursuit must have appeared, but he could not help entreating + that her pardon might be asked in his name, that she might hear that he + had loved her to the last, and above all, that his father would never lose + sight of her; and Mr. Kendal’s promise to regard her as the next thing to + his daughters had been requited with a look of the utmost gratitude and + affection. + </p> + <p> + This was the substance of what Mr. Kendal told his wife as they sat + together, unwitting of the lapse of time, and shrinking from any + interruption that might mar their present peace and renew the sense of + bereavement. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars was the first to knock at the door. He had been doing his + utmost to spare both them and Fred, who needed all his care. These four + months of mutual dependence had been even more endearing than the rescue + of Fred’s life on the battlefield; and he declared that Gilbert had done + him more good than any one else. They had been so thrown together as to + make the ‘religious sentiment’ of the younger tell upon the warm though + thoughtless heart of the elder. They had been most fondly attached; and in + his present state, reduced by wounds and exhausted by watching, Fred was + more overpowered than those more closely concerned. He could hardly speak + collectedly when an officer of the garrison called to consult him with + regard to a military funeral, and it was for this that Maurice was obliged + to refer to the father. There were indeed none of his regiment in the + island, but there was a universal desire in the garrison to do honour to + the distinguished young officer, for whom great interest had been felt and + the compliment brought a glow of exultation to Mr. Kendal’s face, as he + expressed his warm thanks, but desired that the decision might rest with + Fred himself, as his son’s lieutenant-colonel. + </p> + <p> + Maurice felt himself fully justified in his expedition when he found that + all devolved on him, even writing to Sophy, and making the most necessary + arrangements; for the colonel was incapable of exertion, Albinia was + prostrated by the shock, and Mr. Kendal appeared to be lulled into a + strange calm by the effects of the excessive bodily weariness consequent + on the exhausting attendance of the last few days. They all depended upon + Mr. Ferrars, and recognised his presence as an infinite comfort. + </p> + <p> + In the morning Albinia came forth like one who had been knocked down and + shattered, weary and gentle, and with the tears ever welling into her + eyes, above all when she endeavoured to write to Sophy; and she showed her + ordinary earnestness only when she entreated to see her boy once more. Her + husband took her to look on the countenance settled into the expression of + unearthly peace, but she was not satisfied; it was not her own Gilbert, + boyish, sensitive, dependent, and shrinking. The pale brow, the marked + manly features, the lower ones concealed by the brown moustache, belonged + to the hero who had dared the deadly ride and borne his friend through the + storm of shot and shell; the noble, settled, steadfast face was the face + of a stranger, and gave her a thrill of disappointment. She gloried in the + later Gilbert, but the last she had seen of him whom she loved for his + weakness, had been when she had not heeded his farewell. + </p> + <p> + It made the pang the less when evening came and he was carried to his + resting-place. They would have persuaded Frederick to spare himself, but + as the only officer of the same corps, as well as for the sake of many + closer ties, he would not hear of being absent, and made his cousin + Maurice do his best to restore the smart soldierly air which he for the + first time thought of regretting. + </p> + <p> + Gilbert’s horse had perished at Balaklava, but his cap, sword, and spurs, + were laid on the coffin, and from her shaded window Albinia watched it + borne between the files of soldiers with arms reversed; and the procession + of officers whose bright array contrasted with the colonel’s war-worn + dress, ghastly cheek, and empty sleeve, tokens of the reality of war amid + its pageantry, as all moved slowly away to the deep tones of the solemn + Dead March, music well befitting the calm grandeur of the face she had + seen, and leaving her heart throbbing with the deep exulting awe and + pathos of a soldier’s funeral. She knelt alone, and followed the burial + service in the stillness of the room overlooking the broad expanse of blue + sea and sky; and by-and-by, through the window came the sound of the + volley fired over the grave, the farewell of the army to the soldier at + rest, his battles ended. + </p> + <p> + ‘There was peace, and there was glory; but she could not divest herself of + a sense of unreality. She could not feel as if it were really and truly + Gilbert, and she were mourning for him. All was like a dream—that + solemn military spectacle—the serene, grave sunshine on the + fortress-harbour stretching its mailed arms into the sea—the roofs + of the knightly old monastic city rising in steps from the bay crowded + with white sails—and even those around her were different, her + husband pale and still, as in a region above common life, and her cousin + like another man, without his characteristic joyousness and insouciance. + She could hardly induce herself, in her drowsy state, to believe that all + was indeed veritable and tangible. + </p> + <p> + There was nothing to detain them at Malta, and Mr. Ferrars, who arranged + everything, thought the calm of a sea-voyage would be better for them all + than the bustle and fatigue of a land journey. + </p> + <p> + ‘Kendal himself does not care about getting home,’ he said to Fred, who + was afraid this was determined on his account. ‘I fear many annoyances are + in store for him. His son-in-law will not be pleasant to deal with about + the property.’ + </p> + <p> + With an exclamation Fred started from the chairs on which he had been + resting, and dived into his sabre-tasch which hung from the wall. ‘I never + liked to begin about it,’ he said, ‘but I ought to have given them this. + It was done when he was so bad at Scutari. One night he worked himself + into a fever lest he should not live till his birthday, and said a great + deal about this Dusautoy making himself an annoyance, perhaps insisting on + a sale and turning his father out. Nothing pacified him till, the very day + he was of age, we got the vice-consul to draw up what he wanted, and + witness it, and so did I and the doctor, and here it is. Afterwards he + warned me to say nothing of it when Mr. Kendal came, for he said if the + other fellow made a row, it would be better his father should be able to + say he had known nothing of the matter.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Does he make his father his heir?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s the whole of it. He said his sisters would see it was the only way + to get things even, and I was to tell Albinia something about building + cottages or almshouses. Ay, “his father was to do what ought to have been + done.”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, there’s the best deed of poor Gilbert’s life!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you,’ mumbled Fred, hall drolly, half gravely. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay, Kendal and Albinia will do more good with that property than you have + thought of in all your life, sir.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Their future and my past,’ laughed Fred, adding more gravely, ‘Scamp as I + am, there’s more responsibility coming on me now, and I have gone through + some preparation for it. If I can get out to Canada—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You will not lessen your responsibilities,’ said Maurice, smiling, ‘nor + your competency to meet them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I <i>trust</i> not,’ said Fred. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars read in his countenance far more than was implied by those + words. The General, by treating him as a boy, had kept him one, and + perhaps his levity had been prolonged by the rejection of his first love; + but a really steady attachment had settled his character, and he had been + undergoing much training through his own sufferings, Gilbert’s illness, + and the sense of the new position that awaited him as commanding officer; + and for the first time Maurice, who had always been very fond of him, felt + that he was talking to a high-principled and right-minded man instead of + the family pet and laughing-stock. + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose,’ he said, ‘that you cannot have heard often from Montreal + since you have been in the East.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No. If my letters are anywhere, it is at the Family Office. I desired + them to be forwarded thither from head-quarters, not expecting to be + detained here. But,’ cried Fred with animation, ‘what think you of the + General actually writing to Mr. Kinnaird from Balaklava?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It would have been too bad if he had not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe he did so solely to make me sleep, but it is the first time he + has deigned to treat the affair as anything but a delusion, and he can’t + retract now. Since that, poor Gilbert has made a scrap or two of mine + presentable, and there’s all that I have been able to accomplish; but I + hope it may have set her mind at rest.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Shall I be secretary?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Thank you, I think not. She would only worry herself about what is before + me; and if the doctors let me off easy, I had rather report of myself in + person.’ + </p> + <p> + His eyes danced, and Maurice thought his unselfishness deserved a reward. + </p> + <p> + ‘My poor Gilbert’s last secret,’ said Mr. Kendal, as he laid before his + wife the brief document by which his son had designated him as his sole + heir and executor. ‘A gift to you, and a trust to me.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia looked up for explanation. + </p> + <p> + ‘While he intrusts his sisters to my justice, he tacitly commends to me + the works which you wished to see accomplished.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The almshouses! The improvements! Do you mean to undertake them?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It shall be my most sacred duty.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! that we could have planned it with him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps I value this the more from the certainty that it is spontaneous,’ + said Mr. Kendal. ‘It showed great consideration and forethought, that he + said nothing of his intention to me. Had he mentioned it, I should have + thought it right to suggest his leaving his sisters their share; and yet, + as we are situated with young Dusautoy, it would have been awkward to have + interfered. He did well and wisely to be silent.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t expect Algernon to be discontented. Impossible, at such a time, + and so well off as he is!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish it may be impossible.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you mean, to do?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As far as I can see at present, I shall do this. I fear neither the mode + of acquisition nor the management of that property was such as to bring a + blessing, and I believe my poor boy has made it over to me in order to + free his sisters from the necessity of winking at oppression and iniquity. + Had it gone to them, matters must have been let alone till Sophia came of + age, and even then, all improvements must have depended on Algernon’s + consent. The land and houses we will keep, and sufficient ready money for + the building and repairs; and to this, Sophia, at least, will gladly + agree. The rest—something under twenty thousand, if I remember + correctly—is the girls’ right. I will settle Lucy’s share on her so + as to be out of her husband’s power, and Sophia shall have hers when she + comes of age.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure that will take from Algernon all power of grumbling, though I + cannot believe that even he could complain.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You approve, then?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How can you ask? It is the first thing that has seemed like happiness, if + it did not make one long for him to talk it over!’ The wound was still + very recent, and her spirits very tender, and the more she felt the + blessing of the association with Gilbert in the work of love, the more she + wept, though not altogether in sorrow. + </p> + <p> + Mortified at having come so much overworked and weakened, as to occasion + only trouble and anxiety, she yielded resignedly when forbidden to wear + out strength and spirits by a visit to the burial-ground before her + embarkation. She must content herself with Maurice’s description of the + locality, and carry away in her eye only the general picture of the + sapphire ocean and white rock fortress of the holy warriors vowed to + tenderness and heroism, as the last resting-place of her cherished + Gilbert, when ‘out of weakness he had been made strong’ in penitence and + love. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII. + </h2> + <p> + Had Sophia’s wishes been consulted, she would have preferred nursing her + sorrows at home; but no choice had been left, and at the vicarage the + fatherly kindness of Mr. Dusautoy, and the considerate let-alone system of + his wife, kept her at ease and not far from cheerful, albeit neither the + simplicity of the one nor the keenness of the other was calculated to draw + her into unreserve: comfort was in the children. + </p> + <p> + The children clung to her as if she made their home, little Albinia + preferring her even to Uncle John, as he had insisted on being called ever + since Lucy had become his niece, and Maurice invoking caresses, the + bestowal of which was his mother’s rare privilege. The boy was dull and + listless, and though riot and mirth could be only too easily excited, his + wildest shouts and most frantic gesticulations were like efforts to throw + off a load at his heart. Time hung heavy on his hands, and he would lie + rolling and kicking drearily on the floor, watching with some envy his + little sister as she spelt her way prosperously through ‘Little Charles,’ + or daintily and distinctly repeated her hymns. ‘Nothing to do’ was the + burthen of his song, and with masculine perverseness he disdained every + occupation suggested to him. Sophy might boast of his obedience and + quiescence, but Mrs. Dusautoy pitied all parties, and wondered when he + would be disposed of at school. + </p> + <p> + Permission to open letters had been left with Sophy, who with silent + resignation followed the details of poor Gilbert’s rapid decay. At last + came the parcel by the private hand, containing a small packet for each of + the family. Sophy received a silver Maltese Cross, and little Albinia a + perfumy rose-leaf bracelet. There was a Russian grape-shot for Maurice, + and with it a letter. + </p> + <p> + With childish secrecy, he refused to let any one look at so much as the + envelope, and ran away with it, shouting ‘It’s mine.’ Sophy was grieved + that it should be treated like a toy, and fearing that, while playing at + importance, he would lose or destroy it, without coming to a knowledge of + the contents, she durst not betray her solicitude, lest she should give a + stimulus to his wilfulness and precipitate its fate. However, when he had + galloped about enough, he called imperatively, ‘Sophy;’ and she found him + lying on his back on the grass, the black cat an unwilling prisoner on his + chest. + </p> + <p> + ‘You may read it to Smut and me,’ he said. + </p> + <p> + It bore date the day after his father’s arrival, but it had evidently been + continued at many different times; and as the handwriting became more + feeble, the style grew more earnest, so that, but for her hoarse, + indifferent voice, Sophy could hardly have accomplished the reading. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Maurice, + </p> + <p> + ‘Many, many thanks to you and dear little Awkey for your present. I have + set it up like a picture, and much do I like to look at it, and guess who + chose the colours and who are the hunters. I am sure the fat man in the + red coat is the admiral. It makes the place seem like home to see what + tells so plainly of you and baby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Kiss my little Awk for me, and thank her for wanting to send me Miss + Jenny, dear little maid; I like to think of it. You will not let her quite + forget me. You must show her my name if it is put up in church, like + Edmund’s and all the little ones’; and you will sometimes tell her about + dear old Ned on a Sunday evening when you are both very good. + </p> + <p> + ‘I think you know that you and she will never again run out into the hall + to pull Gibbie almost down between you. Perhaps by the time you read this, + you will be the only son, with all the comfort and hope of the house + resting upon you. My poor Maurice, I know what it is to be told so, and + only to feel that one has no brother; but at least it cannot be to you as + it was with me, when it was as if half myself were gone, and all my + stronger, better, braver self. + </p> + <p> + ‘My father has been reading to me the Rich Man and Lazarus. Maurice, when + you read of him and the five brethren, think of me, and how I pray that I + may not have left seeds of temptation for you. In the time of my + loneliness, Tritton was good-natured, but I ought to have avoided him; and + that to which he introduced me has been the bane of my life. Nothing gives + me such anguish as to think I have made you acquainted with that set. Keep + out of their way! Never go near those pigeon-shootings and donkey-races; + they seem good fun, but it is disobedience to go, and the things that + happen there are like the stings of venomous creatures; the poison was + left to fester even when your mother seemed to have cured me. Neither now + nor when you are older resort to such things or such people. Next time you + meet Tritton and Shaw tell them I desired to be remembered to them; after + that have nothing to do with them; touch your hat and pass on. They meant + it in good nature, and thought no harm, but they were my worst enemies; + they led me astray, and taught me deception as a matter of course. Oh! + Maurice, never think it manly to have the smallest reserve with your + parents. I would give worlds to have sooner known that truth would have + been freedom and rest. Thank Heaven, your faults are not my faults. If you + go wrong, it will be with a high hand, but you would wring hearts that can + ill bear further grief and disappointment. Oh! that I were more worthy to + pray that you may use your strength and spirit the right way; then you + will be gladness to our father and mother, and when you lie down to die, + you will be happier than I am. + </p> + <p> + ‘I want to tell you more, but it hurts me to write long. If I could only + see you—not only in my dreams. I wake, and my heart sickens with + longing for a sight of my brave boy’s merry face, till I almost feel as if + it would make me well; but it is a blessing past hope to have my father + with me, and know him as I have never done before. Give little Albinia + these beads, with my love, and be a better brother to her than I was to + poor Lucy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Good-by, Maurice. No one can tell what you have been to me since your + mother put you into my arms, and I felt I had a brother again. God bless + you and cancel all evil you may have caught from me. Papa will give you my + sword. Perhaps you will wear it one day, and under my colonel. I have + never been so happy as in the time it was mine. When you look at it, + always say this to yourself: “Fear God, and fear nothing else.” O that I + had done so! + </p> + <p> + ‘Let your dear, dear mother be happy in you: it will be the only way to + make her forgive me in her heart. Good-by, my own dear, brave boy. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Your most affectionate brother, + ‘G. KENDAL.’ +</pre> + <p> + ‘I say, Smut,’ quoth Maurice, ‘I think you and our Tabby would make two + famous horses for Awkey’s little cart. I shall take you home and harness + you.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy sat breathless at his indifference. ‘You mustn’t,’ she said in hasty + anger; ‘Smut is not yours.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, Jack said that our Tabby had two kittens up in the loft; I think + they’ll make better ponies. I shall go and try them!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t plague the kittens.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll not plague them; I’ll only make ponies of them. Give me the letter.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, not to play with the cats. I thought you would have cared about such + a letter!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have no right to keep it! It is mine; give it me!’ cried Maurice, + passionately. + </p> + <p> + ‘Promise to take real care of it.’ + </p> + <p> + He only tore it from her, and was gone. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m a fool to expect anything from such a child,’ she thought. + </p> + <p> + At two o’clock the Vicar hurried into the bank. ‘Good morning, Mr. + Goldsmith, I beg your pardon; I wanted to ask if Mr. O’More has seen + little Maurice Kendal.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not since yesterday—what’s the matter?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The child is not come in to dinner. He is nowhere at home or at Willow + Lawn.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ha!’ cried Ulick. ‘Can he be gone to see his pony at Hobbs’s!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, it has been sent to Fairmead. Then you have no notion where the child + can be? Sophy is nearly distracted. She saw him last about ten o’clock, + bent on harnessing some kittens, but he’s not in the hay-loft!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He may be gone to the toy-shop after the harness. Or has anyone looked in + the church-tower—he was longing to go up it, and if the door were + open—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The very thing!’ cried the Vicar. ‘I’ll go this moment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Or there’s old Peter, the sailor,’ called Ulick; ‘if he wanted any tackle + fitted, he might go to him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You had better go yourself, More,’ said Mr. Goldsmith. ‘One would not + wish to keep poor Miss Kendal in suspense, though I dare say the boy is + safe enough.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Goldsmith was thanked, and Ulick hurried out, Hyder Ali leaping up in + amazement at his master being loose at that time of day. + </p> + <p> + Everybody had thought the child was with somebody else till dinner-time, + and the state of the vicarage was one of dire alarm and self-reproach. + Sophy was seeking and calling in every possible place, and had just + brought herself to own the message of remembrance in Gilbert’s letter, + thinking it possible Maurice might have gone to deliver it at Robbles + Leigh; and Mr. Hope had undertaken to go thither in quest of him. Ulick + and Mr. Dusautoy, equally disappointed by the tower and the sailor, went + again to Willow Lawn to interrogate the servants. The gardener’s boy had + heard Maurice scolding and the cat squalling, and the cook had heard his + step in the house. They hurried into his little room—he was not + there, but the drawers had been disturbed. + </p> + <p> + ‘He may be gone to Fairmead!’ cried the Vicar. + </p> + <p> + ‘How?’ said Ulick. ‘Ha! Hyder, sir!’ holding up a little shoe. ‘Seek! + That’s my fine doggie—they only call you a mongrel because you have + all the canine virtues united. See what you can do as sleuth hound. Ha! + We’ll nose him out for you in no time, Mr. Dusautoy!’ + </p> + <p> + After sniffing round the drawers, the yellow tripod made an ungainly + descent of the stairs, his nose down all the way, then across the hall and + out at the gate; but when, after poking about, the animal set off on the + turnpike-road, the Vicar demurred. + </p> + <p> + ‘Stay; the poor dog only wants to get you out for a walk. He is making for + the Hadminster road.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And why wouldn’t he, if the child is nowhere in Bayford? + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t answer it to his mother wasting time in this way. You may do as + you like. I shall go to the training-stables, where he has once been, if + not on to Fairmead. I can’t see Sophy till he is found!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall abide by my little Orangeman,’ said Ulick; and they parted. + </p> + <p> + Hyder Ali pursued his way in the March dust, while Ulick eagerly scanned + for the traces of a child’s foot. Four miles did the dog go on, evidently + following a scent, but Ulick’s mind misgave him as Hadminster church-tower + rose before him, and the dog took the ascent to the station. + </p> + <p> + Ulick made his way in as a train stood panting before the platform. He had + a glimpse of a square face and curly hair at the window of a second-class + carriage. + </p> + <p> + ‘Maurice, come back!’ he cried. ‘Here, guard! this little boy must come + back!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Go on!’ shouted Maurice. ‘I’ve got my ticket. ‘No one can stop me. I’m + going to Malta!’ and he tried to get to the other side of a stout + traveller, who defended his legs from him, and said, ‘Ha! Running away + from school, young master! Here’s your usher.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I’m not running away! I’m not at school! I’m Maurice Kendal! I’m + going to my brother at Malta!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is the son of Mr. Kendal of Bayford,’ said Ulick to the + station-master,’ his parents are from home, and there will be dreadful + distress if he goes in this way. Maurice, your sister has troubles enough + already.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ve my ticket, and can’t be stopped.’ + </p> + <p> + But even as he spoke, the stout traveller picked him up by the collar, and + dropped him like a puppy dog into Ulick’s arms, just as the train was + getting into motion; and a head protruded from every window to see the + truant, who was pommelling Ulick in a violent fury, and roaring, ‘Let me + go; I will go to Gilbert!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Behave like a man,’ said Ulick; ‘don’t disgrace yourself in that way.’ + </p> + <p> + The boy coloured, and choking with passion and disappointment, and + straining against Ulick’s hold of his shoulder. + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed, sir,’ said the station-master, ‘if we had recognised the young + gentleman, we would have made more inquiries, but he asked so readily for + his ticket, not seeming at a loss, and we have so many young travellers, + that we thought of nothing amiss. Will you have a fly, sir?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m not going home,’ said the boy, undaunted. + </p> + <p> + ‘You must submit, Maurice. You do not wish to make poor Sophy miserable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I must go to Malta,’ the boy persisted. ‘Gilbert says it would make him + well to see me. I know my way; I saw it in the map, and I’ve a roll, and + the end of a cold tongue, and a clean shirt, and my own sovereign, and + four shillings, and a half-crown, and a half-penny in my pocket; and I’m + going!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, Maurice, this gentleman will tell you that your whole sovereign + would not carry you a quarter of the way to Malta.’ + </p> + <p> + The station-master gave so formidable a description of the impossibilities + of the route, that the hardy little fellow’s look of decision relaxed into + dejection, his muscles lost their tension, and he struggled hard with his + tears. + </p> + <p> + He followed Ulick to the carriage, and hid his face in a corner, while + orders were given to stop at the post-office in case there were fresh + letters. There was one for Miss Kendal, in Mr. Ferrars’ writing, and with + black borders. Ulick felt too surely what it must be, and hardly could + bear to address Maurice, who had shrunk from him with some remains of + passion, but hearing suppressed sobs, he put his hand on him and said, ‘My + poor little man.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Get away,’ said Maurice, shaking him off. ‘Why did you come and bother?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I came because it would have almost killed your sister and mother for you + to be lost. If you had seen Sophy’s face, Maurice!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t care. Now I shall never see Gilbert again, and he did want me + so!’ Maurice hid his face, and his frame shook with sobs. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Ulick, ‘every one knew he wanted you; but if it had been + possible for you to go, your mamma would have taken you. If your uncle had + to take care of her how could you go alone?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’d have got there somehow,’ cried Maurice. ‘I’d have seen and heard + Gilbert. He’s written me a letter to say he wants to see me, and I can’t + even make that out!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Has not your sister read it to you!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hate Sophy’s reading!’ cried Maurice. ‘It makes it all grumpy, like + her. Take it, Ulick—you read it.’ + </p> + <p> + That rich, sensitive, modulated voice brought out the meaning of the + letter, though there were places where Ulick had nearly broken down; and + Maurice pressed against him with the large tears in his eyes, and was some + minutes without speaking. + </p> + <p> + ‘He does not think of your coming; he does not expect you, dear boy,’ said + Ulick. ‘It is a precious letter to have. I hope you will keep it and read + it often, and heed it too.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t read it,’ said Maurice, ruefully. ‘If I could, I shouldn’t mind.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You soon will. You see how he tells you you are to be a comfort; and if + you are a good boy, you’ll quickly leave the dunce behind.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t,’ said Maurice. ‘Mamma said I should not do a bit of a lesson + with Sophy, or I should tease her heart out. Would it come quite out?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I think you’ve gone hard to try to-day,’ said Ulick. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mamma said my being able to read would be a comfort, and papa says he + never saw such an ignorant boy! so what’s the use of minding Gilbert’s + letter? It wont let me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What wont let you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fun!’ said Maurice, with a sob. + </p> + <p> + ‘He is a rogue!’ cried Ulick, vehemently; ‘but a stout heart and good will + can get him under yet. Think of what your brother says of making your + father and mother happy!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If I could do something to please them very, very much! Oh! if I could + but learn to read all at once.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You can read—anybody can read!’ said Ulick, pulling a book out of + his pocket. ‘There! try.’ + </p> + <p> + There was some laughing over this; and then Maurice leant out of window, + and grew sleepy. They had descended into the wide basin of alluvial land + through which the Baye dawdled its meandering course, and were just about + to cross the first bridge about two miles from Bayford, when Maurice + shouted, ‘There’s Sophy!—how funny.’ + </p> + <p> + It was a tall figure, in deep mourning, slowly moving along the + towing-path, intently gazing into the river; but so strange was it to see + Sophy so far from home, that Ulick paused a moment ere calling to the + driver to stop. + </p> + <p> + As he hastily wrenched open the door, she raised up her face, and he was + shocked. She looked as if she had lived years of sorrow, and even Maurice + was struck with consternation. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy! Sophy!’ he cried, hanging round her. ‘I wouldn’t have gone without + telling you, if I had thought you would mind it. Speak to me, Sophy!’ + </p> + <p> + She could say nothing save a hoarse ‘Where?’ as with both arms she pressed + him as if she could never let him go again. + </p> + <p> + ‘In the train—intending to go to Malta,’ said Ulick. + </p> + <p> + ‘I didn’t know I could not; I didn’t mean to vex you, Sophy,’ continued + the child. ‘I’m come home now, and I wont try again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Maurice, what would have become of you?’ She held out her hand to + Ulick, the first time for months. + </p> + <p> + ‘And we’ve got a letter for you, proceeded Maurice. + </p> + <p> + Ulick would fain have withheld it, but he had not the choice. She caught + at it, still holding Maurice fast, and ere he could propose her opening it + in the carriage while he walked home she had torn it open, and the same + moment she had sunk down, seated on the path, with an arm round her + brother. ‘Oh! Maurice, it is well you are here! You would not have found + them—it is over!’ + </p> + <p> + She had found one brother to lose the other; but the relief of Maurice’s + safety had so softened the blow, that her tears gushed forth freely. + </p> + <p> + The sense of Ulick’s presence restrained her, but raising her head, she + missed him, and felt lonely, desolate, deserted, almost fainting, and in a + strange place. + </p> + <p> + ‘Is he dead?’ said Maurice, in a solemn low voice, and she wept + helplessly, while the little fellow stood sustaining her weight like a + small pillar, perplexed and dismayed. + </p> + <p> + ‘Are you poorly, Sophy? What shall I do?’ said he, as she almost fell + back, but a stronger arm held her up. + </p> + <p> + ‘Lean on me, dear Sophy,’ said Ulick, who had returned, bringing some + water from a small house near at hand, and supported her and soothed her + like a brother. + </p> + <p> + The mists cleared away, the sense of desertion was gone, and she rose, but + could not stand without his arm, and he almost lifted her into the + carriage, where her appealing eye and helpless gesture made him follow + her, and take Maurice on his knee. No one spoke; Maurice nestled close to + his friend; awe-struck but weighed down by weariness and excitement. The + blow had in reality been given when he was forced to relinquish the hope + of seeing his brother again, and the actual certainty of his death fell + with less comparative force. Perhaps he did not enter into the fact enough + to ask for particulars. After a short space Sophy recovered herself enough + to take out the letter, and read it over with greater comprehension. + </p> + <p> + ‘They were come!’ she said. + </p> + <p> + ‘In time. I am glad.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘In time to bring him peace, my uncle says! He knew mamma. I could never + have borne it if I had deprived him of her!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor I,’ said Ulick, from his heart. ‘Did one but know the upshot of one’s + idle follies!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy looked towards Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Asleep!’ said Ulick. ‘No wonder. He has walked four miles! He has a heart + that might have been born in Ireland;’ and as he looked at the fair young + face softened and sweetened by sleep, ‘What an infant it is to have even + fancied such an undertaking!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor child!’ sighed Sophy. ‘He will never be the same!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, grief at that age does not check the spirits for life.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have never known,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘No; our number has never yet been broken; but for this little man, I + trust that the sense of duty may be deepened, and with it his love to you + all; and surely that is not what will quench the blithe temper.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘May it be so!’ said Sophy. ‘He may have enough of his mother in him to be + happy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I must think that the recollection of so loving a brother, and his pride + in him for a hero, may make the stream flow more deeply, but not more + darkly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There never was a cloud between them,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Clouds are all past and gone now between those who can with him “take + part in that thanksgiving lay,”’ answered Ulick, kindly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Sophy. ‘My uncle says it was peace at last! Oh! if humbleness + and penitence could win it, one might be sure it would be his.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘True,’ said Ulick. ‘It was a beautiful thing to find the loving sweetness + and kindness refined into self-devotion and patience, and growing into + something brighter and purer as it came near the last. It will be a + precious recollection.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To those who have no self-reproach,’ sighed Sophy; and after a pause she + abruptly resumed, ‘You once blamed me for being hard with him. Nothing was + more true.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Impossible—when could I have presumed?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘When? You remember. After Oxford.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! you should not have let what I said dwell with you. I was a very raw + Irishman then, and thought it barbarity to look cold on a little + indiscretion, but I have learnt to think differently,’ and he sighed. ‘The + severity that leads to repentance is truer affection than is shown by + making light of foolishness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If it had been affection and not wounded pride.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The dross has been refined away, if there were any,’ said Ulick. ‘You + will be able to love him better now than ever you did in life.’ + </p> + <p> + His comprehension met her half way, and gave her more relief and soothing + than anything she had experienced for months. There was that response and + intercommunion of spirit for which her nature had yearned the more because + of the inability to express the craving; the very turn of the dark blue + eyes, and the inflexions of the voice, did not merely convey pity, but an + entering into the very core of her sorrow, namely, that she had never + loved her brother enough, nor forgiven him for not being his fellow-twin. + Whatever he said tended to reveal to her that there had been more justice, + rectitude, sisterly feeling, and wholesome training than she had given + herself credit for, and, above all, that Gilbert had loved her all the + time. She was induced to dwell on the exalting and touching circumstances + of his last redeeming year, and her tears streamed calmly and softly, not + with the harshness that had hitherto marred her grief. Neither could have + believed that there had been so long and marked a separation in feeling, + or that Ulick O’More had not always been one with the Kendal family. It + was all too soon that the conversation ended, and Maurice wakened suddenly + at the vicarage wicket. Mrs. Dusautoy herself came to meet them as the + little boy was lifted out. She had never been seen on her own feet so far + from the house before! But no one ever knew the terror she had suffered, + when of all her three charges not one was safe but the little Albinia, + whose ‘poor Maurice’ and ‘all gone’ were as trying as her alternations of + merriment. The vicar, the curate, the parish clerk, the servants of the + two establishments, and four policemen, were all gone different ways; and + poor Mrs. Dusautoy’s day had been spent in hearing the results of their + fruitless researches, or in worse presages, in which, as it now appeared, + the river had played its part. + </p> + <p> + She kissed Maurice, and he did not rebel! She kissed Sophy, and could have + shaken off Ulick’s hand, but he only waited to hold up Hyder Ali as the + real finder, before he ran off to desire the school-bell to be rung—the + signal for announcing a discovery. It was well that Maurice was too much + stunned and fatigued to be sensible what a commotion he had excited, or he + might have thought it good fun. + </p> + <p> + The tidings from Malta came in almost as something secondary. The case had + been too hopeless for anything else to be looked for, and when Mrs. + Dusautoy consigned her charge to a couch, with entreaties to her not to + move, there was calm tenderness in Sophy’s voice as she told what needed + to be told, and did not shrink from sympathy. She was grateful and gentle, + and lay all the rest of the day, sad and physically worn out, but quietly + mournful, and no longer dwelling on the painful side of past transactions, + her remorse had given way to resigned acquiescence, and desolation to a + sense that there was one who understood her. The sweet tones, and, above + all, those two words, ‘<i>dear</i> Sophy,’ would come chiming back from + some involuntary echo, and the turbid depths were at peace. + </p> + <p> + When Mr. Dusautoy came to her side, and held out his hand, his honest eyes + brimming over, there was no repulsion in her manner of saying + affectionately, ‘You have had a great deal of trouble for my naughty + little brother.’ So different was her whole tone, that her kind friends + thought how much better for some minds was any certainty than suspense. + She bethought herself of sending to the Drurys, and showed rather + gratification than her ordinary impatience at the manifold reports of the + general sympathy, and of Bayford’s grief for its hero. The poison was gone + from her mind. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII. + </h2> + <p> + The Family Office had been asked to receive the whole party on their + return. Mr. Kendal had business in London, and could not bear to part with + the colonel till he had seen him safely lodged, and heard the surgeon’s + opinion. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars was laying himself out to guard his brother-in-law from being + oppressed by the sympathetic welcome of the good aunts; but though the + good ladies never failed in kindness, all the excess was directed into a + different channel; Albinia herself was but secondary to the wounded hero, + for whom alone they had eyes and ears. They would hardly let him stand + erect for a moment; easy-chairs and couches were offered, soup and wine, + biscuits and coffee were suggested, and questions were crowded on him, + while he, poor fellow, wistfully gazed at the oft-directed pile of foreign + letters on the side-table, and in pure desperation became too fatigued to + go down to luncheon. + </p> + <p> + When the others returned, he was standing on the rug, curling his + moustaches. There was a glow of colour on his hollow cheek, and his eyes + danced; he put out his hand, and catching Albinia’s with boyish + playfulness, he squeezed it triumphantly, with the words, ‘Albinia, she’s + a brick!’ + </p> + <p> + They went their several ways, Fred to rest, Maurice to make an appointment + for him with the doctor, and Albinia to Genevieve, whom Mr. Kendal + regarded like his son’s widow, forgetting that the attachment had been + neither sanctioned nor returned. He could not rest without seeing her, and + delivering that last message, but he was glad to have the way prepared by + his wife, and proposed to call for her when his law business should be + over. + </p> + <p> + Albinia sent in her card, and asked whether Miss Durant were at liberty. + Genevieve came hurrying to her with outstretched hands: ‘Dear Mrs. Kendal, + this is kind!’ and led her to the back drawing-room, where they were with + one impulse enfolded in each other’s tearful embrace. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! madame, how much you have suffered!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You know all?’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘O no, very little. My aunt knows little of Bayford now, and her sight is + too weak for much writing.’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve pushed back her hair; she looked ill and heavy-eyed, with the + extinguished air that sorrow gave her. Gilbert had distressed, perplexed + her, and driven her from home, but what could be remembered, save the warm + affection he had lavished on her, and the pain she had inflicted? + Uneasiness and sorrow, necessarily unavowed, had preyed on the poor girl + for weeks in secret; and even now she hardly presumed to give way, relief, + almost luxury, as it was to be pressed in those kind arms, and suffered to + weep freely for the champion of her younger days. When she had heard how + he had thought of her to the last, her emotion grew less controllable; and + Albinia was touched by the idea that there had all along been a stifled + preference. Embellished as Gilbert now was, she could not but wish to + believe that his affection had not been wasted; and his constancy might + well be touching in one of the heroes of the six hundred. At least, + Genevieve had a most earnest and loving appetite for every detail, and + though the afternoon was nearly gone, neither felt as if half an hour had + passed when admittance was asked for Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + It was a trying moment, but Genevieve was too simple, genuine, and + grateful to pause in selfish embarrassment. Had she toyed with Gilbert’s + affection, she could not have met his father with such maidenly modesty, + and sweet sympathy and respect in her blushing cheek and downcast, tearful + eyes. + </p> + <p> + He took her hand, speaking in the kindest tone of his mellow voice: ‘My + dear, Mrs. Kendal has told you what brings us here, and how much we feel + for and with you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So kind in you,’ said Genevieve, faltering. + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor child, she has suffered grievously for want of fuller tidings,’ said + Albinia; ‘she has been keeping her sorrow pent up all this time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She has acted, as she has done throughout, most consistently,’ said Mr. + Kendal. ‘My dear, though it was inexpedient to show my sentiments, I + always respected my son for having placed his affections so worthily, and + though circumstances were unfortunately adverse, I cannot thank you enough + for your course of action and the influence you exercised.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never did,’ murmured Genevieve. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not perhaps consciously; but unswerving rectitude of conduct is one of + the strongest earthly influences. He was sensible of it. He bade me tell + you that whenever higher and better thoughts came to him, you were + connected with them; and when to his surprise, poor boy, he found that he + was thought to have distinguished himself, his first thought was that it + might be a step to your esteem. He desired me to thank you for all that + you have been to him, to entreat you to pardon the annoyance of which he + was the occasion, and to beg you to wear this for his sake, if you could + think of his presumption with forgiveness and toleration. Those were his + words; but I trust you do not retain displeasure, for though, perhaps, + foolishly and obtrusively expressed, it was sincere and lasting + affection.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, sir!’ exclaimed Genevieve, ‘do not speak thus! What can I feel save + that it will be my tenderest and deepest pride to have been so regarded. + Oh! that I could thank him! but,’ clasping her hands together, ‘I cannot + even thank you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The best way to gratify us,’ he said, ‘will be always to remember that + you have a home at Willow Lawn, and a daughter’s place in our hearts. + Think of me like a father, Genevieve;’ and he kissed her drooping + forehead. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Mr. Kendal, this is goodness.’ + </p> + <p> + He turned to Albinia to suggest, ‘It must be intolerable to be here at + present. Speak to Mrs. Rainsforth, let us take her home, if it be but for + a week.’ + </p> + <p> + Leaving him to make the proposition to Genevieve, Albinia gained + admittance to the other drawing-room, which she found all over little + children, and their mother looking unequal to dispensing with their + deputy. She said she had feared Miss Durant was looking ill, and had + something weighing on her spirits, though she was always so cheerful and + helpful, but baby had not been well, and Mr. Rainsforth was not at all + strong, and her views had evidently taken no wider range. + </p> + <p> + Albinia began to think her proposal cruel, and prefaced it by a few words + on the state of the case. The little bit of romance touched the kind + heart. Mrs. Rainsforth was shocked to think of the grief the governess + must have suffered in secret while aiding to bear her burdens, and was + resolved on letting her have this respite, going eagerly to assure her + that she could well be spared; baby was better, and papa was better, and + the children would be good. + </p> + <p> + But Genevieve knew too well how necessary she was, and had been telling + Mr. Kendal of the poor little mother’s anxieties with her many delicate + children, and her husband’s failing health. She could not leave them with + a safe conscience; and she would not show how she longed after quiet, the + country, and her aunt. She stood firm, and Albinia could not say that she + was not right. Mrs. Rainsforth was distressed, though much relieved, and + was only pacified by the engagement that Miss Durant should, when it was + practicable, spend a long holiday with her friends. + </p> + <p> + ‘At home!’ said Mr. Kendal, and the responsive look of mournful gratitude + from beneath the black dewy eyelashes dispelled all marvel at his son’s + enduring attachment. + </p> + <p> + He was wonderfully patient when Mrs. Rainsforth could not be content + without Mrs. Kendal’s maternal and medical opinion of the baby, on the + road to and from the nursery consulting her on all the Mediterranean + climates, and telling her what each doctor had said of Mr. Rainsforth’s + lungs, in the course of which Miss Durant and her romance were put as + entirely out of the little lady’s mind as if she had never existed. + </p> + <p> + The next day the Kendals set their faces homewards, leaving Maurice till + the surgeon’s work should be done, and Fred, as the aunts fondly hoped, to + be their nursling. + </p> + <p> + But, behold! Sunday and Monday Colonel Fred spent in bed, smiling + incessantly; Tuesday and Wednesday on the sofa; Thursday in going about + London; Friday he was off to Liverpool; Saturday had sailed for Canada. + </p> + <p> + Albinia was coming nearer to the home that was pulling her by the + heart-strings. Hadminster was past, and she had heard the welcome wards, + ‘All well,’ from the servant who brought the carriage; but how much more + there was to know than Sophy’s detailed letters could convey—Sophy, + whose sincerity, though one of the most trustworthy things in the world, + was never quite to be relied on as to her own health or Maurice’s conduct. + </p> + <p> + At the gate there was a little chestnut curled being in a short black + frock, struggling to pull the heavy gate open with her plump arms, and + standing for one moment with her back to it, screaming ‘Mamma! Papa!’ then + jumping and clapping her hands in ecstasy and oblivion that the swing of + the gate might demolish her small person between it and the horse. But + there was no time for fright. Sophy caught her and secured the gate + together; and the first glimpse assured Albinia that the hard gloom was + absent. And there was Maurice, leaning against the iron rail of the hall + steps; but he hardly moved, and his face was so strangely white and set, + that Albinia caught him in her arms, crying, ‘Are you well, my boy? Sophy, + is he well?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Quite well,’ said Sophy; but the boy had wriggled himself loose, stood + but for an instant to receive his father’s kiss, and had hold of the + sword. The long cavalry sabre was almost as tall as himself, and he stood + with both arms clasped round it; but no sooner did he feel their eyes upon + him, than he turned about and ran upstairs. + </p> + <p> + It was not gracious, but they excused it; they had their little Albinia + comfortably and childishly happy, as yet without those troublesome Kendal + feelings that always demonstrated themselves in some perverse manner. + </p> + <p> + And Sophy stood among them—that brighter, better Sophy who had so + long been obscured, happy to have them at home; talking and asking + questions eagerly about the journey, and describing the kindness of the + Dusautoys and the goodness of the children. + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you heard from Lucy?’ asked Mr. Kendal, as Albinia went in pursuit + of her little boy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes—poor Lucy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is there no letter from him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not for you, papa.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What? Did he write to his uncle?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, papa—he wrote to me and to Mr. Pettilove. Cannot he be stopped, + papa? Can he do any harm? Mr. Dusautoy and Mr. Pettilove think he can.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You mean that he wishes to question the will? You may be quite secure, my + dear. Nothing can be more safe.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, papa! I am so very glad. Not to be able to hinder him was so + dreadful, when he wanted to pit Lucy and me against you. I could never + have looked at you. I should always have felt that you had something to + forgive me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could not well have confounded you with Algernon, my dear,’ said Mr. + Kendal. ‘What did Pettilove mean? Do you know?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not exactly; something about grandpapa’s old settlement; which frightened + the Vicar, though Mrs. Dusautoy said that it was only that he fancied + nobody could do anything right without his help. Mr. Dusautoy is more + angry with Algernon than I thought he could be with anybody.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No one but Algernon would have ever thought of it,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘I + am sorry he has molested you, my dear. Have you any objection to let me + see his letter?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I kept it for you, papa, and a copy of my answer. I thought though I am + not of age, perhaps my saying I would have nothing to do with it might do + some good.’ + </p> + <p> + Algernon magniloquently condoled with his sister-in-law on the injustice + from which she and her sister had suffered, in consequence of the adverse + influence which surrounded her brother, and generously informed her that + she had a champion to defeat the machinations against their rights. He had + little doubt of the futility of the document, and had written to the legal + adviser of the late Mr. Meadows to inquire whether the will of that + gentleman did not bar any power on the part of his grandson to dispose of + the property. She might rely on him not to rest until she should be put in + possession of the estate, unless it should prove to have been her + grandfathers intention, in case of the present melancholy occurrence, that + the elder sister should be the sole inheritrix, and he congratulated her + on having such a protector, since, under the unfortunate circumstances, + the sisters would have had no one to uphold their cause against their + natural guardian. + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s answer was— + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear Algernon, + </p> + <p> + ‘I prefer my <i>natural guardian</i> to any other whatever. I shall for my + part owe you no thanks for attempting to frustrate my dear brother’s + wishes, and to raise an unbecoming dissension. I desire that no use of my + name may be made, and you may rest assured that I should find nothing so + difficult to forgive as any such interference in my behalf. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Yours truly, + ‘SOPHIA KENDAL.’ +</pre> + <p> + ‘Certainly,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘no family ill-will is complete unless money + matters be brought in to aggravate it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you think I did right, and spoke strongly enough, papa?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Quite strongly enough,’ said Mr. Kendal, suppressing a smile. ‘I hope you + wrote kindly to Lucy at the same time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘One could not help that, papa; but I did say a great deal about the + outrageous impropriety of raising the question, because I thought Algernon + might be ashamed.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘Your + grandfather’s acquisitions have brought us little but evil hitherto, and + now I fear that our dear Gilbert’s endeavour to break the net which bound + us into that system of iniquity and oppression, may cause alienation from + poor Lucy. Sophy, you must allow no apparent coldness or neglect on her + part to keep you from writing often and affectionately.’ + </p> + <p> + Maurice here came down with his mother, and as soon as there was a + moment’s pause, laid hold of the first book he met with, and began:— + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not see the justness of the analogy to which Onuphrio refers, but + there are many parts of that vision on which I should wish to hear the + explanations of Philalethes.’ + </p> + <p> + All broke out in amazement, ‘Why, Maurice, has Mrs. Dusautoy been making a + scholar of you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Maurice, was this your secret?’ cried Sophy. + </p> + <p> + He had hidden his face in his mother’s lap, and when she raised it + struggled to keep it down, and she felt him sobbing and panting for + breath. Mr. Kendal stroked his hair, and they tried to soothe him, but he + started up abruptly. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t mean ever to be a plague again! So I did it. But there—when + Ulick said it would be a comfort, you are all going to cry again, papa and + all, and that’s worse!’ and stamping his foot passionately, he would have + rushed out of the room, but was held fast in his father’s arms, and indeed + tears were flowing fast from eyes that his brother’s death had left dry. + </p> + <p> + ‘My child! my dear child!’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘it is comfort. No one can + rule you as by God’s grace you can rule yourself, and your endeavours to + do this are the greatest blessing I can ask.’ + </p> + <p> + One more kiss from his mother, and she let him go. He did not know how to + deal with emotion in himself, and hated the sight of it in others; so that + it was better to let him burst away from them, while with one voice they + admired, rejoiced, and interrogated Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I know now,’ she said, the rosy glow mantling in her cheek; ‘it must have + been Mr. O’More.