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diff --git a/8874-h/8874-h.htm b/8874-h/8874-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a2c1a71 --- /dev/null +++ b/8874-h/8874-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,43077 @@ +<?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"> + <head> + <title> + Queechy, Susan Warner (AKA Elizabeth Wetherell) + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + h1,h2,h3,h4 { text-align: center; font-weight: bold; font-variant: small-caps } + h1 { margin-top: 2em } + .smallcaps { font-variant: small-caps } + img { border-style: none } + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Queechy, by Susan Warner +(AKA Elizabeth Wetherell) + +Copyright laws are changing all over the world. Be sure to check the +copyright laws for your country before downloading or redistributing +this or any other Project Gutenberg eBook. + +This header should be the first thing seen when viewing this Project +Gutenberg file. Please do not remove it. Do not change or edit the +header without written permission. + +Please read the "legal small print," and other information about the +eBook and Project Gutenberg at the bottom of this file. Included is +important information about your specific rights and restrictions in +how the file may be used. You can also find out about how to make a +donation to Project Gutenberg, and how to get involved. + + +**Welcome To The World of Free Plain Vanilla Electronic Texts** + +**eBooks Readable By Both Humans and By Computers, Since 1971** + +*****These eBooks Were Prepared By Thousands of Volunteers!***** + + +Title: Queechy + +Author: Susan Warner + (AKA Elizabeth Wetherell) + +Release Date: September, 2005 [EBook #8874] +[Yes, we are more than one year ahead of schedule] +[This file was first posted on August 18, 2003] + +Edition: 10 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK QUEECHY *** + + + + +Produced by Distributed Proofreaders + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <a href="images/illus01.jpg"><img src="images/illus01.jpg" height="250" + alt="She stopped a moment when she came upon the bridge." + title="She stopped a moment when she came upon the bridge." /><br /> She + stopped a moment when she came upon the bridge.</a> + </p> + <h1> + Queechy. + </h1> + <p class="smallcaps"> + by + </p> + <h1> + Elizabeth Wetherell. + </h1> + <h2> + Illustrated<br /><br /> By Frederic Dielman. + </h2> + <blockquote> + <p> + "I hope I may speak of woman without offence to ladies." + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote class="smallcaps"> + <p> + The Guardian + </p> + </blockquote> + <h1> + Contents. + </h1> + <ol style="list-style-type: upper-roman"> + <li> + <a href="#01">Curtain Rises at Queechy</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#02">Things Loom Out Dimly Through the Smoke</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#03">You Amuse Me and I'll Amuse You</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#04">Aunt Miriam</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#05">As to Whether a Flower Can Grow in the Woods</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#06">Queechy at Dinner</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#07">The Curtain Falls Upon the Scene</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#08">The Fairy Leaves the House</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#09">How Mr. Carleton Happened To Be Not at Home</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#10">The Fairy and the Englishman</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#11">A Little Candle</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#12">Spars Below</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#13">The Fairy Peeps into an English House, but Does Not Stay + There</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#14">Two Bibles in Paris</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#15">Very Literary</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#16">Dissolving View--Ending with a Saw-Mill in the Distance</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#17">Rain and Water--Cresses for Breakfast</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#18">Mr. Rossitur's Wits Sharpened upon a Ploughshare</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#19">Fleda Goes After Help and Finds Dr. Quackenboss</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#20">Society in Queechy</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#21">"The Sweetness of a Man's Friend by a Hearty Counsel"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#22">Wherein a Great Many People Pay Their Respects in Form and + Substance</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#23">The Captain Out-Generalled by the Fairy</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#24">A Breath of the World at Queechy</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#25">"As Good a Boy as You Need to Have"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#26">Pine Knots</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#27">Sweet--In Its Consequences</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#28">The Brook's Old Song--And the New</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#29">Flighty and Unsatisfactory</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#30">Disclosures--By Mr. Skillcorn</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#31">Mr. Olmney's Cause Argued</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#32">Sometimes Inconvenient "From the Loophole of Retreat to + Peep at Such a World"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#33">Fleda's White Muslin</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#34">How the Fairy Engaged the Two Englishmen</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#35">Fleda Forgets Herself</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#36">The Roses and the Gentlemen</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#37">"An Unseen Enemy Round the Corner"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#38">The Fairy at Her Work Again</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#39">A Night of Uncertain Length</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#40">A Thorn Enters</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#41">Dealings with the Press</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#42">Ends with Sweet Music</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#43">How Fleda Was Watched by Blue Eyes</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#44">What Pleasant People One Meets in Society</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#45">How Much Trouble One May Have about a Note</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#46">Aromatic Vinegar</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#47">The Fur Cloak on a Journey</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#48">Quarrenton to Queechy</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#49">Montepoole Becomes a Point of Interest</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#50">The House on "The Hill" Once More</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#51">The First One That Left Queechy</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#52">The Last Sunset There</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#53">Fleda Alone on an Isthmus</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="#54">The Moorish Temple before Breakfast</a> + </li> + </ol> + <h1> + List of Illustrations. + </h1> + <ul> + <li> + <a href="images/illus01.jpg">She stopped a moment when she came upon the + bridge. (<i>Frontispiece</i>)</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus02.jpg">She made a long job of her bunch of holly.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus03.jpg">"I wasn't thinking of myself in + particular."</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus04.jpg">"Who's got it now, Cynthy?"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus05.jpg">Fleda coloured and looked at her + grandfather.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus06.jpg">Fleda was sitting, her face bowed in her + hands.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus07.jpg">She stood back and watched.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus08.jpg">Then he seated himself beside her.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus09.jpg">The children were always together.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus10.jpg">"He is not a pug."</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus11.jpg">"They will expect me at home."</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus12.jpg">"Well, sir, you know the road by Deacon + Patterson's?"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus13.jpg">"O uncle Rolf, don't have anything to do + with him."</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus14.jpg">"Look at these roses, and don't ask me for + papers!"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus15.jpg">She knelt down before him.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus16.jpg">"How lovely it is, Hugh!"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus17.jpg">Philetus was left to "shuck" and bring home + a load of the fruit.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus18.jpg">"And there goes Mr. Carleton!" said + Constance.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus19.jpg">Fleda saw with a start that it was Mr. + Carleton.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus20.jpg">"I am sure Mr. Thorn will excuse me."</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus21.jpg">"My dear child," he said, holding her face + in both his hands.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus22.jpg">Mrs. Rossitur sat there alone.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus23.jpg">Barby's energies and fainting remedies were + again put in use.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus24.jpg">Then he stood and watched her.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus25.jpg">"Well, take your place," said Thorn.</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus26.jpg">"I told him, 'O you were not gone yet!'"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus27.jpg">"How are they all at home?"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus28.jpg">"Is this the gentleman that's to be your + husband?"</a> + </li> + <li> + <a href="images/illus29.jpg">Slowly and lingeringly they moved away.</a> + </li> + </ul> + <h1> + Queechy. + </h1> + <h1> + <a name="01"></a>Chapter I. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + A single cloud on a sunny day<br /> When all the rest of + heaven is clear,<br /> A frown upon the atmosphere,<br /> + That hath no business to appear,<br /> When skies are blue + and earth is gay. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Byron. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Come, dear grandpa!--the old mare and the wagon are at the gate--all + ready." + </p> + <p> + "Well, dear!"--responded a cheerful hearty voice, "they must wait a bit; I + haven't got my hat yet." + </p> + <p> + "O I'll get that." + </p> + <p> + And the little speaker, a girl of some ten or eleven years old, dashed + past the old gentleman and running along the narrow passage which led to + his room soon returned with the hat in her hand. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, dear,--but that ain't all. I must put on my great-coat--and I must + look and see if I can find any money--" + </p> + <p> + "O yes--for the post-office. It's a beautiful day, grandpa. Cynthy!--won't + you come and help grandpa on with his great-coat?--And I'll go out and + keep watch of the old mare till you're ready." + </p> + <p> + A needless caution. For the old mare, though spirited enough for her + years, had seen some fourteen or fifteen of them and was in no sort of + danger of running away. She stood in what was called the back meadow, just + without the little paling fence that enclosed a small courtyard round the + house. Around this courtyard rich pasture-fields lay on every side, the + high road cutting through them not more than a hundred or two feet from + the house. + </p> + <p> + The little girl planted herself on the outside of the paling and setting + her back to it eyed the old mare with great contentment; for besides other + grounds for security as to her quiet behaviour, one of the men employed + about the farm, who had harnessed the equipage, was at the moment busied + in putting some clean straw in the bottom of the vehicle. + </p> + <p> + "Watkins," said the child presently to this person, "here is a strap that + is just ready to come unbuckled." + </p> + <p> + "What do you know about straps and buckles?" said the man rather grumly. + But he came round however to see what she meant, and while he drew the one + and fastened the other took special good care not to let Fleda know that + her watchful eyes had probably saved the whole riding party from ruin; as + the loosing of the strap would of necessity have brought on a trial of the + old mare's nerves which not all her philosophy could have been expected to + meet. Fleda was satisfied to see the buckle made fast, and that Watkins, + roused by her hint or by the cause of it, afterwards took a somewhat + careful look over the whole establishment. In high glee then she climbed + to her seat in the little wagon, and her grandfather coming out coated and + hatted with some difficulty mounted to his place beside her. + </p> + <p> + "I think Watkins might have taken the trouble to wash the wagon, without + hurting himself," said Fleda; "it is all specked with mud since last + time." + </p> + <p> + "Ha'n't he washed it!" said the old gentleman in a tone of displeasure. + "Watkins!"-- + </p> + <p> + "Well."-- + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you wash the wagon as I told you?" + </p> + <p> + "I did." + </p> + <p> + "It's all over slosh." + </p> + <p> + "That's Mr. Didenhover's work--he had it out day 'fore yesterday; and if + you want it cleaned, Mr. Ringgan, you must speak to him about it. Mr. + Didenhover may file his own doings; it's more than I'm a going to." + </p> + <p> + The old gentleman made no answer, except to acquaint the mare with the + fact of his being in readiness to set out. A shade of annoyance and + displeasure for a moment was upon his face; but the gate opening from the + meadow upon the high road had hardly swung back upon its hinges after + letting them out when he recovered the calm sweetness of demeanour that + was habitual with him, and seemed as well as his little granddaughter to + have given care the go-by for the time. Fleda had before this found out + another fault in the harness, or rather in Mr. Didenhover, which like a + wise little child she kept to herself. A broken place which her + grandfather had ordered to be properly mended was still tied up with the + piece of rope which had offended her eyes the last time they had driven + out. But she said not a word of it, because "it would only worry grandpa + for nothing;" and forgetting it almost immediately she moved on with him + in a state of joyous happiness that no mud-stained wagon nor untidy + rope-bound harness could stir for an instant. Her spirit was like a clear + still-running stream which quietly and surely deposits every defiling and + obscuring admixture it may receive from its contact with the grosser + elements around; the stream might for a moment be clouded; but a little + while, and it would run as clear as ever. Neither Fleda nor her + grandfather cared a jot for the want of elegancies which one despised, and + the other if she had ever known had well nigh forgotten. What mattered it + to her that the little old green wagon was rusty and worn, or that years + and service had robbed the old mare of all the jauntiness she had ever + possessed, so long as the sun shone and the birds sang? And Mr. Ringgan, + in any imaginary comparison, might be pardoned for thinking that <i>he</i> + was the proud man, and that his poor little equipage carried such a + treasure as many a coach and four went without. + </p> + <p> + "Where are we going first, grandpa? to the post-office?" + </p> + <p> + "Just there!" + </p> + <p> + "How pleasant it is to go there always, isn't it, grandpa? You have the + paper to get, and I--I don't very often get a letter, but I have always + the <i>hope</i> of getting one; and that's something. Maybe I'll have one + to-day, grandpa?" "We'll see. It's time those cousins of yours wrote to + you." + </p> + <p> + "O <i>they</i> don't write to me--it's only Aunt Lucy; I never had a + letter from a single one of them, except once from little Hugh,--don't you + remember, grandpa? I should think he must be a very nice little boy, + shouldn't you?" + </p> + <p> + "Little boy? why I guess he is about as big as you are, Fleda--he is + eleven years old, ain't he?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but I am past eleven, you know, grandpa, and I am a little girl." + </p> + <p> + This reasoning being unanswerable Mr. Ringgan only bade the old mare trot + on. + </p> + <p> + It was a pleasant day in autumn. Fleda thought it particularly pleasant + for riding, for the sun was veiled with thin hazy clouds. The air was mild + and still, and the woods, like brave men, putting the best face upon + falling fortunes. Some trees were already dropping their leaves; the + greater part standing in all the varied splendour which the late frosts + had given them. The road, an excellent one, sloped gently up and down + across a wide arable country, in a state of high cultivation and now + shewing all the rich variety of autumn. The redish buckwheat patches, and + fine wood tints of the fields where other grain had been; the bright green + of young rye or winter wheat, then soberer coloured pasture or meadow + lands, and ever and anon a tuft of gay woods crowning a rising ground, or + a knot of the everlasting pines looking sedately and steadfastly upon the + fleeting glories of the world around them, these were mingled and + interchanged and succeeded each other in ever-varying fresh combinations. + With its high picturesque beauty the whole scene had a look of thrift and + plenty and promise which made it eminently cheerful. So Mr. Ringgan and + his little granddaughter both felt it to be. For some distance the grounds + on either hand the road were part of the old gentleman's farm; and many a + remark was exchanged between him and Fleda as to the excellence or + hopefulness of this or that crop or piece of soil; Fleda entering into all + his enthusiasm, and reasoning of clover leys and cockle and the proper, + harvesting of Indian corn and other like matters, with no lack of interest + or intelligence. + </p> + <p> + "O grandpa," she exclaimed suddenly, "won't you stop a minute and let me + get out. I want to get some of that beautiful bittersweet." + </p> + <p> + "What do you want that for?" said he. "You can't get out very well." + </p> + <p> + "O yes I can--please, grandpa! I want some of it <i>very</i> much--just + one minute!" + </p> + <p> + He stopped, and Fleda got out and went to the roadside, where a + bittersweet vine had climbed into a young pine tree and hung it as it were + with red coral. But her one minute was at least four before she had + succeeded in breaking off as much as she could carry of the splendid + creeper; for not until then could Fleda persuade herself to leave it. She + came back and worked her way up into the wagon with one hand full as it + could hold of her brilliant trophies. + </p> + <p> + "Now what good'll that do you?" inquired Mr. Ringgan good-humouredly, as + he lent Fleda what help he could to her seat. + </p> + <p> + "Why grandpa, I want it to put with cedar and pine in a jar at home--it + will keep for ever so long, and look beautiful. Isn't that handsome?--only + it was a pity to break it." + </p> + <p> + "Why yes, it's handsome enough," said Mr. Ringgan, "but you've got + something just by the front door there at home that would do just as + well--what do you call it?--that naming thing there?" + </p> + <p> + "What, my burning bush? O grandpa! I wouldn't cut that for any thing in + the world! It's the only pretty thing about the house; and besides," said + Fleda, looking up with a softened mien, "you said that it was planted by + my mother. O grandpa! I wouldn't cut that for any thing." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ringgan laughed a pleased laugh. "Well, dear!" said he, "it shall grow + till it's as big as the house, if it will." + </p> + <p> + "It won't do that," said Fleda. "But I am very glad I have got this + bittersweet--this is just what I wanted. Now if I can only find some + holly--" + </p> + <p> + "We'll come across some, I guess, by and by," said Mr. Ringgan; and Fleda + settled herself again to enjoy the trees, the fields, the roads, and all + the small handiwork of nature, for which her eyes had a curious + intelligence. But this was not fated to be a ride of unbroken pleasure. + </p> + <p> + "Why what are those bars down for?" she said as they came up with a field + of winter grain. "Somebody's been in here with a wagon. O grandpa! Mr. + Didenhover has let the Shakers have my butternuts!--the butternuts that + you told him they mustn't have." + </p> + <p> + The old gentleman drew up his horse. "So he has!" said he. + </p> + <p> + Their eyes were upon the far end of the deep lot, where at the edge of one + of the pieces of woodland spoken of, a picturesque group of men and boys + in frocks and broad-brimmed white hats were busied in filling their wagon + under a clump of the now thin and yellow leaved butternut trees. + </p> + <p> + "The scoundrel!" said Mr. Ringgan under his breath. + </p> + <p> + "Would it be any use, grandpa, for me to jump down and run and tell them + you don't want them to take the butternuts?--I shall have so few." + </p> + <p> + "No, dear, no," said her grandfather, "they have got 'em about all by this + time; the mischief's done. Didenhover meant to let 'em have 'em unknown to + me, and pocket the pay himself. Get up!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda drew a long breath, and gave a hard look at the distant wagon where + <i>her</i> butternuts were going in by handfuls. She said no more. + </p> + <p> + It was but a few fields further on that the old gentleman came to a sudden + stop again. + </p> + <p> + "Ain't there some of my sheep over yonder there, Fleda,--along with Squire + Thornton's?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, grandpa," said Fleda,--"I can't see--yes, I do see--yes, + they are, grandpa; I see the mark." + </p> + <p> + "I thought so!" said Mr. Ringgan bitterly; "I told Didenhover, only three + days ago, that if he didn't make up that fence the sheep would be out, or + Squire Thornton's would be in;--only three days ago!--Ah well!" said he, + shaking the reins to make the mare move on again,--"it's all of a + piece.--Every thing goes--I can't help it." + </p> + <p> + "Why do you keep him, grandpa, if he don't behave right?" Fleda ventured + to ask gently. + </p> + <p> + "'Cause I can't get rid of him, dear," Mr. Ringgan answered rather + shortly. + </p> + <p> + And till they got to the post-office he seemed in a disagreeable kind of + muse, which Fleda did not choose to break in upon. So the mile and a half + was driven in sober silence. + </p> + <p> + "Shall I get out and go in, grandpa?" said Fleda when he drew up before + the house. + </p> + <p> + "No, deary," said he in his usual kind tone; "you sit still. Holloa + there!--Good-day, Mr. Sampion--have you got any thing for me?" The man + disappeared and came out again. + </p> + <p> + "There's your paper, grandpa," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, and something else," said Mr. Ringgan: "I declare!--Miss Fleda + Ringgan--care of E. Ringgan, Esq.'--There, dear, there it is." + </p> + <p> + "Paris!" exclaimed Fleda, as she clasped the letter and both her hands + together. The butternuts and Mr Didenhover were forgotten at last. The + letter could not be read in the jolting of the wagon, but, as Fleda said, + it was all the pleasanter, for she had the expectation of it the whole way + home. + </p> + <p> + "Where are we going now, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "To Queechy Run." + </p> + <p> + "That will give us a nice long ride. I am very glad. This has been a good + day. With my letter and my bittersweet I have got enough, haven't I, + grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + Queechy Run was a little village, a very little village, about half a mile + from Mr. Ringgan's house. It boasted however a decent brick church of some + size, a school-house, a lawyer's office, a grocery store, a dozen or two + of dwelling-houses, and a post-office; though for some reason or other Mr. + Ringgan always chose to have his letters come through the Sattlersville + post-office, a mile and a half further off. At the door of the lawyer's + office Mr. Ringgan again stopped, and again shouted "Holloa!"-- + </p> + <p> + "Good-day, sir. Is Mr. Jolly within?" + </p> + <p> + "He is, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Will you ask him to be so good as to step here a moment? I cannot very + well get out." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jolly was a comfortable-looking little man, smooth and sleek, pleasant + and plausible, reasonably honest too, as the world goes; a nice man to + have to do with, the world went so easy with his affairs that you were + sure he would make no unnecessary rubs in your own. He came now fresh and + brisk to the side of the wagon, with that uncommon hilarity which people + sometimes assume when they have a disagreeable matter on hand that must be + spoken of. + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning, sir! Fine day, Mr. Jolly." + </p> + <p> + "Beautiful day, sir! Splendid season! How do you do, Mr. Ringgan?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, sir, I never was better in my life, barring this lameness, that + disables me very much. I can't go about and see to things any more as I + used to. However--we must expect evils at my time of life. I don't + complain. I have a great deal to be thankful for." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir,--we have a great deal to be thankful for," said Mr. Jolly + rather abstractedly, and patting the old mare with kind attention. + </p> + <p> + "Have you seen that fellow McGowan?" said Mr. Ringgan abruptly, and in a + lower tone. + </p> + <p> + "I have seen him," said Mr. Jolly, coming back from the old mare to + business. + </p> + <p> + "He's a hard customer I guess, ain't he?" + </p> + <p> + "He's as ugly a cur as ever was whelped!" + </p> + <p> + "What does he say?" + </p> + <p> + "Says he must have it." + </p> + <p> + "Did you tell him what I told you?" + </p> + <p> + "I told him, sir, that you had not got the returns from your farm that you + expected this year, owing to one thing and 'nother; and that you couldn't + make up the cash for him all at once; and that he would have to wait a + spell, but that he'd be sure to get it in the long run. Nobody ever + suffered by Mr. Ringgan yet, as I told him." + </p> + <p> + "Well?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, sir,--he was altogether refractible--he's as pig-headed a fellow as + I ever see." + </p> + <p> + "What did he say?" + </p> + <p> + "He gave me names, and swore he wouldn't wait a day longer--said he'd + waited already six months." + </p> + <p> + "He has so. I couldn't meet the last payment. There's a year's rent due + now. I can't help it. There needn't have been an hour,--if I could go + about and attend to things myself. I have been altogether disappointed in + that Didenhover." + </p> + <p> + "I expect you have." + </p> + <p> + "What do you suppose he'll do, Mr. Jolly?--McGowan, I mean." + </p> + <p> + "I expect he'll do what the law'll let him, Mr. Ringgan; I don't know + what'll hinder him." + </p> + <p> + "It's a worse turn than I thought my infirmities would ever play me," said + the old gentleman after a short pause,--"first to lose the property + altogether, and then not to be permitted to wear out what is left of life + in the old place--there won't be much." + </p> + <p> + "So I told him, Mr. Ringgan. I put it to him. Says I, 'Mr. McGowan, it's a + cruel hard business; there ain't a man in town that wouldn't leave Mr. + Ringgan the shelter of his own roof as long as he wants any, and think it + a pleasure,--if the rent was anyhow.'" + </p> + <p> + "Well--well!" said the old gentleman, with a mixture of dignity and + bitterness,--"it doesn't much matter. My head will find a shelter somehow, + above ground or under it. The Lord will provide.--Whey! stand still, can't + ye! what ails the fool? The creature's seen years enough to be steady," he + added with a miserable attempt at his usual cheerful laugh. + </p> + <p> + Fleda had turned away her head and tried not to hear when the lowered + tones of the speakers seemed to say that she was one too many in the + company. But she could not help catching a few bits of the conversation, + and a few bits were generally enough for Fleda's wit to work upon; she had + a singular knack at putting loose ends of talk together. If more had been + wanting, the tones of her grandfather's voice would have filled up every + gap in the meaning of the scattered words that came to her ear. Her heart + sank fast as the dialogue went on, and she needed no commentary or + explanation to interpret the bitter little laugh with which it closed. It + was a chill upon all the rosy joys and hopes of a most joyful and hopeful + little nature. + </p> + <p> + The old mare was in motion again, but Fleda no longer cared or had the + curiosity to ask where they were going. The bittersweet lay listlessly in + her lap; her letter, clasped to her breast, was not thought of; and tears + were quietly running one after the other down her cheeks and falling on + her sleeve; she dared not lift her handkerchief nor turn her face towards + her grandfather lest they should catch his eye. Her grandfather?--could it + be possible that he must be turned out of his old home in his old age? + could it be possible? Mr. Jolly seemed to think it might be, and her + grandfather seemed to think it must. Leave the old house! But where would + he go?--Son or daughter he had none left; resources be could have none, or + this need not happen. Work he could not; be dependent upon the charity of + any kin or friend she knew he would never; she remembered hearing him once + say he could better bear to go to the almshouse than do any such thing. + And then, if they went, he would have his pleasant room no more where the + sun shone in so cheerfully, and they must leave the dear old kitchen where + they had been so happy, and the meadows and hills would belong to somebody + else; and she would gather her stores of buttercups and chestnuts under + the loved old trees never again. But these things were nothing, though the + image of them made the tears come hot and fast, these were nothing in her + mind to the knowledge or the dread of the effect the change would have + upon Mr. Ringgan. Fleda knew him and knew it would not be slight. Whiter + his head could not be, more bowed it well might, and her own bowed in + anticipation as her childish fears and imaginings ran on into the possible + future. Of McGowan's tender mercies she had no hope. She had seen him + once, and being unconsciously even more of a physiognomist than most + children are, that one sight of him was enough to verify all Mr. Jolly had + said. The remembrance of his hard sinister face sealed her fears. Nothing + but evil could come of having to do with such a man. It was however still + not so much any foreboding of the future that moved Fleda's tears as the + sense of her grandfather's present pain,--the quick answer of her gentle + nature to every sorrow that touched him. His griefs were doubly hers. Both + from his openness of character and her penetration, they could rarely be + felt unshared; and she shared them always in more than due measure. + </p> + <p> + In beautiful harmony, while the child had forgotten herself in keen + sympathy with her grandfather's sorrows, he on the other hand had half + lost sight of them in caring for her. Again, and this time not before any + house but in a wild piece of woodland, the little wagon came to a stop. + </p> + <p> + "Ain't there some holly berries that I see yonder?" said Mr. + Ringgan,--"there, through those white birch stems? That's what you were + wanting, Fleda, ain't it? Give your bittersweet to me while you go get + some,--and here, take this knife dear, you can't break it. Don't cut + yourself." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eyes were too dim to see white birch or holly, and she had no + longer the least desire to have the latter; but with that infallible tact + which assuredly is the gift of nature and no other, she answered, in a + voice that she forced to be clear, "O yes, thank you, grandpa;"--and + stealthily dashing away the tears clambered down from the rickety little + wagon and plunged with a cheerful <i>step</i> at least through trees and + underbrush to the clump of holly. But if anybody had seen Fleda's + face!--while she seemed to be busied in cutting as large a quantity as + possible of the rich shining leaves and bright berries. Her grandfather's + kindness and her effort to meet it had wrung her heart; she hardly knew + what she was doing, as she cut off sprig after sprig and threw them down + at her feet; she was crying sadly, with even audible sobs. She made a long + job of her bunch of holly. But when at last it must come to an end she + choked back her tears, smoothed her face, and came back to Mr. Ringgan + smiling and springing over the stones and shrubs in her way, and + exclaiming at the beauty of her vegetable stores. If her cheeks were red + he thought it was the flush of pleasure and exercise, and she did not let + him get a good look at her eyes. + </p> + <p> + "Why you've got enough to dress up the front room chimney," said he. + "That'll be the best thing you can do with 'em, won't it?" + </p> + <p> + "The front room chimney! No, indeed I won't, grandpa. I don't want 'em + where nobody can see them, and you know we are never in there now it is + cold weather." + </p> + <p> + "Well, dear! anyhow you like to have it. But you ha'n't a jar in the house + big enough for them, have you?" + </p> + <p> + "O I'll manage--I've got an old broken pitcher without a handle, grandpa, + that'll do very well." + </p> + <p> + "A broken pitcher! that isn't a very elegant vase," said he. + </p> + <p> + "O you wouldn't know it is a pitcher when I have fixed it. I'll cover up + all the broken part with green, you know. Are we going home now, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I want to stop a minute at uncle Joshua's." + </p> + <p> + Uncle Joshua was a brother-in-law of Mr. Ringgan, a substantial farmer and + very well to do in the world! He was found not in the house but abroad in + the field with his men, loading an enormous basket-wagon with corn-stalks. + At Mr. Ringgan's shout he got over the fence and came to the wagon-side. + His face showed sense and shrewdness, but nothing of the open nobility of + mien which nature had stamped upon that of his brother. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus02.jpg"><img src="images/illus02.jpg" height="250" + alt="She made a long job of her bunch of holly." + title="She made a long job of her bunch of holly." /><br /> She made a long + job of her bunch of holly.</a> + </p> + <p> + "Fine morning, eh?" said he. "I'm getting in my corn stalks." + </p> + <p> + "So I see," said Mr. Ringgan. "How do you find the new way of curing them + answer?" + </p> + <p> + "Fine as ever you see. Sweet as a nut. The cattle are mad after them. How + are you going to be off for fodder this winter?" + </p> + <p> + "It's more than I can tell you," said Mr. Ringgan. "There ought to be more + than plenty; but Didenhover contrives to bring everything out at the wrong + end. I wish I was rid of him." + </p> + <p> + "He'll never get a berth with <i>me</i>, I can tell you," said uncle + Joshua laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Brother," said Mr. Ringgan, lowering his tone again, "have you any loose + cash you could let me have for six months or so?" + </p> + <p> + Uncle Joshua took a meditative look down the road, turned a quid of + tobacco in his cheek, and finally brought his eyes again to Mr. Ringgan + and answered. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I don't see as I can," said he. "You see Josh is just a going to + set up for himself at Kenton, and he'll want some help of me; and I expect + that'll be about as much as I can manage to lay my hands on." + </p> + <p> + "Do you know who has any that he would be likely to lend?" said Mr. + Ringgan. + </p> + <p> + "No, I don't. Money is rather scarce. For your rent, eh?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, for my rent! The farm brings me in nothing but my living. That + Didenhover is ruining me, brother Joshua." + </p> + <p> + "He's feathering his own nest, I reckon." + </p> + <p> + "You may swear to that. There wa'n't as many bushels of grain, by + one-fourth, when they were threshed out last year, as I had calculated + there would be in the field. I don't know what on earth he could have done + with it. I suppose it'll be the same thing over this year." + </p> + <p> + "Maybe he has served you as Deacon Travis was served by one of his help + last season--the rascal bored holes in the granary floor and let out the + corn so, and Travis couldn't contrive how his grain went till the floor + was empty next spring, and then he see how it was." + </p> + <p> + "Ha!--did he catch the fellow?" + </p> + <p> + "Not he--he had made tracks before that. A word in your ear--I wouldn't + let Didenhover see much of his salary till you know how he will come out + at the end." + </p> + <p> + "He has got it already!" said Mr. Ringgan, with a nervous twitch at the + old mare's head; "he wheedled me out of several little sums on one + pretence and another,--he had a brother in New York that he wanted to send + some to, and goods that he wanted to get out of pawn, and so on,--and I + let him have it! and then there was one of those fatting steers that he + proposed to me to let him have on account, and I thought it was as good a + way of paying him as any; and that made up pretty near the half of what + was due to him." + </p> + <p> + "I warrant you his'n was the fattest of the whole lot. Well, keep a tight + hold of the other half, brother Elzevir, that's my advice to you." + </p> + <p> + "The other half he was to make upon shares." + </p> + <p> + "Whew I--well--I wish you well rid of him; and don't make such another + bargain again. Good-day to ye!" + </p> + <p> + It was with a keen pang that little Fleda saw the down-hearted look of her + grandfather as again he pave the old mare notice to move on. A few minutes + passed in deep thought on both sides. + </p> + <p> + "Grandpa," said Fleda, "wouldn't Mr. Jolly perhaps know of somebody that + might have some money to lend?" + </p> + <p> + "I declare!" said the old gentleman after a moment, "that's not a bad + thought. I wonder I didn't have it myself." + </p> + <p> + They turned about, and without any more words measured back their way to + Queechy Run. Mr. Jolly came out again, brisk and alert as ever; but after + seeming to rack his brains in search of any actual or possible + money-lender was obliged to confess that it was in vain; he could not + think of one. + </p> + <p> + "But I'll tell you what, Mr. Ringgan," he concluded, "I'll turn it over in + my mind to-night and see if I can think of any thing that'll do, and if I + can I'll let you know. If we hadn't such a nether millstone to deal with, + it would be easy enough to work it somehow." + </p> + <p> + So they set forth homewards again. + </p> + <p> + "Cheer up, dear!" said the old gentleman heartily, laying one hand on his + little granddaughter's lap,--"it will be arranged somehow. Don't you worry + your little head with business. God will take care of us." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, grandpa!" said the little girl, looking up with an instant sense of + relief at these words; and then looking down again immediately to burst + into tears. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="02"></a>Chapter II. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Have you seen but a bright lily grow,<br /> Before rude hands + have touch'd it?<br /> Ha' you mark'd but the fall o' the snow,<br /> + Before the soil hath smutch'd it? + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Ben Jonson. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Where a ray of light can enter the future, a child's hope can find a + way--a way that nothing less airy and spiritual can travel. By the time + they reached their own door Fleda's spirits were at par again. + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad we have got home, aren't you, grandpa?" she said as she + jumped down; "I'm so hungry. I guess we are both of us ready for supper, + don't you think so?" + </p> + <p> + She hurried up stairs to take off her wrappings and then came down to the + kitchen, where standing on the broad hearth and warming herself at the + blaze, with all the old associations of comfort settling upon her heart, + it occurred to her that foundations so established <i>could not</i> be + shaken. The blazing fire seemed to welcome her home and bid her dismiss + fear; the kettle singing on its accustomed hook looked as if quietly + ridiculing the idea that they could be parted company; her grandfather was + in his cushioned chair at the corner of the hearth, reading the newspaper, + as she had seen him a thousand times; just in the same position, with that + collected air of grave enjoyment, one leg crossed over the other, settled + back in his chair but upright, and scanning the columns with an intent but + most un-careful face. A face it was that always had a rare union of + fineness and placidness. The table stood spread in the usual place, warmth + and comfort filled every corner of the room, and Pleda began to feel as if + she had been in an uncomfortable dream, which was very absurd, but from + which she was very glad she had awoke. + </p> + <p> + "What have you got in this pitcher, Cynthy?" said she. "Muffins!--O let me + bake them, will you? I'll bake them." + </p> + <p> + "Now Fleda," said Cynthy, "just you be quiet. There ain't no place where + you can bake 'em. I'm just going to clap 'em in the reflector--that's the + shortest way I can take to do 'em. You keep yourself out o' muss." + </p> + <p> + "They won't be muffins if you bake 'em in the reflector, Cynthy; they + aren't half so good. Ah, do let me I I won't make a bit of muss." + </p> + <p> + "Where'll you do 'em?" + </p> + <p> + "In grandpa's room--if you'll just clean off the top of the stove for + me--now do, Cynthy! I'll do 'em beautifully and you won't have a bit of + trouble.--Come!" + </p> + <p> + "It'll make an awful smoke, Flidda; you'll fill your grandpa's room with + the smoke, and he won't like that, I guess." + </p> + <p> + "O he won't mind it," said Fleda. "Will you, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "What, dear?"--said Mr. Ringgan, looking up at her from his paper with a + relaxing face which indeed promised to take nothing amiss that she might + do. + </p> + <p> + "Will you mind if I fill your room with smoke?" + </p> + <p> + "No, dear!" said he, the strong heartiness of his acquiescence almost + reaching a laugh,--"No, dear!--fill it with anything you like!" + </p> + <p> + There was nothing more to be said; and while Fleda in triumph put on an + apron and made her preparations, Cynthy on her part, and with a very good + grace, went to get ready the stove; which being a wood stove, made of + sheet iron, with a smooth even top, afforded in Fleda's opinion the very + best possible field for muffins to come to their perfection. Now Fleda + cared little in comparison for the eating part of the business; her + delight was by the help of her own skill and the stove-top to bring the + muffins to this state of perfection; her greatest pleasure in them was + over when they were baked. + </p> + <p> + A little while had passed, Mr. Ringgan was still busy with his newspaper, + Miss Cynthia Gall going in and out on various errands, Fleda shut up in + the distant room with the muffins and the smoke; when there came a knock + at the door, and Mr. Ringgan's "Come in!"--was followed by the entrance of + two strangers, young, well-dressed, and comely. They wore the usual badges + of seekers after game, but their guns were left outside. + </p> + <p> + The old gentleman's look of grave expectancy told his want of + enlightening. + </p> + <p> + "I fear you do not remember me, Mr. Ringgan," said the foremost of the two + coming up to him,--"my name is Rossitur--Charlton Rossitur--a cousin of + your little grand-daughter. I have only"-- + </p> + <p> + "O I know you now!" said Mr. Ringgan, rising and grasping his hand + heartily,--"you are very welcome, sir. How do you do? I recollect you + perfectly, but you took me by surprise.--How do you do, sir? Sit down--sit + down." + </p> + <p> + And the old gentleman had extended his frank welcome to the second of his + visitors almost before the first had time to utter, + </p> + <p> + "My friend Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "I couldn't imagine what was coming upon me," said Mr. Ringgan, + cheerfully, "for you weren't anywhere very near my thoughts; and I don't + often see much of the gay world that is passing by me. You have grown + since I saw you last, Mr. Rossitur. You are studying at West Point, I + believe." + </p> + <p> + "No sir; I <i>was</i> studying there, but I had the pleasure of bringing + that to an end last June." + </p> + <p> + "Ah!--Well, what are you now? Not a cadet any longer, I suppose." + </p> + <p> + "No sir--we hatch out of that shell lieutenants." + </p> + <p> + "Hum.--And do you intend to remain in the army?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly sir, that is my purpose and hope." + </p> + <p> + "Your mother would not like that, I should judge. I do not understand how + she ever made up her mind to let you become that thing which hatches out + into a lieutenant. Gentle creatures she and her sister both were.--How was + it, Mr. Rossitur? were you a wild young gentleman that wanted training?" + </p> + <p> + "I have had it sir, whether I wanted it or no." + </p> + <p> + "Hum!--How is he, Mr. Carleton?--sober enough to command men?" + </p> + <p> + "I have not seen him tried, sir," said this gentleman smiling; "but from + tho inconsistency of the orders he issues to his dogs I doubt it + exceedingly." + </p> + <p> + "Why Carleton would have no orders issued to them at all, I believe," said + young Rossitur; "he has been saying 'hush' to me all day." The old + gentleman laughed in a way that indicated intelligence with one of the + speakers,--which, appeared not. + </p> + <p> + "So you've been following the dogs to-day," said he. "Been successful?" + </p> + <p> + "Not a bit of it," said Rossitur. "Whether we got on the wrong grounds, or + didn't get on the right ones, or the dogs didn't mind their business, or + there was nothing to fire at, I don't know; but we lost our patience and + got nothing in exchange." + </p> + <p> + "Speak for yourself," said the other. "I assure you I was sensible of no + ground of impatience while going over such a superb country as this." + </p> + <p> + "It <i>is</i> a fine country," said Mr. Ringgan,--"all this tract; and I + ought to know it, for I have hunted every mile of it for many a mile + around. There used to be more game than partridges in these hills when I + was a young man;--bears and wolves, and deer, and now and then a panther, + to say nothing of rattlesnakes." + </p> + <p> + "That last mentioned is an irregular sort of game, is it not?" said Mr. + Carleton smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Well, game is what you choose to make it," said the old gentleman. "I + have seen worse days' sport than I saw once when we were out after + rattlesnakes and nothing else. There was a cave, sir, down under a + mountain a few miles to the south of this, right at the foot of a bluff + some four or five hundred feet sheer down,--it was known to be a resort of + those creatures; and a party of us went out,--it's many years ago now,--to + see if we couldn't destroy the nest--exterminate the whole horde. We had + one dog with us,--a little dog, a kind of spaniel; a little white and + yellow fellow,--and he did the work! Well, sir,--how many of those vermin + do you guess that little creature made a finish of that day?--of large and + small, sir, there were two hundred and twelve." + </p> + <p> + "He must have been a gallant little fellow." + </p> + <p> + "You never saw a creature, sir, take to a sport better; he just dashed in + among them, from one to another,--he would catch a snake by the neck and + give it a shake, and throw it down and rush at another;--poor fellow, it + was his last day's sport,--he died almost as soon as it was over; he must + have received a great many bites. The place is known as the rattlesnakes' + den to this day, though there are none there now, I believe." + </p> + <p> + "My little cousin is well, I hope," said Mr. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "She? yes, bless her I she is always well. Where is she? Fairy, where are + you?--Cynthy, just call Elfieda here." + </p> + <p> + "She's just in the thick of the muffins, Mr. Ringgan." + </p> + <p> + "Let the muffins burn! Call her." + </p> + <p> + Miss Cynthia accordingly opened a little way the door of the passage, from + which a blue stifling smoke immediately made its way into the room, and + called out to Fleda. whose little voice was heard faintly responding from + the distance. + </p> + <p> + "It's a wonder she can hear through all that smoke," remarked Cynthia. + </p> + <p> + "She," said Mr. Ringgan, laughing,--"she's playing cook or housekeeper in + yonder, getting something ready for tea. She's a busy little spirit, if + ever there was one. Ah! there she is. Come here, Fleda--here's your cousin + Rossitur from West Point--and Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + Fleda made her appearance flushed with the heat of the stove and the + excitement of turning the muffins, and the little iron spatula she used + for that purpose still in her hand; and a fresh and larger puff of the + unsavoury blue smoke accompanied her entrance. She came forward however + gravely and without the slightest embarrassment to receive her cousin's + somewhat unceremonious "How do, Fleda?"--and keeping the spatula still in + one hand shook hands with him with the other. But at the very different + manner in which Mr. Carleton <i>rose</i> and greeted her, the flush on + Fleda's cheek deepened, and she cast down her eyes and stepped back to her + grandfather's side with the demureness of a young lady just undergoing the + ceremony of presentation. + </p> + <p> + "You come upon us out of a cloud, Fleda," said her cousin. "Is that the + way you have acquired a right to the name of Fairy?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sure, no," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not lift up her eyes, but her mounting colour shewed that she + understood both speeches. + </p> + <p> + "Because if you are in general such a misty personage," Mr. Rossitur went + on half laughing, "I would humbly recommend a choice of incense." + </p> + <p> + "O I forgot to open the windows!" exclaimed Fleda ingenuously. "Cynthy, + won't you please go and do it? And take this with you," said she, holding + out the spatula. + </p> + <p> + "She is as good a fairy as <i>I</i> want to see," said her grandfather, + passing his arm fondly round her. "She carries a ray of sunshine in her + right hand; and that's as magic-working a wand as any fairy ever + wielded,--hey, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton bowed. But whether the sunshine of affection in Fleda's + glance and smile at her grandfather made him feel that she was above a + compliment, or whether it put the words out of his head, certain it is + that he uttered none. + </p> + <p> + "So you've had bad success to-day," continued Mr. Ringgan. "Where have you + been? and what after? partridges?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir," said Mr. Carleton, "my friend Rossitur promised me a rare bag of + woodcock, which I understand to be the best of American feathered game; + and in pursuance of his promise led me over a large extent of meadow and + swamp land this morning, with which in the course of several hours I + became extremely familiar, without flushing a single bird." + </p> + <p> + "Meadow and swamp land?" said the old gentleman. "Whereabouts?" + </p> + <p> + "A mile or more beyond the little village over here where we left our + horses," said Rossitur. "We beat the ground well, but there were no signs + of them even." + </p> + <p> + "We had not the right kind of dog," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "We had the kind that is always used here," said Rossitur; "nobody knows + anything about a Cocker in America." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, it was too wet," said Mr. Ringgan. "I could have told you that. There + has been too much rain. You wouldn't find a woodcock in that swamp after + such a day as we had a few days ago. But speaking of game, Mr. Rossitur, I + don't know anything in America equal to the grouse. It is far before + woodcock. I remember, many years back, going a grouse shooting, I and a + friend, down in Pennsylvania,--we went two or three days running, and the + birds we got were worth a whole season of woodcock.--But gentlemen, if you + are not discouraged with your day's experience and want to try again, <i>I'll</i> + put you in a way to get as many woodcock as will satisfy you--if you'll + come here to-morrow morning I'll go out with you far enough to shew you + the way to the best ground <i>I</i> know for shooting that game in all + this country; you'll have a good chance for partridges too in the course + of the day; and that ain't bad eating, when you can't get better--is it, + Fairy?" he said, with a sudden smiling appeal to the little girl at his + side. Her answer again was only an intelligent glance. + </p> + <p> + The young sportsmen both thanked him and promised to take advantage of his + kind offer. Fleda seized the opportunity to steal another look at the + strangers; but meeting Mr. Carleton's eyes fixed on her with a remarkably + soft and gentle expression she withdrew her own again as fast as possible, + and came to the conclusion that the only safe place for them was the + floor. + </p> + <p> + "I wish I was a little younger and I'd take my gun and go along with you + myself," said the old gentleman pleasantly; "but," he added sighing, + "there is a time for everything, and my time for sporting is past." + </p> + <p> + "You have no right to complain, sir," said Mr. Carleton, with a meaning + glance and smile which the old gentleman took in excellent good part. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said he, looking half proudly, half tenderly, upon the little + demure figure at his side, "I don't say that I have. I hope I thank God + for his mercies, and am happy. But in this world, Mr. Carleton, there is + hardly a blessing but what draws a care after it. Well--well--these things + will all be arranged for us!" + </p> + <p> + It was plain, however, even to a stranger, that there was some subject of + care not vague nor undefined pressing upon Mr. Ringgan's mind as he said + this. + </p> + <p> + "Have you heard from my mother lately, Fleda?" said her cousin. + </p> + <p> + "Why yes," said Mr. Ringgan,--"she had a letter from her only to-day. You + ha'n't read it yet, have you, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "No grandpa," said the little girl; "you know I've been busy." + </p> + <p> + "Ay," said the old gentleman; "why couldn't you let Cynthia bake the + cakes, and not roast yourself over the stove till you're as red as a + turkey-cock?" + </p> + <p> + "This morning I was like a chicken," said Fleda laughing, "and now like a + turkey-cock." + </p> + <p> + "Shall I tell mamma, Fleda," said young Rossitur, "that you put off + reading her letter to bake muffins?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda answered without looking up, "Yes, if he pleased." + </p> + <p> + "What do you suppose she will think?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know." + </p> + <p> + "She will think that you love muffins better than her." + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, quietly but firmly,--"she will not think that, because + it isn't true." + </p> + <p> + The gentlemen laughed, but Mr. Carleton declared that Fleda's reasoning + was unanswerable. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I will see you to-morrow," said Mr. Rossitur, "after you have read + the letter, for I suppose you will read it sometime. You should have had + it before,--it came enclosed to me,--but I forgot unaccountably to mail it + to you till a few days ago." + </p> + <p> + "It will be just as good now, sir," said Mr. Ringgan. + </p> + <p> + "There is a matter in it though," said Rossitur, "about which my mother + has given me a charge. We will see you to-morrow. It was for that partly + we turned out of our way this evening." + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad you did," said Mr. Ringgan. "I hope your way will bring + you here often. Won't you stay and try some of these same muffins before + you go?" + </p> + <p> + But this was declined, and the gentlemen departed; Fleda, it must be + confessed, seeing nothing in the whole leave-taking but Mr. Carleton's + look and smile. The muffins were a very tame affair after it. + </p> + <p> + When supper was over she sat down fairly to her letter, and read it twice + through before she folded it up. By this time the room was clear both of + the tea equipage and of Cynthia's presence, and Fleda and her grandfather + were alone in the darkening twilight with the blazing wood fire; he in his + usual place at the side, and she on the hearth directly before it; both + silent, both thinking, for some time. At length Mr. Ringgan spoke, + breaking as it were the silence and his seriousness with the same effort. + </p> + <p> + "Well dear!" said he cheerfully,--"what does she say?" + </p> + <p> + "O she says a great many things, grandpa; shall I read yon the letter?" + </p> + <p> + "No dear, I don't care to hear it; only tell me what she says." + </p> + <p> + "She says they are going to stay in Paris yet a good while longer." + </p> + <p> + "Hum!"--said Mr. Ringgan. "Well--that ain't the wisest thing I should like + to hear of her doing." + </p> + <p> + "Oh but it's because uncle Rossitur likes to stay there, I suppose, isn't + it, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, dear. Maybe your aunt's caught the French fever. She used + to be a good sensible woman; but when people will go into a whirligig, I + think some of their wits get blown away before they come out. Well--what + else?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sure she is very kind," said Fleda. "She wants to have me go out + there and live with her very much. She says I shall have everything I like + and do just as I please, and she will make a pet of me and give me all + sorts of pleasant things. She says she will take as good care of me as + ever I took of the kittens. And there's a long piece to you about it, that + I'll give you to read as soon as we have a light. It is very good of her, + isn't it, grandpa? I love aunt Lucy very much." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Mr. Ringgan after a pause, "how does she propose to get you + there?" + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Fleda,--"isn't it curious?--she says there is a Mrs. Carleton + here who is a friend of hers, and she is going to Paris in a little while, + and aunt Lucy asked her if she wouldn't bring me, if you would let me go, + and she said she would with great pleasure, and aunt Lucy wants me to come + out with her." + </p> + <p> + "Carleton!--Hum--" said Mr. Ringgan; "that must be this young man's + mother?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, aunt Lucy says she is here with her son,--at least she says they + were coming." "A very gentlemanly young man, indeed," said Mr. Ringgan. + </p> + <p> + There was a grave silence. The old gentleman sat looking on the floor; + Fleda sat looking into the fire, with all her might. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Mr. Ringgan after a little, "how would you like it, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "What, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "To go out to Paris to your aunt, with this Mrs. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't like it at all," said Fleda smiling, and letting her eyes go + back to the fire. But looking after the pause of a minute or two again to + her grandfather's face, she was struck with its expression of stern + anxiety. She rose instantly, and coming to him and laying one hand gently + on his knee, said in tones that fell as light on the ear as the touch of a + moonbeam on the water, "<i>You</i> do not want me to go, do you, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "No dear!" said the old gentleman, letting his hand fall upon hers,--"no + dear!