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! has he been with you?’ said her father. + </p> + <p> + ‘Only once,’ said Sophy, her colour deepening; ‘but Maurice has been in a + great hurry every day to go to him, and I saw there was some secret. One + day, Susan asked me to prevent Master Maurice from teaching baby such ugly + words, that she could not sleep—not bad words, but she thought they + were Latin. So I watched, and I heard Maurice singing out some of the + legend of Hiawatha, and insisting on poor little Awkey telling him what + m-i-s-h-e-n-a-h-m-a, spelt. Poor little Awk stared, as well she might, and + obediently made the utmost efforts to say after him, Mishenahma, king of + fishes, but he was terribly discomposed at getting nothing but + Niffey-ninny, king of fithes. I went to her rescue, and asked what they + were about; but Maurice thundered down on me all the Delawares and + Mohawks, and the Choctaws and Cameches; and baby squeaked after him as + well as she could, till I fairly stopped my ears. I thought Ulick must be + reading the legend to him. Now I see he must have been teaching him to + read it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Can it be possible?’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘He could not read words of five + letters without spelling.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He always could do much more when he pleased than when he did not + please,’ said Albinia. ‘I believe the impulse to use his understanding was + all that was wanting, and I am very glad the impulse came from such a + motive.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal ordained that Maurice’s reward should be learning Latin from + himself, a perilous trial; but it proved that Mr. Kendal was really a good + teacher for a child of spirit and courage, and Maurice had early come to + the age when boys do better with man than with woman. He liked the honour + and the awe of papa’s tutorship, and learnt so well, that his father never + believed in his past dunceship; but over studies that he did not deem + sufficiently masculine, he could be as troublesome as ever, his attention + absent, and his restlessness most wearisome. To an ordinary eye, he was + little changed; but his mother felt that the great victory of the will had + been gained, and that his <i>self</i> was endeavouring to get the better + of the spirit of insubordination and mischief. Night after night she found + him sleeping with the Balaklava sword by his side, and his hand clasped + over it; and he always crept out of the way of Crimean news, though that + he gathered up the facts was plain when he committed his sovereign to + Ulick, with a request that it might be devoted to the comforts preparing + to be sent to the 25th Lancers. + </p> + <p> + Ulick wished him to consult his mother, but this he repelled. He could not + endure the sight of a tear in her eye, and she could not restrain them + when that chord was touched. It was a propensity she much disliked, the + more because she thought it looked like affectation beside Sophy, whose + feelings never took that course, but the more ill-timed the tears, the + more they would come, at the most common-place condolence or remote + allusion. It was the effect of the long strain on her powers, and the + severe shock coming suddenly after so much pressure and fatigue; moreover, + her habits had been so long disorganized that her time seemed blank, and + she could not rouse herself from a feeling of languor and depression. Then + Gilbert had been always on her mind, whether at home or absent; and it did + not seem at first as if she had enough to fill up time or thoughts—she + absolutely found herself doing nothing, because there was nothing she + cared to do. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal’s first object was the fulfilment of Gilbert’s wishes; but + Albinia soon felt how much easier it is for women and boys to make + schemes, than for men to bring them to effect, and how rash it is hastily + to condemn those who tolerate abuses. + </p> + <p> + The whole was carefully looked over with a surveyor, and it was only then + understood how complicated were the tenures, and how varied the covenants + of the numerous small tenements which old Mr. Meadows had amassed. It was + not possible to be free of the legal difficulties under at least a year, + and plans of drainage might be impeded for want of other people’s consent. + Even if all had been smooth, the sacrifice of income, by destroying Tibb’s + Alley, and reducing the number of cottages, would be considerable. + Meantime, the inspection had brought to light worse iniquities and greater + wretchedness than Mr. Kendal had imagined, and his eagerness to set to + work was tenfold. His table was heaped with sanitary reports, and his fits + of abstraction were over the components of bad air or builder’s estimates. + </p> + <p> + It only depended on Ulick to have resumed his intimacy at Willow Lawn; but + the habit once broken was not resumed. He was often there, but never + without invitation; and he was not always to be had. He had less leisure, + he was senior clerk, and the junior was dull and untrained; and he often + had work to do far into the evening. He looked bright and well, as though + possessed of a sense of being valuable in his own place, more conducive to + happiness than even congeniality of employment; and Sophy, though now and + then disappointed at his non-appearance, always had a good reason for it, + and continued to justify Mr. Dusautoy’s boast that the air of the hill had + made another woman of her. + </p> + <p> + Visiting cards had, of course, come in numbers to Willow Lawn, but Albinia + seemed to have caught her husband’s aversions, and it would be dangerous + to say how long it was before she lashed herself into setting off for a + round of calls. + </p> + <p> + Nothing surprised her more than Miss Goldsmith’s reception. Conscious of + her neglect, she expected the stiff manner to be more formal than ever; + but the welcome was almost warm, and there was something caressing in her + fears that Miss Kendal would be tired. Mr. Goldsmith was not quite well, + there were threatenings of gout, and his sister had persuaded him to visit + the relations at Bristol next week; everything might safely be trusted to + young More, and therewith came such praise of his steadiness and ability, + that Albinia did not know which way to look when all was ascribed to Mr. + Kendal’s great kindness to him. + </p> + <p> + It was too palpable to be altogether pleasant. Sophia Kendal was heiress + enough to be a very desirable connexion for the bank. Albinia was afraid + she should see through the lady’s graciousness, and took her leave in + haste; but Sophy only said, ‘Do you remember, mamma, when the Goldsmiths + thought we unsettled him?’ + </p> + <p> + Before Albinia had disarmed her reply of the irony on the tip of her + tongue, the omnibus came lumbering round the corner, and a voice proceeded + from the rear, the door flew open, and there was a rapid exit. + </p> + <p> + Face and voice, light step, and gay bearing, all were Fred—the empty + sleeve, the sole resemblance to the shattered convalescent of a few weeks + back. + </p> + <p> + ‘There, Albinia! I said you should see her first. You haven’t got any + change, have you?’ the last being addressed either to Albinia, the omnibus + conductor, or a lady, who made a tender of two shillings, while Albinia + ordered the luggage on to Willow Lawn, though something was faintly said + about the inn. + </p> + <p> + ‘And there!’ cried Fred, with an emphatic twist of his moustache, ‘isn’t + she all I ever told you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The last thing was a brick,’ said Albinia, laughing, as she looked at the + smiling, confiding, animated face, not the less pleasant for a French + Canadian grace that recalled Genevieve. + </p> + <p> + ‘The right article for building a hut, I hope,’ she said, merrily. + </p> + <p> + ‘But how and when could you have come?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This morning, from Liverpool. We did not mean to storm you in this + manner; we meant to have settled ourselves at the inn, and walked down; + Emily was very particular about it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But you see, when he saw you, he forgot all my lectures!’ said Emily, + taking his welcome for granted. + </p> + <p> + ‘Very proper of him! But, Fred, I don’t quite believe it yet. How long is + it since we parted?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Six weeks; just enough to go to Canada and back, with a fortnight in the + middle to spare.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And pray how long has Mrs. Fred existed?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Three weeks and two days;’ and turning half round to give her the benefit + of his words, ‘it was on purely philanthropic principles, because I could + not tie my own necktie.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Now could I,’ said Emily pleadingly to Sophy—‘now could I let him + go back again alone, when he came so helpless, and looking so dreadfully + ill?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what are you going to do?’ asked Albinia. ‘You can’t join again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Join! why not? Here’s a hand for a horse, and an arm for a wife, and the + rest will be done much better for me than ever it was before.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But with her? and at Sebastopol!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s the very thing’’ cried the colonel, again turning about. ‘Nothing + will serve her but to show how a backwoodsman’s daughter can live in a + hut.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what will the general say?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The general,’ cried Emily, ‘will endure me better as a fact than as a + prospect; and we will teach him that a lady is not all made of nerves and + of fancies! See what he will say if we let him into our paradise!’ + </p> + <p> + Fred brightened, though Albinia’s inquiry had for a moment taken him a + little aback. The one being whom he dreaded was General Ferrars, for whom + he cared a thousand times more than for his own elder brother, and he was + soon speculating, with his usual insouciance, as to how his announcement + might have been received by his lordship, and whether the aunts would look + at them as they went through London. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal met them at the gate, amazed at the avalanche of luggage, but + well pleased, for he had grown very fond of Fred, and had been very + anxious about him, thinking him broken and enfeebled for life, and hardly + expecting him to return from his mad expedition. He was slow to believe + his eyes and ears when he beheld a hale, handsome, vigorous man, full of + life and activity, but his welcome and congratulations were of the + warmest. He could far better stand a sudden inroad than if he had had to + meditate for a week on entertaining the bride. Not that the bride wanted + entertainment, except waiting upon her husband, who let himself be many + degrees less handy than at Malta, for the pleasure of her attentions. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps the person least gratified was Maurice; for the child shrank with + shy reverence from him whom his brother had saved, and would as soon have + thought of making a plaything of Gilbert’s sword as of having fun with the + survivor. The sight of such a merry man was a shock, and he abruptly + repelled all attempts at playing with him, and kept apart with a big book + on a chair before him, a Kendalism for which he amply compensated when + familiarity had diminished his awe. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal, though little disposed to exert himself to talk, liked to + watch his wife reviving into animation, and Sophy taking a full share in + the glee with which Emily enjoyed turning the laugh against the + good-natured soldier. In the midst of their flush of joy there was a + tender consideration about the young couple, such as to hinder their tone + from jarring. Indeed, it was less consideration than fellow-feeling, for + Gilbert Kendal had become enshrined in the depths of Fred’s heart; while + to Emily the visit was well-nigh a pilgrimage. All her hero-worship was + directed to the youth who had guarded her soldier’s life, nursed him in + his sickness, and, as he averred, inspired him with serious thoughts. + Poor, failing, timid, penitent Gilbert was to her a very St. George, and + every relic of him was viewed with reverence; she composed a countenance + for him from his father’s fine features, and fitted the fragments of his + history into an ideal, till Sophy, after being surprised and gratified, + began to view Gilbert through a like halo, and to rank him with his twin + brother. Friendship was a new and agreeable phase of life to Sophy, who + found a suitable companion in such an open-hearted person, simpler in + nature, and fresher than herself, free from English commonplaces, though + older and of more standing. She expanded and brightened wonderfully, and + Emily, imagining her a female Gilbert, was devoted to her, and thought her + a marvel of learning, depth, goodness, and humility, the more striking for + her tinge of grave pensiveness. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, Albinia,’ said the colonel, ‘didn’t I hear that it was your handsome + daughter who is married?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, poor Lucy was always called our pretty one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘More admired than her sister? Why, she never could have had a + countenance!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Albinia, highly gratified by the opinion of such a + connoisseur. ‘I always told Winifred that Sophy was the beauty, but she + has only lately had health or animation to set her off.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I declare, when we overtook you in the street, she looked a perfect + Spanish princess, in her black robes and great shady hat. You ought always + to keep her in black. Ha! Emily, what are you smiling at?’ + </p> + <p> + His wife looked up into his face with mischievous shyness in her eyes, as + if she wanted him to say what would be a liberty in her. Somebody else had + overtaken the ladies nearly at the same moment, and Albinia exulted in + perceiving that the embellishment had been observed by others besides + herself. She did not look so severe but that Fred was encouraged to + repeat, ‘Only lately had health or animation? When Irish winds blow this + way, I fancy—But what will the aunts say?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They are not Sophy’s aunts, whatever they are to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What will Kendal say? which is more to the purpose.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! he saw it first; he will be delighted; but you must not say a word to + him, for it can’t come to anything just now.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was thus confirmed in her anticipations, and the bridal pair, only + wishing everybody to be as happy as themselves, took the matter up with + such vivid interest and amusement, that she was rather afraid of a + manifestation such as to shock either her husband or the parties + themselves; but Fred was too much of a gentleman, and Emily too + considerate, for anything perilously marked. Only she thought Emily need + not have been so decided in making room for Ulick next to Sophy, when they + were all looking out at the young moon at the conservatory-door that + evening. + </p> + <p> + And then Emily took her husband’s arm, and insisted on going down the + garden to be introduced to English nightingales; and though she was told + they never had come there in the memory of man, she was bent on doing as + she would be done by, and drew him alone the silvered paths, among the + black shadows of the trees; and Ulick asked Sophy if she wished to go too. + She looked as if she should like it very much; he fetched a couple of + cloaks ont of the hall, put her into one, and ran after Mrs. Ferrars with + the other. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well!’ thought Albinia, as she stood at the conservatory-door, ‘how much + more boldness and tact some people have than others! If I had lived a + hundred years, I should not have managed it so well!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What’s become of them?’ said Mr. Kendal, as she went back to the + drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gone to listen for nightingales!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nightingales! How could you let them go into the river-fog?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Emily was bent upon it; she is too much of a bride not to have her way.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Umph! I wonder Sophy was so foolish.’ + </p> + <p> + They came back in a quarter of an hour. No nightingales; and Fred was + indulging in reminiscences of bull-frogs; the two ladies were rapturous on + the effect of the moonbeams in the ripple of the waters, and the soft + furry white mist rising over the meadows. Ulick shivered, and leant over + the fire to breathe a drier air, bantering the ladies for their + admiration, and declaring that Mrs. Ferrars had taken the moan of an + imprisoned house-dog for the nightingale, which he disdainfully imitated + with buzz, zizz, and guggle, assuring her she had had no loss; but he + looked rather white and chilled. Sophy whispered something to her papa, + who rang the bell, and ordered in wine and hot water. + </p> + <p> + ‘There, Emily,’ said Albinia, when he had taken his leave; ‘what shall we + say to your nightingales, if Mr. O’More catches his ague again?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, there are moments when people don’t catch agues,’ said Fred. ‘He + would be a poor fellow to catch an ague after all that, though, + by-the-bye, it is not a place to go to at night without a cigar.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was on thorns, lest Sophy should be offended; but though her + cheeks lighted up, and she was certainly aware of some part of their + meaning, either she did not believe in the possibility of any one + bantering her, or else the assumption was more agreeable than the + presumption was disagreeable. She endured with droll puzzled dignity, when + Fred teased her anxiety the next day to know whether Mr. O’More had felt + any ill effects; and it really appeared as if she liked him better for + what might have been expected to be a dire affront; but then he was a man + whose manner enabled to do and say whatever he pleased. + </p> + <p> + Emily never durst enter on the subject with her, but had more than one + confidential little gossip with Albinia, and repeatedly declared that she + hoped to be in England when ‘it’ took place. Indeed that week’s visit made + them all so intimate, that it was not easy to believe how recent was the + acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + The aunts had been so much disappointed at Fred’s desertion, so much + discomfited at his recovery contrary to all predictions, and so much + annoyed at his marriage, that it took all their kindness, and his Crimean + fame, to make them invite him and his colonial wife to the Family Office, + to be present at the royal distribution of medals. However, the good + ladies did their duty; and Emily and Sophy parted with promises of + letters. + </p> + <p> + The beginning of the correspondence was as full a description of the + presentation of the medals as could be given by a person who only saw one + figure wherever she went, and to whom the great incident of the day was, + that the gracious and kindhearted Queen had herself fastened the + left-handed colonel’s medal as well as Emily could have done it herself! + There was another medal, with two clasps, that came to Bayford, and which + was looked at in pensive but not unhappy silence. ‘You shall have it some + day, Maurice, but not now,’ said Mr. Kendal, and all felt that now meant + his own lifetime. It was placed where Gilbert would well have liked to see + it, beside his brother Edmund’s watch. + </p> + <p> + Emily made Mrs. Annesley and Miss Ferrars more fond of her in three days, + than eleven years had made them of Winifred; too fond, indeed, for they + fell to preaching to Fred upon the horrors of Sebastopol, till they + persuaded him that he was a selfish wretch, and brought him to decree that + she should stay with them during his absence. But, as Emily observed, that + was not what she left home for; she demolished his arguments with a small + amount of playing at petulance, and triumphantly departed for the East, + leaving Aunt Mary crying over her as a predestined victim. + </p> + <p> + The last thing Fred did before sailing, was to send Albinia a letter from + his brother, that she might see ‘how very kind and cordial Belraven was,’ + besides something that concerned her more nearly. + </p> + <p> + Lord Belraven was civil when it cost him nothing, and had lately regarded + his inconvenient younger brother with favour, as bringing him distinction, + and having gained two steps without purchase, removed, too, by his present + rank, and the pension for his wound, from being likely to become + chargeable to him; so he had written such brotherly congratulations, that + good honest Fred was quite affected. He was even discursive enough to + mention some connexions of the young man who had been with Fred in the + Crimea, a Mr. Cavendish Dusautoy, a very good sort of fellow, who gave + excellent dinners, and was a pleasant yachting companion. His wife was + said to be very pretty and pleasing, but she had arrived at Genoa very + unwell, had been since confined, and was not yet able to see any one. It + was said to be the effect of her distress for the death of her brother, + and the estrangement from her family, who had behaved very ill about his + property. Had not Albinia Ferrars married into that family? + </p> + <p> + Albinia knew enough of her noble relative to be aware that good dinners + and obsequiousness were the way to his esteem, and Algernon’s was the sort + of arrogance that would stoop to adore a coronet. All this was nothing, + however, to the idea of Lucy, ill in that strange place, with no one to + care for her but her hard master. Albinia sometimes thought of going to + find her out at Genoa; but this was too utterly wild and impossible, and + nothing could be done but to write letters of affectionate inquiry, + enclosing them to Lord Belraven. + </p> + <p> + Algernon’s answer was solemn, and as brief as he could make anything. He + was astonished that the event bad escaped the notice of the circle at + Bayford, since he believed it had appeared in all the principal European + newspapers; and his time had been so fully occupied, that he had imagined + that intimation sufficient, since it was evident from the tone of the + recent correspondence, that the family of Bayford were inclined to drop + future intercourse. He was obliged for the inquiries for Lucy, and was + happy to say she was recovering favourably, though the late unfortunate + events, and the agitation caused by letters from home, had affected her so + seriously, that they had been detained at Genoa for nearly four months to + his great inconvenience, instead of pushing on to Florence and Rome. It + had been some compensation that he had become extremely intimate with that + most agreeable and superior person, Lord Belraven, who had consented to + become sponsor to his son. + </p> + <p> + Lucy wrote to Albinia. Poor thing, the letter was the most childishly + expressed, and the least childishly felt, she had ever written; its whole + aspect was weak and wobegone; yet there was less self-pity, and more + endeavour to make the best of it, than before. She had the dearest little + baby in the world; but he was very delicate, and she wished mamma would + send out an English nurse, for she could not bear that Italian woman—her + black eyes looked so fierce, and she was sure it was not safe to have + those immense pins in her hair. Expense was nothing, but she should never + be happy till she had an Englishwoman about him, especially now that she + was getting better, and Algernon would want her to come out again with + him. Dear Algernon, he had lost the Easter at Rome for her sake, but + perhaps it was a good thing, for he was often out in Lord Belraven’s + yacht, and she could be quiet with baby. She did wish baby to have had her + dear brothers’ names, but Algernon would not consent. Next Tuesday he was + to be christened; and then followed a string of mighty names, long enough + for a Spanish princess, beginning with Belraven!!! + </p> + <p> + Lucy Dusautoy’s dreary condition in the midst of all that wealth could + give, was a contrast to Emily Ferrars’ buoyant delight in the burrow which + was her first married home, and proved a paradise to many a stray officer, + aye, maybe, to Lieutenant-General Sir William Ferrars himself. Her letters + were charming, especially a detail of Fred meeting Bryan O’More coming out + of the trenches, grim, hungry, and tired, having recently kicked a newly + alighted shell down from the parapet, with the cool words, ‘Be off with + you, you ugly baste you;’ of his wolfish appetite after having been long + reduced to simple rations, though he kept a curly black lamb loose about + his hut, because he hadn’t the heart to kill it; and it served him for bed + if not for board, all his rugs and blankets having flown off in the + hurricane, or been given to the wounded; he had been quite affronted at + the suggestion that a Galway pig was as well lodged as himself—it + was an insult to any respectable Irish animal! + </p> + <p> + Albinia sent Maurice to summon Ulick to enjoy the letter in store for him. + He looked grave and embarrassed, and did not light up as usual at Bryan’s + praises. He said that his aunt, who had written to him on business, had + given a bad account of Mr. Goldsmith, but Albinia hardly thought this + accounted for his preoccupation, and was considering how to probe it, when + her brother Maurice opened the door. ‘Ulick O’More! that’s right; the very + man I was in search of!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How’s Winifred, Maurice?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Getting on wonderfully well. I really think she is going to make a start, + after all! and she is in such spirits herself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And the boy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, a thumping great fellow! I promise you he’ll be a match for your + Maurice.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do believe it is to reward Winifred for sparing you in the spring when + we wanted you so much! Come, sit down, and wait for Edmund.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; I’ve not a moment to stay. I’m to meet Bury again at Woodside at six + o’clock, he drove me there, and I walked on, looking in at your lodgings + by the way, Ulick.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m not there now. I am keeping guard at the bank.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So they told me. Well, I hope your guard is not too strict for you to + come over to Fairmead on Sunday; we want you to do our boy the kindness to + be his godfather!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy blushed with approving gratitude. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t consider that it will be a sinecure—he squalls in such a + characteristic manner that I am convinced he will rival his cousin here in + all amiable and amenable qualities; so I consider it particularly + desirable that he should be well provided with great disciplinarians.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You certainly could not find any one more accomplished in teaching dunces + to read,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘When their mammas have taught them already!’ added Ulick, laughing. + ‘Thank you; but you know I can’t sleep out; Hyder Ali and I are + responsible for a big chest of sovereigns, and all the rest of it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor could I lodge you at present; so we are agreed. My proposition is + that you should drive my sister over on Sunday morning. My wife is + wearying for a sight of her; and she has not been at Fairmead on a Sunday + since she left it, eh, Albinia?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose for such a purpose it is not wrong to use the horse,’ she said, + her eyes sparkling. + </p> + <p> + ‘And you might put my friend Maurice between you, if you can’t go out + pleasuring without him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I scorn you, sir; Maurice is as good as gold; I shall leave him at home, + I think, to prove that I can—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s the reward of merit!’ exclaimed Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘She expects my children to corrupt him!’ quoth Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + ‘For shame, Maurice; that’s on purpose to make me bring him. Well, we’ll + see what papa says, and if he thinks the new black horse strong enough, or + to be trusted with Mr. O’More.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I only wish ‘twas a jaunting car!’ cried Ulick. + </p> + <p> + ‘And what’s the boy’s name to be? Not Belraven, I conclude, like my + unfortunate grandson—Maurice, I hope.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; the precedent of his namesake would be too dangerous. I believe he is + to be Edmund Ulick. Don’t take it as too personal, Ulick, for it was the + name of our mutual connexion.