--that is the last thing I want!" + </p> + <p> + But Fleda's keen ear discerned not only the deep affection but something + of <i>regret</i> in the voice, which troubled her. She stood, anxious and + fearing, while her grandfather lifting his hand again and again let it + fall gently upon hers; and amid all the fondness of the action Fleda + somehow seemed to feel in it the same regret. + </p> + <p> + "You'll not let aunt Lucy, nor anybody else, take me away from you, will + you, grandpa?" said she after a little, leaning both arms affectionately + on his knee and looking up into his face. + </p> + <p> + "No indeed, dear!" said he, with an attempt at his usual heartiness,--"not + as long as I have a place to keep you. While I have a roof to put my head + under, it shall cover yours." + </p> + <p> + To Fleda's hope that would have said enough; but her grandfather's face + was so moved from its wonted expression of calm dignity that it was plain + <i>his</i> hope was tasting bitter things. Fleda watched in silent grief + and amazement the watering eye and unnerved lip; till her grandfather + indignantly dashing away a tear or two drew her close to his breast and + kissed her. But she well guessed that the reason why he did not for a + minute or two say anything, was because he could not. Neither could she. + She was fighting with her woman's nature to keep it down,--learning the + lesson early! + </p> + <p> + "Ah well,"--said Mr Ringgan at length, in a kind of tone that might + indicate the giving up a struggle which he had no means of carrying on, or + the endeavour to conceal it from the too keen-wrought feelings of his + little granddaughter,--"there will be a way opened for us somehow. We must + let our Heavenly Father take care of us." + </p> + <p> + "And he will, grandpa," whispered Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes dear!--We are selfish creatures. Your father's and your mother's + child will not be forgotten." + </p> + <p> + "Nor you either, dear grandpa," said the little girl, laying her soft + cheek alongside of his, and speaking by dint of a great effort. + </p> + <p> + "No," said he, clasping her more tenderly,--"no--it would he wicked in me + to doubt it. He has blessed me all my life long with a great many more + blessings than I deserved; and if he chooses to take away the sunshine of + my last days I will bow my head to his will, and believe that he does all + things well, though I cannot see it." + </p> + <p> + "Don't, dear grandpa," said Fleda, stealing her other arm round his neck + and hiding her face there,--"please don't!--" + </p> + <p> + He very much regretted that he had said too much. He did not however know + exactly how to mend it. He kissed her and stroked her soft hair, but that + and the manner of it only made it more difficult for Fleda to recover + herself, which she was struggling to do; and when he tried to speak in + accents of cheering his voice trembled. Fleda's heart was breaking, but + she felt that she was making matters worse, and she had already concluded + on a mature review of circumstances that it was her duty to be cheerful. + So after a few very heartfelt tears which she could not help, she raised + her head and smiled, even while she wiped the traces of them away. + </p> + <p> + "After all, grandpa," said she, "perhaps Mr. Jolly will come here in the + morning with some good news, and then we should be troubling ourselves + just for nothing." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps he will," said Mr. Ringgan, in a way that sounded much more like + "Perhaps he won't!" But Fleda was determined now not to <i>seem</i> + discouraged again. She thought the best way was to change the + conversation. + </p> + <p> + "It is very kind in aunt Lucy, isn't it, grandpa, what she has written to + me?" + </p> + <p> + "Why no," said Mr. Ringgan, decidedly, "I can't say I think it is any very + extraordinary manifestation of kindness in anybody to want you." + </p> + <p> + Fleda smiled her thanks for this compliment. + </p> + <p> + "It might be a kindness in me to give you to her." + </p> + <p> + "It wouldn't be a kindness to me, grandpa." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know about that," said he gravely. They were getting back to the + old subject. Fleda made another great effort at a diversion. + </p> + <p> + "Grandpa, was my father like my uncle Rossitur in any thing?" + </p> + <p> + The diversion was effected. + </p> + <p> + "Not he, dear!" said Mr. Ringgan. "Your father had ten times the man in + him that ever your uncle was." + </p> + <p> + "Why what kind of a man is uncle Rossitur, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "Ho dear! I can't tell. I ha'n't seen much of him. I wouldn't judge a man + without knowing more of him than I do of Mr. Rossitur. He seemed an + amiable kind of man. But no one would ever have thought of looking at him, + no more than at a shadow, when your father was by." + </p> + <p> + The diversion took effect on Fleda herself now. She looked up pleased. + </p> + <p> + "You remember your father, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes grandpa, but not very well always;--I remember a great many things + about him, but I can't remember exactly how he looked,--except once or + twice." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, and he wa'n't well the last time you remember him. But he was a + noble-looking man--in form and face too--and his looks were the worst part + of him. He seemed made of different stuff from all the people around," + said Mr. Ringgan sighing, "and they felt it too I used to notice, without + knowing it. When his cousins were 'Sam' and 'Johnny' and 'Bill,' he was + always, that is, after he grew up, '<i>Mr. Walter.</i>' I believe they + were a little afeard of him. And with all his bravery and fire he could be + as gentle as a woman." + </p> + <p> + "I know that," said Fleda, whose eyes were dropping soft tears and + glittering at the same time with gratified feeling. "What made him be a + soldier, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh I don't know, dear!--he was too good to make a farmer of--or his high + spirit wanted to rise in the world--he couldn't rest without trying to be + something more than other folks. I don't know whether people are any + happier for it." + </p> + <p> + "Did <i>he</i> go to West Point, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "No dear!--he started without having so much of a push as that; but he was + one of those that don't need any pushing; he would have worked his way up, + put him anywhere you would, and he did,--over the heads of West Pointers + and all, and would have gone to the top, I verily believe, if he had lived + long enough. He was as fine a fellow as there was in all the army. <i>I</i> + don't believe there's the like of him left in it." + </p> + <p> + "He had been a major a good while, hadn't he, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes. It was just after he was made captain that he went to Albany, and + there he saw your mother. She and her sister, your aunt Lucy, were wards + of the patroon. I was in Albany, in the legislature, that winter, and I + knew them both very well; but your aunt Lucy had been married some years + before. She was staying there that winter without her husband--he was + abroad somewhere." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was no stranger to these details and had learned long ago what was + meant by 'wards' and 'the patroon.' + </p> + <p> + "Your father was made a major some years afterwards," Mr. Ringgan went on, + "for his fine behaviour out here at the West--what's the name of the + place?--I forget it just now--fighting the Indians. There never was + anything finer done." + </p> + <p> + "He was brave, wasn't he, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "Brave!--he had a heart of iron sometimes, for as soft as it was at + others. And he had an eye, when he was roused, that I never saw anything + that would stand against. But your father had a better sort of courage + than the common sort--he had enough of <i>that</i>--but this is a rarer + thing--he never was afraid to do what in his conscience he thought was + right. Moral courage I call it, and it is one of the very noblest + qualities a man can have." + </p> + <p> + "That's a kind of courage a woman may have," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--you may have that; and I guess it's the only kind of courage <i>you'll</i> + ever be troubled with," said her grandfather looking laughingly at her. + "However, any man may walk up to the cannon's mouth, but it is only one + here and there that will walk out against men's opinions because he thinks + it is right. That was one of the things I admired most in your father." + </p> + <p> + "Didn't my mother have it too?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--she had about everything that was good. A gweet, pretty + creature she was, as I ever saw." + </p> + <p> + "Was she like aunt Lucy?" + </p> + <p> + "No, not much. She was a deal handsomer than your aunt is or ever could + have been. She was the handsomest woman, I think, that ever I set eyes + upon; and a sweet, gentle, lovely creature. <i>You</i>'ll never match + her," said Mr. Ringgan, with a curious twist of his head and sly laughing + twist of his eyes at Fleda;--"you may be as <i>good</i> as she was, but + you'll never be as good-looking." + </p> + <p> + Fleda laughed, nowise displeased. + </p> + <p> + "You've got her hazel eyes though," remarked Mr. Ringgan, after a minute + or two, viewing his little granddaughter with a sufficiently satisfied + expression of countenance. + </p> + <p> + "Grandpa," said she, "don't you think Mr. Carleton has handsome eyes?" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton?--hum--I don't know; I didn't look at his eyes. A very + well-looking young man though--very gentlemanly too." + </p> + <p> + Fleda had heard all this and much more about her parents some dozens of + times before; but she and her grandfather were never tired of going it + over. If the conversation that recalled his lost treasures had of + necessity a character of sadness and tenderness, it yet bespoke not more + regret that he had lost them than exulting pride and delight in what they + had been,--perhaps not so much. And Fleda delighted to go back and feed + her imagination with stories of the mother whom she could not remember, + and of the father whose fair bright image stood in her memory as the + embodiment of all that is high and noble and pure. A kind of guardian + angel that image was to little Fleda. These ideal likenesses of her father + and mother, the one drawn from history and recollection, the other from + history only, had been her preservative from all the untoward influences + and unfortunate examples which had surrounded her since her father's death + some three or four years before had left her almost alone in her + grandfather's house. They had created in her mind a standard of the true + and beautiful in character, which nothing she saw around her, after of + course her grandfather, and one other exception, seemed at all to meet; + and partly from her own innate fineness of nature, and partly from this + pure ideal always present with her, she had shrunk almost instinctively + from the few varieties of human nature the country-side presented to her, + and was in fact a very isolated little being, living in a world of her + own, and clinging with all her strong outgoings of affection to her + grandfather only; granting to but one other person any considerable share + in her regard or esteem. Little Fleda was not in the least misanthropical; + she gave her kindly sympathies to all who came in her way on whom they + could possibly be bestowed; but these people were nothing to her: her + spirit fell off from them, even in their presence; there was no affinity. + She was in truth what her grandfather had affirmed of her father, made of + different stuff from the rest of the world. There was no tincture of pride + in all this; there was no conscious feeling of superiority; she could + merely have told you that she did not care to hear these people talk, that + she did not love to be with them; though she <i>would</i> have said so to + no earthly creature but her grandfather, if even to him. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus03.jpg"><img src="images/illus03.jpg" height="250" + alt="'I wasn't thinking of myself in particular.'" + title="'I wasn't thinking of myself in particular.'" /><br /> "I wasn't + thinking of myself in particular."</a> + </p> + <p> + "It must be pleasant," said Fleda, after looking for some minutes + thoughtfully into the fire,--"it must be a pleasant thing to have a father + and mother." + </p> + <p> + "Yes dear!" said her grandfather, sighing,--"you have lost a great deal! + But there is your aunt Lucy--you are not dependent altogether on me." + </p> + <p> + "Oh grandpa!" said the little girl laying one hand again pleadingly on his + knee;--"I didn't mean--I mean--I was speaking in general--I wasn't + thinking of myself in particular." + </p> + <p> + "I know, dear!" said he, as before taking the little hand in his own and + moving it softly up and down on his knee. But the action was sad, and + there was the same look of sorrowful stern anxiety. Fleda got up and put + her arm over his shoulder, speaking from a heart filled too full. + </p> + <p> + "I don't want aunt Lucy--I don't care about aunt Lucy; I don't want + anything but you, grandpa. I wish you wouldn't talk so." + </p> + <p> + "Ah well, dear," said he, without looking at her,--he couldn't bear to + look at her,--"it's well it is so. I sha'n't last a great while--it isn't + likely--and I am glad to know there is some one you can fall back upon + when I am gone." + </p> + <p> + Pleda's next words were scarcely audible, but they contained a reproach to + him for speaking so. + </p> + <p> + "We may as well look at it, dear," said he gravely; "it must come to + that--sooner or later--but you mustn't distress yourself about it + beforehand. Don't cry--don't, dear!" said he, tenderly kissing her. "I + didn't mean to trouble you so. There--there--look up, dear--let's take the + good we have and be thankful for it. God will arrange the rest, in his own + good way. Fleda!--I wouldn't have said a word if I had thought it would + have worried you so." + </p> + <p> + He would not indeed. But he had spoken as men so often speak, out of the + depths of their own passion or bitterness, forgetting that they are + wringing the cords of a delicate harp, and not knowing what mischief they + have done till they find the instrument all out of tune,--more often not + knowing it ever. It is pity,--for how frequently a discord is left that + jars all life long; and how much more frequently still the harp, though + retaining its sweetness and truth of tone to the end, is gradually + unstrung. + </p> + <p> + Poor Fleda could hardly hold up her head for a long time, and recalling + bitterly her unlucky innocent remark which had led to all this trouble she + almost made up her mind with a certain heroine of Miss Edgeworth's, that + "it is best never to mention things." Mr. Ringgan, now thoroughly alive to + the wounds he had been inflicting, held his little pet in his arms, + pillowed her head on his breast, and by every tender and soothing action + and word endeavoured to undo what he had done. And after a while the agony + was over, the wet eyelashes were lifted up, and the meek sorrowful little + face lay quietly upon Mr. Ringgan's breast, gazing out into the fire as + gravely as if the Panorama of life were there. She little heeded at first + her grandfather's cheering talk, she knew it was for a purpose. + </p> + <p> + "Ain't it most time for you to go to bed?" whispered Mr. Ringgan when he + thought the purpose was effected. + </p> + <p> + "Shall I tell Cynthy to get you your milk, grandpa?" said the little girl + rousing herself. + </p> + <p> + "Yes dear.--Stop,--what if you and me was to have some roast + apples?--wouldn't you like it?" + </p> + <p> + "Well--yes, I should, grandpa," said Fleda, understanding perfectly why he + wished it, and wishing it herself for that same reason and no other. + </p> + <p> + "Cynthy, let's have some of those roast apples," said Mr. Ringgan, "and a + couple of bowls of milk here." + </p> + <p> + "No, I'll get the apples myself, Cynthy," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "And you needn't take any of the cream off, Cynthy," added Mr. Ringgan. + </p> + <p> + One corner of the kitchen table was hauled up to the fire, to be + comfortable, Fleda said, and she and her grandfather sat down on the + opposite sides of it to do honour to the apples and milk; each with the + simple intent of keeping up appearances and cheating the other into + cheerfulness. There is however, deny it who can, an exhilarating effect in + good wholesome food taken when one is in some need of it; and Fleda at + least found the supper relish exceeding well. Every one furthermore knows + the relief of a hearty flow of tears when a secret weight has been + pressing on the mind. She was just ready for anything reviving. After the + third mouthful she began to talk, and before the bottom of the bowls was + reached she had smiled more than once. So her grandfather thought no harm + was done, and went to bed quite comforted; and Fleda climbed the steep + stairs that led from his door to her little chamber just over his head. It + was small and mean, immediately under the roof, with only one window. + There were plenty of better rooms in the house, but Fleda liked this + because it kept her near her grandfather; and indeed she had always had it + ever since her father's death, and never thought of taking any other. + </p> + <p> + She had a fashion, this child, in whom the simplicity of practical life + and the poetry of imaginative life were curiously blended,--she had a + fashion of going to her window every night when the moon or stars were + shining to look out for a minute or two before she went to bed; and + sometimes the minutes were more than any good grandmother or aunt would + have considered wholesome for little Fleda in the fresh night air. But + there was no one to watch or reprimand; and whatever it was that Fleda + read in earth or sky, the charm which held her one bright night was sure + to bring her to her window the next. This evening a faint young moon + lighted up but dimly the meadow and what was called the "east-hill," + over-against which the window in question looked. The air was calm and + mild; there was no frost to-night; the stillness was entire, and the stars + shone in a cloudless sky. Fleda set open the window and looked out with a + face that again bore tokens of the experiences of that day. She wanted the + soothing speech of nature's voice; and child as she was she could hear it. + She did not know, in her simplicity, what it was that comforted and + soothed her, but she stood at her window enjoying. + </p> + <p> + It was so perfectly still, her fancy presently went to all those people + who had hushed their various work and were now resting, or soon would be, + in the unconsciousness and the helplessness of sleep. The <i>helplessness</i>,--and + then that Eye that never sleeps; that Hand that keeps them all, that is + never idle, that is the safety and the strength alike of all the earth and + of them that wake or sleep upon it,-- + </p> + <p> + "And if he takes care of them all, will he not take care of poor little + me?" thought Fleda. "Oh how glad I am I know there is a God!--How glad I + am I know he is such a God! and that I can trust in him; and he will make + everything go right. How I forget this sometimes! But Jesus does not + forget his children. Oh I am a happy little girl!--Grandpa's saying what + he did don't make it so--perhaps I shall die the first--but I hope not, + for what would become of him!--But this and everything will all be + arranged right, and I have nothing to do with it but to obey God and + please him, and he will take care of the rest. He has forbidden <i>us</i> + to be careful about it too." + </p> + <p> + With grateful tears of relief Fleda shut the window and began to undress + herself, her heart so lightened of its burden that her thoughts presently + took leave to go out again upon pleasure excursions in various directions; + and one of the last things in Fleda's mind before sleep surprised her was, + what a nice thing it was for any one to bow and smile so as Mr. Carleton + did! + </p> + <h1> + <a name="03"></a>Chapter III. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + I know each lane, and every alley green,<br /> Dingle or bushy dell of + this wild wood,<br /> And every bosky bourn from side to side<br /> My + daily walks and ancient neighbourhood. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Milton. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Fleda and her grandfather had but just risen from a tolerably early + breakfast the next morning, when the two young sportsmen entered the room. + </p> + <p> + "Ha!" said Mr. Ringgan,--"I declare! you're stirring betimes. Come five or + six miles this morning a'ready. Well--that's the stuff to make sportsmen + of. Off for the woodcock, hey?--And I was to go with you and shew you the + ground.--I declare I don't know how in the world I can do it this morning, + I'm so very stiff--ten times as bad as I was yesterday. I had a window + open in my room last night, I expect that must have been the cause. I + don't see how I could have overlooked it, but I never gave it a thought, + till this morning I found myself so lame I could hardly get out of bed.--I + am very sorry, upon my word?" + </p> + <p> + "I am very sorry we must lose your company, sir," said the young + Englishman, "and for such a cause; but as to the rest!--I dare say your + directions will guide us sufficiently." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know about that," said the old gentleman. "It is pretty hard to + steer by a chart that is only laid down in the imagination. I set out once + to go in New York from one side of the city over into the other, and the + first thing I knew I found myself travelling along half a mile out of + town. I had to get in a stage and ride back and take a fresh start. Out at + the West they say when you are in the woods you can tell which is north by + the moss growing on that side of the trees; but if you're lost you'll be + pretty apt to find the moss grows on <i>all</i> sides of the trees. I + couldn't make out any waymarks at all, in such a labyrinth of brick + corners. Well, let us see--if I tell you now it is so easy to mistake one + hill for another--Fleda, child, you put on your sun-bonnet and take these + gentlemen back to the twenty-acre lot, and from there you can tell 'em how + to go so I guess they won't mistake it." + </p> + <p> + "By no means!" said Mr. Carleton; "we cannot give her so much trouble; it + would be buying our pleasure at much too dear a rate." + </p> + <p> + "Tut, tut," said the old gentleman; "she thinks nothing of trouble, and + the walk'll do her good. She'd like to be out all day, I believe, if she + had any one to go along with, but I'm rather a stupid companion for such a + spry little pair of feet. Fleda, look here,--when they get to the lot they + can find their own way after that. You know where the place is--where your + cousin Seth shot so many woodcock last year, over in Mr. Hurlbut's + land,--when you get to the big lot you must tell these gentlemen to go + straight over the hill, not Squire Thornton's hill, but mine, at the back + of the lot,--they must go straight over it till they come to cleared land + on the other side; then they must keep along by the edge of the wood, to + the right, till they come to the brook; they must <i>cross the brook</i>, + and follow up the opposite bank, and they'll know the ground when they + come to it, or they don't deserve to. Do you understand?--now run and get + your hat for they ought to be off." + </p> + <p> + Fleda went, but neither her step nor her look shewed any great willingness + to the business. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure, Mr. Ringgan," said Mr. Carleton, "your little granddaughter + has some reason for not wishing to take such a long walk this morning. + Pray allow us to go without her." + </p> + <p> + "Pho, pho," said the old gentleman, "she wants to go." + </p> + <p> + "I guess she's skeered o' the guns," said Cynthy, happy to get a chance to + edge in a word before such company;--"it's that ails her." + </p> + <p> + "Well, well,--she must get used to it," said Mr. Ringgan. "Here she is!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda had it in her mind to whisper to him a word of hope about Mr. Jolly; + but she recollected that it was at best an uncertain hope, and that if her + grandfather's thoughts were off the subject it was better to leave them + so. She only kissed him for good-by, and went out with the two gentlemen. + </p> + <p> + As they took up their guns Mr. Carleton caught the timid shunning glance + her eye gave at them. + </p> + <p> + "Do you dislike the company of these noisy friends of ours, Miss Fleda?" + said he. + </p> + <p> + Fleda hesitated, and finally said "she didn't much like to be very near + them when they were fired." + </p> + <p> + "Put that fear away then," said he, "for they shall keep a respectful + silence so long as they have the honour to be in your company. If the + woodcock come about us as tame as quails our guns shall not be provoked to + say anything till your departure gives them leave." + </p> + <p> + Fleda smiled her thanks and set forward, privately much confirmed in her + opinion that Mr. Carleton had handsome eyes. + </p> + <p> + At a little distance from the house Fleda left the meadow for an old + apple-orchard at the left, lying on a steep side hill. Up this hill-side + they toiled; and then found themselves on a ridge of table-land, + stretching back for some distance along the edge of a little valley or + bottom of perfectly flat smooth pasture-ground. The valley was very + narrow, only divided into fields by fences running from side to side. The + table-land might be a hundred feet or more above the level of the bottom, + with a steep face towards it. A little way back from the edge the woods + began; between them and the brow of the hill the ground was smooth and + green, planted as if by art with flourishing young silver pines and once + in a while a hemlock, some standing in all their luxuriance alone, and + some in groups. With now and then a smooth grey rock, or large + boulder-stone which had somehow inexplicably stopped on the brow of the + hill instead of rolling down into what at some former time no doubt was a + bed of water,--all this open strip of the table-land might have stood with + very little coaxing for a piece of a gentleman's pleasure-ground. On the + opposite side of the little valley was a low rocky height, covered with + wood, now in the splendour of varied red and green and purple and brown + and gold; between, at their feet, lay the soft quiet green meadow; and off + to the left, beyond the far end of the valley, was the glory of the autumn + woods again, softened in the distance. A true October sky seemed to + pervade all, mildly blue, transparently pure, with that clearness of + atmosphere that no other month gives us; a sky that would have conferred a + patent of nobility on any landscape. The scene was certainly contracted + and nowise remarkable in any of its features, but Nature had shaken out + all her colours over the land, and drawn a veil from the sky, and breathed + through the woods and over the hill-side the very breath of health, + enjoyment, and vigour. + </p> + <p> + When they were about over-against the middle of the valley, Mr. Carleton + suddenly made a pause and stood for some minutes silently looking. His two + companions came to a halt on either side of him, one not a little pleased, + the other a little impatient. + </p> + <p> + "Beautiful!" Mr. Carleton said at length. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda gravely, "I think it's a pretty place. I like it up + here." + </p> + <p> + "We sha'n't catch many woodcock among these pines," said young Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "I wonder," said Mr. Carleton presently, "how any one should have called + these 'melancholy days.'" + </p> + <p> + "Who has?" said Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "A countryman of yours," said his friend glancing at him. "If he had been + a countryman of mine there would have been less marvel. But here is none + of the sadness of decay--none of the withering--if the tokens of old age + are seen at all it is in the majestic honours that crown a glorious + life--the graces of a matured and ripened character. This has nothing in + common, Rossitur, with those dull moralists who are always dinning decay + and death into one's ears;--this speaks of Life. Instead of freezing all + one's hopes and energies, it quickens the pulse with the desire to <i>do</i>.--'The + saddest of the year'--Bryant was wrong." + </p> + <p> + "Bryant?--oh!"--said young Rossitur; "I didn't know who you were speaking + of." + </p> + <p> + "I believe, now I think of it, he was writing of a somewhat later time of + the year,--I don't know, how all this will look in November." + </p> + <p> + "I think it is very pleasant in November," said little Fleda sedately. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you know Bryant's 'Death of the Flowers,' Rossitur?" said his + friend smiling. "What have you been doing all your life?" + </p> + <p> + "Not studying the fine arts at West Point, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "Then sit down here and let me mend that place in your education. Sit + down! and I'll give you something better than woodcock. You keep a + game-bag for thoughts, don't you?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur wished Mr. Carleton didn't. But he sat down, however, and + listened with an unedified face; while his friend, more to please himself + it must be confessed than for any other reason, and perhaps with half a + notion to try Fleda, repeated the beautiful words. He presently saw they + were not lost upon one of his hearers; she listened intently. + </p> + <p> + "It is very pretty," said Rossitur when he had done. "I believe I have + seen it before somewhere." + </p> + <p> + "There is no 'smoky light' to day," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Mr. Carleton, smiling to himself. "Nothing but that could + improve the beauty of all this, Miss Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "<i>I</i> like it better as it is," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I am surprised at that," said young Rossitur. "I thought you lived on + smoke." + </p> + <p> + There was nothing in the words, but the tone was not exactly polite. Fleda + granted him neither smile nor look. + </p> + <p> + "I am glad you like it up here," she went on, gravely doing the honours of + the place. "I came this way because we shouldn't have so many fences to + climb." + </p> + <p> + "You are the best little guide possible, and I have no doubt would always + lead one the right way," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + Again the same gentle, kind, <i>appreciating</i> look. Fleda unconsciously + drew a step nearer. There was a certain undefined confidence established + between them. + </p> + <p> + "There's a little brook down there in spring," said she pointing to a + small grass grown water-course in the meadow, hardly discernible from the + height,--"but there's no water in it now. It runs quite full for a while + after the snow breaks up; but it dries away by June or July." + </p> + <p> + "What are those trees so beautifully tinged with red and orange?--down + there by the fence in the meadow." + </p> + <p> + "I am not woodsman enough to inform you," replied Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Those are maples," said Fleda, "sugar maples. The one all orange is a + hickory." + </p> + <p> + "How do you know?" said Mr. Carleton, turning to her. "By your wit as a + fairy?" + </p> + <p> + "I know by the colour," said Fleda modestly,--"and by the shape too." + </p> + <p> + "Fairy," said Mr. Rossitur, "if you have any of the stuff about you, I + wish you would knock this gentleman over the head with your wand and put + the spirit of moving into him. He is going to sit dreaming here all day." + </p> + <p> + "Not at all," said his friend springing up.--"I am ready for you--but I + want other game than woodcock just now I confess." + </p> + <p> + They walked along in silence, and had near reached the extremity of the + table-land, which towards the end of the valley descended into ground of a + lower level covered with woods; when Mr. Carleton who was a little ahead + was startled by Fleda's voice exclaiming in a tone of distress, "Oh not + the robins!"--and turning about perceived Mr. Rossitur standing still with + levelled gun and just in the act to shoot. Fleda had stopped her ears. In + the same instant Mr. Carleton had thrown up the gun, demanding of Rossitur + with a singular change of expression--"what he meant!" + </p> + <p> + "Mean?" said the young gentleman, meeting with an astonished face the + indignant fire of his companion's eyes,--"why I mean not to meddle with + other people's guns, Mr. Carleton. What do <i>you</i> mean?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing but to protect myself." + </p> + <p> + "Protect yourself!" said Rossitur, heating as the other cooled,--from + what, in the name of wonder?" + </p> + <p> + "Only from having my word blown away by your fire," said Carleton, + smiling. "Come, Rossitur, recollect yourself--remember our compact." + </p> + <p> + "Compact! one isn't bound to keep compacts with unearthly personages," + said Rossitur, half sulkily and half angrily; "and besides I made none." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton turned from him very coolly and walked on. + </p> + <p> + They left the table-land and the wood, entered the valley again, and + passed through a large orchard, the last of the succession of fields which + stretched along it. Beyond this orchard the ground rose suddenly, and on + the steep hill-side there had been a large plantation of Indian corn. The + corn was harvested, but the ground was still covered with numberless + little stacks of the corn-stalks. Half way up the hill stood three ancient + chestnut trees; veritable patriarchs of the nut tribe they were, and + respected and esteemed as patriarchs should be. + </p> + <p> + "There are no 'dropping nuts' to-day, either," said Fleda, to whom the + sight of her forest friends in the distance probably suggested the + thought, for she had not spoken for some time. "I suppose there hasn't + been frost enough yet." + </p> + <p> + "Why you have a good memory, Fairy," said Mr. Carleton. "Do you give the + nuts leave to fall of themselves?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh sometimes grandpa and I go a nutting," said the little girl getting + lightly over the fence,--"but we haven't been this year." + </p> + <p> + "Then it is a pleasure to come yet?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda quietly, "the trees near the house have been stripped; + and the only other nice place there is for us to go to, Mr. Didenhover let + the Shakers have the nuts. I sha'n't get any this year." + </p> + <p> + "Live in the woods and not get any nuts! that won't do, Fairy. Here are + some fine chestnuts we are coming to--what would hinder our reaping a good + harvest from them?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't think there will be any on them," said Fleda; "Mr. Didenhover has + been here lately with the men getting in the coin,--I guess they have + cleared the trees." + </p> + <p> + "Who is Mr. Didenhover?" + </p> + <p> + "He is grandpa's man." + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you bid Mr. Didenhover let the nuts alone?" + </p> + <p> + "O he wouldn't mind if he was told," said Fleda. "He does everything just + as he has a mind to, and nobody can hinder him. Yes--they've cleared the + trees--I thought so." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you know of any other trees that are out of this Mr. Didenhover's + way?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda,--"I know a place where there used to be beautiful + hickory trees, and some chestnuts too, I think; but it is too far off for + grandpa, and I couldn't go there alone. This is the twenty-acre lot," said + she, looking though she did not say it, "Here I leave you." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad to hear it," said her cousin. "Now give us our directions, + Fleda, and thank you for your services." + </p> + <p> + "Stop a minute," said Mr. Carleton. "What if you and I should try to find + those same hickory trees, Miss Fleda? Will you take me with you?--or is it + too long a walk?" + </p> + <p> + "For me?--oh no!" said Fleda with a face of awakening hope; "but," she + added timidly, "you were going a shooting, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "What on earth are you thinking of, Carleton?" said young Rossitur. "Let + the nuts and Fleda alone, do!" + </p> + <p> + "By your leave, Mr. Rossitur," said Carleton. "My murderous intents have + all left me, Miss Fleda,--I suppose your wand has been playing about + me--and I should like nothing better than to go with you over the hills + this morning. I have been a nutting many a time in my own woods at home, + and I want to try it for once in the New World. Will you take me?" + </p> + <p> + "O thank you, sir!" said Fleda,--"but we have passed the turning a long + way--we must go back ever so far the same way we came to get to the place + where we turn off to go up the mountain." + </p> + <p> + "I don't wish for a prettier way,--if it isn't so far as to tire you, + Fairy?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh it won't tire me!" said Fleda overjoyed. + </p> + <p> + "Carleton!" exclaimed young Kossitur. "Can you be so absurd! Lose this + splendid day for the woodcock when we may not have another while we are + here!" + </p> + <p> + "You are not a true sportsman, Mr. Rossitur," said the other coolly, "or + you would know what it is to have some sympathy with the sports of others. + But <i>you</i> will have the day for the woodcock, and bring us home a + great many I hope. Miss Fleda, suppose we give this impatient young + gentleman his orders and despatch him." + </p> + <p> + "I thought you were more of a sportsman," said the vexed West + Pointer,--"or your sympathy would be with me." + </p> + <p> + "I tell you the sporting mania was never stronger on me," said the other + carelessly. "Something less than a rifle however will do to bring down the + game I am after. We will rendezvous at the little village over yonder, + unless I go home before you, which I think is more probable. Au revoir!" + </p> + <p> + With careless gracefulness he saluted his disconcerted companion, who + moved off with ungraceful displeasure. Fleda and Mr. Carleton then began + to follow back the road they had come, in the highest good humour both. + Her sparkling face told him with even greater emphasis than her words, + </p> + <p> + "I am so much obliged to you, sir." + </p> + <p> + "How you go over fences!" said he,--"like a sprite, as you are." + </p> + <p> + "O I have climbed a great many," said Fleda, accepting however, again with + that infallible instinct, the help which she did not need--"I shall be so + glad to get some nuts, for I thought I wasn't going to have any this year; + and it is so pleasant to have them to crack in the long winter evenings." + </p> + <p> + "You must find them long evenings indeed, I should think." + </p> + <p> + "O no we don't," said Fleda. "I didn't mean they were long in <i>that</i> + way. Grandpa cracks the nuts, and I pick them out, and he tells me + stories; and then you know he likes to go to bed early. The evenings never + seem long." + </p> + <p> + "But you are not always cracking nuts." + </p> + <p> + "O no, to be sure not; but there are plenty of other pleasant things to + do. I dare say grandpa would have bought some nuts, but I had a great deal + rather have those we get ourselves, and then the fun of getting them, + besides, is the best part." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was tramping over the ground at a furious rate. + </p> + <p> + "How many do you count upon securing to-day?" said Mr. Carleton gravely. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda with a business face,--"there are a good many + trees, and fine large ones, and I don't believe anybody has found them + out--they are so far out of the way; there ought to be a good parcel of + nuts." + </p> + <p> + "But," said Mr. Carleton with perfect gravity, "if we should be lucky + enough to find a supply for your winter's store, it would be too much for + you and me to bring home, Miss Fleda, unless you have a broomstick in the + service of fairydom." + </p> + <p> + "A broomstick!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes,--did you never hear of the man who had a broomstick that would fetch + pails of water at his bidding?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda laughing. "What a convenient broomstick! I wish we had + one. But I know what I can do, Mr. Carleton,--if there should be too many + nuts for us to bring home I can take Cynthy afterwards and get the rest of + them. Cynthy and I could go--grandpa couldn't even if he was as well as + usual, for the trees are in a hollow away over on the other side of the + mountain. It's a beautiful place." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Mr. Carleton smiling curiously to himself, "in that case I + shall be even of more use than I had hoped. But sha'n't we want a basket, + Miss Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes indeed," said Fleda,--"a good large one--I am going to run down to + the house for it as soon as we get to the turning-off place, if you'll be + so good as to sit down and wait for me, sir,--I won't be long after it." + </p> + <p> + "No," said he; "I will walk with you and leave my gun in safe quarters. + You had better not travel so fast, or I am afraid you will never reach the + hickory trees." + </p> + <p> + Fleda smiled and said there was no danger, but she slackened her pace, and + they proceeded at a more reasonable rate till they reached the house. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton would not go in, placing his gun in an outer shelter. Fleda + dashed into the kitchen, and after a few minutes' delay came out again + with a huge basket, which Mr. Carleton took from her without suffering his + inward amusement to reach his face, and a little tin pail which she kept + under her own guardianship. In vain Mr. Carleton offered to take it with + the basket or even to put it in the basket, where he shewed her it would + go very well; it must go nowhere but in Fleda's own hand. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was in restless haste till they had passed over the already twice + trodden ground and entered upon the mountain road. It was hardly a road; + in some places a beaten track was visible, in others Mr. Carleton wondered + how his little companion found her way, where nothing but fresh-fallen + leaves and scattered rocks and stones could be seen, covering the whole + surface. But her foot never faltered, her eye read way-marks where his saw + none, she went on, he did not doubt unerringly, over the leaf-strewn and + rock-strewn way, over ridge and hollow, with a steady light swiftness that + he could not help admiring. Once they came to a little brawling stream of + spring water, hardly three inches deep anywhere but making quite a wide + bed for itself in its bright way to the lowlands. Mr. Carleton was + considering how he should contrive to get his little guide over it in + safety, when quick,--over the little round stones which lifted their heads + above the surface of the water, on the tips of her toes, Fleda tripped + across before he had done thinking about it. He told her he had no doubt + now that she was a fairy and had powers of walking that did not belong to + other people. Fleda laughed, and on her little demure figure went picking + out the way always with that little tin pail hanging at her side, + like--Mr. Carleton busied himself in finding out similes for her. It + wasn't very easy. + </p> + <p> + For a long distance their way was through a thick woodland, clear of + underbrush and very pleasant walking, but permitting no look at the + distant country. They wound about, now uphill and now down, till at last + they began to ascend in good earnest; the road became better marked, and + Mr. Carleton came up with his guide again. Both were obliged to walk more + slowly. He had overcome a good deal of Fleda's reserve and she talked to + him now quite freely, without however losing the grace of a most exquisite + modesty in everything she said or did. + </p> + <p> + "What do you suppose I have been amusing myself with all this while, Miss + Fleda?" said he, after walking for some time alongside of her in silence. + "I have been trying to fancy what you looked like as you travelled on + before me with that mysterious tin pail." + </p> + <p> + "Well what <i>did</i> I look like?" said Fleda laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Little Red Riding-Hood, the first thing, carrying her grandmother the pot + of butter." + </p> + <p> + "Ah but I haven't got any butter in this as it happens," said Fleda, "and + I hope you are not anything like the wolf, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "I hope not," said he laughing. "Well, then I thought you might be one of + those young ladies the fairy-stories tell of, who set out over the world + to seek their fortune. That might hold, you know, a little provision to + last for a day or two till you found it." + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda,--"I should never go to seek my fortune." + </p> + <p> + "Why not, pray." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think I should find it any the sooner." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton looked at her and could not make up his mind! whether or not + she spoke wittingly. + </p> + <p> + "Well, but after all are we not seeking our fortune?" said he. "We are + doing something very like it. Now up here on the mountain top perhaps we + shall find only empty trees--perhaps trees with a harvest of nuts on + them." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but that wouldn't be like finding a fortune," said Fleda;--"if we + were to come to a great heap of nuts all picked out ready for us to carry + away, <i>that</i> would be a fortune; but now if we find the trees full we + have got to knock them down and gather them up and shuck them." + </p> + <p> + "Make our own fortunes, eh?" said Mr. Carleton smiling. "Well people do + say those are the sweetest nuts, I don't know how it may be. Ha! that is + fine. What an atmosphere!" + </p> + <p> + They had reached a height of the mountain that cleared them a view, and + over the tops of the trees they looked abroad to a very wide extent of + country undulating with hill and vale,--hill and valley alike far below at + their feet. Fair and rich,--the gently swelling hills, one beyond another, + in the patchwork dress of their many-coloured fields,--the gay hues of the + woodland softened and melted into a rich autumn glow,--and far away, + beyond even where this glow was sobered and lost in the distance, the + faint blue line of the Catskill; faint, but clear and distinct through the + transparent air. Such a sky!--of such etherealized purity as if made for + spirits to travel in and tempting them to rise and free themselves from + the soil; and the stillness,--like nature's hand laid upon the soul, + bidding it think. In view of all that vastness and grandeur, man's + littleness does bespeak itself. And yet, for every one, the voice of the + scene is not more humbling to pride than rousing to all that is really + noble and strong in character. Not only "What thou art,"--but "What thou + mayest be!" What place thou oughtest to fill,--what work thou hast to + do,--in this magnificent world. A very extended landscape however genial + is also sober in its effect on the mind. One seems to emerge from the + narrowness of individual existence, and take a larger view of Life as well + as of Creation. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps Mr. Carleton felt it so, for after his first expression of + pleasure he stood silently and gravely looking for a long time. Little + Fleda's eye loved it too, but she looked her fill and then sat down on a + stone to await her companion's pleasure, glancing now and then up at his + face which gave her no encouragement to interrupt him. It was gravely and + even gloomily thoughtful. He stood so long without stirring that poor + Fleda began to have sad thoughts of the possibility of gathering all the + nuts from the hickory trees, and she heaved a very gentle sigh once or + twice; but the dark blue eye which she with reason admired remained fixed + on the broad scene below, as if it were reading or trying to read there a + difficult lesson. And when at last he turned and began to go up the path + again he kept the same face, and went moodily swinging his arm up and + down, as if in disturbed thought. Fleda was too happy to be moving to care + for her companion's silence; she would have compounded for no more + conversation so they might but reach the nut trees. But before they had + got quite so far Mr. Carleton broke the silence, speaking in precisely the + same tone and manner he had used the last time. + </p> + <p> + "Look here, Fairy," said he, pointing to a small heap of chestnut burs + piled at the foot of a tree,--"here's a little fortune for you already." + </p> + <p> + "That's a squirrel!" said Fleda, looking at the place very attentively. + </p> + <p> + "There has been nobody else here. He has put them together, ready to be + carried off to his nest." + </p> + <p> + "We'll save him that trouble," said Mr. Carleton. "Little rascal! he's a + Didenhover in miniature." + </p> + <p> + "Oh no!" said Fleda; "he had as good a right to the nuts I am sure as we + have, poor fellow.--Mr. Carleton--" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was throwing the nuts into the basket. At the anxious and + undecided tone in which his name was pronounced he stopped and looked up, + at a very wistful face. + </p> + <p> + "Mightn't we leave these nuts till we come back? If we find the trees over + here full we sha'n't want them; and if we don't, these would be only a + handful--" + </p> + <p> + "And the squirrel would be disappointed?" said Mr. Carleton smiling. "You + would rather we should leave them to him?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda said yes, with a relieved face, and Mr. Carleton still smiling + emptied his basket of the few nuts he had put in, and they walked on. + </p> + <p> + In a hollow, rather a deep hollow, behind the crest of the hill, as Fleda + had said, they came at last to a noble group of large hickory trees, with + one or two chestnuts standing in attendance on the outskirts. And also as + Fleda had said, or hoped, the place was so far from convenient access that + nobody had visited them; they were thick hung with fruit. If the spirit of + the game had been wanting or failing in Mr. Carleton, it must have roused + again into full life at the joyous heartiness of Fleda's exclamations. At + any rate no boy could have taken to the business better. He cut, with her + permission, a stout long pole in the woods; and swinging himself lightly + into one of the trees shewed that he was a master in the art of whipping + them. Fleda was delighted but not surprised; for from the first moment of + Mr. Carleton's proposing to go with her she bad been privately sure that + he would not prove an inactive or inefficient ally. By whatever slight + tokens she might read this, in whatsoever fine characters of the eye, or + speech, or manner, she knew it; and knew it just as well before they + reached the hickory trees as she did afterwards. + </p> + <p> + When one of the trees was well stripped the young gentleman mounted into + another, while Fleda set herself to hull and gather up the nuts under the + one first beaten. She could make but little headway however compared with + her companion; the nuts fell a great deal faster than she could put them + in her basket. The trees were heavy laden and Mr. Carleton seemed + determined to have the whole crop; from the second tree he went to the + third. Fleda was bewildered with her happiness; this was doing business in + style. She tried to calculate what the whole quantity would be, but it + went beyond her; one basketful would not take it, nor two, not three,--it + wouldn't <i>begin to</i>, Fleda said to herself. She went on hulling and + gathering with all possible industry. + </p> + <p> + After the third tree was finished Mr. Carleton threw down his pole, and + resting himself upon the ground at the foot told Fleda he would wait a few + moments before he began again. Fleda thereupon left off her work too, and + going for her little tin pail presently offered it to him temptingly + stocked with pieces of apple-pie. When he had smilingly taken one, she + next brought him a sheet of white paper with slices of young cheese. + </p> + <p> + "No, thank you," said he. + </p> + <p> + "Cheese is very good with apple-pie," said Fleda competently. + </p> + <p> + "Is it?" said he laughing. "Well--upon that--I think you would teach me a + good many things, Miss Fleda, if I were to stay here long enough." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you would stay and try, sir," said Fleda, who did not know exactly + what to make of the shade of seriousness which crossed his face. It was + gone almost instantly. + </p> + <p> + "I think anything is better eaten out in the woods than it is at home," + said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well I don't know," said her friend. "I have no doubt that is the case + with cheese and apple-pie, and especially under hickory trees which one + has been contending with pretty sharply. If a touch of your wand, Fairy, + could transform one of these shells into a goblet of Lafitte or + Amontillado we should have nothing to wish for." + </p> + <p> + 'Amontillado' was Hebrew to Fleda, but 'goblet' was intelligible. + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry!" she said,--"I don't know where there is any spring up + here,--but we shall come to one going down the mountain." + </p> + <p> + "Do you know where all the springs are?" + </p> + <p> + "No, not all, I suppose," said Fleda, "but I know a good many. I have gone + about through the woods so much, and I always look for the springs." + </p> + <p> + "And who roams about through the woods with you?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh nobody but grandpa," said Fleda. "He used to be out with me a great + deal, but he can't go much now,--this year or two." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you go to school?" + </p> + <p> + "O no!" said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Then your grandfather teaches you at home?" + </p> + <p> + "No,"--said Fleda,--"father used to teach me,--grandpa doesn't teach me + much." + </p> + <p> + "What do you do with yourself all day long?" + </p> + <p> + "O plenty of things," said Fleda, smiling again. "I read, and talk to + grandpa, and go riding, and do a great many things." + </p> + <p> + "Has your home always been here, Fairy?" said Mr. Carleton after a few + minutes' pause. + </p> + <p> + Fleda said "No sir," and there stopped; and then seeming to think that + politeness called upon her to say more, she added, + </p> + <p> + "I have lived with grandpa ever since father left me here when he was + going away among the Indians,--I used to be always with him before." + </p> + <p> + "And how long ago is that?" + </p> + <p> + "It is--four years, sir;--more, I believe. He was sick when he came back, + and we never went away from Queechy again." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton looked again silently at the child, who had given him these + pieces of information with a singular grave propriety of manner, and even + as it were reluctantly. + </p> + <p> + "And what do you read, Fairy?" he said after a minute;--"stories of + fairy-land?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, "I haven't any. We haven't a great many books--there are + only a few up in the cupboard, and the Encyclopædia; father had some + books, but they are locked up in a chest. But there is a great deal in the + Encyclopædia." + </p> + <p> + "The Encyclopædia!" said Mr. Carleton;--"what do you read in that? + what can you find to like there?" + </p> + <p> + "I like all about the insects, and birds and animals; and about + flowers,--and lives of people, and curious things. There are a great many + in it." + </p> + <p> + "And what are the other books in the cupboard, which you read?" + </p> + <p> + "There's Quentin Durward," said Fleda,--"and Rob Roy, and Guy Mannering in + two little bits of volumes; and the Knickerbocker, and the Christian's + Magazine, and an odd volume of Redgauntlet, and the Beauties of Scotland." + </p> + <p> + "And have you read all these, Miss Fleda?" said her companion, commanding + his countenance with difficulty. + </p> + <p> + "I haven't read quite all of the Christian's Magazine, nor all of the + Beauties of Scotland." + </p> + <p> + "All the rest?" + </p> + <p> + "O yes," said Fleda,--"and two or three times over. And there are three + great red volumes besides, Robertson's history of something, I believe. I + haven't read that either." + </p> + <p> + "And which of them all do you like the best?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda,--"I don't know but I like to read the Encyclopædia + as well as any of them. And then I have the newspapers to read too." + </p> + <p> + "I think, Miss Fleda," said Mr. Carleton a minute after, "you had better + let me take you with my mother over the sea, when we go back again,--to + Paris." + </p> + <p> + "Why, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "You know," said he half smiling, "your aunt wants you, and has engaged my + mother to bring you with her if she can." + </p> + <p> + "I know it," said Fleda. "But I am not going." + </p> + <p> + It was spoken not rudely but in a tone of quiet determination. + </p> + <p> + "Aren't you too tired, sir?" said she gently, when she saw Mr. Carleton + preparing to launch into the remaining hickory trees. + </p> + <p> + "Not I!" said he. "I am not tired till I have done, Fairy. And besides, + cheese is workingman's fare, you know, isn't it?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda gravely,--"I don't think it is." + </p> + <p> + "What then?" said Mr. Carleton, stopping as he was about to spring into + the tree, and looking at her with a face of comical amusement. + </p> + <p> + "It isn't what <i>our</i> men live on," said Fleda, demurely eying the + fallen nuts, with a head full of business. + </p> + <p> + They set both to work again with renewed energy, and rested not till the + treasures of the trees had been all brought to the ground, and as large a + portion of them as could be coaxed and shaken into Fleda's basket had been + cleared from the hulls and bestowed there. But there remained a vast + quantity. These with a good deal of labour Mr. Carleton and Fleda gathered + into a large heap in rather a sheltered place by the side of a rock, and + took what measures they might to conceal them. This was entirely at + Fleda's instance. + </p> + <p> + "You and your maid Cynthia will have to make a good many journeys, Miss + Fleda, to get all these home, unless you can muster a larger basket." + </p> + <p> + "O <i>that's</i> nothing," said Fleda. "It will be all fun. I don't care + how many times we have to come. You are <i>very</i> good, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "Do you think so?" said he. "I wish I did. I wish you would make your wand + rest on me, Fairy." + </p> + <p> + "My wand?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--you know your grandfather says you are a fairy and carry a wand. + What does he say that for, Miss Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda said she supposed it was because he loved her so much; but the rosy + smile with which she said it would have let her hearer, if he had needed + enlightening, far more into the secret than she was herself. And if the + simplicity in her face had not been equal to the wit, Mr. Carleton would + never have ventured the look of admiration he bestowed on her. He knew it + was safe. <i>Approbation</i> she saw, and it made her smile the rosier; + but the admiration was a step beyond her; Fleda could make nothing of it. + </p> + <p> + They descended the mountain now with a hasty step, for the day was wearing + well on. At the spot where he had stood so long when they went up, Mr. + Carleton paused again for a minute. In mountain scenery every hour makes a + change. The sun was lower now, the lights and shadows more strongly + contrasted, the sky of a yet calmer blue, cool and clear towards the + horizon. The scene said still the same that it had said a few hours + before, with a touch more of sadness; it seemed to whisper, "All things + have an end--thy time may not be for ever--do what thou wouldest + do--'while ye have light believe in the light that ye may be children of + the light.'" + </p> + <p> + Whether Mr. Carleton read it so or not, he stood for a minute motionless + and went down the mountain looking so grave that Fleda did not venture to + speak to him, till they reached the neighbourhood of the spring. + </p> + <p> + "What are you searching for, Miss Fleda?" said her friend. + </p> + <p> + She was making a busy quest here and there by the side of the little + stream. + </p> + <p> + "I was looking to see if I could find a mullein leaf," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "A mullein leaf? what do you want it for?" + </p> + <p> + "I want it--to make a drinking cup of," said Fleda, her intent bright eyes + peering keenly about in every direction. + </p> + <p> + "A mullein leaf! that is too rough; one of these golden leaves--what are + they?--will do better, won't it?" + </p> + <p> + "That is hickory," said Fleda. "No; the mullein leaf is the best because + it holds the water so nicely.--Here it is!--" + </p> + <p> + And folding up one of the largest leaves into a most artist-like cup, she + presented it to Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "For me, was all that trouble?" said he. "I don't deserve it." + </p> + <p> + "You wanted something, sir," said Fleda. "The water is very cold and + nice." + </p> + <p> + He stooped to the bright little stream and filled his rural goblet several + times. + </p> + <p> + "I never knew what it was to have a fairy for my cup-bearer before," said + he. "That was better than anything Bordeaux or Xeres ever sent forth." + </p> + <p> + He seemed to have swallowed his seriousness, or thrown it away with the + mullein leaf. It was quite gone. + </p> + <p> + "This is the best spring in all grandpa's ground," said Fleda. "The water + is as good as can be." + </p> + <p> + "How came you to be such a wood and water spirit? you must live out of + doors. Do the trees ever talk to you? I sometimes think they do to me." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--I think <i>I</i> talk to <i>them</i>," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "It's the same thing," said her companion smiling. "Such beautiful woods!" + </p> + <p> + "Were you never in the country before in the fall, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "Not here--in my own country often enough--but the woods in England do not + put on such a gay face, Miss Fleda, when they are going to be stripped of + their summer dress--they look sober upon it--the leaves wither and grow + brown and the woods have a dull russet colour. Your trees are true + Yankees--they 'never say die!'" + </p> + <p> + "Why, are the Americans more obstinate than the English?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "It is difficult to compare unknown quantities," said Mr. Carleton + laughing and shaking his head. "I see you have good ears for the key-note + of patriotism." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked a little hard at him, but he did not explain; and indeed they + were hurrying along too much for talking, leaping from stone to stone, and + running down the smooth orchard slope. When they reached the last fence, + but a little way from the house, Fleda made a resolute pause. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton--" said she. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton put down his basket, and looked in some surprise at the + hesitating anxious little face that looked up at him. + </p> + <p> + "Won't you please not say anything to grandpa about my going away?" + </p> + <p> + "Why not, Fairy?" said he kindly. + </p> + <p> + "Because I don't think I ought to go." + </p> + <p> + "But may it not be possible," said he, "that your grandfather can judge + better in the matter than you can do?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, "I don't think he can. He would do anything he thought + would be most for my happiness; but it wouldn't be for my happiness," she + said with an unsteady lip,--"I don't know what he would do if I went!" + </p> + <p> + "You think he would have no sunshine if your wand didn't touch him?" said + Mr. Carleton smiling. + </p> + <p> + "No sir," said Fleda gravely,--"I don't think that,--but won't you please, + Mr. Carleton, not to speak about it?" + </p> + <p> + "But are you sure," he said, sitting down on a stone hard by and taking + one of her hands, "are you sure that you would not like to go with us? I + wish you would change your mind about it. My mother will love you very + much, and I will take the especial charge of you till we give you to your + aunt in Paris;--if the wind blows a little too rough I will always put + myself between it and you," he added smiling. + </p> + <p> + Fleda smiled faintly, but immediately begged Mr. Carleton "not to say + anything to put it into her grandfather's head." + </p> + <p> + "It must be there already, I think, Miss Fleda; but at any rate you know + my mother must perform her promise to your aunt Mrs. Rossitur; and she + would not do that without letting your grandfather know how glad she would + be to take you." + </p> + <p> + Fleda stood silent a moment, and then with a touching look of waiting + patience in her sweet face suffered Mr. Carleton to help her over the + fence; and they went home. + </p> + <p> + To Fleda's unspeakable surprise it was found to be past four o'clock, and + Cynthy had supper ready. Mr. Ringgan with great cordiality invited Mr. + Carleton to stay with them, but he could not; his mother would expect him + to dinner. + </p> + <p> + "Where is your mother?" + </p> + <p> + "At Montepoole, sir; we have been to Niagara, and came this way on our + return; partly that my mother might fulfil the promise she made Mrs. + Rossitur--to let you know, sir, with how much pleasure she will take + charge of your little granddaughter and convey her to her friends in + Paris, if you can think it best to let her go." + </p> + <p> + "Hum!--she is very kind." said Mr. Ringgan, with a look of grave and not + unmoved consideration which Fleda did not in the least like;--"How long + will you stay at Montepoole, sir?" + </p> + <p> + It might be several days, Mr. Carleton said. + </p> + <p> + "Hum--You have given up this day to Fleda, Mr. Carleton,--suppose you take + to-morrow for the game, and come here and try our country fare when you + have got through shooting?--you and young Mr. Rossitur?--and I'll think + over this question and let you know about it." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was delighted to see that her friend accepted this invitation with + apparent pleasure. + </p> + <p> + "You will be kind enough to give my respects to your mother," Mr. Ringgan + went on, "and thanks for her kind offer. I may perhaps--I don't + know--avail myself of it. If anything should bring Mrs. Carleton this way + we should like to see her. I am glad to see my friends," he said, shaking + the young gentleman's hand,--"as long as I have a house to ask 'em to!" + </p> + <p> + "That will be for many years, I trust," said Mr. Carleton respectfully, + struck with something in the old gentleman's manner. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, sir!" said Mr. Ringgan, with again the dignified look of + trouble;--"it may not be!--I wish you good day, sir." + </p> + <h1> + <a name="04"></a>Chapter IV. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + A mind that in a calm angelic mood<br /> Of happy wisdom, meditating + good,<br /> Beholds, of all from her high powers required,<br /> Much + done, and much designed, and more desired. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Wordsworth. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + "I've had such a delicious day, dear grandpa,"--said little Fleda as they + sat at supper;--"you can't think how kind Mr. Carleton has been." + </p> + <p> + "Has he?--Well dear--I'm glad on't,--he seems a very nice young man." + </p> + <p> + "He's a smart-lookin' feller," said Cynthy, who was pouring out the tea. + </p> + <p> + "And we have got the greatest quantity of nuts!" Fleda went on,--"enough + for all winter. Cynthy and I will have to make ever so many journeys to + fetch 'em all; and they are splendid big ones. Don't you say anything to + Mr. Didenhover, Cynthy." + </p> + <p> + "I don't desire to meddle with Mr. Didenhover unless I've got to," said + Cynthy with an expression of considerable disgust. "You needn't give no + charges to me." + </p> + <p> + "But you'll go with me, Cynthy?" + </p> + <p> + "I s'pose I'll have to," said Miss Gall dryly, after a short interval of + sipping tea and helping herself to sweetmeats. + </p> + <p> + This lady had a pervading acidity of face and temper, but it was no more. + To take her name as standing for a fair setting forth of her character + would be highly injurious to a really respectable composition, which the + world's neglect (there was no other imaginable cause) had soured a little. + </p> + <p> + Almost Fleda's first thought on coming home had been about Mr. Jolly. But + she knew very well, without asking, that he had not been there; she would + not touch the subject. + </p> + <p> + "I haven't had such a fine day of nutting in a great while, grandpa," she + said again; "and you never saw such a good hand as Mr. Carleton is at + whipping the trees." + </p> + <p> + "How came he to go with you?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know,--I suppose it was to please me, in the first place; but I + am sure he enjoyed it himself; and he liked the pie and cheese, too, + Cynthy." + </p> + <p> + "Where did your cousin go?" + </p> + <p> + "O he went off after the woodcock. I hope he didn't find any." + </p> + <p> + "What do you think of those two young men, Fairy?" + </p> + <p> + "In what way, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "I mean, which of them do you like the best?" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "But t'other one's your cousin," said Mr. Ringgan, bending forward and + examining his little granddaughter's face with a curious pleased look, as + he often did when expecting an answer from her. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda, "but he isn't so much of a gentleman." + </p> + <p> + "How do you know that?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't think he is," said Fleda quietly. + </p> + <p> + "But why. Fairy?" + </p> + <p> + "He doesn't know how to keep his word as well, grandpa." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay? let's hear about that," said Mr. Ringgan. + </p> + <p> + A little reluctantly, for Cynthia was present, Fleda told the story of the + robins, and how Mr. Carleton would not let the gun be fired. + </p> + <p> + "Wa'n't your cousin a little put out by that?" + </p> + <p> + "They were both put out," said Fleda, "Mr. Carleton was very angry for a + minute, and then Mr. Rossitur was angry, but I think he could have been + angrier if he had chosen." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ringgan laughed, and then seemed in a sort of amused triumph about + something. + </p> + <p> + "Well dear!" he remarked after a while,--"you'll never buy wooden nutmegs, + I expect." + </p> + <p> + Fleda laughed and hoped not, and asked him why he said so. But he didn't + tell her. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Ringgan," said Cynthy, "hadn't I better run up the hill after supper, + and ask Mis' Plumfield to come down and help to-morrow? I suppose you'll + want considerable of a set out; and if both them young men comes you'll + want some more help to entertain 'em than I can give you, it's likely?" + </p> + <p> + "Do so--do so," said the old gentleman. "Tell her who I expect, and ask + her if she can come and help you, and me too." + </p> + <p> + "O and I'll go with you, Cynthy," said Fleda. "I'll get aunt Miriam to + come, I know." + </p> + <p> + "I should think you'd be run off your legs already, Flidda," said Miss + Cynthia; "what ails you to want to be going again?" + </p> + <p> + But this remonstrance availed nothing. Supper was hurried through, and + leaving the table standing Cynthia and Fleda set off to "run up the hill." + </p> + <p> + They were hardly a few steps from the gate when they heard the clatter of + horses' hoofs behind them, and the two young gentlemen came riding + hurriedly past, having joined company and taken their horses at Queechy + Run. Rossitur did not seem to see his little cousin and her companion; but + the doffed cap and low inclination of the other rider as they flew by + called up a smile and blush of pleasure to Fleda's face; and the sound of + their horses' hoofs had died away in the distance before the light had + faded from her cheeks or she was quite at home to Cynthia's observations. + She was possessed with the feeling, what a delightful thing it was to have + people do things in such a manner. + </p> + <p> + "That was your cousin, wa'n't it?" said Cynthy, when the spell was off. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, "the other one was my cousin." "Well--I mean one of them + fellers that went by. He's a soldier, ain't he?' + </p> + <p> + "An officer," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well, it does give a man an elegant look to be in the militie, don't it? + I should admire to have a cousin like that. It's dreadful becoming to have + that--what is it they call it?--to let the beard grow over the mouth. I + s'pose they can't do that without they be in the army can they?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda. "I hope not. I think it is very ugly." + </p> + <p> + "Do you? Oh!--I admire it. It makes a man look so spry!" + </p> + <p> + A few hundred yards from Mr. Ringgan's gate the road began to wind up a + very long heavy hill. Just at the hill's foot it crossed by a rude bridge + the bed of a noisy brook that came roaring down from the higher grounds, + turning sundry mill and factory wheels in its way. About half way up the + hill one of these was placed, belonging to a mill for sawing boards. The + little building stood alone, no other in sight, with a dark background of + wood rising behind it on the other side of the brook; the stream itself + running smoothly for a small space above the mill, and leaping down madly + below, as if it disdained its bed and would clear at a bound every + impediment in its way to the sea. When the mill was not going the quantity + of water that found its way down the hill was indeed very small, enough + only to keep up a pleasant chattering with the stones; but as soon as the + stream was allowed to gather all its force and run free its loquacity was + such that it would prevent a traveller from suspecting his approach to the + mill, until, very near, the monotonous hum of its saw could be heard. This + was a place Fleda dearly loved. The wild sound of the waters and the + lonely keeping of the scene, with the delicious smell of the new-sawn + boards, and the fascination of seeing the great logs of wood walk up to + the relentless, tireless up-and-down-going steel; as the generations of + men in turn present themselves to the course of those sharp events which + are the teeth of Time's saw; until all of a sudden the master spirit, the + man-regulator of this machinery, would perform some conjuration on lever + and wheel,--and at once, as at the touch of an enchanter, the log would be + still and the saw stay its work;--the business of life came to a stand, + and the romance of the little brook sprang up again. Fleda never tired of + it--never. She would watch the saw play and stop, and go on again; she + would have her ears dinned with the hoarse clang of the machinery, and + then listen to the laugh of the mill-stream; she would see with untiring + patience one board after another cut and cast aside, and log succeed to + log; and never turned weary away from that mysterious image of Time's + doings. Fleda had besides, without knowing it, the eye of a painter. In + the lonely hillside, the odd-shaped little mill, with its accompaniments + of wood and water, and the great logs of timber lying about the ground in + all directions and varieties of position, there was a picturesque charm + for her, where the country people saw nothing but business and a place fit + for it. Their hands grew hard where her mind was refining. Where they made + dollars and cents, she was growing rich in stores of thought and + associations of beauty. How many purposes the same thing serves! + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus04.jpg"><img src="images/illus04.jpg" height="250" + alt="'Who's got it now, Cynthy?'" title="'Who's got it now, Cynthy?'" /><br /> + "Who's got it now, Cynthy?"</a> + </p> + <p> + "That had ought to be your grandpa's mill this minute," observed Cynthy. + </p> + <p> + "I wish it was!" sighed Fleda. "Who's got it now, Cynthy?" + </p> + <p> + "O it's that chap McGowan, I expect;--he's got pretty much the hull of + everything. I told Mr. Ringgan I wouldn't let him have it if it was me, at + the time. Your grandpa'd be glad to get it back now, I guess." + </p> + <p> + Fleda guessed so too; but also guessed that Miss Gall was probably very + far from being possessed of the whole rationale of the matter. So she made + her no answer. + </p> + <p> + After reaching the brow of the hill the road continued on a very gentle + ascent towards a little settlement half a quarter of a mile off; passing + now and then a few scattered cottages or an occasional mill or turner's + shop. Several mills and factories, with a store and a very few + dwelling-houses were all the settlement; not enough to entitle it to the + name of a village. Beyond these and the mill-ponds, of which in the course + of the road there were three or four, and with a brief intervening space + of cultivated fields, a single farm house stood alone; just upon the + borders of a large and very fair sheet of water from which all the others + had their supply.--So large and fair that nobody cavilled at its taking + the style of a lake and giving its own pretty name of Deepwater both to + the settlement and the farm that half embraced it. This farm was Seth + Plumfield's. + </p> + <p> + At the garden gate Fleda quitted Cynthy and rushed forward to meet her + aunt, whom she saw coming round the corner of the house with her gown + pinned up behind her from attending to some domestic concern among the + pigs, the cows, or the poultry. + </p> + <p> + "O aunt Miriam," said Fleda eagerly, "we are going to have company to tea + to-morrow--won't you come and help us?" + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam laid her hands upon Fleda's shoulders and looked at Cynthy. + </p> + <p> + "I came up to see if you wouldn't come down to-morrow, Mis' Plumfield," + said that personage, with her usual dry business tone, always a little on + the wrong side of sweet;--"your brother has taken a notion to ask two + young fellers from the Pool to supper, and they're grand folks I s'pose, + and have got to have a fuss made for 'em. I don't know what Mr. Ringgan + was thinkin' of, or whether he thinks I have got anything to do or not; + but anyhow they're a comin', I s'pose, and must have something to eat; and + I thought the best thing I could do would be to come and get you into the + works, if I could. I should feel a little queer to have nobody but me to + say nothin' to them at the table." + </p> + <p> + "Ah do come, aunt Miriam!" said Fleda; "it will be twice as pleasant if + you do; and besides, we want to have everything very nice, you know." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam smiled at Fleda, and inquired of Miss Gall what she had in the + house. + </p> + <p> + "Why I don't know, Mis' Plumfield," said the lady, while Fleda threw her + arms round her aunt and thanked her,--"there ain't nothin' particler--pork + and beef and the old story. I've got some first-rate pickles. I calculated + to make some sort o' cake in the morning." + </p> + <p> + "Any of those small hams left?" + </p> + <p> + "Not a bone of 'em--these six weeks, <i>I</i> don't see how they've gone, + for my part. I'd lay any wager there were two in the smoke-house when I + took the last one out. If Mr. Didenhover was a little more like a weasel I + should think he'd been in." + </p> + <p> + "Have you cooked that roaster I sent down?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Mis' Plumfield, I ha'n't--it's such a plaguy sight of trouble!" said + Cynthy with a little apologetic giggle;--"I was keepin' it for some day + when I hadn't much to do." + </p> + <p> + "I'll take the trouble of it. I'll be down bright and early in the + morning, and we'll see what's best to do. How's your last churning, + Cynthy?" + </p> + <p> + "Well--I guess it's pretty middlin,' Mis' Plumfield." + </p> + <p> + "'Tisn't anything very remarkable, aunt Miriam," said Fleda shaking her + head. + </p> + <p> + "Well, well," said Mrs. Plumfield smiling, "run away down home now, and + I'll come to-morrow, and I guess we'll fix it. But who is it that grandpa + has asked?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda and Cynthy both opened at once. + </p> + <p> + "One of them is my cousin, aunt Miriam, that was at West Point, and the + other is the nicest English gentleman you ever saw--you will like him very + much--he has been with me getting nuts all to-day." + </p> + <p> + "They're a smart enough couple of chaps," said Cynthia; "they look as if + they lived where money was plenty." + </p> + <p> + "Well I'll come to-morrow," repeated Mrs. Plumfield, "and we'll see about + it. Good night, dear!" + </p> + <p> + She took Fleda's head in both her hands and gave her a most affectionate + kiss; and the two petitioners set off homewards again. + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam was not at all like her brother, in feature, though the moral + characteristics suited the relationship sufficiently well. There was the + expression of strong sense and great benevolence; the unbending + uprightness, of mind and body at once; and the dignity of an essentially + noble character, not the same as Mr. Ringgan's, but such as well became + his sister. She had been brought up among the Quakers, and though now and + for many years a staunch Presbyterian, she still retained a tincture of + the calm efficient gentleness of mind and manner that belongs so + inexplicably to them. More womanly sweetness than was in Mr. Ringgan's + blue eye a woman need not wish to have; and perhaps his sister's had not + so much. There was no want of it in her heart, nor in her manner, but the + many and singular excellencies of her character were a little overshadowed + by super-excellent housekeeping. Not a taint of the littleness that + sometimes grows therefrom,--not a trace of the narrowness of mind that + over-attention to such pursuits is too apt to bring;--on every important + occasion aunt Miriam would come out free and unshackled from all the + cobweb entanglements of housewifery; she would have tossed housewifery to + the winds if need were (but it never was, for in a new sense she always + contrived to make both ends meet). It was only in the unbroken everyday + course of affairs that aunt Miriam's face shewed any tokens of that + incessant train of <i>small cares</i> which had never left their + impertinent footprints upon the broad high brow of her brother. Mr. + Ringgan had no affinity with small cares; deep serious matters received + his deep and serious consideration; but he had as dignified a disdain of + trifling annoyances or concernments as any great mastiff or Newfoundlander + ever had for the yelping of a little cur. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="05"></a>Chapter V. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Ynne London citye was I borne,<br /> Of parents of grete note;<br /> My + fadre dydd a nobile arms<br /> Emblazon onne hys cote. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Chatterton. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + In the snuggest and best private room of the House at Montepoole a party + of ladies and gentlemen were gathered, awaiting the return of the + sportsmen. The room had been made as comfortable as any place could be in + a house built for "the season," after the season was past. A splendid fire + of hickory logs was burning brilliantly and making amends for many + deficiencies; the closed wooden shutters gave the reality if not the look + of warmth, for though the days might be fine and mild the mornings and + evenings were always very cool up there among the mountains; and a table + stood at the last point of readiness for having dinner served. They only + waited for the lingering woodcock-hunters. + </p> + <p> + It was rather an elderly party, with the exception of one young man whose + age might match that of the absent two. He was walking up and down the + room with somewhat the air of having nothing to do with himself. Another + gentleman, much older, stood warming his back at the fire, feeling about + his jaws and chin with one hand and looking at the dinner-table in a sort + of expectant reverie. The rest, three ladies, sat quietly chatting. All + these persons were extremely different from one another in individual + characteristics, and all had the unmistakable mark of the habit of good + society; as difficult to locate and as easy to recognize as the sense of + <i>freshness</i> which some ladies have the secret of diffusing around + themselves;--no definable sweetness, nothing in particular, but making a + very agreeable impression. + </p> + <p> + One of these ladies, the mother of the perambulating young officer (he was + a class-mate of Rossitur's), was extremely plain in feature, even more + than <i>ordinary</i>. This plainness was not however devoid of sense, and + it was relieved by an uncommon amount of good-nature and kindness of + heart. In her son the sense deepened into acuteness, and the kindness of + heart retreated, it is to be hoped, into some hidden recess of his nature; + for it very rarely shewed itself in open expression. That is, to an eye + keen in reading the natural signs of emotion; for it cannot be said that + his manner had any want of amenity or politeness. + </p> + <p> + The second lady, the wife of the gentleman on the hearth-rug, or rather on + the spot where the hearth-rug should have been, was a strong contrast to + this mother and son; remarkably pretty, delicate and even lovely; with a + black eye however that though in general soft could shew a mischievous + sparkle upon occasion; still young, and one of those women who always were + and always will be pretty and delicate at any age. + </p> + <p> + The third had been very handsome, and was still a very elegant woman, but + her face had seen more of the world's wear and tear. It had never known + placidity of expression beyond what the habitual command of good-breeding + imposed. She looked exactly what she was, a perfect woman of the world. A + very good specimen,--for Mrs. Carleton had sense and cultivation and even + feeling enough to play the part very gracefully; yet her mind was bound in + the shackles of "the world's" tyrannical forging and had never been free; + and her heart bowed submissively to the same authority. + </p> + <p> + "Here they are! Welcome home," exclaimed this lady, as her son and his + friend at length made their appearance;--"Welcome home--we are all + famishing; and I don't know why in the world we waited for you, for I am + sure you don't deserve it. What success? What success, Mr. Rossitur?" + </p> + <p> + "'Faith ma'am, there's little enough to boast of, as far as I am + concerned. Mr. Carleton may speak for himself." + </p> + <p> + "I am very sorry, ma'am, you waited for me," said that gentleman. "I am a + delinquent I acknowledge. The day came to an end before I was at all aware + of it." + </p> + <p> + "It would not do to flatter you so far as to tell you why we waited," said + Mrs. Evelyn's soft voice. And then perceiving that the gentleman at whom + she was looking gave her no answer she turned to the other. "How many + woodcock, Mr. Rossitur?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing to shew, ma'am," he replied. "Didn't see a solitary one. I heard + some partridges, but I didn't mean to have room in my bag for them." + </p> + <p> + "Did you find the right ground, Rossitur?" + </p> + <p> + "I had a confounded long tramp after it if I didn't," said the discomfited + sportsman, who did not seem to have yet recovered his good humour. + </p> + <p> + "Were you not together?" said Mrs. Carleton. "Where were you, Guy?" + </p> + <p> + "Following the sport another way, ma'am; I had very good success too." + </p> + <p> + "What's the total?" said Mr. Evelyn. "How much game did you bag?" + </p> + <p> + "Really, sir, I didn't count. I can only answer for a bag full." + </p> + <p> + "Ladies and gentlemen!" cried Rossitur, bursting forth,--"What will you + say when I tell you that Mr. Carleton deserted me and the sport in a most + unceremonious manner, and that he,--the cynical philosopher, the reserved + English gentleman, the gay man of the world,--you are all of 'em by turns, + aren't you, Carleton?--<i>he!</i>--has gone and made a very cavaliero + servante of himself to a piece of rusticity, and spent all to-day in + helping a little girl pick up chestnuts!" "Mr. Carleton would be a better + man if he were to spend a good many more days in the same manner," said + that gentleman, dryly enough. But the entrance of dinner put a stop to + both laughter and questioning for a time, all of the party being well + disposed to their meat. + </p> + <p> + When the pickerel from the lakes, and the poultry and half-kept joints had + had their share of attention, and a pair of fine wild ducks were set on + the table, the tongues of the party found something to do besides eating. + </p> + <p> + "We have had a very satisfactory day among the Shakers, Guy," said Mrs. + Carleton; "and we have arranged to drive to Kenton to-morrow--I suppose + you will go with us?" + </p> + <p> + "With pleasure, mother, but that I am engaged to dinner about five or six + miles in the opposite direction." + </p> + <p> + "Engaged to dinner!--what with this old gentleman where you went last + night? And you too, Mr. Rossitur?" + </p> + <p> + "I have made no promise, ma'am, but I take it I must go." + </p> + <p> + "Vexatious! Is the little girl going with us, Guy?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know yet--I half apprehend, yes; there seems to be a doubt in her + grandfather's mind, not whether he can let her go, but whether he can keep + her, and that looks like it." + </p> + <p> + "Is it your little cousin who proved the successful rival of the woodcock + to-day, Carleton?" said Mrs. Evelyn. "What is she?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, ma'am, upon my word. I presume Carleton will tell you she + is something uncommon and quite remarkable." + </p> + <p> + "Is she, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "What, ma'am?" + </p> + <p> + "Uncommon?" + </p> + <p> + "Very." + </p> + <p> + "Come! That <i>is</i> something, from <i>you</i>," said Rossitur's brother + officer, Lieut. Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "What's the uncommonness?" said Mrs. Thorn, addressing herself rather to + Mr. Rossitur as she saw Mr. Carleton's averted eye;--"Is she handsome, Mr. + Rossitur?" + </p> + <p> + "I can't tell you, I am sure, ma'am. I saw nothing but a nice child enough + in a calico frock, just such as one would see in any farm-house. She + rushed into the room when she was first called to see us, from somewhere + in distant regions, with an immense iron ladle a foot and a half long in + her hand with which she had been performing unknown feats of housewifery; + and they had left her head still encircled with a halo of kitchen-smoke. + If as they say 'coming events cast their shadows before,' she was the + shadow of supper." + </p> + <p> + "Oh Carleton, Carleton!" said Mrs. Evelyn, but in a tone of very gentle + and laughing reproof,--"for shame! What a picture! and of your cousin!" + </p> + <p> + "Is she a pretty child, Guy?" said Mrs. Carleton, who did not relish her + son's grave face. + </p> + <p> + "No ma'am--something more than that." + </p> + <p> + "How old?" + </p> + <p> + "About ten or eleven." + </p> + <p> + "That's an ugly age." + </p> + <p> + "She will never be at an ugly age." + </p> + <p> + "What style of beauty?" + </p> + <p> + "The highest--that degree of mould and finish which belongs only to the + finest material." + </p> + <p> + "That is hardly the kind of beauty one would expect to see in such a + place," said Mrs. Carleton. "From one side of her family to be sure she + has a right to it." + </p> + <p> + "I have seen very few examples of it anywhere," said her son. + </p> + <p> + "Who were her parents?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Her mother was Mrs. Rossitur's sister,--her father--" + </p> + <p> + "Amy Carleton!" exclaimed Mrs. Evelyn,--"O I knew her! Was Amy Carleton + her mother? O I didn't know whom you were talking of. She was one of my + dearest friends. Her daughter may well be handsome--she was one of the + most lovely persons I ever knew; in body and mind both. O I loved Amy + Carleton very much. I must see this child." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know who her father was," Mrs. Carleton went on. + </p> + <p> + "O her father was Major Ringgan," said Mrs. Evelyn. "I never saw him, but + I have heard him spoken of in very high terms. I always heard that Amy + married very well." + </p> + <p> + "Major Ringgan!" said Mrs. Thorn;--"his name is very well known; he was + very distinguished." + </p> + <p> + "He was a self-made man entirely," said Mrs. Evelyn, in a tone that + conveyed a good deal more than the simple fact. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, he was a self made man," said Mrs. Thorn, "but I should never think + of that where a man distinguishes himself so much; he was very + distinguished." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and for more than officer-like qualities," said Mrs. Evelyn. "I have + heard his personal accomplishments as a gentleman highly praised." + </p> + <p> + "So that little Miss Ringgan's right to be a beauty may be considered + clearly made out," said Mr. Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "It is one of those singular cases," said Mr. Carleton, "where purity of + blood proves itself, and one has no need to go back to past generations to + make any inquiry concerning it." + </p> + <p> + "Hear him!" cried Rossitur;--"and for the life of me I could see nothing + of all this wonder. Her face is not at all striking." + </p> + <p> + "The wonder is not so much in what it <i>is</i> as in what it indicates," + said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "What does it indicate?" said his mother. + </p> + <p> + "Suppose you were to ask me to count the shades of colour in a rainbow," + answered he. + </p> + <p> + "Hear him!" cried Thorn again. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I hope she will go with us and we shall have a chance of seeing + her," said Mrs. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "If she were only a few years older it is my belief you would see enough + of her, ma'am," said young Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + The haughty coldness of Mr. Carleton's look at this speech could not be + surpassed. + </p> + <p> + "But she has beauty of feature too, has she not?" Mrs. Carleton asked + again of her son. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, in very high degree. The contour of the eye and brow I never saw + finer." + </p> + <p> + "It is a little odd," said Mrs. Evelyn with the slightest touch of a + piqued air, (she had some daughters at home)--"that is a kind of beauty + one is apt to associate with high breeding, and certainly you very rarely + see it anywhere else; and Major Ringgan, however distinguished and + estimable, as I have no doubt he was,--And this child must have been + brought up with no advantages, here in the country." + </p> + <p> + "My dear madam," said Mr. Carleton smiling a little, "this high breeding + is a very fine thing, but it can neither be given nor bequeathed; and we + cannot entail it." + </p> + <p> + "But it can be taught, can't it?" + </p> + <p> + "If it could be taught it is to be hoped it would be oftener learned," + said the young man dryly. + </p> + <p> + "But what do we mean, then, when we talk of the high breeding of certain + classes--and families? and why are we not disappointed when we look to + find it in connection with certain names and positions in society?" + </p> + <p> + "I do not know," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "You don't mean to say, I suppose, Mr. Carleton," said Thorn bridling a + little, "that it is a thing independent of circumstances, and that there + is no value in blood?" + </p> + <p> + "Very nearly--answering the question as you understand it." + </p> + <p> + "May I ask how you understand it?" + </p> + <p> + "As you do, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Is there no high breeding then in the world?" asked good-natured Mrs. + Thorn, who could be touched on this point of family. + </p> + <p> + "There is very little of it. What is commonly current under the name is + merely counterfeit notes which pass from hand to hand of those who are + bankrupt in the article." + </p> + <p> + "And to what serve then," said Mrs. Evelyn colouring, "the long lists of + good old names which even you, Mr. Carleton, I know, do not disdain?" + </p> + <p> + "To endorse the counterfeit notes," said Mr. Carleton smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Guy you are absurd!" said his mother. "I will not sit at the table and + listen to you if you talk such stuff. What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I beg your pardon, mother, you have misunderstood me," said he seriously. + "Mind, I have been talking, not of ordinary conformity to what the world + requires, but of that fine perfection of mental and moral constitution + which in its own natural necessary acting leaves nothing to be desired, in + every occasion or circumstance of life. It is the pure gold, and it knows + no tarnish; it is the true coin, and it gives what it proffers to give; it + is the living plant ever-blossoming, and not the cut and art-arranged + flowers. It is a thing of the mind altogether; and where nature has not + curiously prepared the soil it is in vain to try to make it grow. <i>This</i> + is not very often met with?" + </p> + <p> + "No indeed," said Mrs. Carleton;--"but you are so fastidiously nice in all + your notions!--at this rate nothing will ever satisfy you." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think it is so very uncommon," said Mrs. Thorn. "It seems to me + one sees as much of it as can be expected, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton pared his apple with an engrossed air. + </p> + <p> + "O no, Mrs. Thorn," said Mrs. Evelyn, "I don't agree with you--I don't + think you often see such a combination as Mr. Carleton has been speaking + of--very rarely!--but, Mr. Carleton, don't you think it is generally found + in that class of society where the habits of life are constantly the most + polished and refined?" + </p> + <p> + "Possibly," answered he, diving into the core of his apple. + </p> + <p> + "No, but tell me;--I want to know what you think." + </p> + <p> + "Cultivation and refinement have taught people to recognize and analyze + and imitate it; the counterfeits are most current in that society,--but as + to the reality I don't know--it is nature's work and she is a little + freaky about it." + </p> + <p> + "But Guy!" said his mother impatiently;--"this is not selling but giving + away one's birthright. Where is the advantage of birth if breeding is not + supposed to go along with it. Where the parents have had intelligence and + refinement do we not constantly see them inherited by the children? and in + an increasing degree from generation to generation?" + </p> + <p> + "Very extraordinary!" said Mrs. Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "I do not undervalue the blessings of inheritance, mother, believe me, nor + deny the general doctrine; though intelligence does not always descend, + and manners die out, and that invaluable legacy, <i>a name</i>, may be + thrown away. But this delicate thing we are speaking of is not + intelligence nor refinement, but comes rather from a happy combination of + qualities, together with a peculiarly fine nervous constitution;--the <i>essence</i> + of it may consist with an omission, even with an awkwardness, and with a + sad ignorance of conventionalities." + </p> + <p> + "But even if that be so, do you think it can ever reach its full + development but in the circumstances that are favourable to it?" said Mrs. + Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Probably not often; the diamond in some instances wants the graver;--but + it is the diamond. Nature seems now and then to have taken a princess's + child and dropped it in some odd corner of the kingdom, while she has left + the clown in the palace." + </p> + <p> + "From all which I understand," said Mr. Thorn, "that this little chestnut + girl is a princess in disguise." + </p> + <p> + "Really, Carleton!"--Rossitur began. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Evelyn leaned back in her chair and quietly eating a piece of apple + eyed Mr. Carleton with a look half amused and half discontented, and + behind all that, keenly attentive. + </p> + <p> + "Take for example those two miniatures you were looking at last night, + Mrs. Evelyn," the young man went on;--"Louis XVI. and Marie + Antoinette--what would you have more unrefined, more heavy, more <i>animal</i>, + than the face of that descendant of a line of kings?" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Evelyn bowed her head acquiescingly and seemed to enjoy her apple. + </p> + <p> + "<i>He</i> had a pretty bad lot of an inheritance sure enough, take it all + together," said Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Thorn,--"is this little stray princess as well-looking as + t'other miniature?" + </p> + <p> + "Better, in some respects," said Mr. Carleton coolly. + </p> + <p> + "Better!" cried Mrs. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Not in the brilliancy of her beauty, but in some of its + characteristics;--better in its promise." + </p> + <p> + "Make yourself intelligible, for the sake of my nerves, Guy," said his + mother. "Better looking than Marie Antoinette!" + </p> + <p> + "My unhappy cousin is said to be a fairy, ma'am," said Mr. Rossitur; "and + I presume all this may be referred to enchantment." + </p> + <p> + "That face of Marie Antoinette's," said Mr. Carleton smiling, "is an + undisciplined one--uneducated." + </p> + <p> + "Uneducated!" exclaimed Mrs. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Don't mistake me, mother,--I do not mean that it shows any want of + reading or writing, but it does indicate an untrained character--a mind + unprepared for the exigencies of life." + </p> + <p> + "She met those exigencies indifferent well too," observed Mr. Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Ay--but pride, and the dignity of rank, and undoubtedly some of the finer + qualities of a woman's nature, might suffice for that, and yet leave her + utterly unfitted to play wisely and gracefully a part in ordinary life." + </p> + <p> + "Well, she had no such part to play," said Mrs. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, mother--but I am comparing faces." + </p> + <p> + "Well--the other face?" + </p> + <p> + "It has the same style of refined beauty of feature, but--to compare them + in a word, Marie Antoinette looks to me like a superb exotic that has come + to its brilliant perfection of bloom in a hot-house--it would lose its + beauty in the strong free air--it would change and droop if it lacked + careful waiting upon and constant artificial excitement;--the other," said + Mr. Carleton musingly,--is a flower of the woods, raising its head above + frost and snow and the rugged soil where fortune has placed it, with an + air of quiet patient endurance;--a storm wind may bring it to the ground, + easily--but if its gentle nature be not broken, it will look up again, + unchanged, and bide its time in unrequited beauty and sweetness to the + end." + </p> + <p> + "The exotic for me!" cried Rossitur,--"if I only had a place for her. I + don't like pale elegancies." + </p> + <p> + "I'd make a piece of poetry of that if I was you, Carleton," said Mr. + Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton has done that already," said Mrs. Evelyn smoothly. + </p> + <p> + "I never heard you talk so before, Guy," said his mother looking at him. + His eyes had grown dark with intensity of expression while he was + speaking, gazing at visionary flowers or beauties through the dinner-table + mahogany. He looked up and laughed as she addressed him, and rising turned + off lightly with his usual sir. + </p> + <p> + "I congratulate you, Mrs. Carleton," Mrs. Evelyn whispered as they went + from the table, "that this little beauty is not a few years older." + </p> + <p> + "Why?" said Mrs. Carleton. "If she is all that Guy says, I would give + anything in the world to see him married." + </p> + <p> + "Time enough," said Mrs. Evelyn with a knowing smile. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Mrs. Carleton,--"I think he would be happier. He is a + restless spirit--nothing satisfies him--nothing fixes him. He cannot rest + at home--he abhors politics--he flits way from country to country and + doesn't remain long anywhere." + </p> + <p> + "And you with him." + </p> + <p> + "And I with him. I should like to see if a wife could not persuade him to + stay at home." + </p> + <p> + "I guess you have petted him too much," said Mrs. Evelyn slyly. + </p> + <p> + "I cannot have petted him too much, for he has never disappointed me." + </p> + <p> + "No--of course not; but it seems you find it difficult to lead him." + </p> + <p> + "No one ever succeeded in doing that," said Mrs. Carleton, with a smile + that was anything but an ungratified one. "He never wanted driving, and to + lead him is impossible. You may try it, and while you think you are going + to gain your end, if he thinks it worth while, you will suddenly find that + he is leading you. It is so with everybody--in some inexplicable way." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Evelyn thought the mystery was very easily explicable as far as the + mother was concerned; and changed the conversation. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="06"></a>Chapter VI. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + To them life was a simple art<br /> Of duties to be done,<br /> + A game where each man took his part,<br /> A race where all + must run;<br /> A battle whose great scheme and scope<br /> They + little cared to know,<br /> Content, as men-at-arms, to cope<br /> Each + with his fronting foe. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Milnes. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + On so great and uncommon an occasion as Mr. Ringgan's giving a + dinner-party the disused front parlour was opened and set in order; the + women-folks, as he called them, wanting the whole back part of the house + for their operations. So when the visitors arrived, in good time, they + were ushered into a large square bare-looking room--a strong contrast even + to their dining-room at the Poolwhich gave them nothing of the welcome of + the pleasant farmhouse kitchen, and where nothing of the comfort of the + kitchen found its way but a very strong smell of roast pig. There was the + cheerless air of a place where nobody lives, or thinks of living. The very + chairs looked as if they had made up their minds to be forsaken for a term + of months; it was impossible to imagine that a cheerful supper had ever + been laid upon the stiff cold-looking table that stood with its leaves + down so primly against the wall. All that a blazing fire could do to make + amends for deficiencies, it did; but the wintry wind that swept round the + house shook the paper window-shades in a remorseless way; and the utmost + efforts of said fire could not prevent it from coming in and giving + disagreeable impertinent whispers at the ears of everybody. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ringgan's welcome, however, was and would have been the same thing + anywhere--genial, frank, and dignified; neither he nor it could be changed + by circumstances. Mr. Carleton admired anew, as he came forward, the fine + presence and noble look of his old host; a look that it was plain had + never needed to seek the ground; a brow that in large or small things had + never been crossed by a shadow of shame. And to a discerning eye the face + was not a surer index of a lofty than of a peaceful and pure mind; too + peace-loving and pure perhaps for the best good of his affairs in the + conflict with a selfish and unscrupulous world. At least now, in the time + of his old age and infirmity; in former days his straightforward wisdom + backed by an indomitable courage and strength had made Mr. Ringgan no safe + subject for either braving or overreaching. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's keen-sighted affection was heartily gratified by the manner in + which her grandfather was greeted by at least one of his guests, and that + the one about whose opinion she cared the most. Mr. Carleton seemed as + little sensible of the cold room as Mr. Ringgan himself. Fleda felt sure + that her grandfather was appreciated; and she would have sat delightedly + listening to what the one and the other were presently saying, if she had + not taken notice that her cousin looked <i>astray</i>. He was eying the + fire with a profound air and she fancied he thought it poor amusement. + Little as Fleda in secret really cared about that, with an instant + sacrifice of her own pleasure she quietly changed her position for one + from which she could more readily bring to bear upon Mr. Rossitur's + distraction the very light artillery of her conversation; and attacked him + on the subject of the game he had brought home. Her motive and her manner + both must have been lost upon the young gentleman. He forthwith set about + amusing himself in a way his little entertainer had not counted upon, + namely, with giving a chase to her wits; partly to pass away the time, and + partly to gratify his curiosity, as he said, "to see what Fleda was made + of." By a curious system of involved, startling, or absurd questions, he + endeavoured to puzzle or confound or entrap her. Fleda however steadily + presented a grave front to the enemy, and would every now and then + surprise him with an unexpected turn or clever doubling, and sometimes, + when he thought he had her in a corner, jump over the fence and laugh at + him from the other side. Mr. Rossitur's respect for his little adversary + gradually increased, and finding that she had rather the best of the game + he at last gave it up, just as Mr. Ringgan was asking Mr. Carleton if he + was a judge of stock? Mr. Carleton saying with a smile "No, but he hoped + Mr. Ringgan would give him his first lesson,"--the old gentleman + immediately arose with that alacrity of manner he always wore when he had + a visitor that pleased him, and taking his hat and cane led the way out; + choosing, with a man's true carelessness of housewifery etiquette, the + kitchen route, of all others. Not even admonished by the sight of the + bright Dutch oven before the fire that he was introducing his visitors + somewhat too early to the pig, he led the whole party through, Cynthia + scuttling away in haste across the kitchen with something that must not be + seen, while aunt Miriam looked out at the company through the crack of the + pantry door, at which Fleda ventured a sly glance of intelligence. + </p> + <p> + It was a fine though a windy and cold afternoon; the lights and shadows + were driving across the broad upland and meadows. + </p> + <p> + "This is a fine arable country," remarked Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Capital, sir,--capital, for many miles round, if we were not so far from + a market. I was one of the first that broke ground in this township,--one + of the very first settlers--I've seen the rough and the smooth of it, and + I never had but one mind about it from the first. All this--as far as you + can see--I cleared myself; most of it with my own hand." + </p> + <p> + "That recollection must attach you strongly to the place, I should think, + sir." + </p> + <p> + "Hum--perhaps I cared too much for it," he replied, "for it is taken away + from me. Well--it don't matter now." + </p> + <p> + "Is it not yours?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir!--it <i>was</i> mine, a great many years; but I was obliged to + part with it, two years ago, to a scoundrel of a fellow--McGowan up + here--he got an advantage over me. I can't take care of myself any more as + I used to do, and I don't find that other people deal by me just as I + could wish--" + </p> + <p> + He was silent for a moment and then went on,-- + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir! when I first set myself down here, or a little further that way + my first house was,--a pretty rough house, too,--there wa'n't two settlers + beside within something like ten miles round.--I've seen the whole of it + cleared, from the cutting of the first forest trees till this day." + </p> + <p> + "You have seen the nation itself spring up within that time," remarked his + guest. + </p> + <p> + "Not exactly--that question of our nationality was settled a little before + I came here. I was born rather too late to see the whole of that play--I + saw the best of it though--boys were men in those days. My father was in + the thick of it from beginning to end." + </p> + <p> + "In the army, was he?" + </p> + <p> + "Ho yes, sir! he and every child he had that wasn't a girl--there wasn't a + man of the name that wa'n't on the right side. I was in the army myself + when I was fifteen. I was nothing but a fifer--but I tell you sir! there + wasn't a general officer in the country that played his part with a + prouder heart than I did mine!" + </p> + <p> + "And was that the general spirit of the ranks?" + </p> + <p> + "Not altogether," replied the old gentleman, passing his hand several + times abstractedly over his white hair, a favourite gesture with + him,--"not exactly that--there was a good deal of mixture of different + materials, especially in this state; and where the feeling wasn't pretty + strong it was no wonder if it got tired out; but the real stuff, the true + Yankee blood, was pretty firm! Ay, and some of the rest! There was a good + deal to try men in those days. Sir, I have seen many a time when I had + nothing to dine upon but my fife, and it was more than that could do to + keep me from feeling very empty!" + </p> + <p> + "But was this a common case? did this happen often?" said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Pretty often--pretty often, sometimes," answered the old gentleman. + "Things were very much out of order, you see, and in some parts of the + country it was almost impossible to get the supplies the men needed. + Nothing would have kept them together,--nothing under heaven--but the love + and confidence they had in one name. Their love of right and independence + wouldn't have been strong enough, and besides a good many of them got + disheartened. A hungry stomach is a pretty stout arguer against abstract + questions. I have seen my father crying like a child for the wants and + sufferings he was obliged to see and couldn't relieve." + </p> + <p> + "And then you used to relieve yourselves, grandpa," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "How was that, Fairy?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked at her grandfather, who gave a little preparatory laugh and + passed his hand over his head again. + </p> + <p> + "Why yes," said he,--"we used to think the tories, King George's men you + know, were fair game; and when we happened to be in the neighbourhood of + some of them that we knew were giving all the help they could to the + enemy, we used to let them cook our dinners for us once in a while." + </p> + <p> + "How did you manage that, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, they used to have little bake-ovens to cook their meats and so on, + standing some way out from the house,--did you never gee one of + them?--raised on four little heaps of stone; the bottom of the oven is one + large flat stone, and the arch built over it;--they look like a great + bee-hive. Well--we used to watch till we saw the good woman of the house + get her oven cleverly heated, and put in her batch of bread, or her meat + pie, or her pumpkin and apple pies!--whichever it was--there didn't any of + 'em come much amiss--and when we guessed they were pretty nigh done, three + or four of us would creep in and whip off the whole--oven and all!--to a + safe place. I tell you," said he with a knowing nod of his head at the + laughing Fleda,--"those were first-rate pies!" + </p> + <p> + "And then did you put the oven back again afterwards, grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "I guess not often, dear!" replied the old gentleman. + </p> + <p> + "What do you think of such lawless proceedings, Miss Fleda?" said Mr. + Carleton, laughing at or with her. + </p> + <p> + "O I like it," said Fleda. "You liked those pies all the better, didn't + you, grandpa, because you had got them from the tories?" + </p> + <p> + "That we did! If we hadn't got them maybe King George's men would, in some + shape. But we weren't always so lucky as to get hold of an oven full. I + remember one time several of us had been out on a foraging expedition---- + there, sir, what do you think of that for a two and a half year old?" + </p> + <p> + They had come up with the chief favourite of his barn-yard, a fine + deep-coloured Devon bull. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what one might see in Devonshire," he remarked presently, + "but I know <i>this</i> country can't shew the like of him!" + </p> + <p> + A discussion followed of the various beauties and excellencies of the + animal; a discussion in which Mr. Carleton certainly took little part, + while Mr. Ringgan descanted enthusiastically upon 'hide' and 'brisket' and + 'bone,' and Rossitur stood in an abstraction, it might be scornful, it + might be mazed. Little Fleda quietly listening and looking at the + beautiful creature, which from being such a treasure to her grandfather + was in a sort one to her, more than half understood them all; but Mr. + Ringgan was too well satisfied with the attention of one of his guests to + miss that of the other. + </p> + <p> + "That fellow don't look as if <i>he</i> had ever known short commons," was + Rossitur's single remark as they turned away. + </p> + <p> + "You did not give us the result of your foraging expedition, sir," said + Mr. Carleton in a different manner. + </p> + <p> + "Do, grandpa," said Fleda softly. + </p> + <p> + "Ha!--Oh it is not worth telling," said the old gentleman, look ing + gratified;--"Fleda has heard my stories till she knows them by heart--she + could tell it as well herself. What was it?--about the pig?--We had been + out, several of us, one afternoon to try to get up a supper--or a dinner, + for we had had none--and we had caught a pig. It happened that I was the + only one of the party that had a cloak, and so the pig was given to me to + carry home, because I could hide it the best. Well sir!--we were coming + home, and had set our mouths for a prime supper, when just as we were + within a few rods of our shanty who should come along but our captain! My + heart sank as it never has done at the thought of a supper before or + since, I believe! I held my cloak together as well as I could, and kept + myself back a little, so that if the pig shewed a cloven foot behind me, + the captain might not see it. But I almost gave up all for lost when I saw + the captain going into the hut with us. There was a kind of a rude + bedstead standing there; and I set myself down upon the side of it, and + gently worked and eased my pig off under my cloak till I got him to roll + down behind the bed. I knew," said Mr. Ringgan laughing, "I knew by the + captain's eye as well as I knew anything, that he smelt a rat; but he kept + our counsel, as well as his own; and when he was gone we took the pig out + into the woods behind the shanty and roasted him finely, and we sent and + asked Capt. Sears to supper; and he came and helped us eat the pig with a + great deal of appetite, and never asked no questions how we came by him!" + </p> + <p> + "I wonder your stout-heartedness did not fail, in the course of so long a + time," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Never sir!" said the old gentleman. "I never doubted for a moment what + the end would be. My father never doubted for a moment. We trusted in God + and in Washington!" + </p> + <p> + "Did you see actual service yourself?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir--I never did. I wish I had. I should like to have had the honour + of striking one blow at the rascals. However they were hit pretty well. I + ought to be contented. My father saw enough of fighting--he was colonel of + a regiment--he was at the affair of Burgoyne. <i>That</i> gave us a lift + in good time. What rejoicing there was everywhere when that news came! I + could have fifed all day upon an empty stomach and felt satisfied. People + reckoned everywhere that the matter was settled when that great piece of + good fortune was given us. And so it was!--wa'n't it, dear?" said the old + gentleman, with one of those fond, pleased, sympathetic looks to Fleda + with which he often brought up what he was saying. + </p> + <p> + "General Gates commanded there?" said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir--Gates was a poor stick--I never thought much of him. That fellow + Arnold distinguished himself in the actions before Burgoyne's surrender. + He fought like a brave man. It seems strange that so mean a scamp should + have had so much blood in him?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, are great fighters generally good men, grandpa?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Not exactly, dear!" replied her grandfather;--"but such little-minded + rascality is not just the vice one would expect to find in a gallant + soldier." + </p> + <p> + "Those were times that made men," said Mr. Carleton musingly. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," answered the old gentleman gravely,--"they were times that called + for men, and God raised them up. But Washington was the soul of the + country, sir!" + </p> + <p> + "Well, the time made him," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "I beg your pardon," said the old gentleman with a very decided little + turn of his head,--"I think he made the time. I don't know what it would + have been, sir, or what it would have come to, but for him. After all, it + is rather that the things which try people shew what is in them;--I hope + there are men enough in the country yet, though they haven't as good a + chance to shew what they are." + </p> + <p> + "Either way," said his guest smiling; "it is a happiness, Mr. Ringgan, to + have lived at a time when there was something worth living for." + </p> + <p> + "Well--I don't know--" said the old gentleman;--"those times would make + the prettiest figure in a story or a romance, I suppose; but I've tried + both, and on the whole," said he with another of his looks at Fleda,--"I + think I like these times the best!