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I take the personal part though, Maurice; and thank you, said Albinia, + and Mr. Ferrars looked more happy and joyous than any time since his + wife’s health had begun to fail. Always cheerful, and almost always taking + matters up in the most lively point of view, it was only by comparison + that want of spirits in him could be detected; and it was chiefly by the + vanishing of a certain careworn, anxious expression about his eyes, and by + the ring of his merry laugh, that Albinia knew that he thought better of + his wife’s state than for the last five or six years. + </p> + <p> + Albinia and Ulick drove off at six o’clock on a lovely summer Sunday + morning, with Maurice between them in a royal state of felicity. That long + fresh drive, past summer hay-fields sleeping in their silver bath of dew, + and villages tardily awakening to the well-earned Sunday rest, was not the + least pleasant part of the day; and yet it was completely happy, not even + clouded by one outbreak of Master Maurice. Luckily for him, Mary had a + small class, who absorbed her superabundant love of rule; and little Alby + was a fair-haired, apple-cheeked maiden of five, who awoke both admiration + and chivalry, and managed to coquet with him and Ulick both at once, so + that Willie had no disrespect to his sisters to resent. + </p> + <p> + He was exemplary at church, well-behaved at dinner, and so little on his + mamma’s mind, that she had a delightful renewal of her acquaintance with + the Sunday-school, and a leisurable gossip with Mrs. Reid and the two Miss + Reids, collectively and individually; but the best of all was a long quiet + tete-a-tete with Winifred. + </p> + <p> + After the evening service, Mr. Ferrars himself carried his + newly-christened boy back to the mother, and paused that his sister might + come with him, and they might feel like the old times, when the three had + been alone together. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Winifred, when he had left them, ‘it is very pretty playing at + it; but one cannot be the same.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor would one exactly wish it,’ said Albinia; ‘though I think you are + going to be more the same.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps,’ said Winifred; ‘the worst of being ill is that it does wear + one’s husband so! When he came in, and tried to make me fancy we were gone + back to Willie’s time, I could not help thinking how different you both + looked.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, so much the better and more respectable,’ said Albinia. ‘You know I + always wanted to grow old; I don’t want to stop short like your sister + Anne, who looks as much the child of the house as ever. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish you had as few cares as Anne. Look; I declare that’s a grey hair!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know. I like it; now Sophy is growing young, and I’m growing old, it is + all correct.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Old, indeed!’ ejaculated Winifred, looking at her fair fresh complexion + and bright features; ‘don’t try for that, when even Edmund is not grey.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes he is,’ said Albinia, gravely; ‘Malta sowed many white threads in his + black head, and worry about those buildings has brought more.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Worry; I’m very sorry to hear of it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes; the tenures are so troublesome, and everybody is so cantankerous. If + he wanted to set up some pernicious manufacture, it could not be worse! + The Osbornes, after having lived with Tibb’s Alley close to them all their + lives, object to the almshouses! Mr. Baron wont have the new drains + carried through his little strip of land. The Town Council think we are + going to poison the water; and Pettilove, and everybody else who owns a + wretched tenement, that we shall increase the wants of their tenants, and + lower their rents. If it be carried through, it will be by that sheer + force in going his own way that Edmund can exert when he chooses.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And he will?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘O, yes, no fear of that; he goes on, avoiding seeing or hearing what he + has not to act upon; but worse than all are the people themselves; Tibb’s + Alley all has notice to quit, but none of them can be got rid of till + Martinmas, and some not till Lady-day, and the beer-house people are in + such a rage! The turn-out of the public-houses come and roar at our gate + on Saturday nights; and they write up things on the wall against him! and + one day they threw over into the garden what little Awkey called a poor + dear dead pussy. I believe they tell them all sorts of absurd things about + his tyranny; poor creatures.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Can’t you get it stopped?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Edmund wont summon any one, because he thinks it would do more harm than + good. He says it will pass off; but it grieves him more than he shows: he + thinks he could once have made himself more popular: but I don’t know, it + is a horrid set.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought you said he was in good spirits.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And so he is: he never gets depressed and unwilling to be spoken to. He + is ready to take interest in everything; and always so busy! When I + remember how he never seemed to be obliged to attend to anything, I laugh + at the contrast; and yet he goes about it all so gravely and slowly, that + it never seems like a change.’ + </p> + <p> + In this and other home talk nearly an hour had passed, when Mr. Ferrars + returned. ‘Are you come to tell me to go?’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not particularly,’ he said, in a tone that made her laugh. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no,’ said Winifred. ‘I want a great deal more of her. Where have you + been?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have been to see old Wilks; Ulick walked down with me. By-the-bye, + Albinia, what nonsense has Fred’s wife been talking to his brother?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Emily does not talk nonsense!’ fired up Albinia, colouring, nevertheless. + </p> + <p> + ‘The worse for her, then! However, it seems Bryan has disturbed this poor + fellow very much, by congratulating him on his prospects at Willow Lawn.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! that is what made him so distant and cautious, is it?’ laughed + Albinia. ‘I think Mrs. Emily might as well not have betrayed it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Betrayed! What could have passed?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Emily and Fred saw it as plain as I did. Why, it does not do credit + to your discernment, Maurice; papa found it out long ago, and told me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Kendal did?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, that he did, and did not mind the notion at all; rather liked it, in + fact.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well!’ said Mr. Ferrars, in a different tone, ‘it is a very queer + business! I certainly did not think the lad showed any symptoms. He said + he had heard gossip about it before, and had tried to be careful; his aunt + talked to him once, but, as he said, it would be nothing but the rankest + treason to think of such a thing, on the terms on which he is treated.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay, that’s it!’ said Albinia; ‘he acts most perfectly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Perfectly indeed, if that were acting,’ said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + ‘And what made him speak to you?’ asked Winifred. + </p> + <p> + ‘He wanted to consult me. He said it was very hard on him, for all the + pleasure he had came from his intercourse with Willow Lawn; and he could + not bear to keep at a distance, because it looked as if he had not + forgotten the old folly about the caricature; but he was afraid of the + report coming to your ears or Mr. Kendal’s, because you would think it so + wrong and shameful an abuse of your kindness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And that’s his whole concern?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So he told me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what advice did you give him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I told him Bayford was bent on gossip, and no one heeded it less than my + respected brother and sister.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That was famous of you, Maurice. I was afraid you would have put it upon + his honour and the state of his own heart.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sooth to say, I did not think his heart appeared very ticklish.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Maurice, Maurice! But you’ve not been there to see the hot fits and + the cold fits! It is a very fine thermometer whether he says Sophy or Miss + Kendal.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you say Edmund perceived this?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Much you would trust my unassisted ‘cuteness! I tell you he did, and that + it will make him happier than anything.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very well; then my advice will have done no harm. I did not think there + had been so much self-control in an Irishman.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Had he not better say, so much blindness in the rector of Fairmead?’ + laughed Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘And pray what course is the affair to take?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The present, I suppose. Some catastrophe will occur at last to prove to + him that we honour him, and don’t view it as outrageous presumption; and + then—oh! there can be no doubt that he will have a share in the + bank; and Sophy may buy toleration for his round O. After all, he has the + best of it as to ancestry, and we Kendals need not turn up our noses at + banking.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think he will be too proud to address her, except on equality as to + money matters.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pride is sometimes quelled and love free,’ said Albinia. ‘No, no; content + yourself with having given the best advice in the world, with your eyes + fast shut!’ + </p> + <p> + And Albinia went home in high spirits. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX. + </h2> + <p> + Not long afterwards, Ulick O’More was summoned to Bristol, where his uncle + had become suddenly worse; but he had only reached Hadminster when a + telegraph met him with the news of Mr. Goldsmith’s death, and orders to + remain at his post. + </p> + <p> + He came to the Kendals in the evening in great grief; he had really come + to love and esteem his uncle, and he was very unhappy at having lost the + chance of a reconciliation for his mother. As her chief friend and + confidant, he knew that she regarded the alienation of her own family as + the punishment of her disobedient marriage, and that his own appointment + had been valued chiefly as an opening towards fraternal feeling, and + reproached himself for not having made more direct efforts to induce his + uncle to enter into personal intercourse with her. + </p> + <p> + ‘If I had only ventured it before he went to Bristol,’ he said; ‘I was a + fool not to have done so; and there, the Goldsmiths detest the very name + of us! Why could they not have telegraphed for me? I might have heard what + would have done my mother’s heart good for the rest of her life. I am sure + my poor uncle wanted to ease his mind!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘May he not have sent some communication direct to her?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I trust he did! I have long thought he only kept her aloof from habit, + and felt kindly towards her all the time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And never could persuade himself to make a move towards her until too + late,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes. Nothing comes home to one more than the words, “Agree with thine + adversary quickly whiles thou art in the way with him.” If once one comes + to think there’s creditable pride in holding out, there’s no end to it, or + else too much end.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Goldsmith was persevering in the example his father had set him,’ + said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay! my mother never blamed either, and I’m afraid, if the truth were + told, my father was hot enough too, though it would all have been bygones + with him long ago, if they would have let it. But I was thinking just then + of my own foolishness last winter, when I would not grant you it was + pride, Mrs. Kendal, for fear I should have to repent of it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What has brought you to see that it was?’ asked she. + </p> + <p> + ‘One comes to a better mind when the fit is off,’ he said. ‘I hope I will + not be as bad next time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope we shall never give you a next time,’ said Albinia; ‘for neither + party is comfortable, perched on a high horse.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you see,’ continued Ulick, ‘it is hard for us to give up our pride, + because it is the only thing we’ve got of our own, and has been meat, + drink, and clothing to us for many a year.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So no wonder you make the most of it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘True; I think a very high born and very rich man might be humble,’ said + Ulick, so meditatively that they laughed; but Sophy said, + </p> + <p> + ‘No, that is not a paradox; the real difficulty is not in willingly + yielding, but in taking what we cannot help.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ said Ulick, ‘I hope it is not pride not to intend working under + Andrew Goldsmith.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you consider that as your fate?’ asked Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Never my fate,’ said Ulick, quickly; ‘hardly even my alternative, for he + would like to put up a notice, “No Irish need apply.” We had enough of + each other last winter.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And do you suppose,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘that Mr. Goldsmith has left your + position exactly the same?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ve no reason to think otherwise. I refused all connexion with the bank + if it was to interfere with my name. I don’t think it unlikely that he may + have left me a small compliment in the way of shares; but if so, I shall + sell them, and make them keep me at Oxford. I’m not too old yet!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then the work of these four years is wasted,’ said Mr. Kendal, gravely. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, indeed,’ cried Ulick; ‘not if it takes me where I’ve always longed to + be! Or, if not, I flatter myself I’m accountant enough to be an agent in + my own country.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Anything to get away from here,’ said Albinia, with a shade of asperity, + provoked by the spirit of enterprise in his voice. + </p> + <p> + ‘After all, it is a bit of a place,’ said Ulick; ‘and the office parlour + is not just a paradise! Then ‘tis all on such a narrow scale, too little + to absorb one, and too much to let one do anything else; I see how larger + transactions might be engrossing, but this is mere cramping and worrying; + I know I could do better for my family in the end than by what I can screw + out of my salary now; and if it is no longer to give my poor mother a + sense of expiation, as she calls it, why, then, the cage-door is open.’ + </p> + <p> + His eyes glittered, and Sophy exclaimed, ‘Yes; and now the training is + over, it has made you fitter to fly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It has,’ he said; ‘and I’m thankful for it. Without being here, I would + never have learnt application—nor some better things, I hope.’ + </p> + <p> + They scarcely saw him again till after the funeral, when late in the day + he came into the drawing-room, and saying that his aunt was pretty well + and composed, he knelt down on the floor with the little Awk, and silently + built up a tower with her wooden bricks. His hand trembled nervously at + first, but gradually steadied as the elevation became critical; and a + smile of interest lighted his face as he became absorbed in raising the + structure to the last brick, holding back the eager child with one hand + lest she should overthrow it. Completion, triumph, a shock, a downfall! + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ cried the elder Albinia, unable to submit to the suspense. + </p> + <p> + ‘Telle est la vie,’ answered Ulick, smiling sadly as he passed his hand + over his brow. + </p> + <p> + ‘It’s too bad of him,’ broke out Mrs. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought you were prepared,’ said Sophy, severely, disappointed to see + him so much discomposed. + </p> + <p> + ‘How should I be prepared,’ said he, petulantly, ‘for the whole concern, + house, and bank, and all the rest of it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Left to you?’ was the cry. + </p> + <p> + ‘Every bit of it, and an annuity apiece charged on it to my mother and + aunt for their lives! My aunt told me how it came about. It was all that + fellow Andrew’s fault.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Or misfortune,’ murmured Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘My poor uncle had made a will in Andrew’s favour long before my time, and + at Bristol he wanted to make some arrangement for my mother and for me; + but it seems Mr. Andrew took exception at me—would not promise to + continue me on, nor to give me a share in the business, and at last my + uncle was so much disgusted, that he sent for a lawyer and cut Andrew out + of his will altogether. My aunt says he went on asking for me, and it was + Andrew’s fault that they wrote instead of telegraphing. You can’t think + what kind messages he sent to me;’ and Ulick’s eyes filled with tears. ‘My + poor uncle, away from home, and with that selfish fellow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did he send any message to your mother?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes! he told my aunt to write to her that he was sorry they had been + strangers so long, and that—I’d been like a son to him. I’m sure I + wish I had been. I dare say he would have let me if I had not flown out + about my O. I could have saved changing it without making such an + intolerable row, and then he might have died more at peace with the + world.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘At peace with you at least he did.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I trust so. But if I could only have been by his side, and felt myself a + comfort, and thanked him with all my heart. Maybe he would have listened + to me, and not have sown ill-will between Andrew and me, by giving neither + what we would like.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you expect us to be sorry?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, I came to be helped out of my ingratitude and discontent at finding + the cage-door shut, and myself chained to the oar; for as things are left, + I could not get it off my hands without giving up my mother’s interests + and my aunt’s. Besides, my poor uncle left me an entreaty to keep things + up creditably like himself, and do justice by the bank. It is as if, poor + man, it was an idol that he had been high priest to, and wanted me to be + the same—ay, and sacrifice too.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, there are two ways of working, two kinds of sacrifice; and besides, + you are still working for your mother.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So I am, but without the hope she had before. To be sure, it would be + affluence at home, or would be if she could have it in her own hands. + Little Redmond shall have the best of educations! And we must mind there + is something in advance by the time Bryan wants to purchase his company.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia asked how his aunt liked the arrangement. It seemed that Andrew + had offended her nearly as much as her brother, and that she was clinging + to Ulick as her great comfort and support; he did not like to stay long + away from her, but he had rushed down to Willow Lawn to avoid the jealous + congratulations of the cousinhood. + </p> + <p> + ‘You will hardly keep from glad people,’ said Albinia. ‘You must shut + yourself up if you cannot be congratulated. How rejoiced Mr. Dusautoy will + be!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Whatever is, is best,’ sighed Ulick. ‘I shall mind less when the first is + past! I must go and entertain all these people at dinner!’ and he groaned. + ‘Good evening. Heigh ho! I wonder if our Banshee will think me worth + keening for?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope she will have no occasion yet,’ said Albinia, as he shut the door; + ‘but she will be a very foolish Banshee if she does not, for she will + hardly find such another O’More! Well, Sophy, my dear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We should have missed him,’ said Sophy, as grave as a judge. + </p> + <p> + Albinia’s heart beat high with the hope that Ulick would soon perceive + sufficient consolation for remaining at Bayford, but of course he could + make no demonstration while Miss Goldsmith continued with him. She made + herself very dependent on him, and he devoted his evenings to her solace. + He had few leisure moments, for the settlement of his affairs occupied + him, and full attention was most important to establish confidence at this + critical juncture, when it might be feared that his youth, his nation, and + Andrew Goldsmith’s murmurs might tell against him. Mr. Kendal set the + example of putting all his summer rents into his hands, and used his + influence to inspire trust; and fortunately the world had become so much + accustomed to transacting affairs with him, that the country business + seemed by no means inclined to fall away. Still there was much hard work + and some perplexity, the Bristol connexion made themselves troublesome, + and the ordinary business was the heavier from the clerks being both so + young and inexperienced that he was obliged to exercise close supervision. + It was guessed, too, that he was not happy about the effect of the influx + of wealth at home, and that he feared it would only add to the number of + horses and debts. + </p> + <p> + He soon looked terribly fagged and harassed, and owned that he envied Mr. + Hope, who had just received the promise of a district church, in course of + building under Colonel Bury’s auspices, about four miles from Fairmead. To + work his way through the University and take Holy Orders had been Ulick’s + ambition; he would gladly have endured privation for such an object, and + it did seem hard that such aspirations should be so absolutely frustrated, + and himself forced into the stream of uncongenial, unintellectual toil, in + so obscure and uninviting a sphere. The resignation of all lingering hope + of escape, and the effort to be contented, cost him more than even his + original breaking in; and Mr. Kendal one day found him sitting in his + little office parlour unable to think or to speak under a terrible + visitation of his autumnal tormentor, brow-ague. + </p> + <p> + This made Mr. Kendal take to serious expostulation. It was impossible to + go on in this way; why did he not send for a brother to help him? + </p> + <p> + Ulick could not restrain a smile at the fruitlessness of thinking of + assistance of this kind from his elder brothers, and as to little Redmond, + the only younger one still to be disposed of, he hoped to do better things + for him. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then send for a sister.’ + </p> + <p> + He hoped he might bring Rose over when his aunt was gone, but he could not + shut those two up together at any price. + </p> + <p> + Then,’ said Mr. Kendal, rather angrily, ‘get an experienced, trustworthy + clerk, so as to be able to go from home, or give yourself some + relaxation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I inquired about such a person, but there’s the salary; and where + would be the chance of getting Redmond to school?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think your father might see to that.’ + </p> + <p> + Ulick had no answer to make to this. The legacy to Mrs. O’More might + nearly as well have been thrown into the sea. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ said Mr. Kendal, walking about the room, ‘why don’t you keep a + horse?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As a less costly animal than brother, sister, or clerk?’ said Ulick, + laughing. + </p> + <p> + ‘Your health will prove more costly than all the rest if you do not take + care.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, my aunt told me it would be respectable and promote confidence if I + lived like a gentleman and kept my horse. I’ll see about it,’ said Ulick, + in a more persuadable tone. + </p> + <p> + The seeing about it resulted in the arrival of a genuine product of county + Galway, a long-legged, raw-boned hunter, with a wild, frightened eye, + quivering, suspicious-looking ears, and an ill-omened name compounded of + kill and of kick, which Maurice alone endeavoured to pronounce; also an + outside car, very nearly as good as new. This last exceeded Ulick’s + commission, but it had been such a bargain, that Connel had not been able + to resist it, indeed it cost more in coming over than the original price; + but Ulick nearly danced round it, promising Mrs. and Miss Kendal that when + new cushioned and new painted they would find it beat everything. + </p> + <p> + He was not quite so envious of Mr. Hope when he devoted the early morning + hours to Killye-kickye, as the incorrect world called his steed, and, if + the truth must be told, he first began to realize the advantages of + wealth, when he set his name down among the subscribers to the hounds. + </p> + <p> + Nor was this the only subscription to which he was glad to set his name; + there were others where Mr. Dusautoy wanted funds, and Mr. Kendal’s + difficulties were lessened by having another lord of the soil on his side. + Some exchanges brought land enough within their power to make drainage + feasible, and Ulick started the idea that it would be better to locate the + almshouses at the top of the hill, on the site of Madame Belmarche’s old + house, than to place them where Tibb’s Alley at present was, close to the + river, and far from church. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal’s plans were unpopular, and two or three untoward circumstances + combined to lead to his being regarded as a tyrant. He could not do things + gently, and had not a conciliating manner. Had he been more free spoken, + real oppression would have been better endured than benefits against + people’s will. He interfered to prevent some Sunday trading; and some of + the Tibb’s Alley tenants who ought to have gone at midsummer, chose to + stay on and set him at defiance till they had to be forcibly ejected; + whereupon Ulick O’More showed that he was not thoroughly Anglicised by + demanding if, under such circumstances, it was safe to keep the window + shutters unclosed at night, Mr. Kendal’s head was such a beautiful mark + under the lamp. + </p> + <p> + If not a mark for a pistol, he was one for the disaffected blackguard + papers, which made up a pathetic case of a helpless widow with her bed + taken away from under her, ending with certain vague denunciations which + were read with roars of applause at the last beer shop which could not be + cleared till Christmas, while the closing of the rest sent herds thither; + and papers were nightly read; representing the Nabob expelling the + industrious from the beloved cottages of their ancestors, by turns, to + swell his own overgrown garden, or to found a convent, whence, as a + disguised Jesuit, he meant to convert all Bayford to popery. + </p> + <p> + As Albinia wrote to Genevieve, they were in a state of siege, for only in + the middle of the day did Mr. Kendal allow the womankind to venture out + without an escort, the evening was disturbed by howlings at the gate, and + all sorts of petty acts of spite were committed in the garden, such as + injuring trees, stealing fruit, and carrying off the children’s rabbits. + Let that be as it might, Genevieve owned herself glad to come to + hospitable Willow Lawn, though sorry for the cause. + </p> + <p> + Poor Mr. Rainsforth, after vainly striving to recruit his health at + Torquay during the vacation, had been sentenced to give up his profession, + and ordered to Madeira, and Genevieve was upon the world again. + </p> + <p> + The Kendals claimed her promise of a long visit, or rather that she should + come home, and take time and choice in making any fresh engagement, nay, + that she should not even inquire for a situation till after Christmas. And + after staying to the last moment when she could help the Rainsforths, she + proposed to spend a day or two with her aunt at the convent, and then come + to her friends at Bayford. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal drove his ladies to fetch her. He had lately indulged the + household with a large comfortable open carriage with two horses, a rival + to Mr. O’More’s notable car, where he used to drive in an easy lounging + fashion on one side, with Hyder Ali to balance him on the other. + </p> + <p> + This was a grand shopping day, an endless business, and as the autumn day + began to close in, even Mr. Kendal’s model patience was nearly exhausted + before they called for their little friend. There was something very sweet + and appropriate in her appearance; her dress, without presuming to share + their mourning, did not insult it by gay colouring; it was a quiet dark + violet and white checked silk, a black mantle, and black velvet bonnet + with a few green leaves to the lilac flowers, and the face when at rest + was softly pensive, but ready to respond with cheerful smiles and grateful + looks. She had become more English, and had dropped much foreign accent + and idiom, but without losing her characteristic grace and power of + disembarrassing those to whom she spoke, and in a few moments even Sophy + had lost all sense of meeting under awkward or melancholy circumstances, + and was talking eagerly to her dear old sympathizing friend. + </p> + <p> + There was a great exchange of tidings; Genevieve had much to tell of her + dear Rainsforths, the many vicissitudes of anxiety in which she had + shared, and of the children’s ways of taking the parting; and of the dear + little Fanny who seemed to have carried away so large a piece of her + susceptible heart, that Sophy could not help breaking out, ‘Well, I do + think it is very hard to make yourself a bit of a mother’s heart, only to + have it torn out again.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia smiled, and said, ‘After all, Sophy, happiness in this world is in + such loving, only we don’t find it out till the rent has been made.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And some people can get fond of anything,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m sure,’ said Genevieve, ‘every one is so kind to me I can’t help it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I was not blaming you,’ said Sophy. ‘People are the better for it, but I + cannot like except where I esteem, and that does not often come.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! don’t you think so?’ cried Genevieve. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t mean moderate approval. That may extend far, and with it + good-will, but there is a deep, concentrated feeling which I don’t believe + those who like every one can ever have, and that is life.’ + </p> + <p> + Perhaps the deepening twilight favoured the utterance of her feelings, + for, as they were descending a hill, she said, ‘Mamma, that was the place + where Maurice was brought back to me.’ + </p> + <p> + She had before passed it in silence, but in the dark she was not afraid of + betraying the expression that the thrill of exquisite recollection brought + to her countenance; and leaning back in her corner indulged in listening + to the narration, as Albinia, unaware of the special point of the episode, + related Maurice’s desperate enterprise, going on to dilate on the benefit + of having Mr. O’More at the bank rather than Andrew Goldsmith. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah!’ said Genevieve, ‘it is he who wants to pull down our dear old house. + I shall quarrel with him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Genevieve making common cause with the obstructives of Bayford, as if he + had not enemies enough!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What’s that light in the sky?’ exclaimed Sophy, starting up to speak to + her father on the driving seat. + </p> + <p> + ‘A bonfire,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘If we had remembered that it was the 5th of + November, we would not have stayed out so late.’ The next moment he drew + up the horses, exclaiming, ‘Mr. Hope, will you have a lift?’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hope, rather to the ladies’ surprise, took the vacant place beside + Sophy, instead of climbing up to the box. He had been to see his intended + parish, and was an enviable man, for he was as proud of it as if it had + been an intended wife, and Albinia, who knew it for a slice of dreary + heath, was entertained with his raptures. Church, schools, and parsonage, + each in their way were perfection or at least promised to be, and he had + never been so much elevated or so communicative. The speechless little + curate seemed to have vanished. + </p> + <p> + The road, as may be remembered, did not run parallel with the curve of the + river, but cutting straight across, entered Bayford over the hill, passing + a small open bit of waste land, where stood a few cottages, the outskirts + of the town. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly coming from an overshadowed lane upon this common, a glare of + light flashed on them, showing them each other’s faces, and casting the + shadow of the carriage into full relief. The horses shied violently, and + they beheld an enormous bonfire raised on a little knoll about twenty + yards in front of them, surrounded by a dense crowd, making every species + of hideous noise. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal checked the horses’ start, and Mr. Hope sprang to their heads. + They were young and scarcely trustworthy, their restless movements showed + alarm, and it was impossible to turn them without both disturbing the + crowd and giving them a fuller view of the object of their terror. Mr. + Kendal came down, and reconnoitring for a moment, said, ‘You had better + get out while we try to lead them round, we will go home by Squash Lane.’ + </p> + <p> + Just then a brilliant glow of white flame, and a tremendous roar of + applause, put the horses in such an agony, that they would have been too + much for Mr. Hope, had not Mr. Kendal started to his assistance, and a man + standing by likewise caught the rein. He was a respectable carpenter who + lived on the heath, and touching his hat as he recognised them, said, + ‘Sir, if the ladies would come into my house, and you too, sir. The people + are going on in an odd sort of way, and Mrs. Kendal would be frightened. + I’ll take care of the carriage.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal went to the side of the carriage, and asked the ladies if they + were alarmed. + </p> + <p> + ‘O no!’ answered Albinia, ‘it is great fun;’ and as the horses fidgeted + again, ‘it feels like a review.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You had better get out,’ he said; ‘I must try to back the horses till I + can turn them without running over any one. Will you go into the house? + You did not expect to find Bayford so riotous,’ he added with a smile, as + he assisted Genevieve out. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are not going to get up again,’ said Albinia, catching hold of him, + and in her dread of his committing himself to the mercy of the horses, + returning unmeaning thanks to the carpenter’s urgent requests that she + would take refuge in his house. + </p> + <p> + In fact, the scene was new and entertaining, and on the farther side of + the road, sheltered by the carriage, the party were entirely apart from + the throng, which was too much absorbed to notice them, only a few heads + turning at the rattling of the harness, and the ladies were amused at the + bright flame, and the dark figures glancing in and out of the light, the + shouts of delight and the merry faces. + </p> + <p> + ‘There’s Guy Fawkes,’ cried Albinia, as a procession of scarecrows were + home on chairs amid thunders of acclamation; ‘but whom have they besides? + Here are some new characters.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Most lugubrious looking,’ said Genevieve. ‘I cannot make out the shouts.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is the Nabob,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘Perhaps you do not know that is my + alias. This is my execution.’ + </p> + <p> + The carpenter implored them to come in, and Mr. Hope added his entreaties, + but Mr. Kendal would not leave the horses, and the ladies would not leave + him; and they all stood still while his effigy was paraded round the + knoll, the mark of every squib, the object of every invective that the + rabble could roar out at the top of their voices. Jesuits and Papists; + Englishmen treated like blackamoor slaves in the Indies; honest folk + driven out of house and home; such was the burthen of the cries that + assailed the grim representative carried aloft, while the real man stood + unmoved as a statue, his tall, powerful figure unstirred, his long + driving-whip resting against his shoulder without betraying the slightest + motion, neither firm lip nor steady eye changing. Genevieve, with tears in + her eyes, exclaimed, ‘Oh! this is madness! Will no one tell them how + wicked they are?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind, my dear,’ said Mr. Kendal, pressing the hand that in her + fervour she had laid on his arm, ‘they will come to their senses in time. + No, Mr. Hope, I beg you will not interfere, they are in no state for it; + they have done no harm as yet.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder what the police are about?’ cried Albinia, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + ‘They are too few to do any good,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘It may be better that + they are not incensing the mob. It will all go off quietly when this + explosion has relieved their feelings.’ + </p> + <p> + They felt as if there were something grand in this perfectly dispassionate + reception of the outrage, and they stood awed and silenced, Sophy leaning + on him. + </p> + <p> + ‘It will soon be over now,’ he said, ‘they are poking up the name to + receive me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hark! what’s that?’ + </p> + <p> + The mob came swaying back, and a rich voice swelled above all the din, + ‘Boys, boys, is it burning your friends you are? Then, for the first time, + Mr. Kendal started, and muttered, ‘foolish lad! is he here?’ + </p> + <p> + Confused cries rose again, but the other voice gained the mastery. + </p> + <p> + ‘So you call that undertaker-looking figure there Mr. Kendal. Small credit + to your taste. You want to burn him. What for?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘For being a Nabob and a tyrant,’ was the shout. + </p> + <p> + ‘Much you know of Nabobs! No; I’ll tell you what it’s for. It is because + his son got his death fighting for his queen and his country a year ago, + and on his death-bed bade him do his best to drive the fever from your + doors, and shelter you and save you from the Union in your old age. Is + that a thing to burn him for?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We want no Irish papists here!’ shouted a blackguard voice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Serve him with the same sauce.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never was a papist,’ was the indignant reply. ‘No more was he; but I’ve + said that the place shan’t disgrace itself, and—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m with you,’ shouted another above all the howls of the mob. ‘Gilbert + Kendal was as kind-hearted a chap as ever lived, and I’ll see no wrong + done to his father.’ + </p> + <p> + Tremendous uproar ensued; then the well-known tones pealed out again, + ‘I’ve given my word to save his likeness. Come on, boys. Hurrah for + Kendal!’ + </p> + <p> + The war-cry was echoed by a body of voices, there was a furious melee and + a charge towards the Nabob, who rocked and toppled down, while stragglers + came pressed backwards on all sides. + </p> + <p> + ‘Here, Hope, take care of them. Stay with them,’ said Mr. Kendal, putting + the whip into the curate’s hand, and striding towards the nucleus of the + fray, through the throng who were driven backwards. + </p> + <p> + ‘O’More,’ he called, ‘what’s all this? Give over! Are you mad?’ and then + catching up, and setting on his legs, a little fallen boy, ‘Go home; get + out of all this mischief. What are you doing? Take home that child,’ to a + gaping girl with a baby. ‘O’More, I say, I’ll commit every man of you if + you don’t give over.’ + </p> + <p> + He was recognised, and those who had little appetite for the skirmish gave + back from him; but the more reckless and daring small fry began shrieking, + ‘The Nabob!’ and letting off crackers and squibs, through which he + advanced upon the knot of positive combatants, who were exchanging blows + over his prostrate image in front of the fire. + </p> + <p> + One he caught by the collar, in the act of aiming a blow. The fist was + instantly levelled at him, with the cry, ‘You rascal! what do you mean by + it?’ But the fierce struggle failed to shake off the powerful grasp; and + at the command, ‘Don’t be such a fool!’ Ulick burst out, ‘Murder! ‘tis + himself!’ and in the surprise was dragged some paces before recovering his + perceptions. + </p> + <p> + The cry of police had at the same instant produced a universal scattering, + and five policemen, coming on the ground, found scarcely any one to + separate or capture. Mr. Kendal relaxed his hold, saying, ‘You are my + prisoner.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I didn’t think you’d been so strong,’ said Ulick, shaking himself, and + looking bewildered. ‘Where’s the effigy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What’s that to you. Come away, like a rational being.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ha! what’s that?’ as a frightful, agonizing shriek rent the air, and a + pillar of flame came rushing across the now open space. It was a child, + one mass of fire, and flying, in its anguish, from all who would have + seized it. One moment of horror, and it had vanished! The next, + Genevieve’s voice was heard crying, ‘Bring me something more to press on + it.’ She had contrived to cross its path with her large carriage rug, and + was kneeling over it, forcing down the rug to smother the flames. Mr. Hope + brought her a shawl, and they all stood round in silent awe. + </p> + <p> + ‘The poor child will be stifled,’ said Albinia, kneeling down to help to + unfold its face. + </p> + <p> + Poor little face, distorted with terror and agony! One of the policemen + recognised it as the child of the public-house in Tibb’s Alley. There were + moans, but no one dared to uncover the limbs; and the policeman and Mr. + Hope proposed carrying it at once to Mr. Bowles, and then home. Mr. Kendal + desired that it should be laid on the seat of the carriage, which he would + drive gently to the doctor’s. Genevieve got in to watch over the poor + little boy, and the others walked on by the side, passed the battle-field, + now entirely deserted, too much shocked for aught but conjectures on his + injuries, and the cause of the misfortune. Either he must have been pushed + in on the fire by the runaway rabble, or have trod upon some of the + scattered combustibles. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bowles desired that the child should be taken home at once, promising + to follow instantly; so at the entrance of Tibb’s Alley, the carriage + stopped, and Mr. Hope lifted out the poor little wailing bundle. Albinia + was following, but a decided prohibition from her husband checked her. ‘I + would not have either of you go to that house on any account. Tell them to + send to us for whatever they want, but that is enough.’ + </p> + <p> + There was no gainsaying such a command, but as they reached the door of + Willow Lawn, Mr. Kendal exclaimed, ‘Where is Miss Durant?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She is gone with the little boy,’ said Sophy. ‘She told me she hoped you + would not be displeased. Mr. Hope will take care of her, and she will soon + come in.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Every one is mad to-night!’ cried Mr. Kendal. ‘In such a place as that! I + will go for her directly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray don’t,’ said Albinia, ‘no one could speak a rude word to her on such + an errand. She and Mr. Hope will be much more secure from incivility + without you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe it may be so, but I wish—’ + </p> + <p> + His wish was broken off, for his little Albinia, screaming, ‘Papa! papa!’ + clung to him in a transport of caresses, which Maurice explained by + saying, ‘Little Awkey has been crying, mamma, she thought they were + burning papa in the bonnie.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Papa not burnt!’ cried little Awkey, patting his cheeks, and laying her + head on his shoulders alternately, as he held her to his breast. ‘Naughty + people wanted to make a fire, but they sha’n’t burn papa or poor Guy + Fawkes, or any of the good men.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And where were you, Ulick?’ cried Maurice, in an imperious, injured way. + ‘You said once, perhaps you would take me to see the fire; and I went up + to the bank, and they said you were gone, and it was glaring so in the + sky, and I did so want to go.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am glad you stayed away, my man,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘I did want to go,’ said Maurice; ‘and I ran up to the top of the street, + and there was Mr. Tritton; and he said if I liked a lark, he would take + care of me; but—’ and there he stopped short, and the colour came + into his face. + </p> + <p> + Albinia threw her arm round him, and kissed him, saying, ‘My trusty boy! + and so you came home?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes; and there was Awkey crying about their burning papa, and she would + not go up to the garret-window to see the fire, nor do anything.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, what is the sword here for?’ exclaimed Sophy, finding it on the + stairs. + </p> + <p> + ‘Because then Awkey was not so afraid.’ + </p> + <p> + For once, Maurice had been exemplary, keeping from the tempting uproar, + and devoting himself to soothing his little sister. It was worth all the + vexations of the evening; but he went on to ask if Ulick could not take + him now, if the fire was not out yet. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not exactly,’ said Mr. Kendal, drily. + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg your pardon, Mr. Kendal,’ said Ulick, who had apparently only just + resumed the use of speech; ‘don’t know what I may have done when you + collared me, but I’d no more notion of its being you than the Lord + Lieutenant.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And pray what took you there?’ asked Mr. Kendal. ‘The surprise was quite + as great to me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why,’ said Ulick, ‘one of the little lads of my Sunday class gave me a + hint the other day that those brutes meant to have a pretty go to-night, + and that Jackson was getting up a figure of the Nabob to break their spite + upon. So I told my little fellow to give a hint to a few more of the right + sort, and we’d go up together and not let the rascals have their own way.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Upon my word, I wonder what the Vicar will say to the use you make of his + Sunday-school. Pretty work for his model teacher.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What better could the boys be taught than to fight for the good cause? + Why, no one is a scratch the worse for it. And do you think we could sit + by and see our best friend used worse than a dog?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why not give notice to the police?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And would you have me hinder a fight?’ cried Ulick, in the most Irish of + all his voices. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! very well, if you like—only there will be a run on the bank + to-morrow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What has Ulick been doing, Sophy?’ asked Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Only what you would have done had you been older, Maurice,’ she said, in + a hurt voice; ‘defending papa’s effigy, for which he does not seem to meet + with much gratitude.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ said Mr. Kendal, who all the time had had more gratitude in his + eyes than on his tongue, ‘if the burning had had the same consequence as + melting one’s waxen effigy was thought to have, it might have been worth + while to interfere, but I should have thought it more dignified in a + respectable substantial householder to let those foolish fellows have + their swing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘More dignified maybe,’ smiled Albinia, ‘but less like an O’More.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, you are not going,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘I shall not release my prisoner + just yet.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You carried off all the honour of the day,’ said Ulick. ‘I had no notion + you had such an arm. Why, you swung me round like a tom-cat, or—’ + and he exemplified the exploit upon Maurice, and was well buffeted. + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s a little Irish blarney to propitiate me,’ laughed Mr. Kendal, who + certainly was in unusual spirits after his execution and rescue by proxy, + but you wont escape prison fare.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There’s no doubt who was the heroine of the day,’ added Sophy. ‘How one + envies her!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What! your little governess friend?’ said Ulick. ‘Yes; she did show + superior wit, when the rest of the world stood gaping round.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was admirable—just like Genevieve’s tenderness and dexterity,’ + said Albinia. ‘I dare say she is doing everything for the poor little + fellow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, admirable,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘but you all behaved very creditably, + ladies.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay,’ said Albinia; ‘not to scream is what a man thinks the climax of + excellence in a woman.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is generally all that is required,’ said Mr. Kendal. I don’t know what + I should have done if poor Lucy had been there.’ + </p> + <p> + Thereupon the ladies went upstairs, Maurice following Sophy to extract a + full account of the skirmish. The imp probably had an instinct that she + would think more of what redounded to Ulick O’More’s glory than of what + would be edifying to his own infant mind. It was doubtful how long it + would be before Guy Fawkes would arrive at his proper standing in the + little Awk’s opinion, after the honour of an auto-da-fe in company with + papa. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hope escorted Genevieve home, and was kept to dinner. They narrated + that they had found the public-house open, and the bar full of noisy + runaways. + </p> + <p> + The burns were dreadful, but the surgeon did not think they would be + fatal, and the child had held Genevieve’s hand throughout the dressing, + and seemed so unwilling to part with her, that she had promised to come + again the next day, and had been thanked gratefully. There seemed no + positive want of comforts, and there was every hope that all would do + well. + </p> + <p> + Genevieve looked pale after the scene she had gone through, and could not + readily persuade herself to eat, still less rally her spirits to talk; but + she managed to avoid observation at dinner-time, and afterwards a rest on + the sofa restored her. She evidently felt, as she said, that this was + coming home, and her exquisite gift of tact making her perceive that she + was to be at ease and on an equality, she assumed her position without + giving her friends the embarrassment of installing her, and Mr. Hope was + in such a state of transparent admiration, that Albinia could not help two + or three times noiselessly clapping her hands under the table, and + secretly thanking the rioters and their tag-rag and bob-tail for having + provided a home for little Genevieve Durant. + </p> + <p> + There was indeed a pang as she thought of Gilbert; but she believed that + Genevieve’s heart had never been really touched, and was still fresh and + open. She thought she might make Mr. Kendal and Sophy equally magnanimous. + Perhaps by that time Sophy would be too happy to have leisure to be hurt, + and she had little fear but that Mr. Kendal’s good sense would conquer his + jealousy for his son, though it might cost him something. + </p> + <p> + Two lovers to befriend at once! Two desirable attachments to foster! There + was glory! Not that Albinia fulfilled her mission to a great extent; + shamefacedness always restrained her, and she had not Emily’s gift for + making opportunities. Indeed, when she did her best, so perversely bashful + were the parties, that the wrong pairs resorted together, the two who + could talk being driven into conversation by the silence of the others. + </p> + <p> + Of Mr. Hope’s sentiments there could be no doubt. He was fairly carried + off his feet by the absorption of the passion, which was doubly engrossing + because all ladies had hitherto appeared to him as beings with whom + conversation was an impossible duty; but after all he had heard of Miss + Durant, he might as a judicious man select her for an excellent parsoness, + and as a young man fall vehemently in love. Nothing could be more evident + to the lookers-on, but Albinia could not satisfy herself whether Genevieve + had any suspicion. + </p> + <p> + She was not very young, knew something of the world, and was acute and + observing; but on the other hand, she had made it a principle never to + admit the thought of courtship, and she might not be sufficiently + acquainted with the habits of the individual to be sensible of the + symptomatic alteration. + </p> + <p> + She had begged the Dusautoys to make her leisure profitable, and spent + much of her time upon the schools, on her little patient in Tibb’s Alley, + and in going about among the poor; she visited her old shopkeeper friends, + and drank tea with them much oftener than gratified Mr. Kendal, talking so + openly of the pleasure of seeing them again, that Albinia sometimes + thought the blood of the O’Mores was a little chafed. + </p> + <p> + ‘There,’ said Genevieve, completing a housewife, filled with needles ready + threaded, ‘I wonder whether the omnibus is too protestant to leave a + parcel at the convent?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t think its scruples of conscience would withstand sixpence,’ said + Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘You might post it for less than that,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t you know,’ said Ulick O’More, who was playing with the little Awk + in the window, ‘that the feminine mind loves expedients? It would be less + commonplace to confide the parcel to the conductor, than merely let him + receive it as guard of the mail bag and servant of the public.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Exactly,’ laughed Genevieve. ‘Think of the moral influence of being + selected as bearer of a token of tenderness to my aunt on her fete, + instead of being treated as a mere machine, devoid of human sympathies.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy, where were we reading of a nation which gives the simplest + transaction the air of a little romance?’ said Ulick. + </p> + <p> + ‘And I have heard of a nation which denudes every action of sentiment, and + leaves you the tree without the leaves,’ was Genevieve’s retort. + </p> + <p> + ‘That misses fire, Miss Durant; my nation does everything by the soul, + nothing by mechanism.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘When they <i>do</i> do it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s a defiance. You must deprive the conductor of the moral influence, + whether as man or machine, and entrust the parcel to me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That would be like chartering a steamer to send home a Chinese puzzle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, indeed; I must go to Hadminster. Bear me witness, Sophy, Miss + Goldsmith wants me to talk to the house agent.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mind, if you miss St. Leocadia’s day, you will miss my aunt’s fete.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. O’More succeeded in carrying off the little parcel. The next morning, + as the ladies were descending the hill, a hurried step came after them, + and the curate said in an abrupt rapid manner, ‘I beg your pardon, I was + going to Hadminster; could I do anything for you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing, thank you,’ said Albinia, at whom he looked. + </p> + <p> + ‘Did I not hear—Miss Durant had some work to send her aunt to-day?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How did you know that, Mr. Hope?’ exclaimed Genevieve. + </p> + <p> + ‘I heard something pass, when some one was admiring your work,’ he said, + not looking at her. ‘And this—I think—is St. Leocadia’s day.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am very much obliged to you for remembering it, but I have sent my + little parcel otherwise, so I need not trouble you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! how stupid in me! I am very sorry. I beg your pardon,’ and he hurried + off, looking as if very sorry were not a mere matter of course. + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor man,’ thought Albinia, ‘I dare say he has reckoned on it all this + time, and hunted out St. Leocadia in Alban Butler, and then tried to screw + up his courage all yesterday. Ulick has managed to traverse a romance, but + perhaps it is just as well, for what would be the effect on the public of + Mr. Hope in <i>that</i> coat being seen ringing at the convent door?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, Miss Durant,’ said Ulick, entering the drawing-room in the winter + twilight, ‘here is evidence for you!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have actually penetrated the convent, and seen my aunt? Impossible! + and yet this pencilled note is her own dear writing!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t mean that you really were let in?’ cried Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I entered quite legitimately, I assure you. It was all luck. I’d just + been putting up at the Crown, when what should I see in a sort of a + trance, staring right into the inn-yard, but as jolly-looking a priest as + ever held a station. “An’ it’s long since I’ve seen the like of you,” says + he aloud to himself. “Is it the car?” says I. “Sure it is,” says he. “I’ve + not laid my eyes on so iligant a vehicle since I left County Tyrone.”