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda smiled her acquiescence. His guest could not help thinking to + himself that however pacific might be Mr. Ringgan's temper, no man in + those days that tried men could have brought to the issue more stern + inflexibility and gallant fortitude of bearing. His frame bore evidence of + great personal strength, and his eye, with all its mildness, had an + unflinching dignity that <i>could</i> never have quailed before danger or + duty. And now, while he was recalling with great animation and pleasure + the scenes of his more active life, and his blue eye was shining with the + fire of other days, his manner had the self-possession and quiet + sedateness of triumph that bespeak a man always more ready to do than to + say. Perhaps the contemplation of the noble Roman-like old figure before + him did not tend to lessen the feeling, even the sigh of regret, with + which the young man said, + </p> + <p> + "There was something then for a man to do!" + </p> + <p> + "There is always that," said the old gentleman quietly. "God has given + every man his work to do; and 'tain't difficult for him to find out what. + No man is put here to be idle." + </p> + <p> + "But," said his companion, with a look in which not a little haughty + reserve was mingled with a desire to speak out his thoughts, "half the + world are busy about hum-drum concerns and the other half doing nothing, + or worse." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know about that," said Mr. Ringgan;--"that depends upon the way + you take things. 'Tain't always the men that make the most noise that are + the most good in the world. Hum-drum affairs needn't be hum-drum in the + doing of 'em. It is my maxim," said the old gentleman looking at his + companion with a singularly open pleasant smile,--"that a man may be great + about a'most anything--chopping wood, if he happens to be in that line. I + used to go upon that plan, sir. Whatever I have set my hand to do, I have + done it as well as I knew how to; and if you follow that rule out you'll + not be idle, nor hum-drum neither. Many's the time that I have mowed what + would be a day's work for another man, before breakfast." + </p> + <p> + Rossitur's smile was not meant to be seen. But Mr. Carleton's, to the + credit of his politeness and his understanding both, was frank as the old + gentleman's own, as he answered with a good-humoured shake of his head, + </p> + <p> + "I can readily believe it, sir, and honour both your maxim and your + practice. But I am not exactly in that line." + </p> + <p> + "Why don't you try the army?" said Mr. Ringgan with a look of interest. + </p> + <p> + "There is not a cause worth fighting for," said the young man, his brow + changing again. "It is only to add weight to the oppressor's hand, or + throw away life in the vain endeavour to avert it. I will do neither." + </p> + <p> + "But all the world is open before such a young man as you," said Mr. + Ringgan. + </p> + <p> + "A large world," said Mr. Carleton with his former mixture of + expression,--"but there isn't much in it." + </p> + <p> + "Politics?" said Mr. Ringgan. + </p> + <p> + "It is to lose oneself in a seething-pot, where the scum is the most + apparent thing." + </p> + <p> + "But there is society?" said Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing better or more noble than the succession of motes that flit + through a sunbeam into oblivion." + </p> + <p> + "Well, why not then sit down quietly on one's estates and enjoy them, one + who has enough?" + </p> + <p> + "And be a worm in the heart of an apple." + </p> + <p> + "Well then," said Rossitur laughing, though not knowing exactly how far he + might venture, "there is nothing left for you, as I don't suppose you + would take to any of the learned professions, but to strike out some new + path for yourself--hit upon some grand invention for benefiting the human + race and distinguishing your own name at once." + </p> + <p> + But while he spoke his companion's face had gone back to its usual look of + imperturbable coolness; the dark eye was even haughtily unmoved, till it + met Fleda's inquiring and somewhat anxious glance. He smiled. + </p> + <p> + "The nearest approach I ever made to that," said he, "was when I went + chestnuting the other day. Can't you find some more work for me, Fairy?" + </p> + <p> + Taking Fleda's hand with his wonted graceful lightness of manner he walked + on with her, leaving the other two to follow together. + </p> + <p> + "You would like to know, perhaps," observed Mr. Rossitur in rather a low + tone,--"that Mr. Carleton is an Englishman." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay?" said Mr. Ringgan. "An Englishman, is he?--Well sir,--what is it + that I would like to know?" + </p> + <p> + "<i>That"</i> said Rossitur. "I would have told you before if I could. I + supposed you might not choose to speak quite so freely, perhaps, on + American affairs before him." + </p> + <p> + "I haven't two ways of speaking, sir, on anything," said the old gentleman + a little dryly. "Is your friend very tender on that chapter?" + </p> + <p> + "O not that I know of at all," said Rossitur; "but you know there is a + great deal of feeling still among the English about it--they have never + forgiven us heartily for whipping them; and I know Carleton is related to + the nobility and all that, you know; so I thought--" + </p> + <p> + "Ah well!" said the old gentleman,--"we don't know much about nobility and + such gimcracks in this country. I'm not much of a courtier. I am pretty + much accustomed to speak my mind as I think it.--He's wealthy, I suppose?" + </p> + <p> + "He's more than that, sir. Enormous estates! He's the finest fellow in the + world--one of the first young men in England." + </p> + <p> + "You have been there yourself and know?" said Mr. Ringgan, glancing at his + companion. + </p> + <p> + "If I have not, sir, others have told me that do." + </p> + <p> + "Ah well," said Mr. Ringgan placidly,--"we sha'n't quarrel, I guess. What + did he come out here for, eh?" + </p> + <p> + "Only to amuse himself. They are going back again in a few weeks, and I + intend accompanying them to join my mother in Paris. Will my little cousin + be of the party?" + </p> + <p> + They were sauntering along towards the house. A loud calling of her name + the minute before had summoned Fleda thither at the top of her speed; and + Mr. Carleton turned to repeat the same question. + </p> + <p> + The old gentleman stopped, and striking his stick two or three times + against the ground looked sorrowfully undetermined. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I don't know!--" he said at last,--"it's a pretty hard + matter--she'd break her heart about it, I suppose,--" + </p> + <p> + "I dare urge nothing, sir," said Mr. Carleton. "I will only assure you + that if you entrust your treasure to us she shall be cherished as you + would wish, till we place her in the hands of her aunt." + </p> + <p> + "I know that, sir,--I do not doubt it," said Mr. Ringgan, "but--I'll tell + you by and by what I conclude upon," he said with evident relief of manner + as Fleda came bounding back to them. "Mr. Rossitur, have you made your + peace with Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I was not aware that I had any to make, sir," replied the young + gentleman. "I will do it with pleasure if my little cousin will tell me + how. But she looks as if she needed enlightening as much as myself." + </p> + <p> + "She has something against you, I can tell you," said the old gentleman, + looking amused, and speaking as if Fleda were a curious little piece of + human mechanism which could hear its performances talked of with all the + insensibility of any other toy. "She gives it as her judgment that Mr. + Carleton is the most of a gentleman, because he keeps his promise." + </p> + <p> + "Oh grandpa!"-- + </p> + <p> + Poor Fleda's cheek was hot with a distressful blush. Rossitur coloured + with anger. Mr. Carleton's smile had a very different expression. + </p> + <p> + "If Fleda will have the goodness to recollect," said Rossitur, "I cannot + be charged with breaking a promise, for I made none." + </p> + <p> + "But Mr. Carleton did," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "She is right, Mr. Rossitur, she is right," said that gentleman; "a + fallacy might as well elude Ithuriel's spear as the sense of a pure + spirit--there is no need of written codes. Make your apologies, man, and + confess yourself in the wrong." + </p> + <p> + "Pho, pho," said the old gentleman,--"she don't take it very much to + heart. I guess <i>I</i> ought to be the one to make the apologies," he + added, looking at Fleda's face. + </p> + <p> + But Fleda commanded herself, with difficulty, and announced that dinner + was ready. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Rossitur tells me, Mr. Carleton, you are an Englishman," said his + host. "I have some notion of that's passing through my head before, but + somehow I had entirely lost sight of it when I was speaking so freely to + you a little while ago--about our national quarrel--I know some of your + countrymen owe us a grudge yet." + </p> + <p> + "Not I, I assure you," said the young Englishman. "I am ashamed of them + for it. I congratulate you on being Washington's countryman and a sharer + in his grand struggle for the right against the wrong." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ringgan shook his guest's hand, looking very much pleased; and having + by this time arrived at the house the young gentlemen were formally + introduced at once to the kitchen, their dinner, and aunt Miriam. + </p> + <p> + It is not too much to say that the entertainment gave perfect satisfaction + to everybody--better fate than attends most entertainments. Even Mr. + Rossitur's ruffled spirit felt the soothing influence of good cheer, to + which he happened to be peculiarly sensible, and came back to its average + condition of amenity. + </p> + <p> + Doubtless that was a most informal table, spread according to no rules + that for many generations at least have been known in the refined world; + an anomaly in the eyes of certainly one of the company. Yet the board had + a character of its own, very far removed from vulgarity, and suiting + remarkably well with the condition and demeanour of those who presided + over it--a comfortable, well-to-do, substantial look, that could afford to + dispense with minor graces; a self-respect that was not afraid of + criticism. Aunt Miriam's successful efforts deserve to be celebrated. + </p> + <p> + In the middle of the table the polished amber of the pig's arched back + elevated itself,--a striking object,--but worthy of the place he filled, + as the honours paid him by everybody abundantly testified. Aunt Miriam had + sent down a basket of her own bread, made out of the new flour, brown and + white, both as sweet and fine as it is possible for bread to be; the + piled-up slices were really beautiful. The superb butter had come from + aunt Miriam's dairy too, for on such an occasion she would not trust to + the very doubtful excellence of Miss Cynthia's doings. Every spare place + on the table was filled with dishes of potatoes and pickles and + sweetmeats, that left nothing to be desired in their respective kinds; the + cake was a delicious presentment of the finest of material; and the pies, + pumpkin pies, such as only aunt Miriam could make, rich compounds of + everything <i>but</i> pumpkin, with enough of that to give them a + name--Fleda smiled to think how pleased aunt Miriam must secretly be to + see the homage paid her through them. And most happily Mrs. Plumfield had + discovered that the last tea Mr. Ringgan had brought from the little + Queechy store was not very good, and there was no time to send up on "the + hill" for more, so she made coffee. Verily it was not Mocha, but the thick + yellow cream with which the cups were filled readily made up the + difference. The most curious palate found no want. + </p> + <p> + Everybody was in a high state of satisfaction, even to Miss Cynthia Grail; + who, having some lurking suspicion that Mrs. Plumfield might design to cut + her out of her post of tea-making, had slipped herself into her usual + chair behind the tea-tray before anybody else was ready to sit down. No + one at table bestowed a thought upon Miss Cynthia, but as she thought of + nothing else she may be said to have had her fair share of attention. The + most unqualified satisfaction however was no doubt little Fleda's. + Forgetting with a child's happy readiness the fears and doubts which had + lately troubled her, she was full of the present, enjoying with a most + unselfish enjoyment everything that pleased anybody else. <i>She</i> was + glad that the supper was a fine one, and so approved, because it was her + grandfather's hospitality and her aunt Miriam's housekeeping; little + beside was her care for pies or coffee. She saw with secret glee the + expression of both her aunt's and Mr. Ringgan's face; partly from pure + sympathy, and partly because, as she knew, the cause of it was Mr. + Carleton, whom privately Fleda liked very much. And after all perhaps he + had directly more to do with her enjoyment than all other causes together. + </p> + <p> + Certainly that was true of him with respect to the rest of the + dinner-table. None at that dinner-table had ever seen the like. With all + the graceful charm of manner with which he would have delighted a courtly + circle, he came out from his reserve and was brilliant, gay, sensible, + entertaining, and witty, to a degree that assuredly has very rarely been + thrown away upon an old farmer in the country and his un-polite sister. + They appreciated him though, as well as any courtly circle could have + done, and he knew it. In aunt Miriam's strong sensible face, when not full + of some hospitable care, he could see the reflection of every play of his + own; the grave practical eye twinkled and brightened, giving a ready + answer to every turn of sense or humour in what he was saying. Mr. + Ringgan, as much of a child for the moment as Fleda herself, had lost + everything disagreeable and was in the full genial enjoyment of talk, + rather listening than talking, with his cheeks in a perpetual dimple of + gratification, and a low laugh of hearty amusement now and then rewarding + the conversational and kind efforts of his guest with a complete triumph. + Even the subtle charm which they could not quite recognise wrought + fascination. Miss Cynthia declared afterwards, half admiring and half + vexed, that he spoiled her supper, for she forgot to think how it tasted. + Rossitur--his good humour was entirely restored; but whether even Mr. + Carleton's power could have achieved that without the perfect seasoning of + the pig and the smooth persuasion of the richly-creamed coffee, it may + perhaps be doubted. He stared, mentally, for he had never known his friend + condescend to bring himself out in the same manner before; and he wondered + what he could see in the present occasion to make it worth while. + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Carleton did not think his efforts thrown away. He understood and + admired his fine old host and hostess; and with all their ignorance of + conventionalities and absence of what is called <i>polish</i> of manner, + he could enjoy the sterling sense, the good feeling, the true hearty + hospitality, and the dignified courtesy which both of them shewed. No + matter of the outside; this was in the grain. If mind had lacked much + opportunity it had also made good use of a little; his host, Mr. Carleton + found, had been a great reader, was well acquainted with history and a + very intelligent reasoner upon it; and both he and his sister shewed a + strong and quick aptitude for intellectual subjects of conversation. No + doubt aunt Miriam's courtesy had not been taught by a dancing master, and + her brown-satin gown had seen many a fashion come and go since it was + made, but a <i>lady</i> was in both; and while Rossitur covertly smiled, + Mr. Carleton paid his sincere respect where he felt it was due. Little + Fleda's quick eye hardly saw, but more than half felt, the difference. Mr. + Carleton had no more eager listener now than she, and perhaps none whose + unaffected interest and sympathy gave him more pleasure. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus05.jpg"><img src="images/illus05.jpg" height="250" + alt="Fleda coloured and looked at her grandfather." + title="Fleda coloured and looked at her grandfather." /><br /> Fleda + coloured and looked at her grandfather.</a> + </p> + <p> + When they rose from the table Mr. Ringgan would not be <i>insinuated</i> + into the cold front room again. + </p> + <p> + "No, no," said he,--"what's the matter?--the table? Push the table back, + and let it take care of itself,--come, gentlemen, sit down--draw up your + chairs round the fire, and a fig for ceremony! Comfort, sister Miriam, + against politeness, any day in the year;--don't you say so too, Fairy? + Come here by me." + </p> + <p> + "Miss Fleda," said Mr. Carleton, "will you take a ride with me to + Montepoole to-morrow? I should like to make you acquainted with my + mother." + </p> + <p> + Fleda coloured and looked at her grandfather. + </p> + <p> + "What do you say, deary?" he inquired fondly; "will you go?--I believe, + sir, your proposal will prove a very acceptable one. You will go, won't + you, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda would very much rather not! But she was always exceedingly afraid of + hurting people's feelings; she could not bear that Mr. Carleton should + think she disliked to go with him, so she answered yes, in her usual sober + manner. + </p> + <p> + Just then the door opened and a man unceremoniously walked in, his + entrance immediately following a little sullen knock that had made a + mockery of asking permission. An ill-looking man, in the worst sense; his + face being a mixture of cunning, meanness, and insolence. He shut the door + and came with a slow leisurely step into the middle of the room without + speaking a word. Mr. Carleton saw the blank change in Fleda's face. She + knew him. + </p> + <p> + "Do you wish to see me, Mr. McGowan?" said Mr. Ringgan, not without + something of the same change. + </p> + <p> + "I guess I ha'n't come here for nothing," was the gruff retort. + </p> + <p> + "Wouldn't another time answer as well?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean to find you here another time," said the man chuckling,--"I + have given you notice to quit, and now I have come to tell you you'll + clear out. I ain't a going to be kept out of my property for ever. If I + can't get my money from you, Elzevir Ringgan, I'll see you don't get no + more of it in your hands." + </p> + <p> + "Very well, sir," said the old gentleman;--"You have said all that is + necessary." + </p> + <p> + "You have got to hear a little more, though," returned the other, "I've an + idea that there's a satisfaction in speaking one's mind. I'll have that + much out of you! Mr. Ringgan, a man hadn't ought to make an agreement to + pay what he doesn't <i>mean</i> to pay, and what he has made an agreement + to pay he ought to meet and be up to, if he sold his soul for it! You call + yourself a Christian, do you, to stay in another man's house, month after + month, when you know you ha'n't got the means to give him the rent for it! + That's what <i>I</i> call stealing, and it's what I'd live in the County + House before I'd demean myself to do I and so ought you." + </p> + <p> + "Well, well! neighbour," said Mr. Ringgan, with patient dignity,--"it's no + use calling names. You know as well as I do how all this came about. I + hoped to be able to pay you, but I haven't been able to make it out, + without having more time." + </p> + <p> + "Time!" said the other. "Time to cheat me out of a little more houseroom. + If I was agoing to live on charity, Mr. Ringgan, I'd come out and say so, + and not put my hand in a man's pocket this way. You'll quit the house by + the day after to morrow, or if you don't I'll let you hear a little more + of me that you won't like!" + </p> + <p> + He stalked out, shutting the door after him with a bang. Mr. Carleton had + quitted the room a moment before him. + </p> + <p> + Nobody moved or spoke at first, when the man was gone, except Miss + Cynthia, who as she was taking something from the table to the pantry + remarked, probably for Mr. Rossitur's benefit, that "Mr. Ringgan had to + have that man punished for something he did a few years ago when he was + justice of the peace, and she guessed likely that was the reason he had a + grudge agin him ever since." Beyond this piece of dubious information + nothing was said. Little Fleda stood beside her grandfather with a face of + quiet distress; the tears silently running over her flushed cheeks, and + her eyes fixed upon Mr. Ringgan with a tender touching look of sympathy, + most pure from self-recollection. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton presently came in to take leave of the disturbed family. The + old gentleman rose and returned his shake of the hand with even a degree + more than usual of his manly dignity, or Mr. Carleton thought so. + </p> + <p> + "Good day to you, sir!" he said heartily. "We have had a great deal of + pleasure in your society, and I shall always be very happy to see + you--wherever I am." And then following him to the door and wringing his + hand with a force he was not at all aware of, the old gentleman added in a + lower tone, "I shall let her go with you!" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton read his whole story in the stern self-command of brow, and + the slight convulsion of feature which all the self-command could not + prevent. He returned warmly the grasp of the hand answering merely, "I + will see you again." + </p> + <p> + Fleda wound her arms round her grandfather's neck when they were gone, and + did her best to comfort him, assuring him that "they would be just as + happy somewhere else." And aunt Miriam earnestly proffered her own home. + But Fleda knew that her grandfather was not comforted. He stroked her head + with the same look of stern gravity and troubled emotion which had grieved + her so much the other day. She could not win him to a smile, and went to + bed at last feeling desolate. She had no heart to look out at the night. + The wind was sweeping by in wintry gusts; and Fleda cried herself to sleep + thinking how it would whistle round the dear old house when their ears + would not be there to hear it. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="07"></a>Chapter VII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + He from his old hereditary nook<br /> Must part; the summons came,--our + final leave we took. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Wordsworth. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Mr. Carleton came the next day, but not early, to take Fleda to + Montepoole. She had told her grandfather that she did not think he would + come, because after last night he must know that she would not want to go. + About twelve o'clock however he was there, with a little wagon, and Fleda + was fain to get her sun bonnet and let him put her in. Happily it was her + maxim never to trust to uncertainties, so she was quite ready when he came + and they had not to wait a minute. + </p> + <p> + Though Fleda had a little dread of being introduced to a party of + strangers and was a good deal disappointed at being obliged to keep her + promise, she very soon began to be glad. She found her fear gradually + falling away before Mr. Carleton's quiet kind reassuring manner; he took + such nice care of her; and she presently made up her mind that he would + manage the matter so that it would not be awkward. They had so much + pleasant talk too. Fleda had found before that she could talk to Mr. + Carleton, nay she could not help talking to him; and she forgot to think + about it. And besides, it was a pleasant day, and they drove fast, and + Fleda's particular delight was driving; and though the horse was a little + gay she had a kind of intuitive perception that Mr. Carleton knew how to + manage him. So she gave up every care and was very happy. + </p> + <p> + When Mr. Carleton asked after her grandfather, Fleda answered with great + animation, "O he's very well! and such a happy thing--You heard what that + man said last night, Mr. Carleton, didn't you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Well it is all arranged;--this morning Mr. Jolly--he's a friend of + grandpa's that lives over at Queechy Run and knew about all this--he's a + lawyer--he came this morning and told grandpa that he had found some one + that could lend him the money he wanted and there was no trouble about it; + and we are so happy, for we thought we should have to go away from where + we live now, and I know grandpa would have felt it dreadfully. If it + hadn't been for that,--I mean, for Mr. Jolly's coming--I couldn't have + gone to Montepoole to-day." + </p> + <p> + "Then I am very glad Mr. Jolly made his appearance," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "So am I," said Fleda;--"but I think it was a little strange that Mr. + Jolly wouldn't tell us who it was that he had got the money from. Grandpa + said he never saw Mr. Jolly so curious." + </p> + <p> + When they got to the Pool Fleda's nervousness returned a little; but she + went through the dreaded introduction with great demureness and perfect + propriety. And throughout the day Mr. Carleton had no reason to fear + rebuke for the judgment which he had pronounced upon his little paragon. + All the flattering attention which was shewn her, and it was a good deal, + could not draw Fleda a line beyond the dignified simplicity which seemed + natural to her; any more than the witty attempts at raillery and + endeavours to amuse themselves at her expense, in which some of the + gentlemen shewed their wisdom, could move her from her modest + self-possession. <i>Very</i> quiet, <i>very</i> modest, as she invariably + was, awkwardness could not fasten upon her; her colour might come and her + timid eye fall; it often did; but Fleda's wits were always in their place + and within call. She would shrink from a stranger's eye, and yet when + spoken to her answers were as ready and acute as they were marked for + simplicity and gentleness. She was kept to dinner; and though the + arrangement and manner of the service must have been strange to little + Fleda, it was impossible to guess from word or look that it was the first + time within her recollection that she had ever seen the like. Her native + instincts took it all as quietly as any old liberalized traveller looks + upon the customs of a new country. Mr. Carleton smiled as he now and then + saw a glance of intelligence or admiration pass between one and another of + the company; and a little knowing nod from Mrs. Evelyn and many a look + from his mother confessed he had been quite right. + </p> + <p> + Those two, Mrs. Evelyn and Mrs. Carleton, were by far the most kind and + eager in their attention to Fleda. Mrs. Thorn did little else but look at + her. The gentlemen amused themselves with her. But Mr. Carleton, true to + the hopes Fleda had founded upon his good-nature, had stood her friend all + the day, coming to her help if she needed any, and placing himself easily + and quietly between her and anything that threatened to try or annoy her + too much. Fleda felt it with grateful admiration. Yet she noticed, too, + that he was a very different person at this dinner-table from what he had + been the other day at her grandfather's. Easy and graceful, always, he + filled his own place, but did not seem to care to do more; there was even + something bordering on haughtiness in his air of grave reserve. He was not + the life of the company here; he contented himself with being all that the + company could possibly require of him. + </p> + <p> + On the whole Fleda was exceedingly well pleased with her day, and thought + all the people in general very kind. It was quite late before she set out + to go home again; and then Mrs. Evelyn and Mrs. Carleton were extremely + afraid lest she should take cold, and Mr. Carleton without saying one word + about it wrapped her up so very nicely after she got into the wagon, in a + warm cloak of his mother's. The drive home, through the gathering shades + of twilight, was to little Fleda thoroughly charming. It was almost in + perfect silence, but she liked that; and all the way home her mind was + full of a shadowy beautiful world that seemed to lie before and around + her. + </p> + <p> + It was a happy child that Mr. Carleton lifted from the wagon when they + reached Queechy. He read it in the utter lightheartedness of brow and + voice, and the spring to the ground which hardly needed the help of his + hands. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Mr. Carleton," she said when she had reached her own door; (he + would not go in) "I have had a very nice time!" + </p> + <p> + He smiled. + </p> + <p> + "Good night," said he. "Tell your grandfather I will come to-morrow to see + him about some business." + </p> + <p> + Fleda ran gayly into the kitchen. Only Cynthia was there. + </p> + <p> + "Where is grandpa, Cynthy?" + </p> + <p> + "He went off into his room a half an hour ago. I believe he's laying down. + He ain't right well, I s'pect. What's made you so late?" + </p> + <p> + "O they kept me," said Fleda. Her gayety suddenly sobered, she took off + her bonnet and coat and throwing them down in the kitchen stole softly + along the passage to her grandfather's room. She stopped a minute at the + door and held her breath to see if she could hear any movement which might + tell her he was not asleep. It was all still, and pulling the iron latch + with her gentlest hand Fleda went on tiptoe into the room. He was lying on + the bed, but awake, for she had made no noise and the blue eyes opened and + looked upon her as she came near. + </p> + <p> + "Are you not well, dear grandpa?" said the little girl. + </p> + <p> + Nothing made of flesh and blood ever spoke words of more spirit-like + sweetness,--not the beauty of a fine organ, but such as the sweetness of + angel-speech might be; a whisper of love and tenderness that was hushed by + its own intensity. He did not answer, or did not notice her first + question; she repeated it. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you feel well?" + </p> + <p> + "Not exactly, dear!" he replied. + </p> + <p> + There was the shadow of somewhat in his tone, that fell upon his little + granddaughter's heart and brow at once. Her voice next time, though not + suffered to be anything but clear and cheerful still, had in part the + clearness of apprehension. + </p> + <p> + "What is the matter?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh--I don't know, dear!" + </p> + <p> + She felt the shadow again, and he seemed to say that time would shew her + the meaning of it. She put her little hand in one of his which lay outside + the coverlets, and stood looking at him; and presently said, but in a very + different key from the same speech to Mr. Carleton, + </p> + <p> + "I have had a very nice time, dear grandpa." + </p> + <p> + Her grandfather made her no answer. He brought the dear little hand to his + lips and kissed it twice, so earnestly that it was almost passionately; + then laid it on the side of the bed again, with his own upon it, and + patted it slowly and fondly and with an inexpressible kind of sadness in + the manner. Fleda's lip trembled and her heart was fluttering, but she + stood so that he could not see her face in the dusk, and kept still till + the rebel features were calm again and she had schooled the heart to be + silent. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ringgan had closed his eyes, and perhaps was asleep, and his little + granddaughter sat quietly down on a chair by the bedside to watch by him, + in that gentle sorrowful patience which women often know but which hardly + belongs to childhood. Her eye and thoughts, as she sat there in the dusky + twilight, fell upon the hand of her grandfather which still fondly held + one of her own; and fancy travelled fast and far, from what it was to what + it had been. Rough, discoloured, stiff, as it lay there now, she thought + how it had once had the hue and the freshness and the grace of youth, when + it had been the instrument of uncommon strength and wielded an authority + that none could stand against. Her fancy wandered over the scenes it had + known; when it had felled trees in the wild forest, and those fingers, + then supple and slight, had played the fife to the struggling men of the + Revolution; how its activity had outdone the activity of all other hands + in clearing and cultivating those very fields where her feet loved to run; + how in its pride of strength it had handled the scythe and the sickle and + the flail, with a grace and efficiency that no other could attain; and how + in happy manhood that strong hand had fondled and sheltered and led the + little children that now had grown up and were gone!--Strength and + activity, ay, and the fruits of them, were passed away;--his children were + dead;--his race was run;--the shock of corn was in full season, ready to + be gathered. Poor little Fleda! her thought had travelled but a very + little way before the sense of these things entirely overcame her; her + head bowed on her knees, and she wept tears that all the fine springs of + her nature were moving to feed--many, many,--but poured forth as quietly + as bitterly; she smothered every sound. That beautiful shadowy world with + which she had been so busy a little while ago,--alas! she had left the + fair outlines and the dreamy light and had been tracking one solitary path + through the wilderness, and she saw how the traveller foot-sore and + weather-beaten comes to the end of his way. And after all, he comes to <i>the + end</i>.--"Yes, and I must travel through life and come to the end, too," + thought little Fleda,--"life is but a passing through the world; my hand + must wither and grow old too, if I live long enough, and whether or no, I + must come to <i>the end</i>.--Oh, there is only one thing that ought to be + very much minded in this world!" + </p> + <p> + That thought, sober though it was, brought sweet consolation. Fleda's + tears, if they fell as fast, grew brighter, as she remembered with + singular tender joy that her mother and her father had been ready to see + the end of their journey, and were not afraid of it, that her grandfather + and her aunt Miriam were happy in the same quiet confidence and she + believed she herself was a lamb of the Good Shepherd's flock. "And he will + let none of his lambs be lost," she thought. "How happy I am! How happy we + all are!" + </p> + <p> + Her grandfather still lay quiet as if asleep, and gently drawing her hand + from under his, Fleda went and got a candle and sat down by him again to + read, carefully shading the light so that it might not awake him. + </p> + <p> + He presently spoke to her, and more cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + "Are you reading, dear?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, grandpa!" said the little girl looking up brightly. "Does the candle + disturb you?" + </p> + <p> + "No, dear!--What have you got there?" + </p> + <p> + "I just took up this volume of Newton that has the hymns in it." + </p> + <p> + "Read out." + </p> + <p> + Fleda read Mr. Newton's long beautiful hymn, "The Lord will provide;" but + with her late thoughts fresh in her mind it was hard to get through the + last verses;-- + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "No strength of our own,<br /> Or goodness we claim;<br /> But + since we have known<br /> The Saviour's great name,<br /> In + this, our strong tower,<br /> For safety we hide:<br /> The + Lord is our power,<br /> The Lord will provide. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "When life sinks apace,<br /> And death is in view,<br /> This + word of his grace<br /> Shall comfort us through.<br /> No + fearing nor doubting,--<br /> With Christ on our side,<br /> + We hope to die shouting,<br /> The Lord will provide." + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The little reader's voice changed, almost broke, but she struggled + through, and then was quietly crying behind her hand. + </p> + <p> + "Read it again," said the old gentleman after a pause. + </p> + <p> + There is no 'cannot' in the vocabulary of affection. Fleda waited a minute + or two to rally her forces, and then went through it again, more steadily + than the first time. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--" said Mr. Ringgan calmly, folding his hands,--"that will do! That + trust won't fail, for it is founded upon a rock. 'He is a rock; and he + knoweth them that put their trust in him!' I have been a fool to doubt + ever that he would make all things work well--The Lord will provide!" + </p> + <p> + "Grandpa," said Fleda, but in an unsteady voice, and shading her face with + her hand still,--"I can remember reading this hymn to my mother once when + I was so little that 'suggestions' was a hard word to me." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay,--I dare say," said the old gentleman,--"your mother knew that + Rock and rested her hope upon it,--where mine stands now. If ever there + was a creature that might have trusted to her own doings, I believe she + was one, for I never saw her do anything wrong,--as I know. But she knew + Christ was all. Will you follow him as she did, dear?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda tried in vain to give an answer. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know what her last prayer for you was, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "No, grandpa." + </p> + <p> + "It was that you might be kept 'unspotted from the world.' I heard her + make that prayer myself." And stretching out his hand the old gentleman + laid it tenderly upon Fleda's bowed head, saying with strong earnestness + and affection, even <i>his</i> voice somewhat shaken, "God grant that + prayer!--whatever else he do with her, keep my child from the evil!--and + bring her to join her father and mother in heaven!--and me!" + </p> + <p> + He said no more;--but Fleda's sobs said a great deal. And when the sobs + were hushed, she still sat shedding quiet tears, sorrowed and disturbed by + her grandfather's manner. She had never known it so grave, so solemn; but + there was that shadow of something else in it besides, and she would have + feared if she had known what to fear. He told her at last that she had + better go to bed, and to say to Cynthy that he wanted to see her. She was + going, and had near reached the door, when he said, + </p> + <p> + "Elfleda!" + </p> + <p> + She hastened back to the bedside. + </p> + <p> + "Kiss me." + </p> + <p> + He let her do so twice, without moving, and then holding her to his breast + he pressed one long earnest passionate kiss upon her lips, and released + her, + </p> + <p> + Fleda told Cynthy that her grandfather wished her to come to him, and then + mounted the stairs to her little bedroom. She went to the window and + opening it looked out at the soft moonlit sky; the weather was mild again + and a little hazy, and the landscape was beautiful. But little Fleda was + tasting realities, and she could not go off upon dream-journeys to seek + the light food of fancy through the air. She did not think to-night about + the people the moon was shining on; she only thought of one little sad + anxious heart,--and of another down stairs, more sad and anxious still, + she feared;--what could it be about? Now that Mr. Jolly had settled all + that troublesome business with McGowan?-- + </p> + <p> + As she stood there at the window, gazing out aimlessly into the still + night,--it was very quiet,--she heard Cynthy at the back of the house + calling out, but as if she were afraid of making too much noise, + "Watkins!--Watkins!" + </p> + <p> + The sound had business, if not anxiety, in it. Fleda instinctively held + her breath to listen. Presently she heard Watkins reply; but they were + round the corner, she could not easily make out what they said. It was + only by straining her ears that she caught the words, + </p> + <p> + "Watkins, Mr. Ringgan wants you to go right up on the hill to Mis' + Plumfield's and tell her he wants her to come right down--he thinks"--the + voice of the speaker fell, and Fleda could only make out the last + words,--"Dr. James." More was said, but so thick and low that she could + understand nothing. + </p> + <p> + She had heard enough. She shut the window, trembling, and fastened again + the parts of her dress she had loosened; and softly and hastily went down + the stairs into the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + "Cynthy!--what is the matter with grandpa?" + </p> + <p> + "Why ain't you in bed, Flidda?" said Cynthy with some sharpness. "That's + what you had ought to be. I am sure your grandpa wants you to be abed." + </p> + <p> + "But tell me," said Fleda anxiously. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know as there's anything the matter with him," said Cynthy. + "Nothing much, I suppose. What makes you think anything is the matter?" + </p> + <p> + "Because I heard you telling Watkins to go for aunt Miriam." Fleda could + not say,--"and the doctor." + </p> + <p> + "Well your grandpa thought he'd like to have her come down, and he don't + feet right well,--so I sent Watkins up; but you'd better go to bed, + Flidda; you'll catch cold if you sit up o'night." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was unsatisfied, the more because Cynthy would not meet the keen + searching look with which the little girl tried to read her face. She was + not to be sent to bed, and all Cynthy's endeavours to make her change her + mind were of no avail. Fleda saw in them but fresh reason for staying, and + saw besides, what Cynthy could not hide, a somewhat of wandering and + uneasiness in her manner which strengthened her resolution. She sat down + in the chimney corner, resolved to wait till her aunt Miriam came; there + would be satisfaction in her, for aunt Miriam always told the truth, the + whole truth, and nothing but the truth. + </p> + <p> + It was a miserable three-quarters of an hour. The kitchen seemed to wear a + strange desolate look, though seen in its wonted bright light of fire and + candles, and in itself nice and cheerful as usual. Fleda looked at it also + through that vague fear which casts its own lurid colour upon everything. + The very flickering of the candle blaze seemed of ill omen, and her + grandfather's empty chair stood a signal of pain to little Fleda whenever + she looked at it. She sat still, in submissive patience, her cheek pale + with the working of a heart too big for that little body. Cynthia was + going in and out of her grandfather's room, but Fleda would not ask her + any more questions, to be disappointed with word-answers; she waited, but + the minutes seemed very long,--and very sad. + </p> + <p> + The characteristic outward calm which Fleda had kept, and which belonged + to a nature uncommonly moulded to patience and fortitude, had yet perhaps + heightened the pressure of excited fear within. When at last she saw the + cloak and hood of aunt Miriam coming through the moonlight to the kitchen + door, she rushed to open it, and quite overcome for the moment threw her + arms around her and was speechless. Aunt Miriam's tender and quiet voice + comforted her. + </p> + <p> + "You up yet, Fleda! Hadn't you better go to bed? 'Tisn't good for you." + </p> + <p> + "That's what I've been a telling her," said Cynthy, "but she wa'n't a mind + to listen to me." + </p> + <p> + But the two little arms embraced aunt Miriam's cloak and wrappers and the + little face was hid there still, and Fleda's answer was a half smothered + ejaculation. + </p> + <p> + "I am <i>so</i> glad you are come, dear aunt Miriam!" + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam kissed her again, and again repeated her request. + </p> + <p> + "O no--I can't go to bed," said Fleda crying;--"I can't till I know--I am + <i>sure</i> something is the matter, or Cynthy wouldn't look so. <i>Do</i> + tell me, aunt Miriam!" + </p> + <p> + "I can't tell you anything, dear, except that grandpa is not well--that is + all I know--I am going in to see him. I will tell you in the morning how + he is." + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, "I will wait here till you come out. I couldn't sleep." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Plumfield made no more efforts to persuade her, but rid herself of + cloak and hood and went into Mr. Ringgan's room. Fleda placed herself + again in her chimney corner. Burying her face in her hands, she sat + waiting more quietly; and Cynthy, having finished all her business, took a + chair on the hearth opposite to her. Both were silent and motionless, + except when Cynthy once in a while got up to readjust the sticks of wood + on the fire. They sat there waiting so long that Fleda's anxiety began to + quicken again. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you think the doctor is a long time coming, Cynthy?" said she + raising her head at last. Her question, breaking that forced silence, + sounded fearful. + </p> + <p> + "It seems kind o' long," said Cynthy. "I guess Watkins ha'n't found him to + hum." + </p> + <p> + Watkins indeed presently came in and reported as much, and that the wind + was changing and it was coming off cold; and then his heavy boots were + heard going up the stairs to his room overhead; but Fleda listened in vain + for the sound of the latch of her grandfather's door, or aunt Miriam's + quiet foot-fall in the passage; listened and longed, till the minutes + seemed like the links of a heavy chain which she was obliged to pass over + from hand to hand, and the last link could not be found. The noise of + Watkins' feet ceased overhead, and nothing stirred or moved but the + crackling flames and Cynthia's elbows, which took turns each in resting + upon the opposite arm, and now and then a tell-tale gust of wind in the + trees. If Mr. Ringgan was asleep, why did not aunt Miriam come out and see + them,--if he was better, why not come and tell them so. He had been asleep + when she first went into his room, and she had come back for a minute then + to try again to get Fleda to bed; why could she not come out for a minute + once more. Two hours of watching and trouble had quite changed little + Fleda; the dark ring of anxiety had come under each eye in her little pale + face; she looked herself almost ill. + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam's grave step was heard coming out of the room at last,--it did + not sound cheerfully in Fleda's ears. She came in, and stopping to give + some direction to Cynthy, walked up to Fleda. Her face encouraged no + questions. She took the child's head tenderly in both her hands, and told + her gently, but it was in vain that she tried to make her voice quite as + usual, that she had better go to bed--that she would be sick. + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up anxiously in her face. + </p> + <p> + "How is he?" + </p> + <p> + But her next word was the wailing cry of sorrow,--"Oh grandpa!--" + </p> + <p> + The old lady took the little child in her arms and they both sat there by + the fire until the morning dawned. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="08"></a>Chapter VIII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + <br /> Patience + and sorrow strove<br /> Who should express her goodliest. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + King Lear. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + When Mr. Carleton knocked at the front door the next day about two o'clock + it was opened to him by Cynthy. He asked for his late host. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Ringgan is dead." + </p> + <p> + "Dead!" exclaimed the young man much shocked;--"when? how?" + </p> + <p> + "Won't you come in, sir?" said Cynthy;--"maybe you'll see Mis' Plumfield." + </p> + <p> + "No, certainly," replied the visitor. "Only tell me about Mr. Ringgan." + </p> + <p> + "He died last night." + </p> + <p> + "What was the matter with him?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Cynthy in a business-like tone of voice,--"I s'pose + the doctor knows, but he didn't say nothing about it. He died very + sudden." + </p> + <p> + "Was he alone?" + </p> + <p> + "No--his sister was with him; he had been complaining all the evening that + he didn't feel right, but I didn't think nothing of it and I didn't know + as he did; and towards evening he went and laid down, and Flidda was with + him a spell, talking to him; and at last he sent her to bed and called me + in and said he felt mighty strange and he didn't know what it was going to + be, and that he had as lieve I should send up and ask Mis' Plumfield to + come down, and perhaps I might as well send for the doctor too. And I sent + right off, but the doctor wa'n't to hum, and didn't get here till long + after. Mis' Plumfield, she come; and Mr. Ringgan was asleep then, and I + didn't know as it was going to be anything more after all than just a + turn, such as anybody might take; and Mis' Plumfield went in and sot by + him; and there wa'n't no one else in the room; and after a while he come + to, and talked to her, she said, a spell; but he seemed to think it was + something more than common ailed him; and all of a sudden he just riz up + half way in bed and then fell back and died,--with no more warning than + that." + </p> + <p> + "And how is the little girl?" + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Cynthy, looking off at right angles from her visitor, "she's + middling now, I s'pose, but she won't be before long, or else she must be + harder to make sick than other folks.--We can't get her out of the room," + she added, bringing her eyes to bear, for an instant, upon the young + gentleman,--"she stays in there the hull time since morning--I've tried, + and Mis' Plumfield's tried, and everybody has tried, and there can't none + of us manage it; she will stay in there and it's an awful cold room when + there ain't no fire." + </p> + <p> + Cynthy and her visitor were both taking the benefit of the chill blast + which rushed in at the open door. + </p> + <p> + "<i>The room</i>?" said Mr. Carleton. "The room where the body lies?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--it's dreadful chill in there when the stove ain't heated, and she + sits there the hull time. And she ha'n't 'got much to boast of now: she + looks as if a feather would blow her away." + </p> + <p> + The door at the further end of the hall opened about two inches and a + voice called out through the crack, + </p> + <p> + "Cynthy!--Mis' Plumfield wants to know if that is Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Well she'd like to see him. Ask him to walk into the front room, she + says." + </p> + <p> + Cynthy upon this shewed the way, and Mr. Carleton walked into the same + room where a very few days before he had been so kindly welcomed by his + fine old host. Cold indeed it was now, as was the welcome he would have + given. There was no fire in the chimney, and even all the signs of the + fire of the other day had been carefully cleared away; the clean empty + fireplace looked a mournful assurance that its cheerfulness would not soon + come back again. It was a raw disagreeable day, the paper window shades + fluttered uncomfortably in the wind, which had its way now; and the very + chairs and tables seemed as if they had taken leave of life and society + for ever. Mr. Carleton walked slowly up and down, his thoughts running + perhaps somewhat in the train where poor little Fleda's had been so busy + last night, and wrapped up in broadcloth as he was to the chin, he + shivered when he heard the chill wind moaning round the house and rustling + the paper hangings and thought of little Fleda's delicate frame, exposed + as Cynthia had described it. He made up his mind it must not be. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Plumfield presently came in, and met him with the calm dignity of + that sorrow which needs no parade and that truth and meekness of character + which can make none. Yet there was nothing like stoicism, no affected or + proud repression of feeling; her manner was simply the dictate of good + sense borne out by a firm and quiet spirit. Mr. Carleton was struck with + it, it was a display of character different from any he had ever before + met with; it was something he could not quite understand. For he wanted + the key. But all the high respect he had felt for this lady from the first + was confirmed and strengthened. + </p> + <p> + After quietly receiving Mr. Carleton's silent grasp of the hand, aunt + Miriam said, + </p> + <p> + "I troubled you to stop, sir, that I might ask you how much longer you + expect to stop at Montepoole." + </p> + <p> + Not more than two or three days, he said. + </p> + <p> + "I understood," said aunt Miriam after a minute's pause, "that Mrs. + Carleton was so kind as to say she would take care of Elfleda to France + and put her in the hands of her aunt." + </p> + <p> + "She would have great pleasure in doing it," said Mr. Carleton. "I can + promise for your little niece that she shall have a mother's care so long + as my mother can render it." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam was silent, and he saw her eyes fill. + </p> + <p> + "You should not have had the pain of seeing me to-day," said he gently, + "if I could have known it would give you any; but since I am here, may I + ask, whether it is your determination that Fleda shall go with us?" + </p> + <p> + "It was my brother's," said aunt Miriam, sighing;--"he told me--last + night--that he wished her to go with Mrs. Carleton--if she would still be + so good as to take her." + </p> + <p> + "I have just heard about her, from the housekeeper," said Mr, Carleton, + "what has disturbed me a good deal. Will you forgive me, if I venture to + propose that she should come to us at once. Of course we will not leave + the place for several days--till you are ready to part with her." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam hesitated, and again the tears flushed to her eyes. + </p> + <p> + "I believe it would be best," she said,--"since it must be--I cannot get + the child away from her grandfather--I am afraid I want firmness to do + it--and she ought not to be there--she is a tender little creature--" + </p> + <p> + For once self-command failed her--she was obliged to cover her face. + </p> + <p> + "A stranger's hands cannot be more tender of her than ours will be," said + Mr. Carleton, his warm pressure of aunt Miriam's hand repeating the + promise. "My mother will bring a carriage for her this afternoon, if you + will permit." + </p> + <p> + "If you please, sir,--since it must be, it does not matter a day sooner or + later," repeated aunt Miriam,--"if she can be got away.--I don't know + whether it will be possible." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton had his own private opinion on that point. He merely promised + to be there again in a few hours and took his leave. + </p> + <p> + He came, with his mother, about five o'clock in the afternoon. They were + shewn this time into the kitchen, where they found two or three neighbours + and friends with aunt Miriam and Cynthy. The former received them with the + same calm simplicity that Mr. Carleton had admired in the morning, but + said she was afraid their coming would be in vain; she had talked with + Fleda about the proposed plan and could not get her to listen to it. She + doubted whether it would be possible to persuade her. And yet-- + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam's self-possession seemed to be shaken when she thought of + Fleda; she could not speak of her without watering eyes. + </p> + <p> + "She's fixing to be sick as fast as ever she can," remarked Cynthia dryly, + in a kind of aside meant for the audience;--"there wa'n't a grain of + colour in her face when I went in to try to get her out a little while + ago; and Mis' Plumfield ha'n't the heart to do anything with her, nor + nobody else." + </p> + <p> + "Mother, will you see what you can do?" said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton went, with an expression of face that her son, nobody else, + knew meant that she thought it a particularly disagreeable piece of + business. She came back after the lapse of a few minutes, in tears. + </p> + <p> + "I can do nothing with her," she said hurriedly;--"I don't know what to + say to her; and she looks like death. Go yourself, Guy; you can manage her + if any one can." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton went immediately. + </p> + <p> + The room into which a short passage admitted him was cheerless indeed. On + a fair afternoon the sun's rays came in there pleasantly, but this was a + true November day; a grey sky and a chill raw wind that found its way in + between the loose window-sashes and frames. One corner of the room was + sadly tenanted by the bed which held the remains of its late master and + owner. At a little table between the windows, with her back turned towards + the bed, Fleda was sitting, her face bowed in her hands, upon the old + quarto bible that lay there open; a shawl round her shoulders. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton went up to the side of the table and softly spoke her name. + Fleda looked up at him for an instant, and then buried her face in her + hands on the book as before. That look might have staggered him, but that + Mr. Carleton rarely was staggered in any purpose when he had once made up + his mind. It did move him,--so much that he was obliged to wait a minute + or two before he could muster firmness to speak to her again. Such a + look,--so pitiful in its sorrow, so appealing in its helplessness, so + imposing in its purity,--he had never seen, and it absolutely awed him. + Many a child's face is lovely to look upon for its innocent purity, but + more commonly it is not like this; it is the purity of snow, unsullied, + but not unsullyable; there is another kind more ethereal, like that of + light, which you feel is from another sphere and will not know soil. But + there were other signs in the face that would have nerved Mr. Carleton's + resolution if he had needed it. Twenty-four hours had wrought a sad + change. The child looked as if she had been ill for weeks. Her cheeks were + colourless; the delicate brow would have seemed pencilled on marble but + for the dark lines which weeping and watching, and still more sorrow, had + drawn underneath; and the beautiful moulding of the features shewed under + the transparent skin like the work of the sculptor. She was not crying + then, but the open pages of the great bible had been wet with very many + tears since her head had rested there. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus06.jpg"><img src="images/illus06.jpg" height="250" + alt="Fleda was sitting, her face bowed in her hands." + title="Fleda was sitting, her face bowed in her hands." /><br /> Fleda was + sitting, her face bowed in her hands.</a> + </p> + <p> + "Fleda," said Mr. Carleton after a moment,--"you must come with me." + </p> + <p> + The words were gently and tenderly spoken, yet they had that tone which + young and old instinctively know it is vain to dispute. Fleda glanced up + again, a touching imploring look it was very difficult to bear, and her + "Oh no--I cannot,"--went to his heart. It was not resistance but entreaty, + and all the arguments she would have urged seemed to lie in the mere tone + of her voice. She had no power of urging them in any other way, for even + as she spoke her head went down again on the bible with a burst of sorrow. + Mr. Carleton was moved, but not shaken in his purpose. He was silent a + moment, drawing back the hair that fell over Fleda's forehead with a + gentle caressing touch; and then he said, still lower and more tenderly + than before, but without flinching, "You must come with me, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "Mayn't I stay," said Fleda, sobbing, while he could see in the tension of + the muscles a violent effort at self-control which he did not like to + see,--"mayn't I stay till--till--the day after to-morrow?" + </p> + <p> + "No, dear Fleda," said he, still stroking her head kindly,--"I will bring + you back, but you must go with me now, Your aunt wishes it and we all + think it is best. I will bring you back."-- + </p> + <p> + She sobbed bitterly for a few minutes. Then she begged in smothered words + that he would leave her alone a little while. He went immediately. + </p> + <p> + She checked her sobs when she heard the door close upon him, or as soon as + she could, and rising went and knelt down by the side of the bed. It was + not to cry, though what she did could not be done without many tears,--it + was to repeat with equal earnestness and solemnity her mother's prayer, + that she might be kept pure from the world's contact. There beside the + remains of her last dear earthly friend, as it were before going out of + his sight forever, little Fleda knelt down to set the seal of faith and + hope to his wishes, and to lay the constraining hand of Memory upon her + conscience. It was soon done,--and then there was but one thing more to + do. But oh, the tears that fell as she stood there before she could go on; + how the little hands were pressed to the bowed face, as if <i>they</i> + would have borne up the load they could not reach; the convulsive + struggle, before the last look could be taken, the last good-by said! But + the sobs were forced back, the hands wiped off the tears, the quivering + features were bidden into some degree of calmness; and she leaned forward, + over the loved face that in death had kept all its wonted look of mildness + and placid dignity. It was in vain to try to look through Fleda's blinded + eyes; the hot tears dropped fast, while her trembling lips kissed--and + kissed,--those cold and silent that could make no return; and then feeling + that it was the last, that the parting was over, she stood again by the + side of the bed as she had done a few minutes before, in a convulsion of + grief, her face bowed down and her little frame racked with feeling too + strong for it; shaken visibly, as if too frail to bear the trial to which + it was put. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton had waited and waited, as he thought long enough, and now at + last came in again, guessing how it was with her. He put his arm round the + child and gently drew her away, and sitting down took her on his knee; and + endeavoured rather with actions than with words to soothe and comfort her; + for he did not know what to say. But his gentle delicate way, the soft + touch with which he again stroked back her hair or took her hand, speaking + kindness and sympathy, the loving pressure of his lips once or twice to + her brow, the low tones in which he told her that she was making herself + sick,--that she must not do so,--that she must let him take care of + her,--were powerful to soothe or quiet a sensitive mind, and Fleda felt + them. It was a very difficult task, and if undertaken by any one else + would have been more likely to disgust and distress her. But his spirit + had taken the measure of hers, and he knew precisely how to temper every + word and tone so as just to meet the nice sensibilities of her nature. He + had said hardly anything, but she had understood all he meant to say, and + when he told her at last, softly, that it was getting late and she must + let him take her away, she made no more difficulty; rose up and let him + lead her out of the room without once turning her head to look back. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton looked relieved that there was a prospect of getting away, + and rose up with a happy adjusting of her shawl round her shoulders. Aunt + Miriam came forward to say good-by, but it was very quietly said. Fleda + clasped her round the neck convulsively for an instant, kissed her as if a + kiss could speak a whole heartful, and then turned submissively to Mr. + Carleton and let him lead her to the carriage. + </p> + <p> + There was no fault to be found with Mrs. Carleton's kindness when they + were on the way. She held the forlorn little child tenderly in her arm, + and told her how glad she was to have her with them, how glad she should + be if she were going to keep her always; but her saying so only made Fleda + cry, and she soon thought it best to say nothing. All the rest of the way + Fleda was a picture of resignation; transparently pale, meek and pure, and + fragile seemingly, as the delicatest wood-flower that grows. Mr. Carleton + looked grieved, and leaning forward he took one of her hands in his own + and held it affectionately till they got to the end of their journey. It + marked Fleda's feeling towards him that she let it lie there without + making a motion to draw it away. She was so still for the last few miles + that her friends thought she had fallen asleep; but when the carriage + stopped and the light of the lantern was flung inside, they saw the grave + hazel eyes broad open and gazing intently out of the window. + </p> + <p> + "You will order tea for us in your dressing-room, mother?" said Mr. + Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "<i>Us</i>--who is <i>us?</i>" + </p> + <p> + "Fleda and me,--unless you will please to make one of the party." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly I will, but perhaps Fleda might like it better down stairs. + Wouldn't you, dear?" + </p> + <p> + "If you please, ma'am," said Fleda. "Wherever you please." + </p> + <p> + "But which would you rather, Fleda?" said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "I would <i>rather</i> have it up-stairs," said Fleda gently, "but it's no + matter." + </p> + <p> + "We will have it up-stairs," said Mrs. Carleton. "We will be a nice little + party up there by ourselves. You shall not come down till you like." + </p> + <p> + "You are hardly able to walk up," said Mr. Carleton tenderly. "Shall I + carry you?" + </p> + <p> + The tears rushed to Fleda's eyes, but she said no, and managed to mount + the stairs, though it was evidently an exertion. Mrs. Carleton's + dressing-room, as her son had called it, looked very pleasant when they + got there. It was well lighted and warmed and something answering to + curtains had been summoned from its obscurity in store-room or garret and + hung up at the windows,--"them air fussy English folks had made such a + pint of it," the landlord said. Truth was, that Mr. Carleton as well as + his mother wanted this room as a retreat for the quiet and privacy which + travelling in company as they did they could have nowhere else. Everything + the hotel could furnish in the shape of comfort had been drawn together to + give this room as little the look of a public house as possible. Easy + chairs, as Mrs. Carleton remarked with a disgusted face, one could not + expect to find in a country inn; there were instead as many as half a + dozen of "those miserable substitutes" as she called rocking-chairs, and + sundry fashions of couches and sofas, in various degrees of elegance and + convenience. The best of these, a great chintz-covered thing, full of + pillows, stood invitingly near the bright fire. There Mr. Carleton placed + little Fleda, took off her bonnet and things, and piled the cushions about + her just in the way that would make her most easy and comfortable. He said + little, and she nothing, but her eyes watered again at the kind tenderness + of his manner. And then he left her in peace till the tea came. + </p> + <p> + The tea was made in that room for those three alone. Fleda knew that Mr. + and Mrs. Carleton staid up there only for her sake, and it troubled her, + but she could not help it. Neither could she be very sorry so far as one + of them was concerned. Mr. Carleton was too good to be wished away. All + that evening his care of her never ceased. At tea, which the poor child + would hardly have shared but for him, and after tea, when in the absence + of bustle she had leisure to feel more fully her strange circumstances and + position, he hardly permitted her to feel either, doing everything for her + ease and pleasure and quietly managing at the same time to keep back his + mother's more forward and less happily adapted tokens of kind feeling. + Though she knew he was constantly occupied with her Fleda could not feel + oppressed; his kindness was as pervading and as unobtrusive as the summer + air itself; she felt as if she was in somebody's hands that knew her wants + before she did, and quietly supplied or prevented them, in a way she could + not tell how. It was very rarely that she even got a chance to utter the + quiet and touching "thank you," which invariably answered every token of + kindness or thoughtfulness that permitted an answer. How greatly that + harsh and sad day was softened to little Fleda'a heart by the good feeling + and fine breeding of one person. She thought when she went to bed that + night, thought seriously and gratefully, that since she must go over the + ocean and take that long journey to her aunt, how glad she was, how + thankful she ought to be, that she had so very kind and pleasant people to + go with. Kind and pleasant she counted them both; but what more she + thought of Mr. Carleton it would be hard to say. Her admiration of him was + very high, appreciating as she did to the full all that charm of manner + which she could neither analyze nor describe. + </p> + <p> + Her last words to him that night, spoken with a most wistful anxious + glance into his face, were, + </p> + <p> + "You will take me back again, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + He knew what she meant. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly I will. I promised you, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "Whatever Guy promises you may be very sure he will do," said his mother + with a smile. + </p> + <p> + Fleda believed it. But the next morning it was very plain that this + promise he would not be called upon to perform; Fleda would not be well + enough to go to the funeral. She was able indeed to get up, but she lay + all day upon the sofa in the dressing-room. Mr. Carleton had bargained for + no company last night; to-day female curiosity could stand it no longer; + and Mrs. Thorn and Mrs. Evelyn came up to look and gossip openly and to + admire and comment privately, when they had a chance. Fleda lay perfectly + quiet and still, seeming not much to notice or care for their presence; + they thought she was tolerably easy in body and mind, perhaps tired and + sleepy, and like to do well enough after a few days. How little they knew! + How little they could imagine the assembly of Thought which was holding in + that child's mind; how little they deemed of the deep, sad, serious look + into life which that little spirit was taking. How far they were from + fancying while they were discussing all manner of trifles before her, + sometimes when they thought her sleeping, that in the intervals between + sadder and weighter things her nice instincts were taking the gauge of all + their characters; unconsciously, but surely; how they might have been + ashamed if they had known that while they were busy with all affairs in + the universe but those which most nearly concerned them, the little child + at their side whom they had almost forgotten was secretly looking up to + her Father in heaven, and asking to be kept pure from the world! "Not unto + the wise and prudent;"--how strange it may seem in one view of the + subject,--in another, how natural, how beautiful, how reasonable! + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not ask again to be taken to Queechy. But as the afternoon drew + on she turned her face away from the company and shielded it from view + among the cushions, and lay in that utterly motionless state of body which + betrays a concentrated movement of the spirits in some hidden direction. + To her companions it betrayed nothing. They only lowered their tones a + little lest they should disturb her. + </p> + <p> + It had grown dark, and she was sitting up again, leaning against the + pillows and in her usual quietude, when Mr. Carleton came in. They had not + seen him since before dinner. He came to her side and taking her hand made + some gentle inquiry how she was. + </p> + <p> + "She has had a fine rest," said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "She has been sleeping all the afternoon," said Mrs. Carleton,--"she lay + as quiet as a mouse, without stirring;--you were sleeping, weren't you, + dear?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's lips hardly formed the word "no," and her features were quivering + sadly. Mr. Carleton's were impenetrable. + </p> + <p> + "Dear Fleda," said he, stooping down and speaking with equal gravity and + kindliness of manner,--"you were not able to go." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's shake of the head gave a meek acquiescence. But her face was + covered, and the gay talkers around her were silenced and sobered by the + heaving of her little frame with sobs that she could not keep back. Mr. + Carleton secured the permanence of their silence for that evening. He + dismissed them the room again and would have nobody there but himself and + his mother. + </p> + <p> + Instead of being better the next day Fleda was not able to get up; she was + somewhat feverish and exceedingly weak. She lay like a baby, Mrs. Carleton + said, and gave as little trouble. Gentle and patient always, she made no + complaint, and even uttered no wish, and whatever they did made no + objection. Though many a tear that day and the following paid its faithful + tribute to the memory of what she had lost, no one knew it; she was never + seen to weep; and the very grave composure of her face and her passive + unconcern as to what was done or doing around her alone gave her friends + reason to suspect that the mind was not as quiet as the body. Mr. Carleton + was the only one who saw deeper; the only one that guessed why the little + hand often covered the eyes so carefully, and read the very, very grave + lines of the mouth that it could not hide. + </p> + <p> + As soon as she could bear it he had her brought out to the dressing-room + again, and laid on the sofa; and it was several days before she could be + got any further. But there he could be more with her and devote himself + more to her pleasure; and it was not long before he had made himself + necessary to the poor child's comfort in a way beyond what he was aware + of. + </p> + <p> + He was not the only one who shewed her kindness. Unwearied care and most + affectionate attention were lavished upon her by his mother and both her + friends; they all thought they could not do enough to mark their feeling + and regard for her. Mrs. Carleton and Mrs. Evelyn nursed her by night and + by day. Mrs. Evelyn read to her. Mrs. Thorn would come often to look and + smile at her and say a few words of heart-felt pity and sympathy. Yet + Fleda could not feel quite at home with any one of them. They did not see + it. Her manner was affectionate and grateful, to the utmost of their wish; + her simple natural politeness, her nice sense of propriety, were at every + call; she seemed after a few days to be as cheerful and to enter as much + into what was going on about her as they had any reason to expect she + could; and they were satisfied. But while moving thus smoothly among her + new companions, in secret her spirit stood aloof; there was not one of + them that could touch her, that could understand her, that could meet the + want of her nature. Mrs. Carleton was incapacitated for it by education; + Mrs. Evelyn by character; Mrs. Thorn by natural constitution. Of them all, + though by far the least winning and agreeable in personal qualifications, + Fleda would soonest have relied on Mrs. Thorn, could soonest have loved + her. Her homely sympathy and kindness made their way to the child's heart; + Fleda felt them and trusted them. But there were too few points of + contact. Fleda thanked her, and did not wish to see her again. With Mrs. + Carleton Fleda had almost nothing at all in common. And that + notwithstanding all this lady's politeness, intelligence, cultivation, and + real kindness towards herself. Fleda would readily have given her credit + for them all; and yet, the nautilus may as soon compare notes with the + navigator, the canary might as well study Maelzel's Metronome, as a child + of nature and a woman of the world comprehend and suit each other. The + nature of the one must change or the two must remain the world wide apart. + Fleda felt it, she did not know why. Mrs. Carleton was very kind, and + perfectly polite; but Fleda had no pleasure in her kindness, no trust in + her politeness; or if that be saying too much, at least she felt that for + some inexplicable reason both were unsatisfactory. Even the tact which + each possessed in an exquisite degree was not the same in each; in one it + was the self-graduating power of a clever machine,--in the other, the + delicateness of the sensitive plant. Mrs. Carleton herself was not without + some sense of this distinction; she confessed, secretly, that there was + something in Fleda out of the reach of her discernment, and consequently + beyond the walk of her skill; and felt, rather uneasily, that more + delicate hands were needed to guide so delicate a nature. Mrs. Evelyn came + nearer the point. She was very pleasant, and she knew how to do things in + a charming way; and there were times, frequently, when Fleda thought she + was everything lovely. But yet, now and then a mere word, or look, would + contradict this fair promise, a something of <i>hardness</i> which Fleda + could not reconcile with the soft gentleness of other times; and on the + whole Mrs. Evelyn was unsure ground to her; she could not adventure her + confidence there. + </p> + <p> + With Mr. Carleton alone Fleda felt at home. He only, she knew, completely + understood and appreciated her. Yet she saw also that with others he was + not the same as with her. Whether grave or gay there was about him an air + of cool indifference, very often reserved and not seldom haughty; and the + eye which could melt and glow when turned upon her, was sometimes as + bright and cold as a winter sky. Fleda felt sure however that she might + trust him entirely so far as she herself was concerned; of the rest she + stood in doubt. She was quite right in both cases. Whatever else there + might be in that blue eye, there was truth in it when it met hers; she + gave that truth her full confidence and was willing to honour every + draught made upon her charity for the other parts of his character. + </p> + <p> + He never seemed to lose sight of her. He was always doing something for + which Fleda loved him, but so quietly and happily that she could neither + help his taking the trouble nor thank him for it. It might have been + matter of surprise that a gay young man of fashion should concern himself + like a brother about the wants of a little child; the young gentlemen down + stairs who were not of the society in the dressing-room did make + themselves very merry upon the subject, and rallied Mr. Carleton with the + common amount of wit and wisdom about his little sweetheart; a raillery + which met the most flinty indifference. But none of those who saw Fleda + ever thought strange of anything that was done for her; and Mrs. Carleton + was rejoiced to have her son take up the task she was fain to lay down. So + he really, more than any one else, had the management of her; and Fleda + invariably greeted his entrance into the room with a faint smile, which + even the ladies who saw agreed was well worth working for. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="09"></a>Chapter IX. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + If large possessions, pompous titles, honourable charges, and profitable + commissions, could have made this proud man happy, there would have been + nothing wanting.--L'Estrange. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Several days had passed. Fleda'a cheeks had gained no colour, but she had + grown a little stronger, and it was thought the party might proceed on + their way without any more tarrying; trusting that change and the motion + of travelling would do better things for Fleda than could be hoped from + any further stay at Montepoole. The matter was talked over in an evening + consultation in the dressing-room, and it was decided that they would set + off on the second day thereafter. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was lying quietly on her sofa, with her eyes closed, having had + nothing to say during the discussion. They thought she had perhaps not + heard it. Mr. Carleton's sharper eyes, however, saw that one or two tears + were glimmering just under the eyelash. He bent down over her and + whispered, + </p> + <p> + "I know what you are thinking of Fleda, do I not?" + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking of aunt Miriam," Fleda said in an answering whisper, + without opening her eyes. + </p> + <p> + "I will take care of that." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up and smiled most expressively her thanks, and in five + minutes was asleep. Mr. Carleton stood watching her, querying how long + those clear eyes would have nothing to hide,--how long that bright purity + could resist the corrosion of the world's breath; and half thinking that + it would be better for the spirit to pass away, with its lustre upon it, + than stay till self-interest should sharpen the eye, and the lines of + diplomacy write themselves on that fair brow. "Better so; better so." + </p> + <p> + "What are you thinking of so gloomily, Guy?" said his Mother. + </p> + <p> + "That is a tender little creature to struggle with a rough world." + </p> + <p> + "She won't have to struggle with it," said Mrs. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "She will do very well," said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think she'd find it a rough world, where <i>you</i> were, Mr. + Carleton," said Mrs. Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you ma'am," he said smiling. "But unhappily my power reaches very + little way." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps," said Mrs. Evelyn with a sly smile,--"that might be arranged + differently--Mrs. Rossitur--I have no doubt--would desire nothing better + than a smooth world for her little niece--and Mr. Carleton's power might + be unlimited in its extent." + </p> + <p> + There was no answer, and the absolute repose of all the lines of the young + gentleman's face bordered too nearly on contempt to encourage the lady to + pursue her jest any further. + </p> + <p> + The next day Fleda was well enough to bear moving. Mr. Carleton had her + carefully bundled up, and then carried her down stairs and placed her in + the little light wagon which had once before brought her to the Pool. + Luckily it was a mild day, for no close carriage was to be had for love or + money. The stage coach in which Fleda had been fetched from her + grandfather's was in use, away somewhere. Mr. Carleton drove her down to + aunt Miriam's, and leaving her there he went off again; and whatever he + did with himself it was a good two hours before he came back. All too + little yet they were for the tears and the sympathy which went to so many + things both in the past and in the future. Aunt Miriam had not said half + she wished to say, when the wagon was at the gate again, and Mr. Carleton + came to take his little charge away. + </p> + <p> + He found her sitting happily in aunt Miriam's lap. Fleda was very grateful + to him for leaving her such a nice long time, and welcomed him with even a + brighter smile than usual. But her head rested wistfully on her aunt's + bosom after that; and when he asked her if she was almost ready to go, she + hid her face there and put her arms about her neck. The old lady held her + close for a few minutes, in silence. + </p> + <p> + "Elfleda," said aunt Miriam gravely and tenderly,--"do you know what was + your mother's prayer for you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes,"--she whispered. + </p> + <p> + "What was it?" + </p> + <p> + "That I--might be kept--" + </p> + <p> + "Unspotted from the world!" repeated aunt Miriam, in a tone of tender and + deep feeling;--"My sweet blossom!--how wilt thou keep so? Will you + remember always your mother's prayer?" + </p> + <p> + "I will try." + </p> + <p> + "How will you try, Fleda? + </p> + <p> + "I will pray." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam kissed her again and again, fondly repeating, "The Lord hear + thee!--The Lord bless thee!--The Lord keep thee!--as a lily among thorns, + my precious little babe;--though in the world, not of it.--" + </p> + <p> + "Do you think that is possible?" said Mr. Carleton significantly, when a + few moments after they had risen and were about to separate. Aunt Miriam + looked at him in surprise and asked, + </p> + <p> + "What, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "To live in the world and not be like the world?" + </p> + <p> + She cast her eyes upon Fleda, fondly smoothing down her soft hair with + both hands for a minute or two before she answered, + </p> + <p> + "By the help of one thing sir, yes!" + </p> + <p> + "And what is that?" said he quickly. + </p> + <p> + "The blessing of God, with whom all things are possible." + </p> + <p> + His eyes fell, and there was a kind of incredulous sadness in his half + smile which aunt Miriam understood better than he did. She sighed as she + folded Fleda again to her breast and whisperingly bade her "Remember!" But + Fleda knew nothing of it; and when she had finally parted from aunt Miriam + and was seated in the little wagon on her way home, to her fancy the best + friend she had in the world was sitting beside her. + </p> + <p> + Neither was her judgment wrong, so far as it went. She saw true where she + saw at all. But there was a great deal she could not see. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was an unbeliever. Not maliciously,--not wilfully,--not + stupidly;--rather the fool of circumstance. His skepticism might be traced + to the joint workings of a very fine nature and a very bad education. That + is, education in the broad sense of the term; of course none of the means + and appliances of mental culture had been wanting to him. + </p> + <p> + He was an uncommonly fine example of what nature alone can do for a man. A + character of nature's building is at best a very ragged affair, without + religion's finishing hand; at the utmost a fine ruin--no more. And if that + be the <i>utmost</i>, of nature's handiwork, what is at the other end of + the scale?--alas! the rubble stones of the ruin; what of good and fair + nature had reared there was not strong enough to stand alone. But religion + cannot work alike on every foundation; and the varieties are as many as + the individuals. Sometimes she must build the whole, from the very ground; + and there are cases where nature's work stands so strong and fair that + religion's strength may be expended in perfecting and enriching and + carrying it to an uncommon height of grace and beauty, and dedicating the + fair temple to a new use. + </p> + <p> + Of religion Mr. Carleton had nothing at all, and a true Christian + character had never crossed his path near enough for him to become + acquainted with it. His mother was a woman of the world; his father had + been a man of the world; and what is more, so deep-dyed a politician that + to all intents and purposes, except as to bare natural affection, he was + nothing to his son and his son was nothing to him. Both mother and father + thought the son a piece of perfection, and mothers and fathers have very + often indeed thought so on less grounds. Mr. Carleton saw, whenever he + took time to look at him, that Guy had no lack either of quick wit or + manly bearing; that he had pride enough to keep him from low company and + make him abhor low pursuits; if anything more than pride and better than + pride mingled with it, the father's discernment could not reach so far. He + had a love for knowledge too, that from a child made him eager in seeking + it, in ways both regular and desultory; and tastes which his mother + laughingly said would give him all the elegance of a woman, joined to the + strong manly character which no one ever doubted he possessed. <i>She</i> + looked mostly at the outside, willing if that pleased her to take + everything else upon trust; and the grace of manner which a warm heart and + fine sensibilities and a mind entirely frank and above board had given + him, from his earliest years had more than met all her wishes. No one + suspected the stubbornness and energy of will which was in fact the + back-bone of his character. Nothing tried it. His father's death early + left little Guy to his mother's guardianship. Contradicting him was the + last thing she thought of, and of course it was attempted by no one else. + </p> + <p> + If she would ever have allowed that he had a fault, which she never would, + it was one that grew out of his greatest virtue, an unmanageable truth of + character; and if she ever unwillingly recognised its companion virtue, + firmness of will, it was when she endeavoured to combat certain + troublesome demonstrations of the other. In spite of all the grace and + charm of manner in which he was allowed to be a model, and which was as + natural to him as it was universal, if ever the interests of truth came in + conflict with the dictates of society he flung minor considerations behind + his back and came out with some startling piece of bluntness at which his + mother was utterly confounded. These occasions were very rare; he never + sought them. Always where it was possible he chose either to speak or be + silent in an unexceptionable manner. But sometimes the barrier of + conventionalities, or his mother's unwise policy, pressed too hard upon + his integrity or his indignation; and he would then free the barrier and + present the shut-out truth in its full size and proportions before his + mother's shocked eyes. It was in vain to try to coax or blind him; a + marble statue is not more unruffled by the soft air of summer; and Mrs. + Carleton was fain to console herself with the reflection that Guy's very + next act after one of these breaks would be one of such happy fascination + that the former would be forgotten; and that in this world of + discordancies it was impossible on the whole for any one to come nearer + perfection. And if there was inconvenience there were also great comforts + about this character of truthfulness. + </p> + <p> + So nearly up to the time of his leaving the University the young heir + lived a life of as free and uncontrolled enjoyment as the deer on his + grounds, happily led by his own fine instincts to seek that enjoyment in + pure and natural sources. His tutor was proud of his success; his + dependants loved his frank and high bearing; his mother rejoiced in his + personal accomplishments, and was secretly well pleased that his tastes + led him another way from the more common and less safe indulgences of + other young men. He had not escaped the temptations of opportunity and + example. But gambling was not intellectual enough, jockeying was too + undignified, and drinking too coarse a pleasure for him. Even hunting and + coursing charmed him but for a few times; when he found he could out-ride + and out leap all his companions, he hunted no more; telling his mother, + when she attacked him on the subject, that he thought the hare the + worthier animal of the two upon a chase; and that the fox deserved an + easier death. His friends twitted him with his want of spirit and want of + manliness; but such light shafts bounded back from the buff suit of cool + indifference in which their object was cased; and his companions very soon + gave over the attempt either to persuade or annoy him, with the conclusion + that "nothing could be done with Carleton." + </p> + <p> + The same wants that had displeased him in the sports soon led him to + decline the company of those who indulged in them. From the low-minded, + from the uncultivated, from the unrefined in mind and manner, and such + there are in the highest class of society as well as in the less-favoured, + he shrank away in secret disgust or weariness. There was no affinity. To + his books, to his grounds, which he took endless delight in overseeing, to + the fine arts in general, for which he had a great love and for one or two + of them a great talent,--he went with restless energy and no want of + companionship; and at one or the other, always pushing eagerly forward + after some point of excellence or some new attainment not yet reached, and + which sprang up after one another as fast as ever "Alps on Alps," he was + happily and constantly busy. Too solitary, his mother thought,--caring + less for society than she wished to see him; but that she trusted would + mend itself. He would be through the University and come of age and go + into the world as a matter of necessity. + </p> + <p> + But years brought a change--not the change his mother looked for. That + restless active energy which had made the years of his youth so happy, + became, in connection with one or two other qualities, a troublesome + companion when he had reached the age of manhood and obeying manhood's law + had "put away childish things." On what should it spend itself? It had + lost none of its strength; while his fastidious notions of excellence and + a far-reaching clear-sightedness which belonged to his truth of nature, + greatly narrowed the sphere of its possible action. He could not delude + himself into the belief that the oversight of his plantations and the + perfecting his park scenery could be a worthy end of existence; or that + painting and music were meant to be the stamina of life; or even that + books were their own final cause. These things had refined and enriched + him;--they might go on doing so to the end of his days;--but <i>for what</i>? + For what? + </p> + <p> + It is said that everybody has his niche, failing to find which nobody + fills his place or acts his part in society. Mr. Carleton could not find + his niche, and he consequently grew dissatisfied everywhere. His mother's + hopes from the University and the World, were sadly disappointed. + </p> + <p> + At the University he had not lost his time. The pride of character which + joined with less estimable pride of birth was a marked feature in his + composition, made him look with scorn upon the ephemeral pursuits of one + set of young men; while his strong intellectual tastes drew him in the + other direction; and the energetic activity which drove him to do + everything well that he once took in hand, carried him to high + distinction. Being there he would have disdained to be anywhere but at the + top of the tree. But out of the University and in possession of his + estates, what should he do with himself and them? + </p> + <p> + A question easy to settle by most young men! very easy to settle by Guy, + if he had had the clue of Christian truth to guide him through the + labyrinth. But the clue was wanting, and the world seemed to him a world + of confusion. + </p> + <p> + A certain clearness of judgment is apt to be the blessed handmaid of + uncommon truth of character; the mind that knows not what it is to play + tricks upon its neighbours is rewarded by a comparative freedom from + self-deception. Guy could not sit down upon his estates and lead an insect + life like that recommended by Rossitur. His energies wanted room to expend + themselves. But the world offered no sphere that would satisfy him; even + had his circumstances and position laid all equally open. It was a busy + world, but to him people seemed to be busy upon trifles, or working in a + circle, or working mischief; and his nice notions of what <i>ought to be</i> + were shocked by what he saw <i>was</i>, in every direction around him. He + was disgusted with what he called the drivelling of some unhappy specimens + of the Church which had come in his way; he disbelieved the truth of what + such men professed. If there had been truth in it, he thought, they would + deserve to be drummed out of the profession. He detested the crooked + involvments and double-dealing of the law. He despised the butterfly life + of a soldier; and as to the other side of a soldier's life, again he + thought, what is it for?--to humour the arrogance of the proud,--to pamper + the appetite of the full,--to tighten the grip of the iron hand of + power;--and though it be sometimes for better ends, yet the soldier cannot + choose what letters of the alphabet of obedience he will learn. Politics + was the very shaking of the government sieve, where if there were any + solid result it was accompanied with a very great flying about of chaff + indeed. Society was nothing but whip syllabub,--a mere conglomeration of + bubbles,--as hollow and as unsatisfying. And in lower departments of human + life, as far as he knew, he saw evils yet more deplorable. The Church + played at shuttlecock with men's credulousness, the law with their purses, + the medical profession with their lives, the military with their liberties + and hopes. He acknowledged that in all these lines of action there was + much talent, much good intention, much admirable diligence and acuteness + brought out--but to what great general end? He saw in short that the + machinery of the human mind, both at large and in particular, was out of + order. He did not know what was the broken wheel the want of which set all + the rest to running wrong. + </p> + <p> + This was a strange train of thought for a very young man, but Guy had + lived much alone, and in solitude one is like a person who has climbed a + high mountain; the air is purer about him, his vision is freer; the eye + goes straight and clear to the distant view which below on the plain a + thousand things would come between to intercept. But there was some + morbidness about it too. Disappointment in two or three instances where he + had given his full confidence and been obliged to take it back had + quickened him to generalize unfavourably upon human character, both in the + mass and in individuals. And a restless dissatisfaction with himself and + the world did not tend to a healthy view of things. Yet truth was at the + bottom; truth rarely arrived at without the help of revelation. He + discerned a want he did not know how to supply. His fine perceptions felt + the jar of the machinery which other men are too busy or too deaf to hear. + It seemed to him hopelessly disordered. + </p> + <p> + This habit of thinking wrought a change very unlike what his mother had + looked for. He mingled more in society, but Mrs. Carleton saw that the eye + with which he looked upon it was yet colder than it wont to be. A cloud + came over the light gay spirited manner he had used to wear. The charm of + his address was as great as ever where he pleased to shew it, but much + more generally now he contented himself with a cool reserve, as impossible + to disturb as to find fault with. His temper suffered the same eclipse. It + was naturally excellent. His passions were not hastily moved. He had never + been easy to offend; his careless good-humour and an unbounded proud + self-respect made him look rather with contempt than anger upon the things + that fire most men; though when once moved to displeasure it was stern and + abiding in proportion to the depth of his character. The same good-humour + and cool self-respect forbade him even then to be eager in shewing + resentment; the offender fell off from his esteem and apparently from the + sphere of his notice as easily as a drop of water from a duck's wing, and + could with as much ease regain his lost lodgment, but unless there were + wrong to be righted or truth to be vindicated he was in general safe from + any further tokens of displeasure. In those cases Mr. Carleton was an + adversary to be dreaded. As cool, as unwavering, as persevering there as + in other things, he there as in other things no more failed of his end. + And at bottom these characteristics remained the same; it was rather his + humour than his temper that suffered a change. That grew more gloomy and + less gentle. He was more easily irritated and would shew it more freely + than in the old happy times had ever been. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton would have been glad to have those times back again. It + could not be. Guy could not be content any longer in the Happy Valley of + Amhara. Life had something for him to do beyond his park palings. He had + carried manly exercises and personal accomplishments to an uncommon point + of perfection; he knew his library well and his grounds thoroughly, and + had made excellent improvement of both; it was in vain to try to persuade + him that seed-time and harvest were the same thing, and that he had + nothing to do but to rest in what he had done; shew his bright colours and + flutter like a moth in the sunshine, or sit down like a degenerate bee in + the summer time and eat his own honey. The power of action which he knew + in himself could not rest without something to act upon. It longed to be + doing. + </p> + <p> + But what? + </p> + <p> + Conscience is often morbidly far-sighted. Mr. Carleton had a very large + tenantry around him and depending upon him, in bettering whose condition, + if he had but known it, all those energies might have found full play. It + never entered into his head. He abhorred <i>business</i>,--the detail of + business; and his fastidious taste especially shrank from having anything + to do among those whose business was literally their life. The eye + sensitively fond of elegance, the extreme of elegance, in everything, and + permitting no other around or about him, could not bear the tokens of + mental and bodily wretchedness among the ignorant poor; he escaped from + them as soon as possible; thought that poverty was one of the + irregularities of this wrong-working machine of a world, and something + utterly beyond his power to do away or alleviate; and left to his steward + all the responsibility that of right rested on his own shoulders. + </p> + <p> + And at last unable to content himself in the old routine of things he + quitted home and England, even before he was of age, and roved from place + to place, trying, and trying in vain, to soothe the vague restlessness + that called for a very different remedy. + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "On change de ciel,--l'on ne change point du sol." + </p> + </blockquote> + <h1> + <a name="10"></a>Chapter X. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Faire Christabelle, that ladye bright,<br /> Was had forth of the towre:<br /> + But ever she droopeth in her minde,<br /> As, nipt by an ungentle winde,<br /> + Doth some faire lillye flowre. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Syr Cauline + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + That evening, the last of their stay at Montepoole, Fleda was thought well + enough to take her tea in company. So Mr. Carleton carried her down, + though she could have walked, and placed her on the sofa in the parlour. + </p> + <p> + Whatever disposition the young officers might have felt to renew their + pleasantry on the occasion, it was shamed into silence. There was a pure + dignity about that little pale face which protected itself. They were + quite struck, and Fleda had no reason to complain of want of attention + from any of the party. Mr. Evelyn kissed her. Mr. Thorn brought a little + table to the side of the sofa for her cup of tea to stand on, and handed + her the toast most dutifully; and her cousin Rossitur went back and forth + between her and the tea-urn. All of the ladies seemed to take immense + satisfaction in looking at her, they did it so much; standing about the + hearth-rug with their cups in their hands, sipping their tea. Fleda was + quite touched with everybody's kindness, but somebody at the back of the + sofa whom she did not see was the greatest comfort of all. + </p> + <p> + "You must let me carry you up-stairs when you go, Fleda," said her cousin. + "I shall grow quite jealous of your friend Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda smiling a little,--"I shall not let any one but him carry + me up,--if he will." + </p> + <p> + "We shall all grow jealous of Mr. Carleton," said Thorn "He means to + monopolize you, keeping you shut up there up-stairs." + </p> + <p> + "He didn't keep me shut up," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was welcome to monopolize her, if it depended on her vote. + </p> + <p> + "Not fair play, Carleton," continued the young officer, wisely shaking his + head,--"all start alike, or there's no fun in the race. You've fairly + distanced us--left us nowhere." + </p> + <p> + He might have talked Chinese and been as intelligible to Fleda, and as + interesting to Guy, for all that appeared. + </p> + <p> + "How are we going to proceed to-morrow, Mr. Evelyn?" said Mrs. Carleton. + "Has the missing stage-coach returned yet? or Will it be forthcoming in + the morning?" + </p> + <p> + "Promised, Mrs. Carleton. The landlord's faith stands pledged for it." + </p> + <p> + "Then it won't disappoint us, of course. What a dismal way of travelling!" + </p> + <p> + "This young country hasn't grown up to post-coaches yet," said Mrs. + Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "How many will it hold?" inquired Mrs. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Hum!--Nine inside, I suppose." + </p> + <p> + "And we number ten, with the servants. + </p> + <p> + "Just take us," said Mr. Evelyn. "There's room on the box for one." + </p> + <p> + "It will not take me," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "How will you go? ride?" said his mother "I should think you would, since + you have found a horse you like so well." + </p> + <p> + "By George! I wish there was another that <i>I</i> liked," said Rossitur, + "and I'd go on horseback too. Such weather. The landlord says it's the + beginning of Indian summer." + </p> + <p> + "It's too early for that," said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Well, eight inside will do very well for one day," said Mrs. Carleton. + "That will give little Fleda a little more space to lie at her ease." + </p> + <p> + "You may put Fleda out of your calculations too, mother," said Mr. + Carleton. "I will take care of her." + </p> + <p> + "How in the world," exclaimed his mother,--"if you are on horseback?" + </p> + <p> + And Fleda twisted herself round so as to give a look of bright inquiry at + his face. She got no answer beyond a smile, which however completely + satisfied her. As to the rest he told his mother that he had arranged it + and they should see in the morning. Mrs. Carleton was far from being at + ease on the subject of his arrangements, but she let the matter drop. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was secretly very much pleased. She thought she would a great deal + rather go with Mr. Carleton in the little wagon than in the stage-coach + with the rest of the people. Privately she did not at all admire Mr. Thorn + or her cousin Rossitur. They amused her though; and feeling very much + better and stronger in body, and at least quiet in mind, she sat in + tolerable comfort on her sofa, looking and listening to the people who + were gayly talking around her. + </p> + <p> + In the gaps of talk she sometimes thought she heard a distressed sound in + the hall. The buzz of tongues covered it up,--then again she heard + it,--and she was sure at last that it was the voice of a dog. Never came + an appeal in vain from any four-footed creature to Fleda's heart. All the + rest being busy with their own affairs, she quietly got up and opened the + door and looked out, and finding that she was right went softly into the + hall. In one corner lay her cousin Rossitur's beautiful black pointer, + which she well remembered and had greatly admired several times. The poor + creature was every now and then uttering short cries, in a manner as if he + would not, but they were forced from him. + </p> + <p> + "What is the matter with him?" asked Fleda, stepping fearfully towards the + dog, and speaking to Mr. Carleton who had come out to look after her. As + she spoke the dog rose and came crouching and wagging his tail to meet + them. + </p> + <p> + "O Mr. Carleton!" Fleda almost screamed,--"look at him! O what is the + matter with him! he's all over bloody! Poor creature!"-- + </p> + <p> + "You must ask your cousin, Fleda," said Mr. Carleton, with as much cold + disgust in his countenance as it often expressed; and that is saying a + good deal. + </p> + <p> + Fleda could speak in the cause of a dog, where she would have been silent + in her own. She went back to the parlour and begged her cousin with a face + of distress to come out into the hall,--she did not say for what. Both he + and Thorn followed her. Rossitur's face darkened as Fleda repeated her + inquiry, her heart so full by this time as hardly to allow her to make + any. + </p> + <p> + "Why the dog didn't do his duty and has been punished," he said gloomily. + </p> + <p> + "Punished?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Shot," said Mr. Carleton coolly. + </p> + <p> + "Shot!" exclaimed Fleda, bursting into heart-wrung tears,--"Shot!--O how + <i>could</i> any one do it! Oh how could you, how could you, cousin + Charlton?" + </p> + <p> + It was a picture. The child was crying bitterly, her fingers stroking the + poor dog's head with a touch in which lay, O what tender healing, if the + will had but had magnetic power. Carleton's eye glanced significantly from + her to the young officers. Rossitur looked at Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "It was not Charlton--it was I, Miss Fleda," said the latter. "Charlton + lent him to me to-day, and he disobeyed me, and so I was angry with him + and punished him a little severely; but he'll soon get over it." + </p> + <p> + But all Fleda's answer was, "I am very sorry!--I am very sorry!--poor + dog!!"--and to weep such tears as made the young gentlemen for once + ashamed of themselves. It almost did the child a mischief. She did not get + over it all the evening. And she never got over it as far as Mr. Thorn was + concerned. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton hoped, faintly, that Guy would come to reason by the next + morning and let Fleda go in the stage-coach with the rest of the people. + But he was as unreasonable as ever, and stuck to his purpose. She had + supposed however, with Fleda, that the difference would be only an open + vehicle and his company instead of a covered one and her own. Both of them + were sadly discomfited when on coming to the hall door to take their + carriages it was found that Mr. Carleton's meaning was no less than to + take Fleda before him on horseback. He was busy even then in arranging a + cushion on the pommel of the saddle for her to sit upon. Mrs. Carleton + burst into indignant remonstrances; Fleda silently trembled. + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Carleton had his own notions on the subject, and they were not + moved by anything his mother could say. He quietly went on with his + preparations; taking very slight notice of the raillery of the young + officers, answering Mrs. Evelyn with polite words, and silencing his + mother as he came up with one of those looks out of his dark eyes to which + she always forgave the wilfulness for the sake of the beauty and the + winning power. She was completely conquered, and stepped back with even a + smile. + </p> + <p> + "But, Carleton!" cried Rossitur impatiently,--"you can't ride so! you'll + find it deucedly inconvenient." + </p> + <p> + "Possibly," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda would be a great deal better off in the stage-coach." + </p> + <p> + "Have you studied medicine, Mr. Rossitur?" said the young man. "Because I + am persuaded of the contrary." + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe your horse will like it," said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "My horse is always of my mind, sir; or if he be not I generally succeed + in convincing him." + </p> + <p> + "But there is somebody else that deserves to be consulted," said Mrs. + Thorn. "I wonder how little Fleda will like it." + </p> + <p> + "I will ask her when we get to our first stopping-place," said Mr. + Carleton smiling. "Come, Fleda!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda would hardly have said a word if his purpose had been to put her + under the horse's feet instead of on his back. But she came forward with + great unwillingness and a very tremulous little heart. He must have + understood the want of alacrity in her face and manner, though he took no + notice of it otherwise than by the gentle kindness with which he led her + to the horse-block and placed her upon it. Then mounting, and riding the + horse up close to the block, he took Fleda in both hands and bidding her + spring, in a moment she was safely seated before him. + </p> + <p> + At first it seemed dreadful to Fleda to have that great horse's head so + near her, and she was afraid that her feet touching him would excite his + most serious disapprobation. However a minute or so went by and she could + not see that his tranquillity seemed to be at all ruffled, or even that he + was sensible of her being upon his shoulders. They waited to see the + stage-coach off, and then gently set forward. Fleda feared very much again + when she felt the horse moving under her, easy as his gait was, and + looking after the stagecoach in the distance, now beyond call, she felt a + little as if she was a great way from help and dry land, cast away on a + horse's back. But Mr. Carleton's arm was gently passed round her, and she + knew it held her safely and would not let her fall, and he bent down his + face to her and asked her so kindly and tenderly, and with such a look + too, that seemed to laugh at her fears, whether she felt afraid?--and with + such a kind little pressure of his arm that promised to take care of + her,--that Fleda's courage mounted twenty degrees at once. And it rose + higher every minute; the horse went very easily, and Mr. Carleton held her + so that she could not be tired, and made her lean against him; and before + they had gone a mile Fleda began to be delighted. Such a charming way of + travelling! Such a free view of the country!--and in this pleasant weather + too, neither hot nor cold, and when all nature's features were softened by + the light veil of haze that hung over them and kept off the sun's glare. + Mr. Carleton was right. In the stage-coach Fleda would have sat quiet in a + corner and moped the time sadly away, now she was roused, excited, + interested, even cheerful; forgetting herself, which was the very thing of + all others to be desired for her. She lost her fears; she was willing to + have the horse trot or canter as fast as his rider pleased; but the + trotting was too rough for her, so they cantered or paced along most of + the time, when the hills did not oblige them to walk quietly up and down, + which happened pretty often. For several miles the country was not very + familiar to Fleda. It was however extremely picturesque; and she sat + silently and gravely looking at it, her head lying upon Mr. Carleton's + breast, her little mind very full of thoughts and musings, curious, deep, + sometimes sorrowful, but not unhappy. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid I tire you, Mr. Carleton!" said she in a sudden fit of + recollection, starting up. + </p> + <p> + His look answered her, and his arm drew her back to her place again. + </p> + <p> + "Are <i>you</i> not tired, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh no!----You have got a new name for me, Mr. Carleton,' said she a + moment after, looking up and smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Do you like it?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "You are my good genius," said he,--"so I must have a peculiar title for + you, different from what other people know you by." + </p> + <p> + "What is a genius, sir?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well a sprite then," said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "A sprite!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I have read a story of a lady, Elfie, who had a great many little + unearthly creatures, a kind of sprites, to attend upon her. Some sat in + the ringlets of her hair and took charge of them; some hid in the folds of + her dress and made them lie gracefully; another lodged in a dimple in her + cheek, and another perched on her eyebrows, and so on." + </p> + <p> + "To take care of her eyebrows?" said Fleda laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--to smooth out all the ill-humoured wrinkles and frowns, I suppose." + </p> + <p> + "But am I such a sprite?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Something like it." + </p> + <p> + "Why what do I do?" said Fleda, rousing herself in a mixture of + gratification and amusement that was pleasant to behold. + </p> + <p> + "What office would you choose, Elfie? what good would you like to do me?" + </p> + <p> + It was a curious wistful look with which Fleda answered his question, an + innocent look, in which Mr. Carleton read perfectly that she felt + something was wanting in him, and did not know exactly what. His smile + almost made her think she had been mistaken. + </p> + <p> + "You are just the sprite you would wish to be, Elfie," he said. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's head took its former position, and she sat for some time musing + over his question and answer, till a familiar waymark put all such + thoughts to flight. They were passing Deepwater Lake, and would presently + be at aunt Miriam's. Fleda looked now with a beating heart. Every foot of + ground was known to her. She was seeing it perhaps for the last time. It + was with even an intensity of eagerness that she watched every point and + turn of the landscape, endeavouring to lose nothing in her farewell view, + to give her farewell look at every favourite clump of trees and old rock, + and at the very mill-wheels, which for years whether working or at rest + had had such interest for her. If tears came to bid their good-by too, + they were hastily thrown off, or suffered to roll quietly down; <i>they</i> + might bide their time; but eyes must look now or never. How pleasant, how + pleasant, the quiet old country seemed to Fleda as they went long!--in + that most quiet light and colouring; the brightness of the autumn glory + gone, and the sober warm hue which the hills still wore seen under that + hazy veil. All the home-like peace of the place was spread out to make it + hard going away. Would she ever see any other so pleasant again? Those + dear old hills and fields, among which she had been so happy,--they were + not to be her home any more; would she ever have the same sweet happiness + anywhere else?--"The Lord will provide!" thought little Fleda with + swimming eyes. + </p> + <p> + It was hard to go by aunt Miriam's. Fleda eagerly looked, as well as she + could, but no one was to be seen about the house. It was just as well. A + sad gush of tears must come then, but she got rid of them as soon as + possible, that she might not lose the rest of the way, promising them + another time. The little settlement on "the hill" was passed,--the + factories and mills and mill-ponds, one after the other; they made Fleda + feel very badly, for here she remembered going with her grandfather to see + the work, and there she had stopped with him at the turner's shop to get a + wooden bowl turned, and there she had been with Cynthy when she went to + visit an acquaintance; and there never was a happier little girl than + Fleda had been in those old times. All gone!--It was no use trying to help + it; Fleda put her two hands to her face and cried at last a silent but not + the less bitter leave-taking of the shadows of the past. + </p> + <p> + She forced herself into quiet again, resolved to look to the last. As they + were going down the hill past the saw-mill Mr. Carleton noticed that her + head was stretched out to look back at it, with an expression of face he + could not withstand. He wheeled about immediately and went back and stood + opposite to it. The mill was not working to-day. The saw was standing + still, though there were plenty of huge trunks of trees lying about in all + directions waiting to be cut up. There was a desolate look of the place. + No one was there; the little brook, most of its waters cut oft', did not + go roaring and laughing down the hill, but trickled softly and plaintively + over the stones. It seemed exceeding sad to Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Mr. Carleton," she said after a little earnest fond looking at + her old haunt;--"you needn't stay any longer." + </p> + <p> + But as soon as they had crossed the little rude bridge at the foot of the + hill they could see the poplar trees which skirted the courtyard fence + before her grandfather's house. Poor Fleda's eyes could hardly serve her. + She managed to keep them open till the horse had made a few steps more and + she had caught the well-known face of the old house looking at her through + the poplars. Her fortitude failed, and bowing her little head she wept so + exceedingly that Mr. Carleton was fain to draw bridle and try to comfort + her. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Elfie!--do not weep so," he said tenderly. "Is there anything you + would like?--Can I do anything for you?" + </p> + <p> + He had to wait a little. He repeated his first query. + </p> + <p> + "O--it's no matter," said Fleda, striving to conquer her tears, which + found their way again,--"if I only could have gone into the house once + more!--but it's no matter--you needn't wait, Mr. Carleton--" + </p> + <p> + The horse however remained motionless. + </p> + <p> + "Do you think you would feel better, Elfie, if you had seen it again?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh yes!--But never mind, Mr. Carleton,--you may go on." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton ordered his servant to open the gate, and rode up to the back + of the house. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid there is nobody here, Elfie," he said; "the house seems all + shut up." + </p> + <p> + "I know how I can get in," said Fleda,--"there's a window down stairs--I + don't believe it is fastened,--if you wouldn't mind waiting, Mr. + Carleton,--I won't keep you long?" + </p> + <p> + The child had dried her tears, and there was the eagerness of something + like hope in her face. Mr. Carleton dismounted and took her off. + </p> + <p> + "I must find a way to get in too, Elfie,--I cannot let you go alone." + </p> + <p> + "O I can open the door when I get in," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But you have not the key." + </p> + <p> + "There's no key--it's only hoi ted on the inside, that door. I can open + it." + </p> + <p> + She found the window unfastened, as she had expected; Mr. Carleton held it + open while she crawled in and then she undid the door for him. He more + than half questioned the wisdom of his proceeding. The house had a dismal + look; cold, empty, deserted,--it was a dreary reminder of Fleda's loss, + and he feared the effect of it would be anything but good. He followed and + watched her, as with an eager business step she went through the hall and + up the stairs, putting her head into every room and giving an earnest + wistful look all round it. Here and there she went in and stood a moment, + where associations were more thick and strong; sometimes taking a look out + of a particular window, and even opening a cupboard door, to give that + same kind and sorrowful glance of recognition at the old often resorted to + hiding place of her own or her grandfather's treasures and trumpery. Those + old corners seemed to touch Fleda more than all the rest; and she turned + away from one of them with a face of such extreme sorrow that Mr. Carleton + very much regretted he had brought her into the house. For her sake,--for + his own, it was a curious show of character. Though tears were sometimes + streaming, she made no delay and gave him no trouble; with the calm + steadiness of a woman she went regularly through the house, leaving no + place unvisited, but never obliging him to hasten her away. She said not a + word during the whole time; her very crying; was still; the light tread of + her little feet was the only sound in the silent empty rooms; and the + noise of their footsteps in the halls and of the opening and shutting + doors echoed mournfully through the house. + </p> + <p> + She had left her grandfather's room for the last. Mr. Carleton did not + follow her in there, guessing that she would rather be alone. But she did + not come back, and he was forced to go to fetch her. + </p> + <p> + The chill desolateness of that room had been too much for poor little + Fleda. The empty bedstead, the cold stove, the table bare of books, only + one or two lay upon the old bible,--the forlorn order of the place that + bespoke the master far away, the very sunbeams that stole in at the little + windows and met now no answering look of gladness or gratitude,--it had + struck the child's heart too heavily, and she was standing crying by the + window. A second time in that room Mr. Carleton sat down and drew his + little charge to his breast and spoke words of soothing and sympathy. + </p> + <p> + "I am very sorry I brought you here, dear Elfie," he said kindly. "It was + too hard for you." + </p> + <p> + "O no!"--even through her tears Fleda said,--"she was very glad." + </p> + <p> + "Hadn't we better try to overtake our friends?" he whispered after another + pause. + </p> + <p> + She immediately, almost immediately, put away her tears, and with a quiet + obedience that touched him went with him from the room; fastened the door + and got out again at the little window. + </p> + <p> + "O Mr. Carleton!" she said with great earnestness when they had almost + reached the horses, "won't you wait for me <i>one</i> minute more?--I just + want a piece of the burning bush "-- + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus07.jpg"><img src="images/illus07.jpg" height="250" + alt="She stood back and watched." title="She stood back and watched." /><br /> + She stood back and watched.</a> + </p> + <p> + Drawing her hand from him she rushed round to the front of the house. A + little more slowly Mr. Carleton followed, and found her under the burning + bush, tugging furiously at a branch beyond her strength to break off. + </p> + <p> + "That's too much for you, Elfie," said he, gently taking her hand from the + tree,--"let my hand try." + </p> + <p> + She stood back and watched, tears running down her face, while he got a + knife from his pocket and cut off the piece she had been trying for, + nicely, and gave it to her. The first movement of Fleda's head was down, + bent over the pretty spray of red berries; but by the time she stood at + the horse's side she looked up at Mr. Carleton and thanked him with a face + of more than thankfulness. + </p> + <p> + She was crying however, constantly till they had gone several miles on + their way again, and Mr. Carleton doubted he had done wrong. It passed + away, and she had been sitting quite peacefully for some time, when he + told her they were near the place where they were to stop and join their + friends. She looked up most gratefully in his face. + </p> + <p> + "I am very much obliged to you, Mr. Carleton, for what you did!" + </p> + <p> + "I was afraid I had made a mistake, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, no, you didn't." + </p> + <p> + "Do you think you feel any easier after it, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh yes!--indeed I do," said she looking up again,--"thank you, Mr. + Carleton." + </p> + <p> + A gentle kind pressure of his arm answered her thanks. + </p> + <p> + "I ought to be a good sprite to you, Mr. Carleton," Fleda said after + musing a little while,--"you are so very good to me!" + </p> + <p> + Perhaps Mr. Carleton felt too much pleasure at this speech to make any + answer, for he made none. + </p> + <p> + "It is only selfishness, Elfie," said he presently, looking down to the + quiet sweet little face which seemed to him, and was, more pure than + anything of earth's mould he had ever seen.--"You know I must take care of + you for my own sake." + </p> + <p> + Fleda laughed a little. + </p> + <p> + "But what will you do when we get to Paris?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know. I should like to have you always, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "You'll have to get aunt Lucy to give me to you," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said she a few minutes after, "is that story in a book?" + </p> + <p> + "What story?" + </p> + <p> + "About the lady and the little sprites that waited on her." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it is in a book; you shall see it, Elfie.--Here we are!" + </p> + <p> + And here it was proposed to stay till the next day, lest Fleda might not + be able to bear so much travelling at first. But the country inn was not + found inviting; the dinner was bad and the rooms were worse; + uninhabitable, the ladies said; and about the middle of the afternoon they + began to cast about for the means of reaching Albany that night. None very + comfortable could be had; however it was thought better to push on at any + rate than wear out the night in such a place. The weather was very mild; + the moon at the full. + </p> + <p> + "How is Fleda to go this afternoon?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "She shall decide herself," said Mrs. Carleton. "How will you go, my sweet + Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda was lying upon a sort of rude couch which had been spread for her, + where she had been sleeping incessantly ever since she arrived, the hour + of dinner alone excepted. Mrs. Carleton repeated her question. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid Mr. Carleton must be tired," said Fleda, without opening her + eyes. + </p> + <p> + "That means that you are, don't it?" said Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda gently. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton smiled and went out to press forward the arrangements. In + spite of good words and good money there was some delay. It was rather + late before the cavalcade left the inn; and a journey of several hours was + before them. Mr. Carleton rode rather slowly too, for Fleda's sake, so the + evening had fallen while they were yet a mile or two from the city. + </p> + <p> + His little charge had borne the fatigue well, thanks partly to his + admirable care, and partly to her quiet pleasure in being with him. She + had been so perfectly still for some distance that he thought she had + dropped asleep. Looking down closer however to make sure about it he saw + her thoughtful clear eyes most unsleepily fixed upon the sky. + </p> + <p> + "What are you gazing at, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + The look of thought changed to a look of affection as the eyes were + brought to bear upon him, and she answered with a smile, + </p> + <p> + "Nothing,--I was looking at the stars." + </p> + <p> + "What are you dreaming about?" + </p> + <p> + "I wasn't dreaming," said Fleda,--"I was thinking." + </p> + <p> + "Thinking of what?" + </p> + <p> + "O of pleasant things." + </p> + <p> + "Mayn't I know them?--I like to hear of pleasant things." + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking,--" said Fleda, looking up again at the stars, which shone + with no purer ray than those grave eyes sent back to them,--"I was + thinking--of being ready to die." + </p> + <p> + The words, and the calm thoughtful manner in which they were said, + thrilled upon Mr. Carleton with a disagreeable shock. + </p> + <p> + "How came you to think of such a thing?" said he lightly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know,"--said Fleda, still looking at the stars,--"I suppose--I + was thinking--" + </p> + <p> + "What?" said Mr. Carleton, inexpressibly curious to get at the workings of + the child's mind, which was not easy, for Fleda was never very forward to + talk of herself;--"what were you thinking? I want to know how you could + get such a thing into your head." + </p> + <p> + "It wasn't very strange," said Fleda. "The stars made me think of heaven, + and grandpa's being there, and then I thought how he was ready to go there + and that made him ready to die--" + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't think of such things, Elfie," said Mr. Carleton after a few + minutes. + </p> + <p> + "Why not, sir?" said Fleda quickly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think they are good for you." + </p> + <p> + "But Mr. Carleton," said Fleda gently,--"if I don't think about it, how + shall <i>I</i> ever be ready to die?" + </p> + <p> + "It is not fit for you," said he, evading the question,--"it is not + necessary now,--there's time enough. You are a little body and should have + none but gay thoughts." + </p> + <p> + "But Mr. Carleton," said Fleda with timid earnestness,--"don't you think + one could have gay thoughts better if one knew one was ready to die?" + </p> + <p> + "What makes a person ready to die, Elfie?" said her friend, disliking to + ask the question, but yet more unable to answer hers, and curious to hear + what she would say. + </p> + <p> + "O--to be a Christian," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But I have seen Christians," said Mr. Carleton, "who were no more ready + to die than other people." + </p> + <p> + "Then they were make-believe Christians," said Fleda decidedly. + </p> + <p> + "What makes you think so?" said her friend, carefully guarding his + countenance from anything like a smile. + </p> + <p> + "Because," said Fleda, "grandpa was ready, and my father was ready, and my + mother too; and I know it was because they were Christians." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps your kind of Christians are different from my kind," said Mr. + Carleton, carrying on the conversation half in spite of himself. "What do + you mean by a Christian, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, what the Bible means," said Fleda, looking at him with innocent + earnestness. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was ashamed to tell her he did not know what that was, or he + was unwilling to say what he felt would trouble the happy confidence she + had in him. He was silent; but as they rode on, a bitter wish crossed his + mind that he could have the simple purity of the little child in his arms; + and he thought he would give his broad acres supposing it possible that + religion could be true,--in exchange for that free happy spirit that looks + up to all its possessions in heaven. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="11"></a>Chapter XI. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Starres are poore books and oftentimes do misse;<br /> This book of + starres lights to eternall blisse. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + George Herber. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The voyage across the Atlantic was not, in itself, at all notable. The + first half of the passage was extremely unquiet, and most of the + passengers uncomfortable to match. Then the weather cleared; and the rest + of the way, though lengthened out a good deal by the tricks of the wind, + was very fair and pleasant. + </p> + <p> + Fifteen days of tossing and sea-sickness had brought little Fleda to look + like the ghost of herself. So soon as the weather changed and sky and sea + were looking gentle again, Mr. Carleton had a mattress and cushions laid + in a sheltered corner of the deck for her, and carried her up. She had + hardly any more strength than a baby. + </p> + <p> + "What are you looking at me so for, Mr. Carleton?" said she, a little + while after he had carried her up, with a sweet serious smile that seemed + to know the answer to her question. + </p> + <p> + He stooped down and clasped her little thin hand, as reverentially as if + she really had not belonged to the earth. + </p> + <p> + "You are more like a sprite than I like to see you just now," said he, + unconsciously fastening the child's heart to himself with the magnetism of + those deep eyes.--"I must get some of the sailors' salt beef and sea + biscuit for you--they say that is the best thing to make people well." + </p> + <p> + "O I feel better already," said Fleda, and settling her little face upon + the cushion and closing her eyes, she added,--"thank you, Mr. Carleton!" + </p> + <p> + The fresh air began to restore her immediately; she was no more sick, her + appetite came back; and from that time, without the help of beef and + sea-biscuit, she mended rapidly. Mr. Carleton proved himself as good a + nurse on the sea as on land. She seemed to be never far from his thoughts. + He was constantly finding out something that would do her good or please + her; and Fleda could not discover that he took any trouble about it; she + could not feel that she was a burden to him; the things seemed to come as + a matter of course. Mrs. Carleton was not wanting in any shew of kindness + or care, and yet, when Fleda looked back upon the day, it somehow was Guy + that had done everything for her; she thought little of thanking anybody + but him. + </p> + <p> + There were other passengers that petted her a great deal, or would have + done so, if Fleda's very timid retiring nature had not stood in the way. + She was never bashful, nor awkward; but yet it was only a very peculiar, + sympathetic, style of address that could get within the wall of reserve + which in general hid her from other people. Hid, what it could; for + through that reserve a singular modesty, sweetness, and gracefulness of + spirit would shew themselves. But there was much more behind. There were + no eyes however on board that did not look kindly on little Fleda, + excepting only two pair. The Captain shewed her a great deal of flattering + attention, and said she was a pattern of a passenger; even the sailors + noticed and spoke of her and let slip no occasion of shewing the respect + and interest she had raised. But there were two pair of eyes, and one of + them Fleda thought most remarkably ugly, that were an exception to the + rest; these belonged to her cousin Rossitur and Lieut. Thorn. Rossitur had + never forgiven her remarks upon his character as a gentleman and declared + preference of Mr. Carleton in that capacity; and Thorn was mortified at + the invincible childish reserve which she opposed to all his advances; and + both, absurd as it seems, were jealous of the young Englishman's advantage + over them. Both not the less, because their sole reason for making her a + person of consequence was that he had thought fit to do so. Fleda would + permit neither of them to do anything for her that she could help. + </p> + <p> + They took their revenge in raillery, which was not always good-natured. + Mr. Carleton never answered it in any other way than by his look of cold + disdain,--not always by that; little Fleda could not be quite so unmoved. + Many a time her nice sense of delicacy confessed itself hurt, by the deep + and abiding colour her cheeks would wear after one of their ill mannered + flings at her. She bore them with a grave dignity peculiar to herself, but + the same nice delicacy forbade her to mention the subject to any one; and + the young gentlemen contrived to give the little child in the course of + the voyage a good deal of pain. She shunned them at last as she would the + plague. As to the rest Fleda liked her life on board ship amazingly. In + her quiet way she took all the good that offered and seemed not to + recognise the ill. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton had bought for her a copy of The Rape of the Lock, and + Bryant's poems. With these, sitting or lying among her cushions, Fleda + amused herself a great deal; and it was an especial pleasure when he would + sit down by her and read and talk about them. Still a greater was to watch + the sea, in its changes of colour and varieties of agitation, and to get + from Mr. Carleton, bit by bit, all the pieces of knowledge concerning it + that he had ever made his own. Even when Fleda feared it she was + fascinated; and while the fear went off the fascination grew deeper. + Daintily nestling among her cushions she watched with charmed eyes the + long rollers that came up in detachments of three to attack the good ship, + that like a slandered character rode patiently over them; or the crested + green billows, or sometimes the little rippling waves that shewed old + Ocean's placidest face; while with ears as charmed as if he had been + delivering a fairy tale she listened to all Mr. Carleton could tell her of + the green water where the whales feed, or the blue water where Neptune + sits in his own solitude, the furtherest from land, and the pavement under + his feet outdoes the very canopy overhead in its deep colouring; of the + transparent seas where the curious mysterious marine plants and animals + may be clearly seen many feet down, and in the North where hundreds of + feet of depth do not hide the bottom; of the icebergs; and whirling great + fields of ice, between which if a ship gets she had as good be an almond + in a pair of strong nut crackers. How the water grows colder and murkier + as it is nearer the shore; how the mountain waves are piled together; and + how old Ocean, like a wise man, however roughened and tumbled outwardly by + the currents of Life, is always calm at heart. Of the signs of the + weather; the out-riders of the winds, and the use the seaman makes of the + tidings they bring; and before Mr. Carleton knew where he was he found + himself deep in the science of navigation, and making a star-gazer of + little Fleda. Sometimes kneeling beside him as he sat on her mattress, + with her hand leaning on his shoulder, Fleda asked, listened, and looked; + as engaged, as rapt, as interested, as another child would be in Robinson + Crusoe, gravely drinking in knowledge with a fresh healthy taste for it + that never had enough. Mr. Carleton was about as amused and as interested + as she. There is a second taste of knowledge that some minds get in + imparting it, almost as sweet as the first relish. At any rate Fleda never + felt that she had any reason to fear tiring him; and his mother + complaining of his want of sociableness said she believed Guy did not like + to talk to anybody but that little pet of his and one or two of the old + sailors. If left to her own resources Fleda was never at a loss; she + amused herself with her books, or watching the sailors, or watching the + sea, or with some fanciful manufacture she had learned from one of the + ladies on board, or with what the company about her were saying and doing. + </p> + <p> + One evening she had been some time alone, looking out upon the restless + little waves that were tossing and tumbling in every direction. She had + been afraid of them at first and they were still rather fearful to her + imagination. This evening as her musing eye watched them rise and fall her + childish fancy likened them to the up-springing chances of + life,--uncertain, unstable, alike too much for her skill and her strength + to manage. She was not more helpless before the attacks of the one than of + the other. But then--that calm blue Heaven that hung over the sea. It was + like the heaven of power and love above her destinies; only this was far + higher and more pure and abiding. "He knoweth them that trust in him." + "There shall not a hair of your head perish." + </p> + <p> + Not these words perhaps, but something like the sense of them was in + little Fleda's head. Mr. Carleton coming up saw her gazing out upon the + water with an eye that seemed to see nothing. + </p> + <p> + "Elfie!--Are you looking into futurity?" + </p> + <p> + "No,--yes,--not exactly," said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "No, yes, and not exactly!" said he throwing himself down beside her.--" + What does all that mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I wasn't exactly looking into futurity," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "What then?--Don't tell me you were 'thinking;' I know that dready. What?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda was always rather shy of opening her cabinet of thoughts. She + glanced at him, and hesitated, and then yielded to a fascination of eye + and smile that rarely failed of its end. Looking off to the sea again, as + if she had left her thoughts there, she said, + </p> + <p> + "I was only thinking of that beautiful hymn of Mr. Newton's." + </p> + <p> + "What hymn?" + </p> + <p> + "That long one, 'The Lord will provide.'" + </p> + <p> + "Do you know it?--Tell it to me, Elfie--let us see whether I shall think + it beautiful." + </p> + <p> + Fleda knew the whole and repeated it. + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Though troubles assail,<br /> And dangers affright,<br /> Though friends + should all fall,<br /> And foes all unite;<br /> Yet one thing secures us<br /> + Whatever betide,<br /> The Scripture assures us<br /> 'The Lord will + provide.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "The birds without barn<br /> Or storehouse are fed;<br /> From them let + us learn<br /> To trust for our bread.<br /> His saints what is fitting<br /> + Shall ne'er be denied,<br /> So long as 'tis written,<br /> 'The Lord will + provide.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "His call we obey,<br /> Like Abraham of old,<br /> Not knowing our way,<br /> + But faith makes us bold.<br /> And though we are strangers,<br /> We have + a good guide,<br /> And trust in all dangers<br /> 'The Lord will + provide.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "We may like the ships<br /> In tempests be tossed<br /> On perilous + deeps,<br /> But cannot be lost.<br /> Though Satan enrages<br /> The wind + and the tide,<br /> The promise engages<br /> 'The Lord will provide.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "When Satan appears<br /> To stop up our path,<br /> And fills us with + fears,<br /> We triumph by faith.<br /> He cannot take from us,<br /> + Though oft he has tried,<br /> This heart-cheering promise,<br /> 'The + Lord will provide.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "He tells us we're weak,<br /> Our hope is in vain,<br /> The good that we + seek<br /> We ne'er shall obtain;<br /> But when such suggestions<br /> Our + spirits have tried,<br /> This answers all questions.<br /> 'The Lord will + provide.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "No strength of our own,<br /> Or goodness we claim;<br /> But since we + have known<br /> The Saviour's great name<br /> In this, our strong tower,<br /> + For safety we hide;<br /> The Lord is our power!<br /> 'The Lord will + provide.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "When life sinks apace,<br /> And death is in view,<br /> This word of his + grace<br /> Shall comfort us through.<br /> No fearing nor doubting,<br /> + With Christ on our side,<br /> We hope to die shouting,<br /> 'The Lord + will provide.'" + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Guy listened very attentively to the whole. He was very far from + understanding the meaning of several of the verses, but the bounding + expression of confidence and hope he did understand, and did feel. + </p> + <p> + "Happy to be so deluded!" he thought.--"I almost wish I could share the + delusion!" + </p> + <p> + He was gloomily silent when she had done, and little Fleda's eyes were so + full that it was a little while before she could look towards him and ask + in her gentle way, "Do you like it, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + She was gratified by his grave, "Yes!" + </p> + <p> + "But, Elfie," said he smiling again, "you have not told me your thoughts + yet. What had these verses to do with the sea you were looking at so + hard?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing--I was thinking," said Fleda slowly,--"that the sea seemed + something like the world,--I don't mean it was like, but it made me think + of it; and I thought how pleasant it is to know that God takes care of his + people." + </p> + <p> + "Don't he take care of everybody?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--in one sort of way," said Fleda; "but then it is only his children + that he has promised to keep from everything that will hurt them." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see how that promise is kept, Elfie. I think those who call + themselves so meet with as many troubles as the rest of the world, and + perhaps more." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda quickly, "they have troubles, but then God won't let the + troubles do them any harm." + </p> + <p> + A subtle evasion, thought Mr. Carleton.--"Where did you learn that, + Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "The Bible says so," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well, how do you know it from that?" aid Mr. Carleton, impelled, he + hardly knew whether by his bad or his good angel, to carry on the + conversation. + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Fleda, looking as if it were a very simple question and Mr. + Carleton were catechising her,--"you know, Mr. Carleton, the Bible was + written by men who were taught by God exactly what to say, so there could + be nothing in it that is not true." + </p> + <p> + "How do you know those men were so taught?" + </p> + <p> + "The Bible says so." + </p> + <p> + A child's answer!--but with a child's wisdom in it, not learnt of the + schools. "He that is of God heareth God's words." To little Fleda, as to + every simple and humble intelligence, the Bible proved itself; she had no + need to go further. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton did not smile, for nothing would have tempted him to hurt her + feelings; but he said, though conscience did not let him do it without a + twinge, + </p> + <p> + "But don't you know, Elfie, there are some people who do not believe the + Bible?" + </p> + <p> + "Ah but those are bad people," replied Fleda quickly;--"all good people + believe it." + </p> + <p> + A child's reason again, but hitting the mark this time. Unconsciously, + little Fleda had brought forward a strong argument for her cause. Mr. + Carleton felt it, and rising up that he might not be obliged to say + anything more, he began to pace slowly up and down the deck, turning the + matter over. + </p> + <p> + Was it so? that there were hardly any good men (he thought there might be + a few) who did not believe in the Bible and uphold its authority? and that + all the worst portion of society was comprehended in the other class?--and + if so, how had he overlooked it? He had reasoned most unphilosophically + from a few solitary instances that had come under his own eye; but + applying the broad principle of induction it could not be doubted that the + Bible was on the side of all that is sound, healthful, and hopeful, in + this disordered world. And whatever might be the character of a few + exceptions, it was not supposable that a wide system of hypocrisy should + tell universally for the best interests of mankind. Summoning history to + produce her witnesses, as he went on with his walk up and down, he saw + with increasing interest, what he had never seen before, that the Bible + had come like the breath of spring upon the moral waste of mind; that the + ice-bound intellect and cold heart of the world had waked into life under + its kindly influence and that all the rich growth of the one and the other + had come forth at its bidding. And except in that sun-lightened tract, the + world was and had been a waste indeed. Doubtless in that waste, intellect + had at different times put forth sundry barren shoots, such as a vigorous + plant can make in the absence of the sun, but also like them immature, + unsound, and groping vainly after the light in which alone they could + expand and perfect themselves; ripening no seed for a future and richer + growth. And flowers the wilderness had none. The affections were stunted + and overgrown. + </p> + <p> + All this was so,--how had he overlooked it? His unbelief had come from a + thoughtless, ignorant, one-sided view of life and human things. The + disorder and ruin which he saw, where he did not also see the adjusting + hand at work, had led him to refuse his credit to the Supreme Fabricator. + He thought the waste would never be reclaimed, and did not know how much + it already owed to the sun of revelation; but what was the waste where + that light had not been!--Mr. Carleton was staggered. He did not know what + to think. He began to think he had been a fool. + </p> + <p> + Poor little Fleda was meditating less agreeably the while. With the sure + tact of truth she had discerned that there was more than jest in the + questions that had been put to her. She almost feared that Mr. Carleton + shared himself the doubts he had so lightly spoken of, and the thought + gave her great distress. However, when he came to take her down to tea, + with all his usual manner, Fleda's earnest look at him ended in the + conviction that there was nothing very wrong under that face. + </p> + <p> + For several days Mr. Carleton pondered the matter of this evening's + conversation, characteristically restless till he had made up his mind. He + wished very much to draw Fleda to speak further upon the subject, but it + was not easy; she never led to it. He sought in vain an opportunity to + bring it in easily, and at last resolved to make one. + </p> + <p> + "Elfie," said he one morning when all the rest of the passengers were + happily engaged at a distance with the letter-bags,--"I wish you would let + me hear that favourite hymn of yours again,--I like it very much." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was much gratified, and immediately with great satisfaction repeated + the hymn. Its peculiar beauty struck him yet more the second time than the + first. + </p> + <p> + "Do you understand those two last verses?" said he when she had done. + </p> + <p> + Fleda said "Yes!" rather surprised. + </p> + <p> + "I do not," he said gravely. + </p> + <p> + Fleda paused a minute or two, and then finding that it depended on her to + enlighten him, said in her modest way, + </p> + <p> + "Why it means that we have no goodness of our own, and only expect to be + forgiven and taken to heaven for the Saviour's sake." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton asked, "How<i>for his sake</i>?" + </p> + <p> + "Why you know, Mr. Carleton, we don't deserve to go there, and if we are + forgiven at all it must be for what he has done." + </p> + <p> + "And what is that, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "He died for us," said Fleda, with a look of some anxiety into Mr. + Carleton's face. + </p> + <p> + "Died for us!--And what end was that to serve, Elfie?" said he, partly + willing to hear the full statement of the matter, and partly willing to + see how far her intelligence could give it. + </p> + <p> + "Because we are sinners," said Fleda, "and God has said that sinners shall + die." + </p> + <p> + "Then how can he keep his word and forgive at all?" + </p> + <p> + "Because Christ has died <i>for us</i>," said Fleda eagerly;--"instead of + us." + </p> + <p> + "Do you understand the justice of letting one take the place of others?" + </p> + <p> + "He was willing, Mr. Carleton," said Fleda, with a singular wistful + expression that touched him. + </p> + <p> + "Still, Elfie," said he after a minute's silence,--"how could the ends of + justice be answered by the death of one man in the place of millions?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Mr. Carleton, but he was God as well as man," Fleda said, with a + sparkle in her eye which perhaps delayed her companion's rejoinder. + </p> + <p> + "What should induce him, Elfie," he said gently, "to do such a thing for + people who had displeased him?" + </p> + <p> + "Because he loved us, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + She answered with so evident a strong and clear appreciation of what she + was saying that it half made its way into Mr. Carleton's mind by the force + of sheer sympathy. Her words came almost as something new. + </p> + <p> + Certainly Mr. Carleton had heard these things before, though perhaps never + in a way that appealed so directly to his intelligence and his candour. He + was again silent an instant, pondering, and so was Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know, Elfie," said Mr. Carleton, "there are some people who do not + believe that the Saviour was anything more than a man?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes I know it," said Fleda;--"it is very strange!" + </p> + <p> + "Why is it strange?" + </p> + <p> + "Because the Bible says it so plainly." + </p> + <p> + "But those people hold I believe that the Bible does not say it?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't see how they could have read the Bible," said Fleda. "Why he said + so himself." + </p> + <p> + "Who said so?" + </p> + <p> + "Jesus Christ. Don't <i>you</i> believe it, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + She saw he did not, and the shade that had come over her face was + reflected in his before he said "No." + </p> + <p> + "But perhaps I shall believe it yet, Elfie," he said kindly. "Can you shew + me the place in your Bible where Jesus says this of himself?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked in despair. She hastily turned over the leaves of her Bible + to find the passages he had asked for, and Mr. Carleton was cut to the + heart to see that she twice was obliged to turn her face from him and + brush her hand over her eyes, before she could find them. She turned to + Matt. xxvi. 63, 64, 65, and without speaking gave him the book, pointing + to the passage. He read it with great care, and several times over. "You + are right, Elfie," he said. "I do not see how those who honour the + authority of the Bible and the character of Jesus Christ can deny the + truth of his own declaration. If that is false so must those be." + </p> + <p> + Fleda took the Bible and hurriedly sought out another passage. + </p> + <p> + "Grandpa shewed me these places," she said, "once when we were talking + about Mr. Didenhover--<i>he</i> didn't believe that. There are a great + many other places, grandpa said; but one is enough;"-- + </p> + <p> + She gave him the latter part of the twentieth chapter of John.-- + </p> + <p> + "You see, Mr. Carleton, he let Thomas fall down and worship him and call + him God; and if he had <i>not</i> been, you know----God is more displeased + with that than with any thing.' + </p> + <p> + "With what, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "With men's worshipping any other than himself. He says he 'will not give + his glory to another.'" + </p> + <p> + "Where is that?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid I can't find it," said Fleda,--"it is somewhere in Isaiah, I + know"-- + </p> + <p> + She tried in vain; and failing, then looked up in Mr. Carleton's face to + see what impression had been made. + </p> + <p> + "You see Thomas believed when he <i>saw</i>" said he, answering her;--"I + will believe too when I see." + </p> + <p> + "Ah if you wait for that--" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + Her voice suddenly checked, she bent her face down again to her little + Bible, and there was a moment's struggle with herself. + </p> + <p> + "Are you looking for something more to shew me?" said Mr. Carleton kindly, + stooping his face down to hers. + </p> + <p> + "Not much," said Fleda hurriedly; and then making a great effort she + raised her head and gave him the book again. + </p> + <p> + "Look here, Mr. Carleton,--Jesus said, 'Blessed are they that have <i>not</i> + seen and yet have believed.'" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was profoundly struck, and the thought recurred to him + afterwards and was dwelt upon.--"Blessed are they that have <i>not</i> + seen, and yet have believed." It was strange at first, and then he + wondered that it should ever have been so. His was a mind peculiarly open + to conviction, peculiarly accessible to truth; and his attention being + called to it he saw faintly now what he had never seen before, the beauty + of the principle of <i>faith</i>;--how natural, how reasonable, how <i>necessary</i>, + how honourable to the Supreme Being, how happy even for man, that the + grounds of his trust in God being established, his acceptance of many + other things should rest on that trust alone. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton now became more reserved and unsociable than ever. He wearied + himself with thinking. If be could have got at the books, he would have + spent his days and nights in studying the evidences of Christianity, but + the ship was bare of any such books, and he never thought of turning to + the most obvious of all, the Bible itself. His unbelief was shaken; it was + within an ace of falling in pieces to the very foundation; or rather he + began to suspect how foundationless it had been. It came at last to one + point with him;--If there were a God, he would not have left the world + without a revelation,--no more would he have suffered that revelation to + defeat its own end by becoming corrupted or alloyed, if there was such a + revelation it could be no other than the Bible;--and his acceptance of the + whole scheme of Christianity now hung upon the turn of a hair. Yet he + could not resolve himself. He balanced the counter-doubts and arguments, + on one side and on the other, and strained his mind to the task;--he could + not weigh them nicely enough. He was in a maze; and seeking to clear and + calm his judgment that he might see the way out, it was in vain that he + tried to shake his dizzied head from the effect of the turns it had made. + By dint of anxiety to find the right path reason had lost herself in the + wilderness. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was not, as Mr. Carleton had feared she would be, at all alienated + from him by the discovery that had given her so much pain. It wrought in + another way, rather to add a touch of tender and anxious interest to the + affection she had for him. It gave her however much more pain than he + thought. If he had seen the secret tears that fell on his account he would + have been grieved; and if he had known of the many petitions that little + heart made for him--he could hardly have loved her more than he did. + </p> + <p> + One evening Mr. Carleton had been a long while pacing up and down the deck + in front of little Fleda's nest, thinking and thinking, without coming to + any end. It was a most fair evening, near sunset, the sky without a cloud + except two or three little dainty strips which set off its blue. The ocean + was very quiet, only broken into cheerful mites of waves that seemed to + have nothing to do but sparkle. The sun's rays were almost level now, and + a long path of glory across the sea led off towards his sinking disk. + Fleda sat watching and enjoying it all in her happy fashion, which always + made the most of everything good, and was especially quick in catching any + form of natural beauty. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton's thoughts were elsewhere; too busy to take note of things + around him. Fleda looked now and then as he passed at his gloomy brow, + wondering what he was thinking of, and wishing that he could have the same + reason to be happy that she had. In one of his turns his eye met her + gentle glance; and vexed and bewildered as he was with study there was + something in that calm bright face that impelled him irresistibly to ask + the little child to set the proud scholar right. Placing himself beside + her, he said, + </p> + <p> + "Elfie, how do you know there is a God?--what reason have you for thinking + so, out of the Bible?" + </p> + <p> + It was a strange look little Fleda gave him. He felt it at the time, and + he never forgot it. Such a look of reproach, sorrow, and <i>pity</i>, he + afterwards thought, as an angel's face might have worn. The <i>question</i> + did not seem to occupy her a moment. After this answering look she + suddenly pointed to the sinking sun and said, + </p> + <p> + "Who made that, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton's eyes, following the direction of hers, met the long bright + rays whose still witness-bearing was almost too powerful to be borne. The + sun was just dipping majestically into the sea, and its calm + self-assertion seemed to him at that instant hardly stronger than its + vindication of its Author. + </p> + <p> + A slight arrow may find the joint in the armour before which many + weightier shafts have fallen powerless. Mr. Carleton was an unbeliever no + more from that time. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="12"></a>Chapter XII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + He borrowed a box of the ear of the Englishman, and swore he would pay + him again when he was able.--Merchant of Venice. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + One other incident alone in the course of the voyage deserves to be + mentioned; both because it served to bring out the characters of several + people, and because it was not,--what is?--without its lingering + consequences. + </p> + <p> + Thorn and Rossitur had kept up indefatigably the game of teasing Fleda + about her "English admirer," as they sometimes styled him. Poor Fleda grew + more and more sore on the subject. She thought it was very strange that + two grown men could not find enough to do to amuse themselves without + making sport of the comfort of a little child. She wondered they could + take pleasure in what gave her so much pain; but so it was; and they had + it up so often that at last others caught it from them; and though not in + malevolence yet in thoughtless folly many a light remark was made and + question asked of her that set little Fleda's sensitive nerves a + quivering. She was only too happy that they were never said before Mr. + Carleton; that would have been a thousand times worse. As it was, her + gentle nature was constantly suffering from the pain or the fear of these + attacks. + </p> + <p> + "Where's Mr. Carleton?" said her cousin coming up one day. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda,--"I don't know but he is gone up into one of + the tops." + </p> + <p> + "Your humble servant leaves you to yourself a great while this morning, it + seems to me. He is growing very inattentive." + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't permit it, Miss Fleda, if I were you," said Thorn maliciously. + "You let him have his own way too much." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you wouldn't talk so, cousin Charlton!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But seriously," said Charlton, "I think you had better call him to + account. He is very suspicious lately. I have observed him walking by + himself and looking very glum indeed. I am afraid he has taken some fancy + into his head that would not suit you. I advise you to enquire into it." + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't give myself any concern about it!" said Thorn lightly, + enjoying the child's confusion and his own fanciful style of + backbiting,--"I'd let him go if he has a mind to, Miss Fleda. He's no such + great catch. He's neither lord nor knight--nothing in the world but a + private gentleman, with plenty of money I dare say, but you don't care for + that;--and there's as good fish in the sea as ever came out of it. I don't + think much of him!" + </p> + <p> + He is wonderfully better than <i>you</i>, thought Fleda as she looked in + the young gentleman's face for a second, but she said nothing. + </p> + <p> + "Why, Fleda," said Charlton laughing, "it wouldn't be a killing affair, + would it? How has this English admirer of yours got so far in your + fancy?--praising your pretty eyes, eh?--Eh?" he repeated, as Fleda kept a + dignified silence. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda in displeasure,--"he never says such things." + </p> + <p> + "No?" said Charlton. "What then? What does he say? I wouldn't let him make + a fool of me if I were you. Fleda!--did he ever ask you for a kiss?" + </p> + <p> + "No!" exclaimed Fleda half beside herself and bursting into tears;--"I + wish you wouldn't talk so! How can you?" + </p> + <p> + They had carried the game pretty far that time, and thought best to leave + it. Fleda stopped crying as soon as she could, lest somebody should see + her; and was sitting quietly again, alone as before, when one of the + sailors whom she had never spoken to came by, and leaning over towards her + with a leer as he passed, said, + </p> + <p> + "Is this the young English gentleman's little sweetheart?" + </p> + <p> + Poor Fleda! She had got more than she could bear. She jumped up and ran + down into the cabin; and in her berth Mrs. Carleton found her some time + afterwards, quietly crying, and most sorry to be discovered. She was + exceeding unwilling to tell what had troubled her. Mrs. Carleton, really + distressed, tried coaxing, soothing, reasoning, promising, in a way the + most gentle and kind that she could use. + </p> + <p> + "Oh it's nothing--it's nothing," Fleda said at last eagerly,--"it's + because I am foolish--it's only something they said to me." + </p> + <p> + "Who, love?" + </p> + <p> + Again was Fleda most unwilling to answer, and it was after repeated urging + that she at last said, + </p> + <p> + "Cousin Charlton and Mr. Thorn." + </p> + <p> + "Charlton and Mr. Thorn!--What did they say? What did they say, darling + Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "O it's only that they tease me," said Fleda, trying hard to put an end to + the tears which caused all this questioning, and to speak as if they were + about a trifle. But Mrs. Carleton persisted. + </p> + <p> + "What do they say to tease you, love? what is it about?--Guy, come in here + and help me to find out what is the matter with Fleda." + </p> + <p> + Fleda hid her face in Mrs. Carleton's neck, resolved to keep her lips + sealed. Mr. Carleton came in, but to her great relief his question was + directed not to her but his mother. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda has been annoyed by something those young men, her cousin and Mr. + Thorn, have said to her;--they tease her, she says, and she will not tell + me what it is." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton did not ask, and he presently left the state-room. + </p> + <p> + "O I am afraid he will speak to them!" exclaimed Fleda as soon as he was + gone.--"O I oughtn't to have said that!"-- + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton tried to soothe her and asked what she was afraid of. But + Fleda would not say any more. Her anxious fear that she had done mischief + helped to dry her tears, and she sorrowfully resolved she would keep her + griefs to herself next time. + </p> + <p> + Rossitur and Thorn were in company with a brother officer and friend of + the latter when Mr. Carleton approached them. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Rossitur and Mr. Thorn," said he, "you have indulged yourselves in a + style of conversation extremely displeasing to the little girl under my + mother's care. You will oblige me by abandoning it for the future." + </p> + <p> + There was certainly in Mr. Carleton's manner a sufficient degree of the + cold haughtiness with which he usually expressed displeasure; though his + words gave no other cause of offence. Thorn retorted rather insolently, + </p> + <p> + "I shall oblige myself in the matter, and do as I think proper." + </p> + <p> + "I have a right to speak as I please to my own cousin," said Rossitur + sulkily,--"without asking anybody's leave. I don't see what you have to do + with it." + </p> + <p> + "Simply that she is under my protection and that I will not permit her to + be annoyed." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see how she is under your protection," said Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "And I do not see how the potency of it will avail in this case,' said his + companion. + </p> + <p> + "Neither position is to be made out in words," said Mr. Carleton calmly. + "You see that I desire there be no repetition of the offence. The rest I + will endeavour to make clear if I am compelled to it." + </p> + <p> + "Stop, sir!" said Thorn, as the young Englishman was turning away, adding + with an oath,--"I won't bear this! You shall answer this to me, sir!" + </p> + <p> + "Easily," said the other. + </p> + <p> + "And me too," said Rossitur. "You have an account to settle with me, + Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "I will answer what you please," said Carleton carelessly,--"and as soon + as we get to land--provided you do not in the mean time induce me to + refuse you the honour." + </p> + <p> + However incensed, the young men endeavoured to carry it off with the same + coolness that their adversary shewed. No more words passed. But Mrs. + Carleton, possibly quickened by Fleda's fears, was not satisfied with the + carriage of all parties, and resolved to sound her son, happy in knowing + that nothing but truth was to be had from him. She found an opportunity + that very afternoon when he was sitting alone on the deck. The + neighbourhood of little Fleda she hardly noticed. Fleda was curled up + among her cushions, luxuriously bending over a little old black Bible + which was very often in her hand at times when she was quiet and had no + observation to fear. + </p> + <p> + "Reading!--always reading?" said Mrs. Carleton, as she came up and took a + place by her son. + </p> + <p> + "By no means!" he said, closing his book with a smile;--"not enough to + tire any one's eyes on this voyage, mother." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you liked intercourse with living society," said Mrs. Carleton, + leaning her arm on his shoulder and looking at him rather wistfully. + </p> + <p> + "You need not wish that,--when it suits me," he answered. + </p> + <p> + "But none suits you. Is there any on board?" + </p> + <p> + "A small proportion," he said, with the slight play of feature which + always effected a diversion of his mother's thoughts, no matter in what + channel they had been flowing. + </p> + <p> + "But those young men," she said, returning to the charge,--"you hold + yourself very much aloof from them?" + </p> + <p> + He did not answer, even by a look, but to his mother the perfectly quiet + composure of his face was sufficiently expressive. + </p> + <p> + "I know what you think, but Guy, you always had the same opinion of them?" + </p> + <p> + "I have never shewn any other." + </p> + <p> + "Guy," she said speaking low and rather anxiously,--"have you got into + trouble with those young men?" + </p> + <p> + "<i>I</i> am in no trouble, mother," he answered somewhat haughtily; "I + cannot speak for them." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton waited a moment. + </p> + <p> + "You have done something to displease them, have you not?" + </p> + <p> + "They have displeased me, which is somewhat more to the purpose. + </p> + <p> + "But their folly is nothing to you?" + </p> + <p> + "No,--not their folly." + </p> + <p> + "Guy," said his mother, again pausing a minute, and pressing her hand more + heavily upon his shoulder, "you will not suffer this to alter the friendly + terms you have been on?--whatever it be,--let it pass." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly--if they choose to apologize and behave themselves." + </p> + <p> + "What, about Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "I have no idea they meant to trouble her--I suppose they did not at all + know what they were doing,--thoughtless nonsense,--and they could have had + no design to offend you. Promise me that you will not take any further + notice of this!" + </p> + <p> + He shook off her beseeching hand as he rose up, and answered haughtily, + and not without something like an oath, that he <i>would</i>. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton knew him better than to press the matter any further; and + her fondness easily forgave the offence against herself, especially as her + son almost immediately resumed his ordinary manner. + </p> + <p> + It had well nigh passed from the minds of both parties, when in the middle + of the next day Mr. Carleton asked what had become of Fleda?--he had not + seen her except at the breakfast table. Mrs. Carleton said she was not + well. + </p> + <p> + "What's the matter?" + </p> + <p> + "She complained of some headache--I think she made herself sick + yesterday--she was crying all the afternoon, and I could not get her to + tell me what for. I tried every means I could think of, but she would not + give me the least clue--she said 'no' to everything I guessed--I can't + bear to see her do so--it makes it all the worse she does it so + quietly--it was only by a mere chance I found she was crying at all, but I + think she cried herself ill before she stopped. She could not eat a + mouthful of breakfast." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton said nothing and with a changed countenance went directly + down to the cabin. The stewardess, whom he sent in to see how she was, + brought back word that Fleda was not asleep but was too ill to speak to + her. Mr. Carleton went immediately into the little crib of a state-room. + There he found his little charge, sitting bolt upright, her feet on the + rung of a chair and her hands grasping the top to support herself. Her + eyes were closed, her face without a particle of colour, except the dark + shade round the eyes which bespoke illness and pain. She made no attempt + to answer his shocked questions and words of tender concern, not even by + the raising of an eyelid, and he saw that the intensity of pain at the + moment was such as to render breathing itself difficult. He sent off the + stewardess with all despatch after iced water and vinegar and brandy, and + himself went on an earnest quest of restoratives among the lady passengers + in the cabin, which resulted in sundry supplies of salts and cologne; and + also offers of service, in greater plenty still, which he all refused. + Most tenderly and judiciously he himself applied various remedies to the + suffering child, who could not direct him otherwise than by gently putting + away the things which she felt would not avail her. Several were in vain. + But there was one bottle of strong aromatic vinegar which was destined to + immortalize its owner in Fleda's remembrance. Before she had taken three + whiffs of it her colour changed. Mr. Carleton watched the effect of a few + whiffs more, and then bade the stewardess take away all the other things + and bring him a cup of fresh strong coffee. By the time it came Fleda was + ready for it, and by the time Mr. Carleton had administered the coffee he + saw it would do to throw his mother's shawl round her and carry her up on + deck, which he did without asking any questions. All this while Fleda had + not spoken a word, except once when he asked her if she felt better. But + she had given him, on finishing the coffee, a full look and half smile of + such pure affectionate gratitude that the young gentleman's tongue was + tied for some time after. + </p> + <p> + With happy skill, when he had safely bestowed Fleda among her cushions on + deck, Mr. Carleton managed to keep off the crowd of busy inquirers after + her well-doing, and even presently to turn his mother's attention another + way, leaving Fleda to enjoy all the comfort of quiet and fresh air at + once. He himself, seeming occupied with other things, did no more but keep + watch over her, till he saw that she was able to bear conversation again. + Then he seated himself beside her and said softly, + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus08.jpg"><img src="images/illus08.jpg" height="250" + alt="Then he seated himself beside her." + title="Then he seated himself beside her." /><br /> Then he seated himself + beside her.</a> + </p> + <p> + "Elfie,--what were you crying about all yesterday afternoon?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda changed colour, for soft and gentle as the tone was she heard in it + a determination to have the answer; and looking up beseechingly into his + face she saw in the steady full blue eye that it was a determination she + could not escape from. Her answer was an imploring request that he would + not ask her. But taking one of her little hands and carrying it to his + lips, he in the same tone repeated his question. Fleda snatched away her + hand and burst into very frank tears; Mr. Carleton was silent, but she + knew through silence that he was only quietly waiting for her to answer + him. + </p> + <p> + "I wish you wouldn't ask me, sir," said poor Fleda, who still could not + turn her face to meet his eye;--"It was only something that happened + yesterday." + </p> + <p> + "What was it, Elfie?--You need not be afraid to tell me." + </p> + <p> + "It was only--what you said to Mrs. Carleton yesterday,--when she was + talking--" + </p> + <p> + "About my difficulty with those gentlemen?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda, with a new gush of tears, as if her grief stirred + afresh at the thought. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was silent a moment; and when he spoke there was no + displeasure and more tenderness than usual in his voice. + </p> + <p> + "What troubled you in that, Elfie? tell me the whole." + </p> + <p> + "I was sorry, because,--it wasn't right," said Fleda, with a grave + truthfulness which yet lacked none of her universal gentleness and + modesty. + </p> + <p> + "What wasn't right?" + </p> + <p> + "To speak--I am afraid you won't like me to say it, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "I will, Elfie,--for I ask you." + </p> + <p> + "To speak to Mrs. Carleton so, and besides,--you know what you said, Mr. + Carleton--" + </p> + <p> + "It was <i>not</i> right," said he after a minute,--"and I very seldom use + such an expression, but you know one cannot always be on one's guard, + Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "But," said Fleda with gentle persistence, "one can always do what is + right." + </p> + <p> + The deuce one can!--thought Mr, Carleton to himself. "Elfie,--was that all + that troubled you?--that I had said what was not right?" + </p> + <p> + "It wasn't quite that only," said Fleda hesitating,--"What else?" + </p> + <p> + She stooped her face from his sight and he could but just understand her + words. + </p> + <p> + "I was disappointed--" + </p> + <p> + "What, in me!" + </p> + <p> + Her tears gave the answer; she could add to them nothing but an assenting + nod of her head. + </p> + <p> + They would have flowed in double measure if she had guessed the pain she + had given. Her questioner heard her with a keen pang which did not leave + him for days. There was some hurt pride in it, though other and more + generous feelings had a far larger share. He, who had been admired, + lauded, followed, cited, and envied, by all ranks of his countrymen and + countrywomen;--in whom nobody found a fault that could be dwelt upon amid + the lustre of his perfections and advantages;--one of the first young men + in England, thought so by himself as well as by others;--this little pure + being had been <i>disappointed</i> in him. He could not get over it. He + reckoned the one judgment worth all the others. Those whose direct or + indirect flatteries had been poured at his feet were the proud, the + worldly, the ambitious, the interested, the corrupted;--their praise was + given to what they esteemed, and that, his candour said, was the least + estimable part of him. Beneath all that, this truth-loving, + truth-discerning little spirit had found enough to weep for. She was right + and they were wrong. The sense of this was so keen upon him that it was + tea or fifteen minutes before he could recover himself to speak to his + little reprover. He paced up and down the deck, while Fleda wept more and + more from the fear of having offended or grieved him. But she was soon + reassured on the former point. She was just wiping away her tears, with + the quiet expression of patience her face often wore, when Mr. Carleton + sat down beside her and took one of her hands. + </p> + <p> + "Elfie," said he,--"I promise you I will never say such a thing again." + </p> + <p> + He might well call her his good angel, for it was an angelic look the + child gave him. So purely humble, grateful, glad,--so rosy with joyful + hope,--the eyes were absolutely sparkling through tears. But when she saw + that his were not dry, her own overflowed. She clasped her other hand to + his hand and bending down her face affectionately upon it, she wept,--if + ever angels weep,--such tears as they. + </p> + <p> + "Elfie," said Mr. Carleton, as soon as he could,--"I want you to go down + stairs with me; so dry those eyes, or my mother will be asking all sorts + of difficult questions." + </p> + <p> + Happiness is a quick restorative. Elfie was soon ready to go where he + would. + </p> + <p> + They found Mrs. Carleton fortunately wrapped up in a new novel, some + distance apart from the other persons in the cabin. The novel was + immediately laid aside to take Fleda on her lap and praise Guy's nursing. + </p> + <p> + "But she looks more like a wax figure yet than anything else, don't she, + Guy?" + </p> + <p> + "Not like any that ever I saw," said Mr. Carleton gravely. "Hardly + substantial enough. Mother, I have come to tell you I am ashamed of myself + for having given you such cause of offence yesterday." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton's quick look, as she laid her hand on her son's arm, said + sufficiently well that she would have excused him from making any apology + rather than have him humble himself in the presence of a third person. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda heard me yesterday," said he; "it was right she should hear me + to-day." + </p> + <p> + "Then my dear Guy," said his mother with a secret eagerness which she did + not allow to appear,--"if I may make a condition for my forgiveness, which + you had before you asked for it,--will you grant me one favour?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, mother,--if I can." + </p> + <p> + "You promise me?" + </p> + <p> + "As well in one word as in two." + </p> + <p> + "Promise me that you will never, by any circumstances, allow yourself to + be drawn into--what is called <i>an affair of honour</i>." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton's brow changed, and without making any reply, perhaps to + avoid his mother's questioning gaze, he rose up and walked two or three + times the length of the cabin. His mother and Fleda watched him + doubtfully. + </p> + <p> + "Do you see how you have got me into trouble, Elfie?" said he, stopping + before them. + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked wonderingly, and Mrs. Carleton exclaimed, "What trouble?" + </p> + <p> + "Elfie," said he, without immediately answering his mother, "what would + your conscience do with two promises both of which cannot be kept?" + </p> + <p> + "What such promises have you made?" said Mrs Carleton eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "Let me hear first what Fleda says to my question." + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Fleda, looking a little bewildered,--"I would keep the right + one." + </p> + <p> + "Not the one first made?" said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda,--"not unless it was the right one." + </p> + <p> + "But don't you think one ought to keep one's word, in any event?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't think anything can make it right to do wrong," Fleda said + gravely, and not without a secret trembling consciousness to what point + she was speaking. + </p> + <p> + He left them and again took several turns up and down the cabin before he + sat down. + </p> + <p> + "You have not given me your promise yet, Guy," said his mother, whose eye + had not once quitted him. "You said you would." + </p> + <p> + "I said, if I could." + </p> + <p> + "Well?--you can?" + </p> + <p> + "I have two honourable meetings of the proscribed kind now on hand, to + which I stand pledged." + </p> + <p> + Fleda hid her face in an agony. Mrs. Carleton's agony was in every line of + hers as she grasped her son's wrist exclaiming, "Guy, promise me!" She had + words for nothing else. He hesitated still a moment, and then meeting his + mother's look he said gravely and steadily, + </p> + <p> + "I promise you, mother, I never will." + </p> + <p> + His mother threw herself upon his breast and hid her face there, too much + excited to have any thought of her customary regard to appearances; + sobbing out thanks and blessings even audibly. Fleda's gentle head was + bowed in almost equal agitation; and Mr. Carleton at that moment had no + doubt that he had chosen well which promise to keep. + </p> + <p> + There remained however a less agreeable part of the business to manage. + After seeing his mother and Fleda quite happy again, though without + satisfying in any degree the curiosity of the former, Guy went in search + of the two young West Point officers. They were together, but without + Thorn's friend, Capt. Beebee. Him Carleton next sought and brought to the + forward deck where the others were enjoying their cigars; or rather + Charlton Rossitur was enjoying his, with the happy self satisfaction of a + pair of epaulettes off duty. Thorn had too busy a brain to be much of a + smoker. Now, however, when it was plain that Mr. Carleton had something to + say to them, Charlton's cigar gave way to his attention; it was displaced + from his mouth and held in abeyance; while Thorn puffed away more intently + than ever. + </p> + <p> + "Gentlemen," Carleton began,--"I gave you yesterday reason to expect that + so soon as circumstances permitted, you should have the opportunity which + offended honour desires of trying sounder arguments than those of reason + upon the offender. I have to tell you to-day that I will not give it you. + I have thought further of it." + </p> + <p> + "Is it a new insult that you mean by this, sir?" exclaimed Rossitur in + astonishment. Thorn's cigar did not stir. + </p> + <p> + "Neither new nor old. I mean simply that I have changed my mind." + </p> + <p> + "But this is very extraordinary!" said Rossitur. "What reason do you + give?" + </p> + <p> + "I give none, sir." + </p> + <p> + "In that case," said Capt. Beebee, "perhaps Mr. Carleton will not object + to explain or unsay the things which gave offence yesterday." + </p> + <p> + "I apprehend there is nothing to explain, sir,--I think I must have been + understood; and I never take back my words, for I am in the habit of + speaking the truth." + </p> + <p> + "Then we are to consider this as a further, unprovoked, unmitigated insult + for which you will give neither reason nor satisfaction!" cried Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "I have already disclaimed that, Mr. Rossitur." + </p> + <p> + "Are we, on mature deliberation, considered unworthy of tha <i>honour</i> + you so condescendingly awarded to us yesterday?" + </p> + <p> + "My reasons have nothing to do with you, sir, nor with your friend; they + are entirely personal to myself." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton must be aware," said Capt. Beebee, "that his conduct, if + unexplained, will bear a very strange construction." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was coldly silent. + </p> + <p> + "It never was heard of," the Captain went on,--"that a gentleman declined + both to explain and to give satisfaction for any part of his conduct which + had called for it." + </p> + <p> + "It never was heard that a <i>gentleman</i> did," said Thorn, removing his + cigar a moment for the purpose of supplying the emphasis which his friend + had carefully omitted to make. + </p> + <p> + "Will you say, Mr. Carleton," said Rossitur, "that you did not mean to + offend us yesterday in what you said?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Mr. Rossitur." + </p> + <p> + "You will not!" cried the Captain. + </p> + <p> + "No, sir; for your friends had given me, as I conceived, just cause of + displeasure; and I was, and am, careless of offending those who have done + so." + </p> + <p> + "You consider yourself aggrieved, then, in the first place?" said Beebee. + </p> + <p> + "I have said so, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Then," said the Captain, after a puzzled look out to sea, "supposing that + my friends disclaim all intention to offend you in that case--" + </p> + <p> + "In that case I should be glad, Capt. Beebee, that they had changed their + line of tactics--there is nothing to change in my own." + </p> + <p> + "Then what are we to understand by this strange refusal of a meeting, Mr. + Carleton? what does it mean?" + </p> + <p> + "It means one thing in my own mind, sir, and probably another in yours; + but the outward expression I choose to give it is that I will not reward + uncalled-for rudeness with an opportunity of self-vindication." + </p> + <p> + "You are," said Thorn sneeringly, "probably careless as to the figure your + own name will cut in connection with this story?" + </p> + <p> + "Entirely so," said Mr. Carleton, eying him steadily. + </p> + <p> + "You are aware that your character is at our mercy?" + </p> + <p> + A slight bow seemed to leave at their disposal the very small portion of + his character he conceived to lie in that predicament. + </p> + <p> + "You will expect to hear yourself spoken of in terms that befit a man who + has cowed out of an engagement he dared not fulfil?" + </p> + <p> + "Of course," said Carleton haughtily, "by my present refusal I give you + leave to say all that, and as much more as your ingenuity can furnish in + the same style; but not in my hearing, sir." + </p> + <p> + "You can't help yourself," said Thorn, with the same sneer. "You have rid + yourself of a gentleman's means of protection,--what others will you use? + </p> + <p> + "I will leave that to the suggestion of the moment. I do not doubt it will + be found fruitful." + </p> + <p> + Nobody doubted it who looked just then on his steady sparkling eye. + </p> + <p> + "I consider the championship of yesterday given up of course," Thorn went + on in a kind of aside, not looking at anybody, and striking his cigar + against the guards to clear it of ashes;--"the champion has quitted the + field; and the little princess but lately so walled in with defences must + now listen to whatever knight and squire may please to address to her. + Nothing remains to be seen of her defender but his spurs." + </p> + <p> + "They may serve for the heels of whoever is disposed to annoy her," said + Mr. Carleton. "He will need them." + </p> + <p> + He left the group with the same air of imperturbable self-possession which + he had maintained during the conference. But presently Rossitur, who had + his private reasons for wishing to keep friends with an acquaintance who + might be of service in more ways than one, followed him and declared + himself to have been, in all his nonsense to Fleda, most undesirous of + giving displeasure to her temporary guardian, and sorry that it had fallen + out so. He spoke frankly, and Mr. Carleton, with the same cool + gracefulness with which he had carried on the quarrel, waived his + displeasure, and admitted the young gentleman apparently to stand as + before in his favour. Their reconciliation was not an hour old when Capt. + Beebee joined them. + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry I must trouble you with a word more on this disagreeable + subject, Mr. Carleton," he began, after a ceremonious salutation,--"My + friend, Lieut. Thorn, considers himself greatly outraged by your + determination not to meet him. He begs to ask, by me, whether it is your + purpose to abide by it at all hazards?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir." + </p> + <p> + "There is some misunderstanding here, which I greatly regret.--I hope you + will see and excuse the disagreeable necessity I am under of delivering + the rest of my friend's message." + </p> + <p> + "Say on, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn declares that if you deny him the common courtesy which no + gentleman refuses to another, he will proclaim your name with the most + opprobrious adjuncts to all the world, and in place of his former regard + he will hold you in the most unlimited contempt, which he will have no + scruple about shewing on all occasions." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton coloured a little, but replied coolly, + </p> + <p> + "I have not lived in Mr. Thorn's favour. As to the rest, I forgive + him!--except indeed he provoke me to measures for which I never will + forgive him." + </p> + <p> + "Measures!" said the Captain. + </p> + <p> + "I hope not! for my own self-respect would be more grievously hurt than + his. But there is an unruly spring somewhere about my composition that + when it gets wound up is once in a while too much for me." + </p> + <p> + "But," said Rossitur, "pardon me,--have you no regard to the effect of his + misrepresentations?" + </p> + <p> + "You are mistaken, Mr. Rossitur," said Carleton slightly;--this is but the + blast of a bellows,--not the Simoom." + </p> + <p> + "Then what answer shall I have the honour of carrying back to my friend?" + said Capt. Beebee, after a sort of astounded pause of a few minutes. + </p> + <p> + "None, of my sending, sir." + </p> + <p> + Capt. Beebee touched his cap, and went back to Mr. Thorn, to whom he + reported that the young Englishman was thoroughly impracticable, and that + there was nothing to be gained by dealing with him; and the vexed + conclusion of Thorn's own mind, in the end, was in favour of the wisdom of + letting him alone. + </p> + <p> + In a very different mood, saddened and disgusted, Mr. Carleton shook + himself free of Rossitur and went and stood alone by the guards looking + out upon the sea. He did not at all regret his promise to his mother, nor + wish to take other ground than that he had taken. Both the theory and the + practice of duelling he heartily despised, and he was not weak enough to + fancy that he had brought any discredit upon either his sense or his + honour by refusing to comply with an unwarrantable and barbarous custom. + And he valued mankind too little to be at all concerned about their + judgment in the matter. His own opinion was at all times enough for him. + But the miserable folly and puerility of such an altercation as that in + which he had just been engaged, the poor display of human character, the + little low passions which bad been called up, even in himself, alike + destitute of worthy cause and aim, and which had perhaps but just missed + ending in the death of some and the living death of others,--it all + wrought to bring him back to his old wearying of human nature and + despondent eying of the everywhere jarrings, confusions, and discordances + in the moral world. The fresh sea-breeze that swept by the ship, + roughening the play of the waves, and brushing his own cheek with its + health-bearing wing, brought with it a sad feeling of contrast. Free, and + pure, and steadily directed, it sped on its way, to do its work. And like + it all the rest of the natural world, faithful to the law of its Maker, + was stamped with the same signet of perfection. Only man, in all the + universe, seemed to be at cross purposes with the end of his being. Only + man, of all animate or inanimate things, lived an aimless, fruitless, + broken life,--or fruitful only in evil. How was this? and whence? and when + would be the end? and would this confused mass of warring elements ever be + at peace? would this disordered machinery ever work smoothly, without let + or stop any more, and work out the beautiful something for which sure it + was designed? And could any hand but its first Maker mend the broken wheel + or supply the spring that was wanting? + </p> + <p> + Has not the Desire of all nations been often sought of eyes that were + never taught where to look for him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was standing still by the guards, looking thoughtfully out to + windward to meet the fresh breeze, as if the Spirit of the Wilderness were + in it and could teach him the truth that the Spirit of the World knew not + and had not to give, when he became sensible of something close beside + him; and looking down met little Fleda's upturned face, with such a look + of purity, freshness, and peace, it said as plainly as ever the dial-plate + of a clock that <i>that</i> little piece of machinery was working right. + There was a sunlight upon it, too, of happy confidence and affection. Mr. + Carleton's mind experienced a sudden revulsion. Fleda might see the + reflection of her own light in his face as he helped her up to a stand + where she could be more on a level with him; putting his arm round her to + guard against any sudden roll of the ship. + </p> + <p> + "What makes you wear such a happy face?" said he, with an expression half + envious, half regretful. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know!" said Fleda innocently. "You, I suppose." + </p> + <p> + He looked as bright as she did, for a minute. + </p> + <p> + "Were you ever angry, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--" said Fleda. "I don't know but I have." + </p> + <p> + He smiled to see that although evidently her memory could not bring the + charge, her modesty would not deny it. + </p> + <p> + "Were you not angry yesterday with your cousin and that unmannerly friend + of his?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, a shade crossing her face,--"I was not <i>angry</i> "-- + </p> + <p> + And as she spoke her hand was softly put upon Mr. Carleton's; as if partly + in the fear of what might have grown out of <i>his</i> anger, and partly + in thankfulness to him that he had rendered it unnecessary. There was a + singular delicate timidity and tenderness in the action. + </p> + <p> + "I wish I had your secret, Elfie," said Mr. Carleton, looking wistfully + into the clear eyes that met his. + </p> + <p> + "What secret?" said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "You say one can always do right--is that the reason you are + happy?--because you follow that out?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda seriously. "But I think it is a great deal pleasanter." + </p> + <p> + "I have no doubt at all of that, neither, I dare say, have the rest of the + world; only somehow when it comes to the point they find it is easier to + do wrong. What's your secret, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "I haven't any secret," said Fleda. But presently, seeming to bethink + herself, she added gently and gravely, + </p> + <p> + "Aunt Miriam says--" + </p> + <p> + "What?" + </p> + <p> + "She says that when we love Jesus Christ it is easy to please him." + </p> + <p> + "And do you love him, Elfie?" Mr Carleton asked after a minute. + </p> + <p> + Her answer was a very quiet and sober "Yes." + </p> + <p> + He doubted still whether she were not unconsciously using a form of speech + the spirit of which she did not quite realize. That one might "not see and + yet believe," he could understand; but for <i>affection</i> to go forth + towards an unseen object was another matter. His question was grave and + acute. + </p> + <p> + "By what do you judge that you do, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, Mr. Carleton," said Fleda, with an instant look of appeal, "who else + <i>should</i> I love?" + </p> + <p> + "If not him "--her eye and her voice made sufficiently plain. Mr. Carleton + was obliged to confess to himself that she spoke intelligently, with + deeper intelligence than he could follow. He asked no more questions. Yet + truth shines by its own light, like the sun. He had not perfectly + comprehended her answers, but they struck him as something that deserved + to be understood, and he resolved to make the truth of them his own. + </p> + <p> + The rest of the voyage was perfectly quiet. Following the earnest advice + of his friend Capt. Beebee, Thorn had given up trying to push Mr. Carleton + to extremity; who on his part did not seem conscious of Thorn's existence. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="13"></a>Chapter XIII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + There the most daintie paradise on ground<br /> Itselfe doth offer to his + sober eye,--<br /> -----The painted flowres, the trees upshooting hye,<br /> + The dales for shade, the hills for breathing space,<br /> The trembling + groves, the christall running by;<br /> And that, which all faire works + doth most aggrace,<br /> The art which all that wrought appeared in no + place. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Færy Queene. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + They had taken ship for London, as Mr. and Mrs. Carleton wished to visit + home for a day or two before going on to Paris. So leaving Charlton to + carry news of them to the French capital, so soon as he could persuade + himself to leave the English one, they with little Fleda in company posted + down to Carleton, in ----shire. + </p> + <p> + It was a time of great delight to Fleda, that is, as soon as Mr. Carleton + had made her feel at home in England; and somehow he had contrived to do + that and to scatter some clouds of remembrance that seemed to gather about + her, before they had reached the end of their first day's journey. To be + out of the ship was itself a comfort, and to be alone with kind friends + was much more. With great joy Fleda put her cousin Charlton and Mr. Thorn + at once out of sight and out of mind; and gave herself with even more than + her usual happy readiness to everything the way and the end of the way had + for her. Those days were to be painted days in Fleda's memory. + </p> + <p> + She thought Carleton was a very odd place. That is, the house, not the + village which went by the same name. If the manner of her two companions + had not been such as to put her entirely at her ease she would have felt + strange and shy. As it was she felt half afraid of losing herself in the + house, to Fleda's unaccustomed eyes it was a labyrinth of halls and + staircases, set with the most unaccountable number and variety of rooms; + old and new, quaint and comfortable, gloomy and magnificent; some with + stern old-fashioned massiveness of style and garniture; others absolutely + bewitching (to Fleda's eyes and understanding) in the rich beauty and + luxuriousness of their arrangements. Mr. Carleton's own particular haunts + were of these; his private room, the little library as it was called, the + library, and the music-room, which was indeed rather a gallery of fine + arts, so many treasures of art were gathered there. To an older and + nice-judging person these rooms would have given no slight indications of + their owner's mind--it had been at work on every corner of them. No + particular fashion had been followed in anything, nor any model consulted + but that which fancy had built to the mind's order. The wealth of years + had drawn together an enormous assemblage of matters, great and small, + every one of which was fitted either to excite fancy, or suggest thought, + or to satisfy the eye by its nice adaptation. And if pride had had the + ordering of them, all these might have been but a costly museum, a + literary alphabet that its possessor could not put together, an ungainly + confession of ignorance on the part of the intellect that could do nothing + with this rich heap of material. But pride was not the genius of the + place. A most refined taste and curious fastidiousness had arranged and + harmonized all the heterogeneous items; the mental hieroglyphics had been + ordered by one to whom the reading of them was no mystery. Nothing struck + a stranger at first entering, except the very rich effect and faultless + air of the whole, and perhaps the delicious facilities for every kind of + intellectual cultivation which appeared on every hand; facilities which it + must be allowed do seem in general <i>not</i> to facilitate the work they + are meant to speed. In this case however it was different. The mind that + wanted them bad brought them together to satisfy its own craving. + </p> + <p> + These rooms were Guy's peculiar domain. In other parts of the house, where + his mother reigned conjointly with him, their joint tastes had struck out + another style of adornment which might be called a style of superb + elegance. Not superb alone, for taste had not permitted so heavy a + characteristic to be predominant; not merely elegant, for the fineness of + all the details would warrant an ampler word. A larger part of the house + than both these together had been left as generations past had left it, in + various stages of, refinement, comfort and comeliness. It was a day or two + before Fleda found out that it was all one; she thought at first that it + was a collection of several houses that had somehow inexplicably sat down + there with their backs to each other; it was so straggling and irregular a + pile of building, covering so much ground, and looking so very unlike the + different parts to each other. One portion was quite old; the other parts + ranged variously between the present and the far past. After she once + understood this it was a piece of delicious wonderment and musing and + great admiration to Fleda; she never grew weary of wandering round it and + thinking about it, for from a child fanciful meditation was one of her + delights. Within doors she best liked Mr. Carleton's favourite rooms. + Their rich colouring and moderated light and endless stores of beauty and + curiosity made them a place of fascination. + </p> + <p> + Out of doors she found still more to delight her. Morning, noon, and night + she might be seen near the house gazing, taking in pictures of natural + beauty which were for ever after to hang in Fleda's memory as standards of + excellence in that sort. Nature's hand had been very kind to the place, + moulding the ground in beautiful style. Art had made happy use of the + advantage thus given her; and now what appeared was neither art nor + nature, but a perfection that can only spring from the hands of both. + Fleda's eyes were bewitched. She stood watching the rolling slopes of + green turf, <i>so</i> soft and lovely, and the magnificent trees, that had + kept their ground for ages and seen generations rise and fall before their + growing strength and grandeur. They were scattered here and there on the + lawn, and further back stood on the heights and stretched along the ridges + of the undulating ground, the outposts of a wood of the same growth still + beyond them. + </p> + <p> + "How do you like it, Elfie?" Mr. Carleton asked her the evening of the + first day, as he saw her for a length of time looking out gravely and + intently from before the hall door. + </p> + <p> + "I think it is beautiful!" said Fleda. "The ground is a great deal + smoother here than it was at home." + </p> + <p> + "I'll take you to ride to-morrow," said he smiling, "and shew you rough + ground enough." + </p> + <p> + "As you did when we came from Montepoole?" raid Fleda rather eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "Would you like that?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, very much,--if <i>you</i> would like it, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said he. "So it shall be." + </p> + <p> + And not a day passed during their short stay that he did not give her one + of those rides. He shewed her rough ground, according to his promise, but + Fleda still thought it did not look much like the mountains "at home." And + indeed unsightly roughnesses had been skilfully covered or removed; and + though a large part of the park, which was a very extensive one, was + wildly broken and had apparently been left as nature left it, the hand of + taste had been there; and many an unsuspected touch instead of hindering + had heightened both the wild and the beautiful character. Landscape + gardening had long been a great hobby of its owner. + </p> + <p> + "How far does your ground come, Mr Carleton?" inquired Fleda on one of + these rides, when they had travelled a good distance from home. + </p> + <p> + "Further than you can see, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "Further than I can see!--It must be a very large farm!" + </p> + <p> + "This is not a farm where we are now," said he;--"did you mean that?--this + is the park; we are almost at the edge of it on this side." + </p> + <p> + "What is the difference between a farm and a park?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "The grounds of a farm are tilled for profit; a park is an uncultivated + enclosure kept merely for men and women and deer to take pleasure in." + </p> + <p> + "<i>I</i> have taken a good deal of pleasure in it," said Fleda. "And have + you a farm besides, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "A good many, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked surprised, and then remarked that it must be very nice to + have such a beautiful piece of ground just for pleasure. + </p> + <p> + She enjoyed it to the full during the few days she was there. And one + thing more, the grand piano in the music-room. The first evening of their + arrival she was drawn by the far-off sounds, and Mrs. Carleton seeing it + went immediately to the music-room with her. The room had no light, except + from the moonbeams that stole in through two glass doors which opened upon + a particularly private and cherished part of the grounds, in summer-time + full of flowers; for in the very refinement of luxury delights had been + crowded about this favourite apartment. Mr. Carleton was at the + instrument, playing. Fleda sat down quietly in one corner and + listened,--in a rapture of pleasure she had hardly ever known from any + like source. She did not think it could be greater, till after a time, in + a pause of the music, Mrs. Carleton asked her son to sing a particular + ballad, and that one was followed by two or three more. Fleda left her + corner, she could not contain herself, and favoured by the darkness came + forward and stood quite near; and if the performer bad bad light to see + by, he would have been gratified with the tribute paid to his power by the + unfeigned tears that ran down her cheeks. This pleasure was also repeated + from evening to evening. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know we set off for Paris to-morrow?" said Mrs. Carleton the last + evening of their stay, as Fleda came up to the door after a prolonged + ramble in the park, leaving Mr. Carleton with one or two gardeners at a + little distance. + </p> + <p> + "Yes!" said Fleda, with a sigh that was more than half audible. + </p> + <p> + "Are you sorry?" said Mrs. Carleton smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I cannot be glad," said Fleda, giving a sober look over the lawn. + </p> + <p> + "Then you like Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Very much!--It is a prettier place than Queechy." + </p> + <p> + "But we shall have you here again, dear Fleda," said Mrs. Carleton + restraining her smile at this, to her, very moderate complement. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps not," said Fleda quietly.--"Mr. Carleton said," she added a + minute after with more animation, "that a park was a place for men and + women and deer to take pleasure in. I am sure it is for children too!" + </p> + <p> + "Did you have a pleasant ride this morning?" + </p> + <p> + "O very!--I always do. There isn't anything I like so well." + </p> + <p> + "What, as to ride on horseback with Guy?" said Mrs. Carleton looking + exceedingly benignant. + </p> + <p> + "Yes,--unless--" + </p> + <p> + "Unless what, my dear Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Unless, perhaps,--I don't know,--I was going to say, unless perhaps to + hear him sing." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton's delight was unequivocally expressed; and she promised + Fleda that she should have both rides and songs there in plenty another + time; a promise upon which Fleda built no trust at all. + </p> + <p> + The short journey to Pans was soon made. The next morning Mrs. Carleton + making an excuse of her fatigue left Guy to end the care he had rather + taken upon himself by delivering his little charge into the hands of her + friends. So they drove to the Hotel------, Rue------, where Mr. Rossitur + had apartments in very handsome style. The found him alone in the saloon. + </p> + <p> + "Ha! Carleton--come back again. Just in time--very glad to see you. And + who is this?--Ah, another little daughter for aunt Lucy." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur, who gave them this greeting very cordially, was rather a + fine looking man, decidedly agreeable both in person and manner. Fleda was + pleasantly disappointed after what her grandfather had led her to expect. + There might be something of sternness in his expression; people gave him + credit for a peremptory, not to say imperious temper; but if truly, it + could not often meet with opposition. The sense and gentlemanly character + which marked his face and bearing had an air of smooth politeness which + seemed habitual. There was no want of kindness nor even of tenderness in + the way he drew Fleda within his arm and held her there, while he went on + talking to Mr. Carleton; now and then stooping his face to look in at her + bonnet and kiss her, which was his only welcome. He said nothing to her + after his first question. + </p> + <p> + He was too busy talking to Guy. He seemed to have a great deal to tell + him. There was this for him to see, and that for him to hear, and charming + new things which had been done or doing since Mr. Carleton left Paris. The + impression upon Fleda's mind after listening awhile was that the French + capital was a great Gallery of the Fine Arts, with a magnified likeness of + Mr. Carleton's music room at one end of it. She thought her uncle must be + most extraordinarily fond of pictures and works of art in general, and + must have a great love for seeing company and hearing people sing. This + latter taste Fleda was disposed to allow might be a very reasonable one. + Mr. Carleton, she observed, seemed much more cool on the whole subject. + But meanwhile where was aunt Lucy?--and had Mr. Rossitur forgotten the + little armful that he held so fast and so perseveringly? No, for here was + another kiss, and another look into her face, so kind that Fleda gave him + a piece of her heart from that time. + </p> + <p> + "Hugh!" said Mr. Rossitur suddenly to somebody she had not seen + before,--"Hugh!--here is your little cousin. Take her off to your mother." + </p> + <p> + A child came forward at this bidding hardly larger than herself. He was a + slender graceful little figure, with nothing of the boy in his face or + manner; delicate as a girl, and with something almost melancholy in the + gentle sweetness of his countenance. Fleda's confidence was given to it on + the instant, which had not been the case with anything in her uncle, and + she yielded without reluctance the hand he took to obey his father's + command. Before two steps had been taken however, she suddenly broke away + from him and springing to Mr. Carleton's side silently laid her hand in + his. She made no answer whatever to a ligit word or two of kindness that + he spoke just for her ear. She listened with downcast eyes and a lip that + he saw was too unsteady to be trusted, and then after a moment more, + without looking, pulled away her hand and followed her cousin. Hugh did + not once get a sight of her face on the way to his mother's room, but + owing to her exceeding efforts and quiet generalship he never guessed the + cause. There was nothing in her face to raise suspicion when he reached + the door and opening it announced her with, + </p> + <p> + "Mother, here's cousin Fleda come." + </p> + <p> + Fleda had seen her aunt before, though several years back, and not long + enough to get acquainted with her. But no matter;--it was her mother's + sister sitting there, whose face gave her so lovely a welcome at that + speech of Hugh's, whose arms were stretched out so eagerly towards her; + and springing to them as to a very haven of rest Fleda wept on her bosom + those delicious tears that are only shed where the heart is at home. And + even before they were dried the ties were knit that bound her to her new + sphere. + </p> + <p> + "Who came with you, dear Fleda?" said Mrs. Rossitur then. "Is Mrs. + Carleton here? I must go and thank her for bringing you to me." + </p> + <p> + "<i>Mr</i>. Carleton is here," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "I must go and thank him then. Jump down, dear Fleda--I'll be back in a + minute." + </p> + <p> + Fleda got off her lap, and stood looking in a kind of enchanted maze, + while her aunt hastily arranged her hair at the glass. Looking, while + fancy and memory were making strong the net in which her heart was caught. + She was trying to see something of her mother in one who had shared her + blood and her affection so nearly. A miniature of that mother was left to + Fleda, and she had studied it till she could hardly persuade herself that + she had not some recollection of the original; and now she thought she + caught a precious shadow of something like it in her aunt Lucy. Not in + those pretty bright eyes which had looked through kind tears so lovingly + upon her; but in the graceful ringlets about the temples, the delicate + contour of the face, and a something, Fleda could only have said it was "a + something," about the mouth <i>when at rest</i>, the shadow of her + mother's image rejoiced her heart. Rather that faint shadow of the loved + lost one for little Fleda, than any other form or combination of beauty on + earth. As she stood fascinated, watching the movements of her aunt's light + figure, Fleda drew a long breath with which went off the whole burden of + doubt and anxiety that had lain upon her mind ever since the journey + began. She had not known it was there, but she felt it go. Yet even when + that sigh of relief was breathed, and while fancy and feeling were weaving + their rich embroidery into the very tissue of Fleda's happiness, most + persons would have seen merely that the child looked very sober, and have + thought probably that she felt very tired and strange. Perhaps Mrs. + Rossitur thought so, for again tenderly kissing her before she left the + room she told Hugh to take off her things and make her feel at home. + </p> + <p> + Hugh upon this made Fleda sit down and proceeded to untie her tippet + strings and take off her coat with an air of delicate tenderness which + shewed he had great pleasure in his task, and which made Fleda take a good + deal of pleasure in it too. + </p> + <p> + "Are you tired, cousin Fleda?" said he gently. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda. "O no." + </p> + <p> + "Charlton said you were tired on board ship." + </p> + <p> + "I wasn't tired," said Fleda, in not a little surprise; "I liked it very + much." + </p> + <p> + "Then maybe I mistook. I know Charlton said <i>he</i> was tired, and I + thought he said you were too. You know my brother Charlton, don't you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Are you glad to come to Paris?" + </p> + <p> + "I am glad now," said Fleda. "I wasn't glad before." + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad," said Hugh. "I think you will like it. We didn't know you + were coming till two or three days ago when Charlton got here. Do you like + to take walks?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, very much." + </p> + <p> + "Father and mother will take us delightful walks in the Tuileries, the + gardens you know, and the Champs Elysées, and Versailles, and the + Boulevards, and ever so many places; and it will be a great deal + pleasanter now you are here. Do you know French?" + </p> + <p> + "No." + </p> + <p> + "Then you'll have to learn. I'll help you if you will let me. It is very + easy. Did you get my last letter?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda,--"the last one I had came with one of aunt + Lucy's, telling me about Mrs. Carleton--I got it just before "-- + </p> + <p> + Alas! before what? Fleda suddenly remembered, and was stopped short. From + all the strange scenes and interests which lately had whirled her along, + her spirit leaped back with strong yearning recollection to her old home + and her old ties; and such a rain of tears witnessed the dearness of what + she had lost and the tenderness of the memory that had let them slip for a + moment, that Hugh was as much distressed as startled. With great + tenderness and touching delicacy he tried to soothe her and at the same + time, though guessing to find out what was the matter, lest he should make + a mistake. + </p> + <p> + "Just before what?" said he, laying his hand caressingly on his little + cousin's shoulder;--"Don't grieve so, dear Fleda!" + </p> + <p> + "It was only just before grandpa died," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + Hugh had known of that before, though like her he had forgotten it for a + moment. A little while his feeling was too strong to permit any further + attempt at condolence; but as he saw Fleda grow quiet he took courage to + speak again. + </p> + <p> + "Was he a good man?" he asked softly. + </p> + <p> + "Oh yes!" + </p> + <p> + "Then," said Hugh, "you know he is happy now, Fleda. If he loved Jesus + Christ he is gone to be with him. That ought to make you glad as well as + sorry." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up, though tears were streaming yet, to give that full happy + answer of the eye that no words could do. This was consolation and + sympathy. The two children had a perfect understanding of each other from + that time forward; a fellowship that never knew a break nor a weakening. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur found on her return that Hugh had obeyed her charge to the + letter. He had made Fleda feel at home. They were sitting close together, + Hugh's hand affectionately clasping hers, and he was holding forth on some + subject with a gracious politeness that many of his elders might have + copied; while Fleda listened and assented with entire satisfaction. The + rest of the morning she passed in her aunt's arms; drinking draughts of + pleasure from those dear bright eyes; taking in the balm of gentlest words + of love, and soft kisses, every one of which was felt at the bottom of + Fleda's heart, and the pleasure of talking over her young sorrows with one + who could feel them all and answer with tears as well as words of + sympathy. And Hugh stood by the while looking at his little orphan cousin + as if she might have dropped from the clouds into his mother's lap, a rare + jewel or delicate flower, but much more delicate and precious than they or + any other possible gift. + </p> + <p> + Hugh and Fleda dined alone. For as he informed her his father never would + have children at the dinner-table when he had company; and Mr. and Mrs. + Carleton and other people were to be there to-day, Fleda made no remark on + the subject, by word or look, but she thought none the less. She thought + it was a very mean fashion. <i>She</i> not come to the table when + strangers were there! And who would enjoy them more? When Mr. Rossitur and + Mr Carleton had dined with her grandfather, had she not taken as much + pleasure in their society, and in the whole thing, as any other one of the + party? And at Carleton, had she not several times dined with a tableful, + and been unspeakably amused to watch the different manners and + characteristics of people who were strange to her? However, Mr. Rossitur + had other notions. So she and Hugh had their dinner in aunt Lucy's + dressing-room, by themselves; and a very nice dinner it was, Fleda + thought; and Rosaline, Mrs. Rossitur's French maid, was well affected and + took admirable care of them. Indeed before the close of the day Rosaline + privately informed her mistress, "qu'elle serait entˆtée sûrement + de cet enfant dans trois jours;" and "que son regard vraiment lui serrait + le coeur." And Hugh was excellent company, failing all other, and did the + honours of the table with the utmost thoughtfulness, and amused Fleda the + whole time with accounts of Paris and what they would do and what she + should see; and how his sister Marion was at school at a convent, and what + kind of a place a convent was; and how he himself always staid at home and + learned of his mother and his father; "or by himself," he said, "just as + it happened;" and he hoped they would keep Fleda at home too. So Fleda + hoped exceedingly, but this stern rule about the dining had made her feel + a little shy of her uncle; she thought perhaps he was not kind and + indulgent to children like her aunt Lucy; and if he said she must go to a + convent she would not dare to ask him to let her stay. The next time she + saw him however, she was obliged to change her opinion again, in part; for + he was very kind and indulgent, both to her and Hugh; and more than that + he was very amusing. He shewed her pictures, and told her new and + interesting things; and finding that she listened eagerly he seemed + pleased to prolong her pleasure, even at the expense of a good deal of his + own time. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur was a man of cultivated mind and very refined and fastidious + taste. He lived for the pleasures of Art and Literature and the society + where these are valued. For this, and not without some secret love of + display, he lived in Paris; not extravagant in his pleasures, nor silly in + his ostentation, but leading, like a gentleman, as worthy and rational a + life as a man can lead who lives only to himself, with no further thought + than to enjoy the passing hours. Mr. Rossitur enjoyed them elegantly, and + for a man of the world, moderately, bestowing however few of those + precious hours upon his children. It was his maxim that they should be + kept out of the way whenever their presence might by any chance interfere + with the amusements of their elders; and this maxim, a good one certainly + in some hands, was in his reading of it a very broad one. Still when he + did take time to give his family he was a delightful companion to those of + them who could understand him. If they shewed no taste for sensible + pleasure he had no patience with them nor desire of their company. Report + had done him no wrong in giving him a stern temper; but this almost never + came out in actual exercise; Fleda knew it only from an occasional hint + now and then, and by her childish intuitive reading of the lines it had + drawn round the mouth and brow. It had no disagreeable bearing on his + everyday life and manner; and the quiet fact probably served but to + heighten the love and reverence in which his family held him very high. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur did once moot the question whether Fleda should not join + Marion at her convent. But his wife looked very grave and said that she + was too tender and delicate a little thing to be trusted to the hands of + strangers; Hugh pleaded, and argued that she might share all his lessons; + and Fleda's own face pleaded more powerfully. There was something + appealing in its extreme delicacy and purity which seemed to call for + shelter and protection from every rough breath of the world; and Mr. + Rossitur was easily persuaded to let her remain in the stronghold of home. + Hugh had never quitted it. Neither father nor mother ever thought of such + a thing. He was the cherished idol of the whole family. Always a delicate + child, always blameless in life and behaviour, his loveliness of mind and + person, his affectionateness, the winning sweetness that was about him + like a halo, and the slight tenure by which they seemed to hold him, had + wrought to bind the hearts of father and mother to this child, as it were, + with the very life-strings of both. Not his mother was more gentle with + Hugh than his much sterner father. And now little Fleda, sharing somewhat + of Hugh's peculiar claims upon their tenderness and adding another of her + own, was admitted, not to the same place in their hearts,--that could not + be,--but to their honour be it spoken, to the same place in all outward + shew of thought and feeling. Hugh had nothing that Fleda did not have, + even to the time, care, and caresses of his parents. And not Hugh rendered + them a more faithful return of devoted affection. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus09.jpg"><img src="images/illus09.jpg" height="250" + alt="The children were always together." + title="The children were always together." /><br /> The children were always + together.</a> + </p> + <p> + Once made easy on the question of school, which was never seriously + stirred again, Fleda's life became very happy. It was easy to make her + happy; affection and sympathy would have done it almost anywhere; but in + Paris she had much more; and after time had softened the sorrow she + brought with her, no bird ever found existence less of a burden, nor sang + more light-heartedly along its life. In her aunt she had all but the name + of a mother; in her uncle, with kindness and affection, she had amusement, + interest, and improvement; in Hugh everything;--love, confidence, + sympathy, society, help; their tastes, opinions, pursuits, went hand in + hand. The two children were always together. Fleda's spirits were brighter + than Hugh's, and her intellectual tastes stronger and more universal. That + might be as much from difference of physical as of mental constitution. + Hugh's temperament led him somewhat to melancholy, and to those studies + and pleasures which best side with subdued feeling and delicate nerves. + Fleda's nervous system was of the finest too, but, in short, she was as + like a bird as possible. Perfect health, which yet a slight thing was + enough to shake to the foundation;--joyous spirits, which a look could + quell;--happy energies, which a harsh hand might easily crush for ever. + Well for little Fleda that so tender a plant was permitted to unfold in so + nicely tempered an atmosphere. A cold wind would soon have killed it. + Besides all this there were charming studies to be gone through every day + with Hugh; some for aunt Lucy to hear, some for masters and mistresses. + There were amusing walks in the Boulevards, and delicious pleasure taking + in the gardens of Paris, and a new world of people and manners and things + and histories for the little American. And despite her early rustic + experience Fleda had from nature an indefeasible taste for the elegancies + of life; it suited her well to see all about her, in dress, in furniture, + in various appliances, as commodious and tasteful as wealth and refinement + could contrive it; and she very soon knew what was right in each kind. + There were now and then most gleeful excursions in the environs of Paris, + when she and Hugh found in earth and air a world of delights more than + they could tell anybody but each other. And at home, what peaceful times + they two had,--what endless conversations, discussions, schemes, + air-journeys of memory and fancy, backward and forward; what sociable + dinners alone, and delightful evenings with Mr. and Mrs. Rossitur in the + saloon when nobody or only a very few people were there; how pleasantly in + those evenings the foundations were laid of a strong and enduring love for + the works of art, painted, sculptured, or engraven, what a multitude of + curious and excellent bits of knowledge Fleda's ears picked up from the + talk of different people. They were capital ears; what they caught they + never let fall. In the course of the year her gleanings amounted to more + than many another person's harvest. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="14"></a>Chapter XIV. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Heav'n bless thee;<br /> Thou hast the sweetest face I ever look'd on. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Shakspeare. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + One of the greatest of Fleda's pleasures was when Mr. Carleton came to + take her out with him. He did that often. Fleda only wished he would have + taken Hugh too, but somehow he never did. Nothing but that was wanting to + make the pleasure of those times perfect. Knowing that she saw the <i>common + things</i> in other company, Guy was at the pains to vary the amusement + when she went with him. Instead of going to Versailles or St. Cloud, he + would take her long delightful drives into the country and shew her some + old or interesting place that nobody else went to see. Often there was a + history belonging to the spot, which Fleda listened to with the delight of + eye and fancy at once. In the city, where they more frequently walked, + still he shewed her what she would perhaps have seen under no other + guidance. He made it his business to give her pleasure; and understanding + the inquisitive active little spirit he had to do with he went where his + own tastes would hardly have led him. The Quai aux Fleurs was often + visited, but also the Halle aux Blés, the great Halle aux Vins, the + Jardin des Plantes, and the Marché des Innocens. Guy even took the + trouble, more for her sake than his own, to go to the latter place once + very early in the morning, when the market-bell had not two hours sounded, + while the interest and prettiness of the scene were yet in their full + life. Hugh was in company this time, and the delight of both children was + beyond words, as it would have been beyond anybody's patience that had not + a strong motive to back it. They never discovered that Mr. Carleton was in + a hurry, as indeed he was not. They bargained for fruit with any number of + people, upon all sorts of inducements, and to an extent of which they had + no competent notion, but Hugh had his mother's purse, and Fleda was + skilfully commissioned to purchase what she pleased for Mrs. Carleton. + Verily the two children that morning bought pleasure, not peaches. Fancy + and Benevolence held the purse strings, and Economy did not even look on. + They revelled too, Fleda especially, amidst the bright pictures of the + odd, the new, and the picturesque, and the varieties of character and + incident, that were displayed around them; even till the country people + began to go away and the scene to lose its charm. It never lost it in + memory; and many a time in after life Hugh and Fleda recurred to something + that was seen or done "that morning when we bought fruit at the Innocens." + </p> + <p> + Besides these scenes of everyday life, which interested and amused Fleda + to the last degree, Mr. Carleton shewed her many an obscure part of Paris + where deeds of daring and of blood had been, and thrilled the little + listener's ear with histories of the Past. He judged her rightly. She + would rather at any time have gone to walk with him, than with anybody + else to see any show that could be devised. His object in all this was in + the first place to give her pleasure, and in the second place to draw out + her mind into free communion with his own, which he knew could only be + done by talking sense to her. He succeeded as he wished. Lost in the + interest of the scenes he presented to her eye and mind, she forgot + everything else and shewed him herself; precisely what he wanted to see. + </p> + <p> + It was strange that a young man, an admired man of fashion, a flattered + favourite of the gay and great world, and furthermore a reserved and proud + repeller of almost all who sought his intimacy, should seek and delight in + the society of a little child. His mother would have wondered if she had + known it. Mrs. Rossitur did marvel that even Fleda should have so won upon + the cold and haughty young Englishman; and her husband said he probably + chose to have Fleda with him because he could make up his mind to like + nobody else. A remark which perhaps arose from the utter failure of every + attempt to draw him and Charlton nearer together. But Mr. Rossitur was + only half right. The reason lay deeper. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton had admitted the truth of Christianity, upon what he + considered sufficient grounds, and would now have steadily fought for it, + as he would for anything else that he believed to be truth. But there he + stopped. He had not discovered nor tried to discover whether the truth of + Christianity imposed any obligation upon him. He had cast off his + unbelief, and looked upon it now as a singular folly. But his belief was + almost as vague and as fruitless as his infidelity had been. Perhaps, a + little, his bitter dissatisfaction with the world and human things, or + rather his despondent view of them, was mitigated. If there was, as he now + held, a Supreme Orderer of events, it might be, and it was rational to + suppose there would be, in the issues of time, an entire change wrought in + the disordered and dishonoured state of his handiwork. There might be a + remedial system somewhere,--nay, it might be in the Bible; he meant to + look some day. But that <i>he</i> had anything to do with that + change--that the working of the remedial system called for hands--that <i>his</i> + had any charge in the matter had never entered into his imagination or + stirred his conscience. He was living his old life at Paris, with his old + dissatisfaction, perhaps a trifle less bitter. He was seeking pleasure in + whatever art, learning, literature, refinement, and luxury can do for a + man who has them all at command; but there was something within him that + spurned this ignoble existence and called for higher aims and worthier + exertion. He was not vicious, he never had been vicious, or, as somebody + else said, his vices were all refined vices; but a life of mere + self-indulgence although pursued without self-satisfaction, is constantly + lowering the standard and weakening the forces of virtue,--lessening the + whole man. He felt it so; and to leave his ordinary scenes and occupations + and lose a morning with little Fleda was a freshening of his better + nature; it was like breathing pure air after the fever heat of a sick + room; it was like hearing the birds sing after the meaningless jabber of + Bedlam. Mr. Carleton indeed did not put the matter quite so strongly to + himself. He called Fleda his good angel. He did not exactly know that the + office this good angel performed was simply to hold a candle to his + conscience. For conscience was not by any means dead in him; it only + wanted light to see by. When he turned from the gay and corrupt world in + which he lived, where the changes were rung incessantly upon + self-interest, falsehood, pride, and the various more or less refined + forms of sensuality, and when he looked upon that pure bright little face, + so free from selfishness, those clear eyes so innocent of evil, the + peaceful brow under which a thought of double-dealing had never hid, Mr. + Carleton felt himself in a healthier region. Here as elsewhere, he + honoured and loved the image of truth; in the broad sense of truth;--that + which suits the perfect standard of right. But his pleasure in this case + was invariably mixed with a slight feeling of self-reproach; and it was + this hardly recognised stir of his better nature, this clearing of his + mental eye-sight under the light of a bright example, that made him call + the little torch-bearer his good angel. If this were truth, this purity, + uprightness, and singleness of mind, as conscience said it was, where was + he? how far wandering from his beloved Idol! + </p> + <p> + One other feeling saddened the pleasure he had in her society--a belief + that the ground of it could not last. "If she could grow up so!"--he said + to himself. "But it is impossible. A very few years, and all that clear + sunshine of the mind will be overcast;--there is not a cloud now!"-- + </p> + <p> + Under the working of these thoughts Mr. Carleton sometimes forgot to talk + to his little charge, and would walk for a length of way by her side + wrapped up in sombre musings. Fleda never disturbed him then, but waited + contentedly and patiently for him to come out of them, with her old + feeling wondering what he could be thinking of and wishing he were as + happy as she. But he never left her very long; he was sure to waive his + own humour and give her all the graceful kind attention which nobody else + could bestow so well. Nobody understood and appreciated it better than + Fleda. + </p> + <p> + One day, some months after they had been in Paris, they were sitting in + the Place de la Concorde, Mr. Carleton was in one of these thinking fits. + He had been giving Fleda a long detail of the scenes that had taken place + in that spot--a history of it from the time when it had lain an unsightly + waste;--such a graphic lively account as he knew well how to give. The + absorbed interest with which she had lost everything else in what he was + saying had given him at once reward and motive enough as he went on. + Standing by his side, with one little hand confidingly resting on his + knee, she gazed alternately into his face and towards the broad + highly-adorned square by the side of which they had placed themselves, and + where it was hard to realize that the ground had once been soaked in blood + while madness and death filled the air; and her changing face like a + mirror gave him back the reflection of the times he held up to her view. + And still standing there in the same attitude after he had done she had + been looking out towards the square in a fit of deep meditation. Mr. + Carleton had forgotten her for awhile in his own thoughts, and then the + sight of the little gloved hand upon his knee brought him back again. + </p> + <p> + "What are you musing about, Elfie, dear?" he said cheerfully, taking the + hand in one of his. + </p> + <p> + Fleda gave a swift glance into his face, as if to see whether it would be + safe for her to answer his question; a kind of exploring look, in which + her eyes often acted as scouts for her tongue. Those she met pledged their + faith for her security; yet Fleda's look went back to the square and then + again to his face in silence. + </p> + <p> + "How do you like living in Paris?" said he. "You should know by this + time." + </p> + <p> + "I like it very much indeed," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I thought you would." + </p> + <p> + "I like Queechy better though," she went on gravely, her eyes turning + again to the square. + </p> + <p> + "Like Queechy better! Were you thinking of Queechy just now when I spoke + to you?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh no!"--with a smile. + </p> + <p> + "Were you going over all those horrors I have been distressing you with?