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. O’Hara!’ exclaimed Genevieve. + </p> + <p> + ‘“And I’m mistaken if you’re not the master of it,” he goes on, taking the + measure of me all over,’ continued Ulick, putting on his drollest brogue. + ‘You see he had too much manners to say that such a personable young + gentleman, speaking such correct English, could be no other than an + Irishman, so I made my bow, and said the car and I were both from County + Galway, and we were straight as good friends as if we’d hunted together at + Ballymakilty. To be sure, he was a little taken aback when he found I was + one of the Protestant branch, of the O’Mores, but a countryman is a + countryman in a barbarous land, and he asked me to call upon him, and + offered to do me any service in his power.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure he would. He is the kindest old gentleman I know,’ exclaimed + Genevieve. ‘He always used to bring me barleysugar-drops when I was a + little girl, and it was he who found out our poor old Biddy in distress at + Hadminster, and sent her to live with us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed! Then I owe him another debt of gratitude—in fact, he told + me that one of his flock, meaning Biddy, had spoken to him honourably of + me. “Well,” said I, “the greatest service you could do me, sir, would be + to introduce me to Mademoiselle Belmarche; I have a young lady’s + commission for her.” “From my little Genevieve,” he said, “the darling + that she is. Did you leave the child well?” And so when I said it was a + present for her saint’s day, and that your heart was set on it—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, Mr. O’More, I never did set my heart on your seeing her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, well, you would have done it if you’d known there had been any + chance of it, besides, your heart was set on her getting the work, and how + could I make sure of that unless I gave it into her own hand? I wouldn’t + have put it into Mr. O’Hara’s snuffy pocket to hinder myself from being + bankrupt.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then he took you in?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So he did, like an honest Irishman as he was. He rang at the bell and + spoke to the portress, and had me into the parlour and sent up for the + lady; and I have seldom spent a pleasanter hall-hour. Mademoiselle + Belmarche bade me tell you that she would write fuller thanks to you + another day, and that her eyes would thank you every night.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Was her cold gone? Did she seem well, the dear aunt?’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve was really grateful, and had many questions to ask about her + aunt, which met with detailed answers. + </p> + <p> + ‘By-the-by,’ said Ulick,’ I met Mr. Hope in the street as I was coming + away, I offered him a lift, but he said he was not coming home till late. + I wonder what he is doing.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia and Sophy exchanged glances, and had almost said, ‘Poor Mr. Hope!’ + It was very hard that the good fortune and mere good nature of an + indifferent person should push him where the quiet curate so much wished + to be. Albinia would have liked to have had either a little impudence or a + little tact to enable her to give a hint to Ulick to be less officious. + </p> + <p> + St. Leocadia’s feast was the 9th of December. Three days after, Genevieve + received a letter which made her change countenance, and hurry to her own + room, whence she did not emerge till luncheon-time. + </p> + <p> + In the late afternoon, there was a knock at the drawing-room door, and Mr. + Dusautoy said, ‘Can I speak with you a minute, Mrs. Kendal?’ + </p> + <p> + Dreading ill news of Lucy, she hurried to the morning-room with him. + </p> + <p> + ‘Fanny said I had better speak to you. This poor fellow is in a dreadful + state.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Algernon!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, indeed. Poor Hope! What has possessed the girl?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Genevieve has not refused him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did you not know it? I found him in his rooms as white as a sheet! I + asked what was the matter, he begged me to let him go away for one Sunday, + and find him a substitute. I saw how it was, and at the first word he + broke down and told me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Was this to-day?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes. What can the silly little puss be thinking of to put an excellent + fellow like that to so much pain? Going about it in such an admirable way, + too, writing to old Mamselle first, and getting a letter from her which he + sends with his own, and promising to guarantee her fifty pounds a year out + of his own pocket. ‘I should like to know what that little Jenny means by + it. I gave her credit for more sense.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps she thinks, under the circumstances of her coming here, within + the year—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! very proper, very pretty of her; I never thought of that; I suppose I + have your permission to tell Hope?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe all the town knew it,’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes; he need not be downhearted, he has only to be patient, and he will + like her the better for it. After all, though he is as good a man as + breathes, he cannot be Gilbert, and it will be a great relief to him. I’ll + tell him to put all his fancies about O’More out of his head.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Most decidedly,’ said Albinia; ‘nothing can be greater nonsense. Tell him + by no means to go away, for when she finds that our feelings are not hurt, + and has become used to the idea, I have every hope that she will be able + to form a new—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay; ay; poor Gilbert would have wished it himself. It is very good of + you, Mrs. Kendal; I’ll put the poor fellow in spirits again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did you hear whether she gave any reasons?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I don’t know—something about her birth and station; but that’s + stuff—she’s a perfect lady, and much more.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And he is only a bookseller’s son.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘True, and though it might be awkward to have the parson’s father-in-law + cutting capers if he lived in the same town, yet being dead these fifteen + or eighteen years, where’s the damage?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Was that all?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I fancy that she said she never meant to marry, but that’s all nonsense; + she is the very girl that ought, and I hope you will talk to her and bring + her to reason. There’s not a couple in the whole place that I should be so + glad to marry as those two.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia endeavoured to discuss the matter with Genevieve that night when + they went upstairs. It was not easy to do, for Genevieve seemed resolved + to wish her good-night outside her door, but she made her entrance, and + putting her arm round her little friend’s waist, said, ‘Am I very much in + your way, my dear? I thought you might want a little help, or at least a + little talk.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Mrs. Kendal, I hoped you did not know!’ and her eyes filled with + tears. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Dusautoy told me, my dear; poor Mr. Hope’s distress betrayed him, and + Mr. Dusautoy was anxious I should—’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve did not let her finish, but exclaiming, ‘I did not expect this + from you, madame,’ gave way to a shower of tears. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear child, do we not all feel you the more one with ourselves for + this reluctance?’ said Albinia, caressing her fondly. ‘It shall not be + forced upon you any more till you can bear it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘’Till!’ exclaimed Genevieve, alarmed. ‘Oh! do not say that! Do not hold + out false hopes! I never shall!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not think you are a fair judge as yet, my dear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think I am,’ said Genevieve, slowly, ‘I must not let you love me on + false pretences, dearest Mrs. Kendal. I do not think it is all for—for + his sake—but indeed, though I must esteem Mr. Hope, I do not believe + I could ever feel for him as—’ then breaking off. ‘I pray you, with + all my heart, dearest friend, never to speak to me of marriage. I am the + little governess, and while Heaven gives me strength to work for my aunt, + and you let me call this my home, I am content, I am blessed. Oh! do not + disturb and unsettle me!’ + </p> + <p> + So imploringly did she speak, that she obliterated all thought of the + prudent arguments with which Albinia had come stored. It was no time for + them; there was no possibility of endeavouring to dethrone the memory of + her own Gilbert, and her impulse was far more to agree that no one else + could ever be loved, than to argue in favour of a new attachment. She was + proud of Gilbert for being thus recollected, and doubly pleased with the + widowed heart; nor was it till the first effect of Genevieve’s tears had + passed off that she began to reflect that the idea might become familiar, + and that romance having been abundantly satisfied by the constancy of the + Lancer, sober esteem might be the basis of very happy married affection. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hope did not go away, but he shrank into himself, and grew more timid + than ever, and it was through the Dusautoys that Albinia learnt that he + was much consoled, and intended to wait patiently. He had written to + Mdlle. Belmarche, who had been extremely disappointed, and continued to + believe that so excellent and well brought up a young girl as her niece + would not resist her wishes with regard to a young pastor so respectable. + </p> + <p> + Sophy, when made aware of what was going on, did not smile or shed a tear, + only a strange whiteness came across her face. She made a commonplace + remark with visible effort, nor was she quite herself for some time. It + was as if the reference to her brother had stirred up the old wound. + Genevieve seemed to have been impelled to manifest her determination of + resuming her occupation, she wrote letters vigorously, answered + advertisements, and in spite of the united protest of her friends, + advertised herself as a young person of French extraction, but a member of + the Church of England, accustomed to tuition, and competent to instruct in + French, Italian, music, and all the ordinary branches of education. + Address, G. C. D., Mr. Richardson’s, bookseller, Bayford. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX. + </h2> + <p> + Miss Goldsmith went to spend Christmas with an old friend, leaving Ulick + more liberty than he had enjoyed for a long time. He used it a good deal + at Willow Lawn, and was there of course on Christmas-day. After dinner the + decoration of the church was under discussion. The Bayford neighbourhood + was unpropitious to holly, and Sophy and Genevieve had hardly ever seen + any, except that Genevieve remembered the sooty bits sold in London. + Something passed about sending for a specimen from Fairmead, but Albinia + said that would not answer, for her brother’s children were in despair at + the absence of berries, and had ransacked Colonel Bury’s plantations in + vain. + </p> + <p> + The next day, about twilight, Albinia and Sophy were arranging some + Christmas gifts for the old women, in the morning-room; Genevieve was to + come and help them on her return from the child in Tibb’s Alley. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, here she comes, up the garden,’ said Sophy, who was by the window. + </p> + <p> + Presently Albinia heard a strange sound as of tightened breath, and + looking up saw Sophy deathly pale, with her eyes fixed on the window. In + terror she flew to her side, but Sophy spoke not, she only clutched her + hand with fingers cold and tight as iron, and gazed with dilated eyes. + Albinia looked— + </p> + <p> + Ulick had come from the house—there was a scarlet-berried spray in + Genevieve’s hand, which she was trying to make him take again—his + face was all pleading and imploring—she turned hastily from him, and + they saw her cheek glowing with crimson—she tried to force back the + holly spray—but her hand was caught—he was kissing it. No, she + had rent it away—she had fled in through the conservatory—they + heard the doors—she had rushed up to her own room. + </p> + <p> + Sophy’s grasp grew more rigid—she panted for breath. + </p> + <p> + ‘My child! my child!’ said Albinia, throwing her arms round her, expecting + her to faint. ‘Oh! could I have imagined such treason?’ Her eyes flashed, + and her frame quivered with indignation. ‘He shall never come into this + house again!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mamma! hush!’ said Sophy, releasing herself from her embrace, and keeping + her body upright, though obliged to seat herself on the nearest chair. ‘It + is not treason,’ she said slowly, as though her mouth were parched. + </p> + <p> + ‘Contemptible fickleness!’ burst out Albinia, but Sophy implored silence + by a gesture. + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ she said; ‘it was a dream, a degrading, humiliating dream; but it is + over.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is no degradation except to the base trifler I once thought better + things of.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He has not trifled,’ said Sophy. ‘Wait! hush!’ + </p> + <p> + There was a composure about her that awed Albinia, who stood watching in + suspense while she went to the bed-room, drank some water, cooled her + brow, pushed back her hair, and sitting down again in the same collected + manner, which gave her almost a look of majesty, she said, ‘Promise me, + mamma, that all shall go on as if this folly had never crossed our minds.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t! I can’t, Sophy!’ said Albinia in the greatest agitation. ‘I + can’t <i>unknow</i> that you have been shamefully used.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you will lead papa to break his promise to Genevieve, and lower me + not only in my own eyes, but in those of every one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He little knew that he was bringing her here to destroy his daughter’s + happiness. So that was why she held off from Mr. Hope,’ cried Albinia, + burning with such indignation, that on some one she must expend it, but a + tirade against the artfulness of the little French witch was cut off short + by an authoritative— + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t, mamma! You are unjust! How can she help being loveable!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He had no business to know whether she was or not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are wrong, mamma. The absurdity was in thinking I ever was so.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very little absurd,’ said Albinia, twining her arms round Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t make me silly,’ hastily said Sophy, her voice trembling for a + moment; ‘I want to tell you all about it, and you will see that no one is + to blame. The perception has been growing on me for a long time, but I was + weak enough to indulge in the dream. It was very sweet!’ There again she + struggled not to break down, gained the victory, and went on, ‘I don’t + think I should have dared to imagine it myself, but I saw others thought + it, who knew more; I knew the incredible was sometimes true, and every + little kindness he did—Oh! how foolish! as if he could help doing + kindnesses! My better sense told me he did not really distinguish me; but + there was something that <i>would</i> feed upon every word and look. Then + last year I was wakened by the caricature business. That opened my eyes, + for no one who had <i>that</i> in him would have turned my sister into + derision. I was sullen then and proud, and when—when humanity and + compassion brought him to me in my distress—oh! why—why could + not I have been reasonable, and not have selfishly fed on what I thought + was revived?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He had no right—’ began Albinia, fiercely. + </p> + <p> + ‘He could neither help saving Maurice, nor speaking comfort and support + when he found me exhausted and sinking. It was I who was the foolish + creature—I hate myself! Well, you know how it has been—I liked + to believe it was <i>the thing</i>—I knew he cared less for me than—but + I thought it was always so between men and women, and that I would not + have petty distrusts. But when she came, I saw what the true—true + feeling is—I saw that he felt when she came into the room—I + saw how he heard her words and missed mine—I saw—’ Sophy + collected herself, and spoke quietly and distinctly, ‘I saw his love, and + that it had never been for me.’ + </p> + <p> + There was a pause; Albinia could not bear to look, speak, or move. Sophy’s + words carried conviction that swept away her sand castle. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, mamma,’ said Sophy, earnestly, ‘you own that he has not been false + or fickle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If he has not, he has disregarded the choicest jewel that lay in his + way,’ said Albinia with some sharpness. + </p> + <p> + ‘But he has not been that,’ persisted Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well—no; I suppose not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And no one can be less to blame than Genevieve.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Little flirt, I’ve no patience with her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She can’t help her manners,’ repeated Sophy, ‘I feel them so much more + charming than mine every moment. She will make him so happy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What are you talking of, Sophy? He must be mad if he is in earnest. A man + of his family pride! His father will never listen to it for a moment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know what his father may do,’ said Sophy; ‘but I know what I pray + and entreat we may do, and that is, do our utmost to make this come to + good.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy, don’t ask it. I could not, I know you could not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is no loss of esteem. I honour him as I always did,’ said Sophy. + ‘Yes, the more since I see it was all for papa and the right, all + unselfish, on that 5th of November. Some day I shall have worn out the + selfishness.’ + </p> + <p> + She kept her hand tightly pressed on her heart as she spoke, and Albinia + exclaimed, ‘You shall not see it; you overrate your strength; it is my + business to prevent you!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Think, mamma,’ said Sophy, rising in her earnestness. ‘Here is a homeless + orphan, whom you have taught to love you, whom papa has brought here as to + a home, and for Gilbert’s sake. Is it fair—innocent, exemplary as + she is—to turn against her because she is engaging and I am not, to + cut her off from us, drive her away to the first situation that offers, be + it what it may, and with that thought aching and throbbing in her heart? + Oh, mamma! would that be mercy or justice?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are not asking to have it encouraged in the very house with you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not see how else it is to be,’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Let him go after her, if there’s anything in it but Irish folly and + French coquetry—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How, mamma? Where? When she is a governess in some strange place? How + could he leave his business? How could she attend to him? Oh, mamma! you + used to be kind: how can you wish to put two people you love so much to + such misery?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Because I can’t put one whom I love better than both, and who deserves + it, to greater misery,’ said Albinia, embracing her. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then do not put me to the misery of being ungenerous, and the shame of + having my folly suspected.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia would have argued still, but the children came in, Sophy went + away, and there was no possibility of a tete-a-tete. How strange it was to + have such a tumult of feeling within, and know that the same must be + tenfold multiplied in the hearts of those two girls, and yet go through + all the domestic conventionalities, each wearing a mask of commonplace + ease, as though nothing had happened! + </p> + <p> + Genevieve had, Albinia suspected, been crying excessively; for there was + that effaced annihilated appearance that tears produced on her, but + otherwise she did her part in answering her host, who was very fond of + her, and always made her an object of attention. Albinia found herself + betraying more abstraction, she was so anxiously watching Sophy, who + acquitted herself best of all, had kept tears from her eyes, talked more + than usual, and looked brilliant, with a bright colour dyeing her cheeks. + She was evidently sustained by eagerness to obtain her generous purpose, + and did not yet realize the price. + </p> + <p> + The spray of holly was lying as if it had been tossed in vexation upon the + marble slab in the hall. Albinia, from the stairs, saw Sophy take it up, + and waited to see what she would do with it. The Sophy she had once known + would have dashed it into the flames, and then have repented. No! Sophy + held it tenderly, and looked at the glossy leaves and coral fruit with no + angry eye; she even raised it to her lips, but it was to pierce with one + of the long prickles till her brow drew together at the smart, and the + blood started. Then she began to mount the stairs, and meeting Albinia, + said quietly, ‘I was going to take this to Genevieve’s room, it is empty + now, but perhaps you had better take care of it for her, out of sight. It + will be her greatest treasure to-morrow.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal read aloud as usual, but who of his audience attended? + Certainly not Albinia. She sat with her head bent over her work, revolving + the history of these last two years, and trying to collect herself after + the sudden shock, and the angry feelings of disappointment that surged + within, in much need of an object of wrath. Alas! who could that object be + but that blind, warm-hearted, impulsive Mistress Albinia Kendal? + </p> + <p> + She saw plain enough, now it was too late, that there had not been a + shadow of sentiment in that lively confiding Irishman, used to intimacy + with a herd of cousins, and viewing all connexions as cousins. She + remembered his conversation with her brother and her brother’s impression; + she thought of the unloverlike dread of ague in Emily’s moonlight walk; + she recalled the many occasions when she had thought him remiss, and she + could not but acquit him of any designed flirtation, any dangerous + tenderness, or what Mdlle. Belmarche would call legerete. He could not be + reserved—he was naturally free and open—and how could she have + put such a construction on his frankness, when Sophy herself had long been + gradually arriving at a conviction of the truth! It was a comfort at least + to remember that it had not been the fabrication of her own brain, she had + respectable authority for the idea, and she trusted to its prompter to + participate in her indignation, argue Ulick out of so poor a match, and at + least put a decided veto upon Sophy’s Spartan magnanimity—Sophy’s + health and feelings being the subject, she sometimes thought, which + concerned him above all. + </p> + <p> + Ah! but the evil had not been his doing. He had but gossiped out a + pleasant conjecture to his wife as a trustworthy help-meet. What business + had she to go and telegraph that conjecture, with her significant eyes, to + the very last person who ought to have shared it, and then to have kept up + the mischief by believing it herself, and acting, looking, and arranging, + as on a certainty implied, though not expressed? Mrs. Osborne or Mrs. + Drury might have spoken more broadly, they could not have acted worse, + thought she to herself. + </p> + <p> + The notion might never have been suggested; Sophy might have simply + enjoyed these years of intimacy, and even if her heart had been touched, + it would have been unconsciously, and the pain and shame of unrequited + affection have merely been a slight sense of neglect, a small dreariness, + lost in eagerness for the happiness of both friends. Now, two years of + love that she had been allowed to imagine returned and sanctioned, and + love with the depth and force of Sophy’s whole nature—the shame of + having loved unasked, the misery of having lived in a delusion—how + would they act upon a being of her morbid tendency, frail constitution, + and proud spirit? As Albinia thought of the passive endurance of last + year’s estrangement, her heart sank within her! Illness—brain-fever—permanent + ill-health and crushed spirits—nay, death itself she augured—and + all—all her own fault! The last and best of Edmund’s children so + cruelly and deeply wounded, and by her folly! She longed to throw herself + at his feet and ask his pardon, but it was Sophy’s secret as well as hers, + and how could womanhood betray that unrequited love? At least she thought, + for noble Sophy’s sake, she would not raise a finger to hinder the + marriage, but as to forwarding it, or promoting the courtship under + Sophy’s very eyes—that would be like murdering her outright, and she + would join Mr. Kendal with all her might in removing their daughter from + the trying spectacle. Talk of Aunt Maria! This trouble was ten thousand + times worse! + </p> + <p> + Albinia began to watch the timepiece, longing to have the evening over, + that she might prepare Mr. Kendal. It ended at last, and Genevieve took up + her candle, bade good-night, and disappeared. Sophy lingered, till coming + forward to her father as he stood by the fire, she said, ‘Papa, did you + not promise Gilbert that Genevieve should be as another daughter?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish she would be, my dear,’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘but she is too + independent, and your mamma thinks she would consider it as a mere farce + to call her little Albinia’s governess, but if you can persuade her—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What I want you to do, papa, is to promise that she shall be married from + this house, as her home, and that you will fit her out as you did Lucy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ha! Is she beginning to relent?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, papa. It will be Ulick O’More.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t mean it!’ exclaimed Mr. Kendal, more taken by surprise than + perhaps he had ever been, and looking at his wife, who was standing + dismayed, yet admiring the gallant girl who had forestalled her + precautions. Obliged to speak, she said, ‘I am afraid so, Sophy and I + witnessed a scene to-day.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Afraid?’ said Mr. Kendal; ‘I see no reason to be afraid, if Ulick likes + it. They are two of the most agreeable and best people that ever fell in + my way, and I shall be delighted if they can arrange it, for they are + perfectly suited to each other.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But such a match!’ exclaimed Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘As to that, a sensible, economical wife will be worth more to him than an + expensive one, with however large a fortune. And for the family pride, I + am glad the lad has more sense than I feared; he has a full right to + please himself, having won the place he has, and he may make his father + consent. He wants a wife—nothing else will keep him from running + headlong into speculation, for want of something to do. Yes, I see what + you are thinking of, my dear, but you know we could not wish her, as you + said yourself, never to form another attachment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But <i>here</i>!’ sighed Albinia, the ground knocked away from under her, + yet still clinging to the last possible form of murmur. + </p> + <p> + ‘It will cost us something,’ said Mr. Kendal, ‘but no more than we will + cheerfully bear, for the sake of one who has such claims upon us; and it + will be amply repaid by having such a pair of friends settled close to + us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you will, papa?’ said Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Will do what, my dear?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Treat her as—as you did Lucy, papa.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And with much more pleasure, and far more hope, than when we fitted out + poor Lucy,’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + Sophy thanked him, and said ‘Good-night;’ and the look which accompanied + her kiss to her step-mother was a binding over to secrecy and + non-interference. + </p> + <p> + ‘Is she gone?’ said Mr. Kendal, who had been musing after his last words. + ‘Gone to tell her friend, I suppose? I wanted to ask what this scene was.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh!’ said Albinia, ‘it was in the garden—we saw it from the window—only + he brought her a bit of holly, and was trying to kiss her hand.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Strong premises, certainly. How did she receive the advance?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She would not listen, but made her escape.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then matters are not in such a state of progress as for me to + congratulate her? I suppose that you ladies are the best judges whether he + may not meet with the same fate as poor Hope?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy seems to take it for granted that he will not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Irishman as he is, he must be pretty secure of his ground before coming + to such strong measures. Well! I hope we may hear no more of brow-ague. + But—’ with sudden recollection—‘I thought, Albinia, you + fancied he had some inclination for Sophy?’ + </p> + <p> + Was it not a good wife to suppress the ‘You did’? If she could merrily + have said, ‘You told me so,’ it would have been all very well, but her + mood would admit of nothing but a grave and guarded answer—‘We did + fancy so, but I am convinced it was entirely without reason.’ + </p> + <p> + That superior smile at her lively imagination was more than human nature + could bear, without the poor relief of an entreaty that he would not sit + meditating, and go to sleep in his chair. + </p> + <p> + Albinia thought she had recovered equanimity during her night’s rest, but + in the midst of her morning toilette, Sophy hurried in, exclaiming, + ‘She’ll go away! She is writing letters and packing!’ and she answered, + ‘Well, what do you want me to do? You don’t imagine that I can rush into + her room and lay hands on her? She will not go upon a wishing-carpet. It + will be time to interfere when we know more of the matter.’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy looked blank, and vanished, and Albinia felt excessively vexed at + having visited on the chief sufferer her universal crossness with all + mankind. She knew she had only spoken common sense, but that made it + doubly hateful; and yet she could not but wish Miss Durant anywhere out of + sight, and Mr. O’More on the top of the Hill of Howth. + </p> + <p> + At breakfast, Sophy’s looks betrayed nothing to the uninitiated, though + Albinia detected a feverish restlessness and covert impatience, and judged + that her sleep had been little. Genevieve’s had perhaps been less, for she + was very sallow, with sunken eyes, and her face looked half its usual + size; but Albinia could not easily have compassion on the poor little + unwitting traitress, even when she began, ‘Dear Mrs. Kendal, will you + excuse me if I take a sudden leave? I find it will answer best for me to + accept Mrs. Elwood’s invitation; I can then present myself to any lady who + may wish to see me, and, as I promised my aunt another visit, I had better + go to Hadminster by the three o’clock omnibus.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia was thankful for the loud opposition which drowned the faint + reluctance of her own; Mr. Kendal insisting that she should not leave + them; little Awk coaxing her; and Maurice exclaiming, ‘If the ladies want + her, let them come after her! One always goes to see a horse.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’m not so well worth the trouble, Maurice.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know Ulick O’More <i>would</i> come in to see you when all the piebalds + for the show were going by!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Some day you will come to the same good taste,’ said his father, to + lessen the general confusion. + </p> + <p> + ‘See a lady instead of a piebald? Never!’ cried Maurice with indignation, + that made the most preoccupied laugh; under cover of which Genevieve + effected a retreat. Sophy looked imploringly at Albinia—Albinia was + moving, but not with alacrity, and Mr. Kendal was saying, ‘I do not + understand all this,’ when, scarcely pausing to knock, Ulick opened the + door, cheeks and eyes betraying scarcely repressed eagerness. + </p> + <p> + ‘What—where,’ he stammered, as if even his words were startled away; + ‘is not Miss Durant well?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She was here just this moment,’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘I will go and see for her,’ said Sophy. ‘Come, children.’ + </p> + <p> + Whether Sophy’s powers over herself or over Genevieve would avail, was an + anxious marvel, but it did not last a moment, for Maurice came clattering + down to say that Genevieve was gone out into the town. In such a moment! + She must have snatched up her bonnet, and fled one way while Ulick entered + by the other. He made one step forward, exclaiming, ‘Where is she gone?’ + then pausing, broke out, ‘Mrs. Kendal, you must make her give me a + hearing, or I shall go mad!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A hearing?’ repeated Mrs. Kendal, with slight malice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes; why, don’t you know?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So your time has come, Ulick, has it?’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, and I were worse than an old ledger if it had not, when she was + before me! Make her listen to me, Mrs. Kendal, if she do not, I shall + never do any more good in this world!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should have thought,’ said Albinia, ‘that an Irishman would be at no + loss for making opportunities.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t know, Mrs. Kendal; she is so fenced in with scruples, humility—I + know not what—that she will not so much as hear me out. I’m not such + a blockhead as to think myself worthy of her, but I do think, if she would + only listen to me, I might stand a chance: and she runs off, as if she + thought it a sin to hear a word from my mouth!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is very honourable to her,’ said Mr. Kendal. + </p> + <p> + ‘Very honourable to her,’ replied Ulick, ‘but cruelly hard upon me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think, too,’ continued Mr. Kendal, stimulated thereto by his lady’s + severely prudent looks, ‘that you ought—granting Miss Durant to be, + as I well know her to be, one of the most excellent persons who ever lived—still + to count the cost of opening such an affair. It is not fair upon a woman + to bring her into a situation where disappointments may arise which + neither may be able to bear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you mean my family, Mr. Kendal? Trust me for getting consent from + home. You will write my father a letter, saying what you said just now; + Mrs. Kendal will write another to my mother; and I’ll just let them see my + heart is set on it, and they’ll not hold out.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Could you bear to see her—looked down on?’ said Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ha!’ he cried, with flashing eyes. ‘No, believe me, Mrs. Kendal, the + O’Mores have too much gentle blood to do like that, even if she were one + whom any one could scorn. Why, what is my mother herself but a Goldsmith + by birth, and I’d like to see who would cast it up to any of the family + that she was not as noble as an O’More! And Genevieve herself—isn’t + every look and every movement full of the purest gentility her fathers’ + land can show?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I dare say, once accepted, the O’Mores would heartily receive her; but + here, in this place, there are some might think it told against you, and + might make her uncomfortable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What care I? I’ve lived and thriven under Bayford scorn many a day. And + for her—Oh! I defy anything so base to wound a heart so high as + hers, and with me to protect her!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you can afford it?’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘Remember she has her aunt to + maintain.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can,’ said Ulick. ‘I have gone over it all again and again; and + recalling his man-of-business nature, he demonstrated that even at present + he was well able to support Mdlle. Belmarche, as well as to begin + housekeeping, and that there was every reason to believe that his wider + and more intelligent system of management would continue to increase his + income.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, Ulick,’ said Mr. Kendal at last, ‘I wish you success with all my + heart, and esteem you for a choice so entirely founded upon the qualities + most certain to ensure happiness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t mean to say that she has not the most glorious eyes, the most + enchanting figure!’ exclaimed Ulick, affronted at the compliment that + seemed to aver that Genevieve’s external charms were not equal to her + sterling merit. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal and Albinia laughed; and the former excused himself, not quite + to the lover’s satisfaction, by declaring the lady much more attractive + than many regularly handsome people; but he added, that what he meant was, + that he was sure the attachment was built upon a sound foundation. Then he + entreated that Mrs. Kendal would persuade her to listen to him, for she + had fled from him ever since his betrayal of his sentiments till he was + half crazed, and had been walking up and down his room all night. He + should do something distracted, if not relieved from suspense before + night! And Mr. Kendal got rid of him in the midst of his transports, and + turning to Albinia said, ‘We must settle this as fast as possible, or he + will lose his head, and get into a scrape.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not like such wild behaviour. It is not dignified.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is only temperament,’ said Mr. Kendal. ‘Will you speak to her?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, whenever she comes in.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I suspect she has gone out on purpose. Could you not go to find her at + the school, or wherever she is likely to be?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know where to find her. I cannot give up the children’s lessons. + Nothing hurts Maurice so much as irregularity.’ + </p> + <p> + He made no answer, but his look of disappointment excited her to observe + to herself that she supposed he expected her to run all over the town + without ordering dinner first, and she wondered how he would like that! + </p> + <p> + Presently she heard him go out at the front door, and felt some + contrition. + </p> + <p> + She had not the heart to seek Sophy to report progress, and did not see + her till about eleven o’clock, when she came in hastily with her bonnet + on, asking, ‘Well, mamma?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where have you been, Sophy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To school,’ she said. ‘Has anything happened?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We have had it out, and I am to speak to her when she comes in,’ said + Albinia, glad as perhaps was Sophy of the enigmatical form to which + Maurice’s presence restrained the communication. + </p> + <p> + Sophy went away, but presently returning and taking up her work, but with + eyes that betrayed how she was listening; but there was so entire an + apparent absence of personal suffering, that Albinia began to discharge + the weight from her mind, and believe that the sentiment had been + altogether imaginary even on Sophy’s side, and the whole a marvellous + figment of her own. + </p> + <p> + At last, Mr. Kendal’s foot was heard; Sophy started up, and sat down + again. He came upstairs, and his face was all smiles. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ he said, ‘I don’t think she will go by the three o’clock omnibus.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have spoken to her?’ cried Albinia in compunction. + </p> + <p> + ‘Has Maurice finished? Then go out, my boy, for the present.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well?’ said Albinia, interrogatively, and Sophy laid down her work and + crossed one hand over the other on her knees, and leant back as though to + hinder visible tremor. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ he said, going on with what had been deferred till Maurice was + gone. ‘I thought it hard on him—and as I was going to speak to + Edwards, I asked if she were at the Union, where I found her, taking leave + of the old women, and giving them little packets of snuff, and small + presents, chiefly her own work, I am sure. I took her with me into the + fields, and persuaded her at last to talk it over with me. Poor little + thing! I never saw a more high-minded, conscientious spirit: she was very + unhappy about it, and said she knew it was all her unfortunate manner, she + wished to be guarded, but a little excitement and conversation always + turned her head, and she entreated me not to hinder her going back to a + school-room, out of the way of every one. I told her that she must not + blame herself for being more than usually agreeable; but she would not + listen, and I could hardly bring her to attend to what I said of young + O’More. Poor girl! I believe she was running away from her own heart.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have prevented her?’ cried Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘At least I have induced her to hear his arguments. I told her my opinion + of him, which was hardly needed, and what I thought might have more weight—that + he has earned the right to please himself, and that I believed she would + be better for him than riches. She repeated several times “Not now,” and + “Not here;” and I found that she was shocked at the idea of the subject + being brought before us. I was obliged to tell her that nothing would + gratify any of us so much, and that this was the time to fulfil her + promise of considering me as a father.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, thank you,’ murmured Sophy. + </p> + <p> + ‘So finally I convinced her that she owed Ulick a hearing, and I think she + felt that to hear was to yield. She had certainly been feeling that flight + was the only measure, and between her dread of entrapping him and of + hurting our feelings, had persuaded herself it was her duty. The last + thing she did was to catch hold of me as I was going, and ask if he knew + what her father was.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I dare say it has been the first thing she has said to him,’ said + Albinia. ‘She is a noble little creature! But what have you done with them + now?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I brought him to her in the parsonage garden. I believe they are walking + in the lanes,’ said Mr. Kendal, much gratified with his morning’s work. + </p> + <p> + ‘She deserves him,’ said Sophy; and then her eyes became set, as if + looking into far distance. + </p> + <p> + The walk in the lanes had not ended by luncheon-time, and an afternoon + loaded with callers was oppressive, but Sophy kept up well. At last, in + the twilight, the door was heard to open, and Genevieve came in alone. + They listened, and knew she must have run up to her own room. What did it + portend? Albinia must be the one to go and see, so after a due interval, + she went up and knocked. Genevieve opened the door, and threw herself into + her arms. ‘Dear Mrs. Kendal! Oh! have I done wrong? I am so very happy, + and I cannot help it!’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia kissed her, and assured her she had done nothing to repent of. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am so glad you think so. I never dreamt such happiness could be meant + for me, and I am afraid lest I should have been selfish and wrong, and + bring trouble on him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We have been all saying you deserve him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh no—no—so good, so noble, so heroic as he is. How could he + think of the poor little French teacher! And he will pay my aunt’s fifty + pounds! I told him all, and he knew it before, and yet he loves me! Oh! + why are people so very good to me?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could easily find an answer to that question,’ said Albinia. ‘Where is + he, my dear?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is gone home. I would not come into the town with him. It is nothing, + you know; no one must hear of it, for he must be free unless his parents + consent—and I know they never can,’ she said, shaking her head, + sadly, ‘but even then I shall have one secret of happiness—I shall + know what has been! But oh! Mrs. Kendal, let me go away—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Go away now?’ exclaimed Albinia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes—it cannot be—here, in this house! Oh! it is outraging + your kindness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Albinia; ‘it is but letting us fulfil a very precious charge.’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve’s tears flowed as she said, ‘Such goodness! Mr. Kendal spoke to + me in this way in the morning, when he was more kind and patient than I + can express. But tell me, dearest madame, tell me candidly, is my + remaining here the cause of any secret pain to him?’ + </p> + <p> + With regard to him, Albinia could answer sincerely that it was a + gratification; and Genevieve owned that she should be glad to await the + letters from Ireland, which she tried to persuade herself she believed + would put an end to everything, except the precious remembrance. + </p> + <p> + Sophy here came in with some tea. She had recollected that Genevieve had + wandered all day without any bodily sustenance. + </p> + <p> + There was great sweetness in the quiet, grave manner in which she bent + over her friend and kissed her brow. All she said was, ‘Papa had goes to + fetch him to dinner. Genevieve, you must let me do your hair.’ + </p> + <p> + It was in Genevieve’s eyes an astonishing fancy, and Albinia said, ‘Come + away now, my dear; she must have a thorough rest after such a day.’ + </p> + <p> + Genevieve looked too much excited for rest, but that was the more reason + for leaving her to herself; and besides, it was so uncomfortable not to be + able to be kind enough. + </p> + <p> + However, when people are happy, a little kindness goes a great way, and + there was a subdued lustre like a glory in her eyes when she came + downstairs, with the holly leaves and berries glistening in her hair, the + first ornament she had ever worn there. + </p> + <p> + ‘It was Sophy’s doing,’ she said. ‘Naughty girl; she tried to take me by + surprise. She would not let me look in the glass, but I guessed—and + oh! she was wounding her poor hands so sadly.’ + </p> + <p> + I must thank her,’ said Ulick, looking ecstatic. ‘Why does she not come + down?’ + </p> + <p> + As she did not appear, Albinia went up, doubtful if it were wise, yet too + uneasy not to go in quest of her. + </p> + <p> + It was startling to have so faint an answer on knocking, and on entering + the room, she saw Sophy lying on her bed, upon her back, with her arms by + her sides, and with a ghastly whiteness on her features. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely a pulse could be felt, and her hands were icy cold, her voice + sank to nothing, her eyelids scarcely raised, as if the strain of the day + had exhausted all vital warmth or energy, and her purpose accomplished, + annihilation was succeeding. Much terrified, Albinia would have hurried in + search of remedies, but she raised her hand imploringly, and murmured, + ‘Please don’t. I’m not faint—I’m not ill. If you would only let me + be still.’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia teased her so far as to cover her with warmed shawls, and force on + her a stimulant. She shut her eyes, but presently opened them to say, + ‘Please go.’ + </p> + <p> + She was so often unable to appear at dinner, that no observation was made; + and it was to be feared that her absence was chiefly regretted by the + lovers, because it prevented them from sitting on the same side of the + table. + </p> + <p> + Always frank and unrestrained, Ulick made his felicity so apparent, that + Albinia had no toleration for him, and not much for the amusement it + afforded Mr. Kendal. She would have approved of her husband much more if + he had put her into a great quandary by anxious inquiries what was the + matter with his daughter, instead of that careless, ‘O you are going up to + Sophy; I hope she will be able to come down to tea,’ when she left him on + guard over the children and the lovers. + </p> + <p> + ‘So it is with woman’s martyrdoms,’ said she to herself as she walked + upstairs, chewing the cud of all the commonplaces by which women have, of + late years, flattered themselves, and been flattered; ‘but at any rate + I’ll have her out of sight of all their absurdity. It is enough to kill + her!’ + </p> + <p> + Sophy hardly stirred at her entrance, but there was less ghastliness about + her, and as Albinia sat down she did not remove her hand, and turned + slightly round, so as to lose that strange corpse-like attitude of repose. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are not so cold, dearest,’ said Albinia. ‘Have you slept?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think not.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Are you better? Have you been comfortable?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh yes.’ Then, with a pause, ‘Yes—it was like being nothing!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You were not faint, I hope?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No—only lying still. Don’t you know the comfort of not thinking or + feeling?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes; this has been far too much for you. You have done enough now, my + generous Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not generous; one can’t give away what one never had.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think it more gracious to yield without jealousy or bitterness—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Only not quite base,’ said Sophy. Then presently, turning on her pillow + as though more willing to converse, she said, ‘I am glad it was not last + year.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We had troubles enough then!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not for that—because I should have been base then, and hated myself + for it all the time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That you never could have been!’ cried Albinia. ‘But, my dear, you must + let me contrive for you; I would not betray you for all the world, but the + sight of these two is more than you ought to undergo. I will not send + Genevieve away, but you must go from home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t think I shall be cross,’ said poor Sophy, simply; ‘I should be + ashamed.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Cross! It is I who am cross, because I am to blame; but, dearest, think + if you are keeping up out of pride; that will never, never do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not believe it is pride,’ said Sophy, meekly; ‘at least, I hope not. + I feel humiliated enough, and I think it may be a sort of shame, as well + as consideration for them, that would make me wish that no difference + should be made. Do you not think we may let things go on?’ she said, in so + humble a manner, that it brought Albinia’s tears, and a kiss was the only + answer. ‘Please tell me,’ said Sophy; ‘for I don’t want to deceive + myself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure I am no judge,’ cried Albinia, ‘after the dreadful mischief I + have done.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The mischief was in me,’ said Sophy, ‘or you could not have done it. I + saw it all when I was lying awake last night, and how it began, or rather + it was before I can remember exactly. I always had craving after something—a + yearning for something to fix myself on—and after I grew to read and + look out into the world, I thought it must be that. And when I knew I was + ugly and disagreeable, I brooded and brooded, and only in my better + moments tried to be satisfied with you and papa and the children.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And the All-satisfying, Sophy dear.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I tried—I did—but it was duty—not heart. I used to + fancy what might be, if I shot out into beauty and grace—not + admiration, but to have that one thing to lean on. You see it was all + worldly, and only submissive by fits—generally it was cross + repining, yielding because I could not help it—and so, when the + fancy came the throne was ready made, empty, swept, and garnished, for the + idol. I wont talk of all that time; but I don’t believe even Genevieve, + though she knows she may, can dwell upon the thought as I did, in just the + way to bring punishment. And so I thought, by-and-by, at the caricature + time, that I was punished. I looked into the fallacy, when I had got over + the temper and the pride, and I saw it all clear, and owned I was rightly + served, for it had been an earthly aim, and an idol worship. Well, the + foolish hope came back again, but indeed, indeed, I think I was the better + for all the chastening; I had seen grandmamma die, I was fresh from + hearing of Gilbert, and I did feel as I never had done before, that God + was first. I don’t believe that feeling had passed, though the folly came + back, and made me feel glad to love all the world. There were—gleams + of religions thought’—she spoke with difficulty, but her face had a + strange beauty—‘that taught me how, if I was more good—there + could be a fulness of joy that all the rest flowed out from. And so when + misgivings came, and I saw at times how little he could care for me—oh! + it was pain enough, but not the worst sort. And yet I don’t know—’ + She turned away and hid her face on the pillow. It was agony, though + still, as she had said, not the worst, untempered by faith or resignation. + What a history of that apparently cold, sullen, impassive spirit! what an + unlocking of pent-up mysteries! + </p> + <p> + ‘It has been blessed to you,’ said Albinia, affectionately. ‘My dear, we + always thought your character one that wanted the softening of such—an + attachment. Perhaps that made me wrongly eager for it, and ready to + imagine where I ought not; I think it did soften you; but if you had not + conquered what was earthly and exaggerated in it, how it would be + hardening and poisoning you now!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope I may have,’ sighed Sophy, as if she were doubtful. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then will you not listen to me? You have done nobly so far, and I know + your feelings will be right in the main; but do you think you can bear the + perpetual irritation of being neglected, and seeing—what I <i>must</i> + call rather a parade of his preference?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think it would be the best cure,’ said Sophy; ‘it would make me feel it + real, and I could be glad to see him—them—so happy—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know how to judge! I don’t know whether it be right for you to + have him always before your mind.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He would be so all the more while I was away with nothing to do,’ said + Sophy; ‘fancy might be worse than fact. You don’t know how I used to + forget the nonsense when he had been ten minutes in the room, because it + was just starved out. Now, when it will be a sin, I believe that strength + will be given me to root it out;’ her look grew determined, but she gasped + for breath. + </p> + <p> + ‘And your bodily strength, my dear?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If I should be ill, then it would be natural to go away,’ said Sophy, + smiling; ‘but I don’t think I shall be. This is only the end of my fever + to see it settled. Now I am thankful, and my heart has left off throbbing + when I am still. I shall be all right to-morrow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope so; but you must spare yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Besides,’ she added, ‘one of the worst parts has been that, in the fancy + that a change was to come, I have gone about everything in an unsettled + way; and now I want to begin again at my duties, my readings and parish + matters, as my life’s work, steadily and in earnest.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not violently, not to drive care away.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have tried that once, and will not again. You shall arrange for me, and + I will do just as you tell me;’ and she raised her eyes with the most deep + and earnest gaze of confiding love that had ever greeted Albinia from any + of the three. I’ll try not to grieve you, for you are too sorry for me;’ + and she threw her arms round her neck. ‘Oh, mamma! nothing is so bad when + you help me to bear it!’ + </p> + <p> + Tears fell fast at this precious effusion from the deep, sincere heart, at + the moment when Albinia herself was most guilty in her own eyes. Embraces + were her only answer, and how fervent! + </p> + <p> + ‘And, mamma,’ whispered Sophy, ‘if you could only let me have some small + part of teaching little Albinia.’ + </p> + <p> + A trotting of small feet and a call of mamma was heard. The little maiden + was come with her good-nights, and in one moment Albinia had lifted her + into her sister’s arms, where she was devoured with kisses, returning them + with interest, and with many a fondling ‘Poor Sophy,’ and ‘Dear Sophy.’ + </p> + <p> + When the last fond good-night had passed, and the little one had gone away + to her nest, Sophy said in a soft, natural, unconstrained voice, ‘I am + very sleepy. If you will be so kind as to send up my tea, I will go to + bed. Thank you; goodnight.’ + </p> + <p> + That was the redrawing of the curtain of reserve, the resignation of + sentiment, the resumption of common life. The romance of Sophia Kendal’s + early life had ended when she wounded her fingers in wreathing Genevieve’s + hair. Her next romance might be on behalf of her beautiful little sister. + </p> + <p> + Albinia was cured of her fretfulness towards the new order of events, and + her admiration of Sophy carried her through all that was yet to come. It + was the easier since Sophy did not insist on unreasonable self-martyrdoms, + and in her gratitude for being allowed her purpose in the main, was + submissive in detail, and had mercy on her own powers of endurance, not + inflicting the sight of the lovers on herself more than was needful, and + not struggling with the languor that was a good reason for remaining much + upstairs. She worked and read, but without overdoing anything, and wisely + undertook a French translation, as likely to occupy her attention without + forcing her to over-exert her powers. Not that she said so; she carefully + avoided all reference to her feelings; and Albinia could almost have + deemed the whole a dream, excepting for the occasional detection of a + mournful fixed gaze, which was instantaneously winked away as soon as + Sophy herself became aware of it. + </p> + <p> + Her trouble, though of a kind proverbially the most hardening and + exacerbating, had an entirely contrary tendency on her. The rigidity and + harsh judgment which had betokened her states of morbid depression since + she had outgrown the sulky form, had passed away, and she had been right + in predicting that she should not be cross, for she had become sweet and + gentle towards all. Her voice was pitched more softly, and though she + looked ill, and had lost the bloom which had once given her a sort of + beauty, her eyes had a meek softness that made them finer than when they + wore the stern, steady glance that used to make poor Gilbert quail. Her + strength came not from pride, but from Grace; and to her, disappointment + was more softening than even the prosperous affection that Albinia had + imagined. It was love; not earthly but heavenly. + </p> + <p> + If her father had been less busy, her pale cheek might have alarmed him; + but he was very much taken up with builders and estimates, with persuading + some of the superfluous population to emigrate, and arranging where they + should go, and while she kept the family hours and habits, he did not + notice lesser indications of flagging spirits, or if he did, he was wise, + and thought the cause had better not be put into words. + </p> + <p> + Albinia had brought herself to give fair sympathy to the lovers; and when + once she had begun it was easy to go on, not as ardently as if she had + never indulged in her folly, but enough to gratify two such happy and + grateful people, who wanted no one but each other, and agreed in nothing + better than in thinking her a sort of guardian angel to them both. + </p> + <p> + Genevieve had assuredly never given her heart to Gilbert, and it was ready + in all the freshness of maidenly bliss to meet the manly ardour of Ulick + O’More. He was almost overpoweringly demonstrative and eager, now and then + making game of himself, but yet not able to help rushing down to Willow + Lawn ten or twelve times a day, just to satisfy himself that his treasure + was there, and if he could not meet with her, catching hold of Mr. or Mrs. + Kendal to rave till they drove him back to his business. Such glee danced + in his eyes, there was such suppressed joyousness in his countenance, and + his step was so much nearer a dance than a walk, that his very air + well-nigh betrayed what was to be an absolute secret, till there had been + an answer from Ballymakilty, until which time Genevieve would not rest in + the hope of a happy future, nor give up her fears that she had not brought + pain upon him. + </p> + <p> + In he came at last, so exulting and so grateful, that it was a shock to + discover that ‘the kindest letter and fullest consent in the world,’ meant + his father’s ‘supposing he would do as he pleased; as long as he asked for + nothing, it was no concern of his.’ It was discovered, by Ulick’s delight, + that he had expected to have a battle, and Albinia was scandalized, but + Mr. Kendal told her it somewhat depended on what manner of father it was, + whether an independent son could defer implicitly to his judgment; and + though principle might withhold Ulick from flat disobedience, he might not + scruple at extorting reluctant consent. Besides his mother, whom he + honoured far more really, had written, not without disappointment, but + with full confidence in his ability to judge for himself. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Kendal and Mr. Ferrars both wrote warmly in Genevieve’s praise, and + certainly her footing at Willow Lawn was the one point d’appui in bringing + round the O’More family; so that as Ulick truly said, ‘It was Mrs. Kendal + whom he had to thank for the blessing of his life.’ Had poor Miss + Goldsmith’s description of Miss Durant’s birth, parentage, and education + been the only one that had reached Ballymakilty, a prohibition would + assuredly have been issued; but he was left sufficiently free to satisfy + his own conscience, and before Genevieve had surmounted half her scruples, + the whole town was ringing with the news, though no one could guess how it + had got wind. To be sure the Dusautoys had been put into a state of + rapture, and poor Mr. Hope had had the fatal stroke administered to him. + He looked so like a ghost that Mr. Dusautoy contrived to release him at + once, whereupon he went to try the most unwholesome curacy he could find, + with serious intentions of exchanging his living for it; but he + fortunately became so severely and helplessly ill there, that he was + pretty well cured of his mental fever, and quite content to go to his + heath, and do his work there like the humble and earnest man that he was, + perhaps all the better for having been personally taught something more + than could be gained from books and colleges. + </p> + <p> + Miss Goldsmith was the most to be pitied. She would not hear a word from + her nephew, refused to go near Willow Lawn, packed up her goods and went + to Bath, where Ulick promised the much distressed Genevieve that she would + yet relent. Genevieve was somewhat consoled by the increasing cordiality + of the Irish letters, and was carried along by the extreme delight and + triumph of her good old aunt. By some wonderful exertion of Irish + faculties, Ulick succeeded in bringing mademoiselle to Bayford in his + jaunting car, when she laughed, wept, sobbed, and embraced, in a + bewilderment of transport; pronounced the trousseau worthy of an angel of + the ancien regime; warned Genevieve against expecting amour to continue + instead of amitie, and carried home conversation for the nuns for the rest + of their lives. + </p> + <p> + That trousseau was Sophy’s special charge, and most jealous was she that + it should in no respect fall short of that outfit of Lucy’s for which she + had cared so little. A hard task it was to make Genevieve accept what Lucy + had exacted, but Sophy held the purse-strings, wrote the orders, and had + her own way. + </p> + <p> + She and her little sister were the only available bridesmaids, since Rose + O’More was not allowed to come. Having made up her mind to this from the + first, when the subject came forward, her open, cheerful look and manner + were meant to show that she was not afraid, and that her wish was real. + Freely resigning him, why should she not be glad to join in calling down + the blessing? + </p> + <p> + The wedding was fixed for Easter week, which fell early, and Albinia cast + about for some excuse for taking her away afterwards. An opportune + occasion offered. Sir William Ferrars wrote from the East to propose the + Kendals meeting him in Italy, and travelling home together, he was + longing, he said, to see something of his sister, and he should enjoy + sight-seeing ten times as much with a clever man like her husband to tell + him all about it. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars strongly seconded the project! Clever fellow, not a word did + he say; but did not he know the secrets of that household as well or + better than the inmates themselves?’ + </p> + <p> + Now that Tibb’s Alley was deserted, and plans fixed, architect and clerk + of the works chosen, March winds ready for building and underground work + to begin at once, what could be more prudent than for the inhabitants of + Willow Lawn to remove far from the disturbance of ancient drains and no + drains, and betake themselves to a purer atmosphere? Mr. Kendal was of no + use as a superintendent, and needed no persuasion to flee from the chance + of typhus. + </p> + <p> + As to the children, the time had come early when Maurice’s whole nature + cried out for school. He was much improved, and there was that real + principle within him which made it not unsafe to launch him in a world + where he might meet with more useful trials than those of home. Child as + he was, his propensities were too much limited by the bounds of the + town-house and garden, and the society of his sisters, one too old and one + too young to serve as tomboys. He needed to meet his match, and work his + way; Albinia felt that school had become his element, and Mr. Kendal only + wanted to make his education the reverse of Gilbert’s; so he ran nearly + frantic between the real jacket and the promise of going to school with + Willie. He knew not, though his mother mourned over, the coming + heart-sickness and mother-sickness of the first night, the first Sunday, + the first trouble. It was sure to be very severe in one of such strong and + affectionate feeling, but it must come sooner or later, and the better + that it should be conquered while home was still a paradise. Fairmead was + not so far from his destination but that his uncle would keep an eye on + him; and Winifred held out a hope that if the tour lasted long enough, he + should bring out both boys to spend their holidays with them. A very good + Winifred! + </p> + <p> + Albinia the Less was to become a traveller, for the good reason that + nobody could or would go without her. They were to go direct to Lucy, who + was at Naples with a second boy, and pining for home faces and home + comforts—the inducement which perhaps worked most strongly to make + Sophy like the journey, for since her delusion had been swept, away, a + doubly deep and intense feeling had sprung up towards her own only sister, + whose foibles had been forgotten in long separation. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI. + </h2> + <p> + The Lake of Lucerne lay blue and dark in the shade of the mountains, on + whose summits the evening sunshine was fast mounting, peak after peak + falling into purple shadow. + </p> + <p> + There was a small inlet where a stream rushed down between the hills, and + on the green slope stood a chalet, the rich red of the roof contrasting + with the green pasture. A little boat was moored to a stump near the land, + and in it sat Sophia Kendal, her hat by her side, listening to and + answering merrily the chatter of Maurice, who tumbled about in the boat, + often causing it severe shocks, while he inspected the cut of the small + sail which she was making for the miniature specimen, which he often tried + in the clear cold water. + </p> + <p> + Farther off, a little up the hill-side, Willie Ferrars was holding the + hand of the chestnut-curled, black-eyed fairy, ‘little Awk,’ who was + impressing him by her fluency in two languages at once, according as she + chattered to him in English, or in French to a picturesque peasant, her + great ally, who was mowing his flowery crop of hay, glancing like an + illumination, with an under-current of brilliant blossoms among the grass. + </p> + <p> + Wandering with slow conversational pace up and down the beach of the lake, + were Mr. Kendal and Sir William Ferrars, conversing as usual; the soldier, + with quick alert comprehension, wide observation, and clearness of mind, + which jumped to the very points to which the scholar’s deeply-read and + long-digested arguments were bringing him more slowly. + </p> + <p> + On a projecting point sat Albinia, her fair hair shaded under her dark + hat, beneath which her English complexion glowed fresh and youthful, as + with flat tin box by her side, and block sketch-book on her knee, she + mixed and she painted, and tried to catch those purples and those blues + with unabated ardour. Suddenly a great trailing frond of mountain fern + came over the brim of her hat from behind. ‘Oh, Maurice, don’t!’ Then, + looking up and laughing, ‘Oh, it is you, is it? I knew Maurice would do, + whichever it might be; but see, the other is quite out of mischief.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Unless he should upset Sophy into the lake.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He can’t do that, the rope is too short. But is not he very much + improved? He has quite lost his imperious manner towards her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing like school for making a boy behave himself to his sisters.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Exactly, as I learnt by experience long ago. I am glad William did not + see him till he had learnt to be agreeable. How he does admire him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You’ll never make anything of that sketch; the mountain is humpbacked, + and the face of that precipice is exactly like Colonel Bury;’ and he + caught up a pencil to help out the resemblance with nostril and eyebrow. + </p> + <p> + ‘For shame, to be so mischievous; such a great boy as you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, we all came out here to be great boys, didn’t we? I am sure you + look a dozen years younger than when I last saw you, Mrs. Grandmother. + By-the-by, it was a bold stroke to encumber yourself with that brat; + what’s become of him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Susan has taken him in asleep. You see, Maurice, I really could not help + it, the poor little thing was so sickly, and had never thriven; but when + they were a little while in bracing air, Lucy was longing to have him in + England, and his father, who never believes in anything but what he likes, + <i>would</i> not see it, and what with those Italian servants, and + Algernon hunting Lucy about as he does, it would have been the death of + him. Susan, good creature, had taken to him of her own accord the moment + we came to Naples, and could not have borne to leave him, and you know the + Awk is almost off her hands now, and Sophy, who first proposed it, or I am + sure I should never have ventured, is delighted to do anything for either + of them, and always has her little sister in her room. As to papa, he was + very good, and the child is very little in his way, and has been quite + well ever since we have been in this delicious air.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How did you get Lucy to consent?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor dear, it was a melancholy business; but she had so often been in + alarm about him, and had suffered so much from having to leave him with + people she did not trust, that she caught at the proposal before she + fairly contemplated what the parting would be; and when she did, Algernon + was too glad to be relieved from him not to keep her up to it, but it wont + do to think of it, she has her baby, who is healthier, and if they remain + abroad, I suspect we shall keep little Ralph altogether; he is a dear + little fellow, and Sophy has so taken possession of Albinia, that I should + be quite lost if I did not set up a private child. + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you call him? I thought his name was Belraven.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could not possibly call him so; and his aunts, by way of adding to the + aviary, made him Ralph the Raven, so I mean it to stick by him; I believe + papa has forgotten the other dreadful fact, for I caught him giving his + name as Ralph Cavendish Dusautoy. How the dear vicar of Bayford will + devour him! and what work I shall have to keep him from being spoilt!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you think they will remain abroad?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Algernon hates England; and all his habits are foreign.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Did he make himself tolerably agreeable?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He really did. One could bear to be patronized by one’s host better than + by one’s guest, and he was in wholesome awe of William. Besides, he is + really at home in Italy, and knows his way about so well, that he was not + a bad Cicerone. I am sure Sophy could never have done either Vesuvius or + Pompeii without his arrangements; and as long as he had a victim for his + catalogue raisonnee, he was very placable and obliging. That was all + extracts, so it really was not so bad.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So you were satisfied?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He has a bad lot about him, that’s the worst—Polish counts, + disreputable artists and poets, any one who has a spurious sort of fame, + and knows how to flatter him. Edmund was terribly disgusted.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very bad for his wife.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You see, she is a thorough-going mother, and no linguist. She really is + improved, and I like her more really than ever I could, poor dear. I + believe her head was once quite turned, and that he influenced her + entirely, and made her forget everything else; but she has a heart, though + not much of a head, and sorrow and illness and children have brought it + out, and she is what a ‘very woman’ becomes, I suppose, if there be any + good in her, an abstract wife and mother.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Was it not dangerous to take away her child?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There was another, you know, and it was to save his life. The duties + clashed, and were destroying all comfort.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How does he behave to her?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe she has all the love he has to spare; he is proud of her, and + dresses her up, and has endless portraits of her. Luckily she keeps her + beauty. She is more refined, and has more expression; one could sometimes + cry to watch her, and he likes to have her with him, and to discourse to + her, but without the slightest perception or consideration of what she + would prefer, and with no notion of sacrificing anything for her or the + children. I know she is afraid of him; I have seen her tremble if there + were any chance of his being annoyed; and she would not object to any plan + of his if it were to cost her life. I believe it would be misery to her, + but I think she would resist—ay, she <i>did</i> resist, and in vain, + for the sake of her child.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Does her affection hold out, do you think?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, yes, the spaniel and walnut-tree love, which is in us all, and doubly + in the very woman. It is very beautiful. She is so proud of him and of her + gilded slavery, and so unconsciously submissive and patient; but it is a + harder life, I guess, than we can see. I am sure it must be, for every bit + of personal vanity and levity is worn out of her; she only goes out to + satisfy him; dresses to please his eye, and talks, with her eye seeking + round for him, in dread of being rebuked for mistakes or bad French. And + for the rest, her joy is to be left in peace with little Algernon upon her + lap. Yes, I hope living in all womanly virtues may be training and + compensation, but the saddest part of the affair is that he does not think + it fashionable to be religious, and she has not moral courage to make open + resistance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘May it come,’ fervently. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is strange, how much more real and good a creature she is now, than + when at home in the midst of all external observances. Yet it cannot be + right! she surely ought to make more stand, but it is too, too literally + being afraid to say her soul is her own, for she is unhappy. She does the + utmost she can without offending him, and feels it as she never did + before.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is no judging,’ said Maurice, as his sister looked at him with eyes + full of sorrowful yearning. ‘No one can tell where are the boundaries of + the two duties. Poor girl! she has put herself into a state of temptation + and trial; but she may be shielded by her exercise of so much that is + simply good, and her womanly qualities may become not idolatry, but a + training in reaching higher.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘May it be so, indeed!’ said Albinia. ‘Oh, Maurice! how I once disdained + being told I was too young, and how true it was! What visions I had about + those three, and what failures have resulted!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Your visions may have vanished, but you did your work faithfully, and it + has not been fruitless.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay, in shipwrecked lives. Mischiefs wherever I meant to do best! Why, I + let even my own Maurice grow unmanageable while I was nursing poor + grandmamma. The voluntary duty choked the natural one, and yet—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And yet,’ interrupted her brother, ‘that was no error.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, no! I would not have done it for anything.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor do I think the boy the worse for it. I may venture now on saying he + was intolerable, and it hastened school, but though your rein was loose, + you never let it fall; and maybe, the self-conquest was the best thing for + him. If you had neglected him wilfully for your own pleasure, nothing but + harm could have been expected. As you were absorbed by a sacred act of + duty, I believe it will all be made up to you in your son.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, Maurice, if I might trust so! I believe I am doubly set on that boy + doing well, because his father must not, <i>must</i> not have another + pang!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think he knows that. I do not imagine that he will never be carried + astray by high spirits; but I am sure that he has the strength, honour, + and sweetness that are the elements of greatness!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing we did so changed him as the loss of his brother. Oh, Maurice! + there was my most earnest wish to do right, and my most fatal mistake!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And greatest success. Gilbert owed everything to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Had I but silenced my foolish pride, he might have been safe in India + now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We do not know how safe he might be. I did indeed think it a pity your + influence led the other way, but things might have been far worse; if you + made some blunders, your love and your earnestness were working on that + susceptible nature, and what better hope can we wish to have than what + rested with us at Malta? what better influence than has remained with + Maurice or with Fred?’ + </p> + <p> + Albinia had not yet learnt to talk calmly of Gilbert’s last hours, so she + put this aside, and smiling through her tears, said, ‘Ah! when Emily + writes to Sophy, that their boy is to have his name, since they can wish + nothing better for him than to be like him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The past vision always a little above what is visible?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hardly, Emily and Fred are as proud of each other as two peacocks, and + well they may be, for—stoop down, ‘tis an intense secret; but do you + know the effect of their Sebastopol den?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Eh?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Lieutenant-General Sir William Ferrars is going out in quest of Emily’s + younger sister.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You ridiculous child! That’s a trick of yours.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, indeed. William was surprised into a moment of confidence, walking + home in the moonlight from the Coliseum. En vrai militaire, he has begun + at the right end, and written to Mr. Kinnaird to ask leave to come and try + his luck; and cool as he looks, I believe he would rather prepare for + Inkermann.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well! if he be not making a fool of himself at his time of life, I am + sure I am very glad!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Time of life! He’s but three years older than Edmund. If you are not more + respectful, we shall have to go out to Canada to countenance him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall be rejoiced to see him with a home, and finding life beyond his + profession; but I had rather he had known more of her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s what he never would do. He cannot talk to a young lady. Why he + admires Lucy a great deal more than Sophy!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, judging by the recent brides, I think if it had been me, I should + have gone in search of Mrs. Ulick O’More’s younger sister.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! I wanted particularly to hear of your visit at the bank. You had + luncheon there, I think. How do they get on?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is the most charming menage in the world. She looks very graceful and + elegant, and keeps him in great order, and is just the wife he wanted—a + little sauciness and piquancy to spur him up at one time, and restrain him + at another, with the real ballast that both have, makes such a perfect + compound, that it is only too delightful to see anything so happy and so + good in this world. They both seem to have such vivid enjoyment of life.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray, has any one called on Genevieve? though she could dispense with + it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, yes; Bryan O’More spent a fortnight there. And see what a moustache + will do! The Osbornes, Drurys, Wolfes, and Co., all dubbed themselves dear + Mrs. O’More’s dearest friends. I found a circle of them round her, and + when I observed that Bryan was not half such a handsome fellow as his + brother, you should see how I was scorned.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope Bryan may not play his father’s game again. Do you know how she + was received in Ireland?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The whole clan adore her! Ulick, with, his Anglo-Saxon truthfulness, got + into serious scrapes for endeavouring to disabuse them of the notion that + she was sole heiress of the ancient marquisate of Durant. I believe Connel + was ready to call Ulick out for disrespect to his own wife.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And was she happy there!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very much amused, and treated like a queen; charmed with his mother, and + great friends with Rose. They have brought Redmond home to lick him into + shape, and I believe Rose is to come and be tamed.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Always Ulick’s wish,’ said Albinia, as her eye fixed upon Sophy. + </p> + <p> + And her brother, with perhaps too obvious a connexion of ideas, said, ‘Is + <i>she</i> quite strong?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very well,’ said Albinia. ‘I am glad we brought her. The sight of beauty + has been like a new existence. I saw it on her brow, in calmness and rest, + the first evening of the Bay of Naples. It has seemed to soothe and + elevate her, though all in her own silent way; but watch her as she sits + with her face to those mountains, hear her voice, and you will feel that + the presence of grandeur and beauty is repose and happiness to her; and I + think the remembrance will always be so, even in work-a-day Bayford.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, because remembrance of such glory connects with hope of future + glory.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And it is a rest from human frets and passions. She has taken to botany, + too, and I am glad, for I think those studies that draw one off from men’s + works and thoughts, do most good to the weary, self-occupied brain. And + the children are a delight to her!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sophy is your greatest work.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not mine!’ cried Albinia. ‘The noblest by nature, the dearest, the most + generous.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Great qualities; but they would have been only wretched self-preying + torments, but for the softening of your affection,’ said Maurice. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear, dear friend and sister and child in one,’ cried Albinia. And then + meeting her brother’s eyes, she said, ‘Yes, you know to the full how noble + she is, and how—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can guess how imprudent a young step-mother can be,’ said Maurice, + smiling. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is very strange. I don’t, know how to be thankful enough for it; but + really her spirits have been more equal, her temper more even than ever it + had been, and that just when I thought my folly had been most ruinous.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, Albinia. After all, it is more than man can hope or expect to make + no blunders; but I do verily believe that while an earnest will saves us, + by God’s grace, from wilful sins, the effects of the inadvertences that + teach us our secret faults will not be fatal, and while we are indeed + honestly and faithfully doing our best, though we are truly unprofitable + servants, that our lapses through infirmity will be compensated, both in + the training of our own character and the results upon others.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If we are indeed faithfully doing our best,’ repeated Albinia. + </p> + <p> + THE END. + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg’s The Young Step-Mother, by Charlotte M. 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