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda;--"I <i>was</i> thinking of them, awhile ago." + </p> + <p> + "What then?" said he pleasantly. "You were looking so sober I should like + to know how near your thoughts were to mine." + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking," said Fleda, gravely, and a little unwillingly, but Guy's + manner was not to be withstood,--"I was wishing I could be like the + disciple whom Jesus loved." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton let her see none of the surprise he felt at this answer. + </p> + <p> + "Was there one more loved than the rest?" "Yes--the Bible calls him 'the + disciple whom Jesus loved.' That was John." + </p> + <p> + "Why was he preferred above the others?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know. I suppose he was more gentle and good than the others, and + loved Jesus more. I think aunt Miriam said so when I asked her once." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton thought Fleda had not far to seek for the fulfilment of her + wish. + </p> + <p> + "But how in the world, Elfie, did you work round to this gentle and good + disciple from those scenes of blood you set out with?" + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Elfie,--"I was thinking how unhappy and bad people are, + especially people here, I think; and how much must be done before they + will all be brought right;--and then I was thinking of the work Jesus gave + his disciples to do; and so I wished I could be like <i>that</i> + disciple.--Hugh and I were talking about it this morning." + </p> + <p> + "What is the work he gave them to do?" said Mr. Carleton, more and more + interested. + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Fleda, lifting her gentle wistful eyes to his and then looking + away,--"to bring everybody to be good and happy." + </p> + <p> + "And how in the world are they to do that?" said Mr. Carleton, astonished + to see his own problem quietly handled by this child. + </p> + <p> + "By telling them about Jesus Christ, and getting them to believe and love + him," said Fleda, glancing at him again,--"and living so beautifully that + people cannot help believing them." + </p> + <p> + "That last is an important clause," said Mr. Carleton thoughtfully. "But + suppose people will not hear when they are spoken to, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "Some will, at any rate," said Fleda,--"and by and by everybody will." + </p> + <p> + "How do you know?" + </p> + <p> + "Because the Bible says so." + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure of that, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "Why yes, Mr. Carleton--God has promised that the world shall be full of + good people, and then they will be all happy. I wish it was now." + </p> + <p> + "But if that be so, Elfie, God can make them all good without our help?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but I suppose he chooses to do it with our help, Mr. Carleton," said + Fleda with equal naïveté and gravity. + </p> + <p> + "But is not this you speak of," said he, half smiling,--"rather the + business of clergymen? you have nothing to do with it?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda,--"everybody has something to do with it, the Bible says + so; ministers must do it in their way and other people in other ways; + everybody has his own work. Don't you remember the parable of the ten + talents, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was silent for a minute. + </p> + <p> + "I do not know the Bible quite as well as you do, Elfie," he said + then,--"nor as I ought to do." + </p> + <p> + Elfie's only answer was by a look somewhat like that he well remembered on + shipboard he had thought was angel-like,--a look of gentle sorrowful + wistfulness which she did not venture to put into words. It had not for + that the less power. But he did not choose to prolong the conversation. + They rose up and began to walk homeward, Elfie thinking with all the + warmth of her little heart that she wished very much Mr. Carleton knew the + Bible better; divided between him and "that disciple" whom she and Hugh + had been talking about. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you are very busy now, Elfie," observed her companion, when + they had walked the length of several squares in silence. + </p> + <p> + "O yes!" said Fleda. "Hugh and I are as busy as we can be. We are busy + every minute." + </p> + <p> + "Except when you are on some chase after pleasure?" + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Fleda laughing,--"that is a kind of business; and all the + business is pleasure too. I didn't mean that we were always busy about <i>work</i>. + O Mr. Carleton we had such a nice time the day before yesterday!"--And she + went on to give him the history of a very successful chase after pleasure + which they had made to St. Cloud. + </p> + <p> + "And yet you like Queechy better?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda, with a gentle steadiness peculiar to herself,--if I had + aunt Lucy and Hugh and uncle Rolf there and everybody that I care for, I + should like it a great deal better." + </p> + <p> + "Unspotted" yet, he thought. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said Fleda presently,--"do you play and sing every day + here in Paris?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said he smiling,--"about every day. Why?" + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking how pleasant it was at your house, in England." + </p> + <p> + "Has Carleton the honour of rivalling Queechy in your liking?" + </p> + <p> + "I haven't lived there so long, you know," said Fleda. "I dare say it + would if I had. I think it is quite as pretty a place." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton smiled with a very pleased expression. Truth and politeness + had joined hands in her answer with a child's grace. + </p> + <p> + He brought Fleda to her own door and there was leaving her. + </p> + <p> + "Stop!--O Mr. Carleton," cried Fleda, "come in just for one minute--I want + to shew you something." + </p> + <p> + He made no resistance to that. She led him to the saloon, where it + happened that nobody was, and repeating "One minute!"--rushed out of the + room. In less than that time she came running back with a beautiful + half-blown bud of a monthly rose in her hand, and in her face such a bloom + of pleasure and eagerness as more than rivalled it. The rose was fairly + eclipsed. She put the bud quietly but with a most satisfied air of + affection into Mr. Carleton's hand. It had come from a little tree which + he had given her on one of their first visits to the Quai aux Fleurs. She + had had the choice of what she liked best, and had characteristically + taken a flourishing little rose-bush that as yet shewed nothing but leaves + and green buds; partly because she would have the pleasure of seeing its + beauties come forward, and partly because she thought having no flowers it + would not cost much. The former reason however was all that she had given + to Mr. Carleton's remonstrances. + </p> + <p> + "What is all this, Elfie?" said he. "Have you been robbing your rose + tree?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Elfie;--"there are plenty more buds! Isn't it lovely? This is + the first one. They've been a great while coming out." + </p> + <p> + His eye went from the rose to her; he thought the one was a mere emblem of + the other. Fleda was usually very quiet in her demonstrations; it was as + if a little green bud had suddenly burst into a flush of loveliness; and + he saw, it was as plain as possible, that good-will to him had been the + moving power. He was so much struck and moved that his thanks, though as + usual perfect in their kind, were far shorter and graver than he would + have given if he had felt less. He turned away from the house, his mind + full of the bright unsullied purity and single-hearted good-will that had + looked out of that beaming little face; he seemed to see them again in the + flower held in his hand, and he saw nothing else as he went. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton preached to himself all the way home, and his text was a + rose. + </p> + <p> + Laugh who will. To many it may seem ridiculous, and to most minds it would + have been impossible, but to a nature very finely wrought and highly + trained, many a voice that grosser senses cannot hear comes with an + utterance as clear as it is sweet-spoken; many a touch that coarser nerves + cannot heed reaches the springs of the deeper life; many a truth that + duller eyes have no skill to see shews its fair features, hid away among + the petals of a rose, or peering out between the wings of a butterfly, or + reflected in a bright drop of dew. The material is but a veil for the + spiritual; but then eyes must be quickened, or the veil becomes an + impassable cloud. + </p> + <p> + That particular rose was to Mr. Carleton's eye a most perfect emblem and + representative of its little giver. He traced out the points of + resemblance as he went along. The delicacy and character of refinement for + which that kind of rose is remarkable above many of its more superb + kindred; a refinement essential and unalterable by decay or otherwise, as + true a characteristic of the child as of the flower; a delicacy that + called for gentle handling and tender cherishing;--the sweetness, rare + indeed, but asserting itself as it were timidly, at least with equally + rare modesty,--the very style of the beauty, that with all its loveliness + would not startle nor even catch the eye among its more showy neighbours; + and the breath of purity that seemed to own no kindred with earth, nor + liability to infection. + </p> + <p> + As he went on with his musing, and drawing out this fair character from + the type before him, the feeling of <i>contrast</i>, that he had known + before, pressed upon Mr. Carleton's mind, the feeling of self-reproach, + and the bitter wish that he could be again what he once had been, + something like this. How changed now he seemed to himself--not a point of + likeness left. How much less honourable, how much less worth, how much + less dignified, than that fair innocent child. How much better a part she + was acting in life--what an influence she was exerting,--as pure, as + sweet-breathed, and as unobtrusive, as the very rose in his hand. And + he--doing no good to an earthly creature and losing himself by inches. + </p> + <p> + He reached his room, put the flower in a glass on the table, and walked up + and down before it. It had come to a struggle between the sense of what + was and the passionate wish for what might have been. + </p> + <p> + "It is late, sir," said his servant opening the door,--"and you were--" + </p> + <p> + "I am not going out." + </p> + <p> + "This evening, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "No--not at all to-day. Spenser!--I don't wish to see any body--let no one + come near me." + </p> + <p> + The servant retired and Guy went on with his walk and his meditations, + looking back over his life and reviewing, with a wiser ken now, the steps + by which he had come. He compared the selfish disgust with which he had + cast off the world with the very different spirit of little Fleda's look + upon it that morning, the useless, self-pleasing, vain life he was + leading, with her wish to be like the beloved disciple and do something to + heal the troubles of those less happy than herself. He did not very well + comprehend the grounds of her feeling or reasoning, but he began to see, + mistily, that his own had been mistaken and wild. + </p> + <p> + His steps grew slower, his eye more intent, his brow quiet. + </p> + <p> + "She is right and I am wrong," he thought. "She is by far the nobler + creature--worth, many such as I. <i>Like her</i> I cannot be--I cannot + regain what I have lost,--I cannot undo what years have done. But I can be + something other than I am! If there be a system of remedy, as there well + may, it may as well take effect on myself first. She says everybody has + his work, I believe her. It must in the nature of things be so. I will + make it my business to find out what mine is, and when I have made that + sure I will give myself to the doing of it. An Allwise Governor must look + for service of me. He shall have it. Whatever my life be, it shall be to + some end. If not what I would, what I can. If not the purity of the rose, + that of tempered steel!" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton walked his room for three hours; then rung for his servant + and ordered him to prepare everything for leaving Paris the second day + thereafter. + </p> + <p> + The next morning over their coffee he told his mother of his purpose. + </p> + <p> + "Leave Paris!--To-morrow!--My dear Guy, that is rather a sudden notice." + </p> + <p> + "No mother--for I am going alone." + </p> + <p> + His mother immediately bent an anxious and somewhat terrified look upon + him. The frank smile she met put half her suspicions out of her head at + once. + </p> + <p> + "What is the matter?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing at all--if by 'matter' you mean mischief." + </p> + <p> + "You are not in difficulty with those young men again?" + </p> + <p> + "No mother," said he coolly. "I am in difficulty with no one but myself." + </p> + <p> + "With yourself! But why will you not let me go with you?" + </p> + <p> + "My business will go on better if I am quite alone." + </p> + <p> + "What business?" + </p> + <p> + "Only to settle this question with myself," said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "But Guy! you are enigmatical this morning. Is it the question that of all + others I wish to see settled?" + </p> + <p> + "No mother," said he laughing and colouring a little,--"I don't want + another half to take care of till I have this one under management." + </p> + <p> + "I don't understand you," said Mrs. Carleton "There is no hidden reason + under all this that you are keeping from me?" + </p> + <p> + "I won't say that. But there is none that need give you the least + uneasiness. There are one or two matters I want to study out--I cannot do + it here, so I am going where I shall be free." + </p> + <p> + "Where?" + </p> + <p> + "I think I shall pass the summer between Switzerland and Germany." + </p> + <p> + "And when and where shall I meet you again?" + </p> + <p> + "I think at home;--I cannot say when." + </p> + <p> + "At home!" said his mother with a brightening face. "Then you are + beginning to be tired of wandering at last?" + </p> + <p> + "Not precisely, mother,--rather out of humour." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be glad of anything," said his mother, gazing at him admiringly, + "that brings you home again, Guy." + </p> + <p> + "Bring me home a better man, I hope, mother," said he kissing her as he + left the room. "I will see you again by and by." + </p> + <p> + "'A better man!'" thought Mrs. Carleton, as she sat with full eyes, the + image of her son filling the place where his presence had been;--"I would + be willing never to see him better and be sure of his never being worse!" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton's farewell visit found Mr. and Mrs. Rossitur not at home. + They had driven out early into the country to fetch Marion from her + convent for some holiday. Fleda came alone into the saloon to receive him. + </p> + <p> + "I have your rose in safe keeping, Elfie," he said. "It has done me more + good than ever a rose did before." + </p> + <p> + Fleda smiled an innocently pleased smile. But her look changed when he + added, + </p> + <p> + "I have come to tell you so and to bid you good-bye." + </p> + <p> + "Are you going away, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "But you will be back soon?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Elfie,--I do not know that I shall ever come back." + </p> + <p> + He spoke gravely, more gravely than he was used; and Fleda's acuteness saw + that there was some solid reason for this sudden determination. Her face + changed sadly, but she was silent, her eyes never wavering from those that + read hers with such gentle intelligence. + </p> + <p> + "You will be satisfied to have me go, Elfie, when I tell you that I am + going on business which I believe to be duty. Nothing else takes me away. + I am going to try to do right," said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + Elfie could not answer the smile. She wanted to ask whether she should + never see him again, and there was another thought upon her tongue too; + but her lip trembled and she said nothing. + </p> + <p> + "I shall miss my good fairy," Mr. Carleton went on lightly;--"I don't know + how I shall do without her. If your wand was long enough to reach so far I + would ask you to touch me now and then, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + Poor Elfie could not stand it. Her head sank. She knew she had a wand that + could touch him, and well and gratefully she resolved that its light + blessing should "now and then" rest on his head; but he did not understand + that; he was talking, whether lightly or seriously, and Elfie knew it was + a little of both,--he was talking of wanting her help, and was ignorant of + the help that alone could avail him. "Oh that he knew but that!"--What + with this feeling and sorrow together the child's distress was exceeding + great; and the tokens of grief in one so accustomed to hide them were the + more painful to see. Mr. Carleton drew the sorrowing little creature + within his arm and endeavoured with a mixture of kindness and lightness in + his tone to cheer her. + </p> + <p> + "I shall often remember you, dear Elfie," he said;--"I shall keep your + rose always and take it with me wherever I go.--You must not make it too + hard for me to quit Paris--you are glad to have me go on such an errand, + are you not?" + </p> + <p> + She presently commanded herself, bade her tears wait till another time as + usual, and trying to get rid of those that covered her face, asked him, + "What errand?" + </p> + <p> + He hesitated. + </p> + <p> + "I have been thinking of what we were talking of yesterday, Elfie," he + said at length. "I am going to try to discover my duty, and then to do + it." + </p> + <p> + But Fleda at that clasped his hand, and squeezing it in both hers bent + down her little head over it to hide her face and the tears that streamed + again. He hardly knew how to understand or what to say to her. He half + suspected that there were depths in that childish mind beyond his + fathoming. He was not however left to wait long. Fleda, though she might + now and then be surprised into shewing it, never allowed her sorrow of any + kind to press upon the notice or the time of others. She again checked + herself and dried her face. + </p> + <p> + "There is nobody else in Paris that will be so sorry for my leaving it," + said Mr. Carleton, half tenderly and half pleasantly. + </p> + <p> + "There is nobody else that has so much cause," said Elfie, near bursting + out again, but she restrained herself. + </p> + <p> + "And you will not come here again, Mr. Carleton?" she said after a few + minutes. + </p> + <p> + "I do not say that--it is possible--if I do, it will be to see you, + Elfie." + </p> + <p> + A shadow of a smile passed over her face at that. It was gone instantly. + </p> + <p> + "My mother will not leave Paris yet," he went on,--"you will see her + often." + </p> + <p> + But he saw that Fleda was thinking of something else; she scarce seemed to + hear him. She was thinking of something that troubled her. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton--" she began, and her colour changed. + </p> + <p> + "Speak, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + Her colour changed again. "Mr. Carleton--will you be displeased if I say + something?" + </p> + <p> + "Don't you know me better than to ask me that, Elfie?" he said gently. + </p> + <p> + "I want to ask you something,--if you won't mind my saying it." + </p> + <p> + "What is it?" said he, reading in her face that a request was behind. "I + will do it." + </p> + <p> + Her eyes sparkled, but she seemed to have some difficulty in going on. + </p> + <p> + "I will do it, whatever it is," he said watching her. + </p> + <p> + "Will you wait for one moment, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Half an hour." + </p> + <p> + She sprang away, her face absolutely flashing pleasure through her tears. + It was much soberer, and again doubtful and changing colour, when a few + minutes afterwards she came back with a book in her hand. With a striking + mixture of timidity, modesty, and eagerness in her countenance she came + forward, and putting the little volume, which was her own Bible, into Mr. + Carleton's hands said under her breath, "Please read it." She did not + venture to look up. + </p> + <p> + He saw what the book was; and then taking the gentle hand which had given + it, he kissed it two or three times. If it had been a princess's he could + not with more respect. + </p> + <p> + "You have my promise, Elfie," he said. "I need not repeat it?" + </p> + <p> + She raised her eyes and gave him a look so grateful, so loving, so happy, + that it dwelt for ever in his remembrance. A moment after it had faded, + and she stood still where he had left her, listening to his footsteps as + they went down the stairs. She heard the last of them, and then sank upon + her knees by a chair and burst into a passion of tears. Their time was now + and she let them come. It was not only the losing a loved and pleasant + friend, it was not only the stirring of sudden and disagreeable + excitement;--poor Elfie was crying for her Bible. It had been her father's + own--it was filled with his marks--it was precious to her above price--and + Elfie cried with all her heart for the loss of it. She had done what she + had on the spur of the emergency--she was satisfied she had done right; + she would not take it back if she could; but not the less her Bible was + gone, and the pages that loved eyes had looked upon were for hers to look + upon no more. Her very heart was wrung that she should have parted with + it,--and yet,--what could she do?--It was as bad as the parting with Mr. + Carleton. + </p> + <p> + That agony was over, and even that was shortened, for "Hugh would find out + that she had been crying." Hours had passed, and the tears were dried, and + the little face was bending over the wonted tasks with a shadow upon its + wonted cheerfulness,--when Rosaline came to tell her that Victor said + there was somebody in the passage who wanted to see her and would not come + in. + </p> + <p> + It was Mr. Carleton himself. He gave her a parcel, smiled at her without + saying a word, kissed her hand earnestly, and was gone again. Fleda ran to + her own room, and took the wrappers off such a beauty of a Bible as she + had never seen; bound in blue velvet, with clasps of gold and her initials + in letters of gold upon the cover. Fleda hardly knew whether to be most + pleased or sorry; for to have its place so supplied seemed to put her lost + treasure further away than ever. The result was another flood of very + tender tears; in the very shedding of which however the new little Bible + was bound to her heart with cords of association as bright and as + incorruptible as its gold mountings. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="15"></a>Chapter XV. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Her sports were such as carried riches of knowledge upon the stream of + light.--Sidney. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Fleda had not been a year in Paris when her uncle suddenly made up his + mind to quit it and go home. Some trouble in money affairs, felt or + feared, brought him to this step, which a month before he had no definite + purpose of ever taking. There was cloudy weather in the financial world of + New York and he wisely judged it best that his own eyes should be on the + spot to see to his own interests. Nobody was sorry for this determination. + Mrs. Rossitur always liked what her husband liked, but she had at the same + time a decided predilection for home. Marion was glad to leave her convent + for the gay world, which her parents promised she should immediately + enter. And Hugh and Fleda had too lively a spring of happiness within + themselves to care where its outgoings should be. + </p> + <p> + So home they came, in good mood, bringing with them all manner of Parisian + delights that Paris could part with. Furniture, that at home at least they + might forget where they were; dresses, that at home or abroad nobody might + forget where they had been; pictures and statuary and engravings and + books, to satisfy a taste really strong and well cultivated. And indeed + the other items were quite as much for this purpose as for any other. A + French cook for Mr. Rossitur, and even Rosaline for his wife, who declared + she was worth all the rest of Paris. Hugh cared little for any of these + things; he brought home a treasure of books and a flute, to which he was + devoted. Fleda cared for them all, even Monsieur Emile and Rosaline, for + her uncle's and aunt's sake; but her special joy was a beautiful little + King Charles which had been sent her by Mr. Carleton a few weeks before. + It came with the kindest of letters, saying that some matters had made it + inexpedient for him to pass through Paris on his way home, but that he + hoped nevertheless to see her soon. That intimation was the only thing + that made Fleda sorry to leave Paris. The little dog was a beauty, allowed + to be so not only by his mistress but by every one else; of the true black + and tan colours; and Fleda's dearly loved and constant companion. + </p> + <p> + The life she and Hugh led was little changed by the change of place. They + went out and came in as they had done in Paris, and took the same quiet + but intense happiness in the same quiet occupations and pleasures; only + the Tuileries and Champs Elysées had a miserable substitute in the + Battery, and no substitute at all anywhere else. And the pleasant drives + in the environs of Paris were missed too and had nothing in New York to + supply their place. Mrs. Rossitur always said it was impossible to get out + of New York by land, and not worth the trouble to do it by water. But then + in the house Fleda thought there was a great gain. The dirty Parisian + Hotel was well exchanged for the bright, clean, well-appointed house in + State street. And if Broadway was disagreeable, and the Park a weariness + to the eyes, after the dressed gardens of the French capital, Hugh and + Fleda made it up in the delights of the luxuriously furnished library and + the dear at-home feeling of having the whole house their own. + </p> + <p> + They were left, those two children, quite as much to themselves as ever. + Marion was going into company, and she and her mother were swallowed up in + the consequent necessary calls upon their time. Marion never had been + anything to Fleda. She was a fine handsome girl, outwardly, but seemed to + have more of her father than her mother in her composition, though + colder-natured and more wrapped up in self than Mr. Rossitur would be + called by anybody that knew him. She had never done anything to draw Fleda + towards her, and even Hugh had very little of her attention. They did not + miss it. They were everything to each other. + </p> + <p> + Everything,--for now morning and night there was a sort of whirlwind in + the house which carried the mother and daughter round and round and + permitted no rest; and Mr. Rossitur himself was drawn in. It was worse + than it had been in Paris. There, with Marion in her convent, there were + often evenings when they did not go abroad nor receive company and spent + the time quietly and happily in each other's society. No such evenings + now; if by chance there were an unoccupied one Mrs. Rossitur and her + daughter were sure to be tired and Mr. Rossitur busy. + </p> + <p> + Hugh and Fleda in those bustling times retreated to the library; Mr. + Rossitur would rarely have that invaded; and while the net was so eagerly + cast for pleasure among the gay company below, pleasure had often slipped + away and hid herself among the things on the library table, and was + dancing on every page of Hugh's book and minding each stroke of Fleda's + pencil and cocking the spaniel's ears whenever his mistress looked at him. + King, the spaniel, lay on a silk cushion on the library table, his nose + just touching Fleda's fingers. Fleda's drawing was mere amusement; she and + Hugh were not so burthened with studies that they had not always their + evenings free, and to tell truth, much more than their evenings. Masters + indeed they had; but the heads of the house were busy with the interests + of their grown-up child, and perhaps with other interests; and took it for + granted that all was going right with the young ones. + </p> + <p> + "Haven't we a great deal better time than they have down stairs, Fleda?" + said Hugh one of these evenings. + </p> + <p> + "Hum--yes--" answered Fleda abstractedly, stroking into order some old man + in her drawing with great intentness.--"King!--you rascal--keep back and + be quiet, sir!--" + </p> + <p> + Nothing could be conceived more gentle and loving than Fleda's tone of + fault-finding, and her repulse only fell short of a caress. + </p> + <p> + "What's he doing?" + </p> + <p> + "Wants to get into my lap." + </p> + <p> + "Why don't you let him?" + </p> + <p> + "Because I don't choose to--a silk cushion is good enough for his majesty. + King!--" (laying her soft cheek against the little dog's soft head and + forsaking her drawing for the purpose.) + </p> + <p> + "How you do love that dog!" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Very well--why shouldn't I?--provided he steals no love from anybody + else," said Fleda, still caressing him. + </p> + <p> + "What a noise somebody is making down stairs!" said Hugh. "I don't think I + should ever want to go to large parties, Fleda, do you?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda, whose natural taste for society was strongly + developed;--"it would depend upon what kind of parties they were." + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't like them, I know, of whatever kind," said Hugh. "What are + you smiling at?" + </p> + <p> + "Only Mr. Pickwick's face, that I am drawing here." + </p> + <p> + Hugh came round to look and laugh, and then began again. + </p> + <p> + "I can't think of anything pleasanter than this room as we are now." + </p> + <p> + "You should have seen Mr. Carleton's library," said Fleda in a musing + tone, going on with her drawing. + </p> + <p> + "Was it so much better than this?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eyes gave a slight glance at the room and then looked down again + with a little shake of her head sufficiently expressive. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Hugh, "you and I do not want any better than this, do we, + Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's smile, a most satisfactory one, was divided between him and King. + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe," said Hugh, "you would have loved that dog near so well + if anybody else had given him to you." + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe I should!--not a quarter," said Fleda with sufficient + distinctness. + </p> + <p> + "I never liked that Mr. Carleton as well as you did." + </p> + <p> + "That is because you did not know him," said Fleda quietly. + </p> + <p> + "Do you think he was a good man, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "He was very good to me," said Fleda, "always. What rides I did have on + that great black horse of his!"-- + </p> + <p> + "A black horse?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, a great black horse, strong, but so gentle, and he went so + delightfully. His name was Harold. Oh I should like to see that + horse!--When I wasn't with him, Mr. Carleton used to ride another, the + greatest beauty of a horse, Hugh; a brown Arabian--so slender and + delicate--her name was Zephyr, ind she used to go like the wind, to be + sure. Mr. Carleton said he wouldn't trust me on such a fly-away thing." + </p> + <p> + "But you didn't use to ride alone?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Oh no!--and <i>I</i> wouldn't have been afraid if he had chosen to take + me on any one." + </p> + <p> + "But do you think, Fleda, he was a <i>good</i> man? as I mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sure he was better than a great many others," answered Fleda + evasively;--"the worst of him was infinitely better than the best of half + the people down stairs,--Mr. Sweden included." + </p> + <p> + "Sweden"--you don't call his name right." + </p> + <p> + "The worse it is called the better, in my opinion," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I don't like him; but what makes you dislike him so much?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--partly because uncle Rolf and Marion like him so much, I + believe--I don't think there is any moral expression in his face." + </p> + <p> + "I wonder why they like him," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + It was a somewhat irregular and desultory education that the two children + gathered under this system of things. The masters they had were rather for + accomplishments and languages than for anything solid; the rest they + worked out for themselves. Fortunately they both loved books, and rational + books; and hours and hours, when Mrs. Rossitur and her daughter were + paying or receiving visits, they, always together, were stowed away behind + the book-cases or in the library window poring patiently over pages of + various complexion; the soft turning of the leaves or Fleda's frequent + attentions to King the only sound in the room. They walked together, + talking of what they had read, though indeed they ranged beyond that into + nameless and numberless fields of speculation, where if they sometimes + found fruit they as often lost their way. However the habit of ranging was + something. Then when they joined the rest of the family at the + dinner-table, especially if others were present, and most especially if a + certain German gentleman happened to be there who the second winter after + their return Fleda thought came very often, she and Hugh would be sure to + find the strange talk of the world that was going on unsuited and + wearisome to them, and they would make their escape up stairs again to + handle the pencil and to play the flute and to read, and to draw plans for + the future, while King crept upon the skirts of his mistress's gown and + laid his little head on her feet. Nobody ever thought of sending them to + school. Hugh was a child of frail health, and though not often very ill + was often near it; and as for Fleda, she and Hugh were inseparable; and + besides by this time her uncle and aunt would almost as soon have thought + of taking the mats off their delicate shrubs in winter as of exposing her + to any atmosphere less genial than that of home. + </p> + <p> + For Fleda this doubtful course of mental training wrought singularly well. + An uncommonly quick eye and strong memory and clear head, which she had + even in childhood, passed over no field of truth or fancy without making + their quiet gleanings; and the stores thus gathered, though somewhat + miscellaneous and unarranged, were both rich and uncommon, and more than + any one or she herself knew. Perhaps such a mind thus left to itself knew + a more free and luxuriant growth than could ever have flourished within + the confinement of rules. Perhaps a plant at once so strong and so + delicate was safest without the hand of the dresser. At all events it was + permitted to spring and to put forth all its native gracefulness alike + unhindered and unknown. Cherished as little Fleda dearly was, her mind + kept company with no one but herself,--and Hugh. As to externals,--music + was uncommonly loved by both the children, and by both cultivated with + great success. So much came under Mrs. Rossitur's knowledge. Also every + foreign Signor and Madame that came into the house to teach them spoke + with enthusiasm of the apt minds and flexile tongues that honoured their + instructions. In private and in public the gentle, docile, and + affectionate children answered every wish both of taste and judgment. And + perhaps, in a world where education is <i>not</i> understood, their + guardians might be pardoned for taking it for granted that all was right + where nothing appeared that was wrong; certainly they took no pains to + make sure of the fact. In this case, one of a thousand, their neglect was + not punished with disappointment. They never found out that Hugh's mind + wanted the strengthening that early skilful training might have given it. + His intellectual tastes were not so strong as Fleda's; his reading was + more superficial; his gleanings not so sound and in far fewer fields, and + they went rather to nourish sentiment and fancy than to stimulate thought + or lay up food for it. But his parents saw nothing of this. + </p> + <p> + The third winter had not passed, when Fleda's discernment saw that Mr. + Sweden, as she called him, the German gentleman, would not cease coming to + the house till he had carried off Marion with him. Her opinion on the + subject was delivered to no one but Hugh. + </p> + <p> + That winter introduced them to a better acquaintance. One evening Dr. + Gregory, an uncle of Mrs. Rossitur's, had been dining with her and was in + the drawing-room. Mr. Schweden had been there too, and he and Marion and + one or two other young people had gone out to some popular entertainment. + The children knew little of Dr. Gregory but that he was a very + respectable-looking elderly gentleman, a little rough in his manners; the + doctor had not long been returned from a stay of some years in Europe + where he had been collecting rare books for a fine public library, the + charge of which was now entrusted to him. After talking some time with Mr. + and Mrs. Rossitur the doctor pushed round his chair to take a look at the + children. + </p> + <p> + "So that's Amy's child," said he. "Come here, Amy." + </p> + <p> + "That is not my name," said the little girl coming forward. + </p> + <p> + "Isn't it? It ought to be. What is then?" + </p> + <p> + "Elfleda." + </p> + <p> + "Elfleda!--Where in the name of all that is auricular did you get such an + outlandish name?" + </p> + <p> + "My father gave it to me, sir," said Fleda, with a dignified sobriety + which amused the old gentleman. + </p> + <p> + "Your father!--Hum--I understand. And couldn't your father find a cap that + fitted you without going back to the old-fashioned days of King Alfred?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir; it was my grandmother's cap." + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid your grandmother's cap isn't all of her that's come down to + you," said he, tapping his snuff-box and looking at her with a curious + twinkle in his eyes. "What do you call yourself? Haven't you some + variations of this tongue-twisting appellative to serve for every day and + save trouble?" + </p> + <p> + "They call me Fleda," said the little girl, who could not help laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing better than that?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda remembered two prettier nick-names which had been hers; but one had + been given by dear lips long ago, and she was not going to have it + profaned by common use; and "Elfie" belonged to Mr. Carleton. She would + own to nothing but Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Miss Fleda," said the doctor, "are you going to school?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir." + </p> + <p> + "You intend to live without such a vulgar thing as learning?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir--Hugh and I have our lessons at home." + </p> + <p> + "Teaching each other, I suppose?" + </p> + <p> + "O no, sir," said Fleda laughing;--"Mme. Lascelles and Mr. Schweppenhesser + and Signor Barytone come to teach us, besides our music masters." + </p> + <p> + "Do you ever talk German with this Mr. What's-his-name who has just gone + out with your cousin Marion?" + </p> + <p> + "I never talk to him at all, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you? why not? Don't you like him?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda said "not particularly," and seemed to wish to let the subject pass, + but the doctor was amused and pressed it. + </p> + <p> + "Why, why don't you like him?" said he; "I am sure he's a fine looking + dashing gentleman,--dresses as well as anybody, and talks as much as most + people,--why don't you like him? Isn't he a handsome fellow, eh?" + </p> + <p> + "I dare say he is, to many people," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "She said she didn't think there was any moral expression in his face," + said Hugh, by way of settling the matter. + </p> + <p> + "Moral expression!" cried the doctor,--"moral expression!--and what if + there isn't, you Elf!--what if there isn't?" + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't care what other kind of expression it had," said Fleda, + colouring a little. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur 'pished' rather impatiently. The doctor glanced at his niece, + and changed the subject. + </p> + <p> + "Well who teaches you English, Miss Fleda? you haven't told me that yet." + </p> + <p> + "O that we teach ourselves," said Fleda, smiling as if it was a very + innocent question. + </p> + <p> + "Hum! you do! Pray how do you teach yourselves?" + </p> + <p> + "By reading, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Reading! And what do you read? what have you read in the last twelve + months, now?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't think I could remember all exactly," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But you have got a list of them all," said Hugh, who chanced to have been + looking over said list of a day or two before and felt quite proud of it. + </p> + <p> + "Let's have it--let's have it," said the doctor. And Mrs. Rossitur + laughing said "Let's have it;" and even her husband commanded Hugh to go + and fetch it; so poor Fleda, though not a little unwilling, was obliged to + let the list be forthcoming. Hugh brought it, in a neat little book + covered with pink blotting paper. + </p> + <p> + "Now for it," said the doctor;--"let us see what this English amounts to. + Can you stand fire, Elfleda?" + </p> + <p> + 'Jan. 1. Robinson Crusoe.' [Footnote: A true list made by a child of that + age.] + </p> + <p> + "Hum--that sounds reasonable, at all events." + </p> + <p> + "I had it for a New Year present," remarked Fleda, who stood by with + down-cast eyes, like a person undergoing an examination. + </p> + <p> + 'Jan. 2. Histoire de France.' + </p> + <p> + "What history of France is this?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda hesitated and then said it was by Lacretelle. + </p> + <p> + "Lacretelle?--what, of the Revolution?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir, it is before that; it is in five or six large volumes." + </p> + <p> + "What, Louis XV's time!" said the doctor muttering to himself. + </p> + <p> + 'Jan. 27. 2. ditto, ditto.' + </p> + <p> + "'Two' means the second volume I suppose?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir." + </p> + <p> + "Hum--if you were a mouse you would gnaw through the wall in time at that + rate. This is in the original?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir." + </p> + <p> + 'Feb. 3. Paris. L. E. K.' + </p> + <p> + "What do these hieroglyphics mean?" + </p> + <p> + "That stands for the 'Library of Entertaining Knowledge,'" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But how is this?--do you go hop, skip, and jump through these books, or + read a little and then throw them away? Here it is only seven days since + you began the second volume of Lacretelle--not time enough to get through + it." + </p> + <p> + "O no, sir," said Fleda smiling,--"I like to have several books that I am + reading in at once,--I mean--at the same time, you know; and then if I am + not in the mood of one I take up another." + </p> + <p> + "She reads them all through," said Hugh,--"always, though she reads them + very quick." + </p> + <p> + "Hum--I understand," said the old doctor with a humorous expression, going + on with the list. + </p> + <p> + 'March 3. 3 Hist. de France.' + </p> + <p> + "But you finish one of these volumes, I suppose, before you begin another; + or do you dip into different parts of the same work at once?" + </p> + <p> + "O no, sir;--of course not!" + </p> + <p> + 'Mar. 5. Modern Egyptians. L. E. K. Ap. 13.' + </p> + <p> + "What are these dates on the right as well as on the left?" + </p> + <p> + "Those on the right shew when I finished the volume." + </p> + <p> + "Well I wonder what you were cut out for?" said the doctor. "A + Quaker!--you aren't a Quaker, are you?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir," said Fleda laughing. + </p> + <p> + "You look like it," said he. + </p> + <p> + 'Feb. 24. Five Penny Magazines, finished Mar. 4,' + </p> + <p> + "They are in paper numbers, you know, sir." + </p> + <p> + 'April 4. 4 Hist. de F.' + </p> + <p> + "Let us see--the third volume was finished March 29--I declare you keep it + up pretty well." + </p> + <p> + 'Ap. 19. Incidents of Travel' + </p> + <p> + "Whose is that?" + </p> + <p> + "It is by Mr. Stephens." + </p> + <p> + "How did you like it?" + </p> + <p> + "O very much indeed." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, I see you did; you finished it by the first of May. 'Tour to the + Hebrides'--what? Johnson's?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir." + </p> + <p> + "Read it all fairly through?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir, certainly." + </p> + <p> + He smiled and went on. + </p> + <p> + 'May 12. Peter Simple!' + </p> + <p> + There was quite a shout at the heterogeneous character of Fleda's reading, + which she, not knowing exactly what to make of it, heard rather abashed. + </p> + <p> + "' Peter Simple'!" said the doctor, settling himself to go on with his + list;--"well, let us see.--' World without Souls.' Why you Elf! read in + two days." + </p> + <p> + "It is very short, you know, sir." + </p> + <p> + "What did you think of it?" + </p> + <p> + "I liked parts of it very much." + </p> + <p> + He went on, still smiling. + </p> + <p> + 'June 15. Goldsmith's Animated Nature.' + </p> + <p> + 'June 18. 1 Life of Washington.' + </p> + <p> + "What Life of Washington?" + </p> + <p> + "Marshall's." + </p> + <p> + "Hum.--'July 9. 2 Goldsmith's An. Na.' As I live, begun the very day the + first volume was finished, did you read the whole of that?" + </p> + <p> + "O yes, sir. I liked that book very much." + </p> + <p> + '4 July 12. 5 Hist, de France.' + </p> + <p> + "Two histories on hand at once! Out of all rule, Miss Fleda! We must look + after you." + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir; sometimes I wanted to read one, and sometimes I wanted to read + the other." + </p> + <p> + "And you always do what you want to do, I suppose?" + </p> + <p> + "I think the reading does me more good in that way." + </p> + <p> + 'July 15. Paley's Natural Theology!' + </p> + <p> + There was another shout. Poor Fleda's eyes filled with tears. + </p> + <p> + "What in the world put that book into your head, or before your eyes?" + said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, sir,--I thought I should like to read it," said Fleda, + drooping her eyelids that the bright drops under them might not be seen. + </p> + <p> + "And finished in eleven days, as I live!" said the doctor wagging his + head. 'July 19. 3 Goldsmith's A. N.' 'Aug. 6. 4 Do. Do.'" + </p> + <p> + "That is one of Fleda's favourite books," put in Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "So it seems. '6 Hist. de France.'--What does this little cross mean?" + </p> + <p> + "That shews when the book is finished," said Fleda, looking on the + page,--"the last volume, I mean." + </p> + <p> + "'Retrospect of Western Travel'--'Goldsmith's A. N., last vol.'--'Memoirs + de Sully'--in the French?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir." + </p> + <p> + "'Life of Newton'--What's this?--'Sep. 8. 1 Fairy Queen!'--not Spenser's?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir, I believe so--the Fairy Queen, in five volumes." + </p> + <p> + The doctor looked up comically at his niece and her husband, who were both + sitting or standing close by. + </p> + <p> + "'Sep. 10. Paolo e Virginia.'--In what language?" + </p> + <p> + "Italian, sir; I was just beginning, and I haven't finished it yet." + </p> + <p> + "'Sep. 16. Milner's Church History'!--What the deuce!--'Vol. 2. Fairy + Queen.'--Why this must have been a favourite book too." + </p> + <p> + "That's one of the books Fleda loves best," said Hugh;--"she went through + that very fast." + </p> + <p> + "<i>Over</i> it, you mean, I reckon; how much did you skip, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I didn't skip at all," said Fleda; "I read every word of it." + </p> + <p> + "'Sep. 20. 2 Mem. de Sully.'--Well, you're an industrious mouse, I'll say + that for you.--What's this--'Don Quixotte!'--'Life of Howard.'--'Nov. 17. + 3 Fairy Queen.'--'Nov. 29. 4 Fairy Queen.'--'Dec. 8. 1 Goldsmith's + England.'--Well if this list of books is a fair exhibit of your taste and + capacity, you have a most happily proportioned set of intellectuals. Let + us see--History, fun, facts, nature, theology, poetry and divinity!--upon + my soul!--and poetry and history the leading features!--a little fun,--as + much as you could lay your hand on I'll warrant, by that pinch in the + corner of your eye. And here, the eleventh of December, you finished the + Fairy Queen;--and ever since, I suppose, you have been imagining yourself + the 'faire Una,' with Hugh standing for Prince Arthur or the Red-cross + knight,--haven't you?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir. I didn't imagine anything about it." + </p> + <p> + "Don't tell me! What did you read it for?" + </p> + <p> + "Only because I liked it, sir. I liked it better than any other book I + read last year." + </p> + <p> + "You did! Well, the year ends, I see, with another volume of Sully. I + won't enter upon this year's list. Pray how much of all these volumes do + you suppose you remember? I'll try and find out, next time I come to see + you. I can give a guess, if you study with that little pug in your lap." + </p> + <p> + "He is not a pug!" said Fleda, in whose arms King was lying + luxuriously,--"and he never gets into my lap besides." + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus10.jpg"><img src="images/illus10.jpg" height="250" + alt="'He is not a pug.'" title="'He is not a pug.'" /><br /> "He is not a + pug."</a> + </p> + <p> + "Don't he! Why not?" + </p> + <p> + "Because I don't like it, sir. I don't like to see dogs in laps." + </p> + <p> + "But all the ladies in the land do it, you little Saxon! it is universally + considered a mark of distinction." + </p> + <p> + "I can't help what all the ladies in the land do," said Fleda. "That won't + alter my liking, and I don't think a lady's lap is a place for a dog." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you were <i>my</i> daughter!" said the old doctor, shaking his + head at her with a comic fierce expression of countenance, which Fleda + perfectly understood and laughed at accordingly. Then as the two children + with the dog went off into the other room, he said, turning to his niece + and Mr. Rossitur, + </p> + <p> + "If that girl ever takes a wrong turn with the bit in her teeth, you'll be + puzzled to hold her. What stuff will you make the reins of?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't think she ever will take a wrong turn," said Mr. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "A look is enough to manage her, if she did," said his wife. "Hugh is not + more gentle." + </p> + <p> + "I should be inclined rather to fear her not having stability of character + enough," said Mr. Rossitur. "She is so very meek and yielding, I almost + doubt whether anything would give her courage to take ground of her own + and keep it." + </p> + <p> + "Hum------well, well!" said the old doctor, walking off after the + children. "Prince Arthur, will you bring this damsel up to my den some of + these days?--the 'faire Una' is safe from the wild beasts, you know;--and + I'll shew her books enough to build herself a house with, if she likes." + </p> + <p> + The acceptance of this invitation led to some of the pleasantest hours of + Fleda's city life. The visits to the great library became very frequent. + Dr. Gregory and the children were little while in growing fond of each + other; he loved to see them and taught them to come at such times as the + library was free of visitors and his hands of engagements. Then he + delighted himself with giving them pleasure, especially Fleda, whose quick + curiosity and intelligence were a constant amusement to him. He would + establish the children in some corner of the large apartments, out of the + way behind a screen of books and tables; and there shut out from the world + they would enjoy a kind of fairyland pleasure over some volume or set of + engravings that they could not see at home. Hours and hours were spent so. + Fleda would stand clasping her hands before Audubon, or rapt over a finely + illustrated book of travels, or going through and through with Hugh the + works of the best masters of the pencil and the graver. The doctor found + he could trust them, and then all the treasures of the library were at + their disposal. Very often he put chosen pieces of reading into their + hands; and it was pleasantest of all when he was not busy and came and sat + down with them; for with all his odd manner he was extremely kind and + could and did put them in the way to profit greatly by their + opportunities. The doctor and the children had nice times there together. + </p> + <p> + They lasted for many months, and grew more and more worth. Mr. Schweden + carried off Marion, as Fleda had foreseen he would, before the end of + spring; and after she was gone something like the old pleasant Paris life + was taken up again. They had no more company now than was agreeable, and + it was picked not to suit Marion's taste but her father's,--a very + different matter. Fleda and Hugh were not forbidden the dinner-table, and + so had the good of hearing much useful conversation from which the former, + according to custom, made her steady precious gleanings. The pleasant + evenings in the family were still better enjoyed than they used to he; + Fleda was older; and the snug handsome American house had a home-feeling + to her that the wide Parisian saloons never knew. She had become bound to + her uncle and aunt by all but the ties of blood; nobody in the house ever + remembered that she was not born their daughter; except indeed Fleda + herself, who remembered everything, and with whom the forming of any new + affections or relations somehow never blotted out or even faded the + register of the old. It lived in all its brightness; the writing of past + loves and friendships was as plain as ever in her heart; and often, often, + the eye and the kiss of memory fell upon it. In the secret of her heart's + core; for still, as at the first, no one had a suspicion of the movings of + thought that were beneath that childish brow. No one guessed how clear a + judgment weighed and decided upon many things. No one dreamed, amid their + busy, hustling, thoughtless life, how often, in the street, in her bed, in + company and alone, her mother's last prayer was in Fleda's heart; well + cherished; never forgotten. + </p> + <p> + Her education and Hugh's meanwhile went on after the old fashion. If Mr. + Rossitur had more time he seemed to have no more thought for the matter; + and Mrs. Rossitur, fine-natured as she was, had never been trained to + self-exertion, and of course was entirely out of the way of training + others. Her children were pieces of perfection, and needed no oversight; + her house was a piece of perfection too. If either had not been, Mrs. + Rossitur would have been utterly at a loss how to mend matters,--except in + the latter instance by getting a new housekeeper; and as Mrs. Renney, the + good woman who held that station, was in everybody's opinion another + treasure, Mrs. Rossitur's mind was uncrossed by the shadow of such a + dilemma. With Mrs. Renney as with every one else Fleda was held in highest + regard; always welcome to her premises and to those mysteries of her trade + which were sacred from other intrusion. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's natural inquisitiveness carried her often to the housekeeper's + room, and made her there the same curious and careful observer that she + had been in the library or at the Louvre. + </p> + <p> + "Come," said Hugh one day when he had sought and found her in Mrs. + Renney's precincts,--"come away, Fleda! What do you want to stand here and + see Mrs. Renney roll butter and sugar for?" + </p> + <p> + "My dear Mr. Rossitur!" said Fleda,--"you don't understand quelquechoses. + How do you know but I may have to get my living by making them, some day." + </p> + <p> + "By making what?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Quelquechoses,--anglicé, kickshaws,--alias, sweet trifles + denominated merrings." + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw, Fleda!" + </p> + <p> + "Miss Fleda is more likely to get her living by eating them, Mr. Hugh, + isn't she?" said the housekeeper. + </p> + <p> + "I hope to decline both lines of life," said Fleda laughingly as she + followed Hugh out of the room. But her chance remark had grazed the truth + sufficiently near. + </p> + <p> + Those years in New York were a happy time for little Fleda, a time when + mind and body flourished under the sun of prosperity. Luxury did not spoil + her; and any one that saw her in the soft furs of her winter wrappings + would have said that delicate cheek and frame were never made to know the + unkindliness of harsher things. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="16"></a>Chapter XVI. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Whereunto is money good?<br /> Who has it not wants hardihood,<br /> Who + has it has much trouble and care,<br /> Who once has had it has despair. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Longfellow. <i>From the German</i>. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + It was the middle of winter. One day Hugh and Fleda had come home from + their walk. They dashed into the parlour, complaining that it was bitterly + cold, and began unrobing before the glowing grate, which was a mass of + living fire from end to end. Mrs. Rossitur was there in an easy chair, + alone and doing nothing. That was not a thing absolutely unheard of, but + Fleda had not pulled off her second glove before she bent down towards her + and in a changed tone tenderly asked if she did not feel well? + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur looked up in her face a minute, and then drawing her down + kissed the blooming cheeks one and the other several times. But as she + looked off to the fire again Fleda saw that it was through watering eyes. + She dropped on her knees by the side of the easy chair that she might have + a better sight of that face, and tried to read it as she asked again what + was the matter; and Hugh coming to the other side repeated her question. + His mother passed an arm round each, looking wistfully from one to the + other and kissing them earnestly, but she said only, with a very + heart-felt emphasis, "Poor children!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda was now afraid to speak, but Hugh pressed his inquiry. + </p> + <p> + "Why 'poor' mamma? what makes you say so?" + </p> + <p> + "Because you are poor really, dear Hugh. We have lost everything we have + in the world." + </p> + <p> + "Mamma! What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "Your father has failed." + </p> + <p> + "Failed!--But, mamma, I thought he wasn't in business?" + </p> + <p> + "So I thought," said Mrs. Rossitur;--"I didn't know people could fail that + were not in business; but it seems they can. He was a partner in some + concern or other, and it's all broken to pieces, and your father with it, + he says." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur's face was distressful. They were all silent for a little; + Hugh kissing his mother's wet cheeks. Fleda had softly nestled her head in + her bosom. But Mrs. Rossitur soon recovered herself. + </p> + <p> + "How bad is it, mother?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "As bad as can possibly be." + </p> + <p> + "Is <i>everything</i> gone?" + </p> + <p> + "Everything." + </p> + <p> + "You don't mean the house, mamma?" + </p> + <p> + "The house, and all that is in it." + </p> + <p> + The children's hearts were struck, and they were silent again, only a + trembling touch of Fleda's lips spoke sympathy and patience if ever a kiss + did. + </p> + <p> + "But mamma," said Hugh, after he had gathered breath for it,--"do you mean + to say that <i>everything</i>, literally <i>everything</i>, is gone? is + there nothing left?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing in the world--not a sou." + </p> + <p> + "Then what are we going to do?" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur shook her head, and had no words. + </p> + <p> + Fleda <i>looked</i> across to Hugh to ask no more, and putting her arms + round her aunt's neck and laying cheek to cheek, she spoke what comfort + she could. + </p> + <p> + "Don't, dear aunt Lucy!--there will be some way--things always turn out + better than at first--I dare say we shall find out it isn't so bad by and + by. Don't you mind it, and then we won't. We can be happy anywhere + together." + </p> + <p> + If there was not much in the reasoning there was something in the tone of + the words to bid Mrs. Rossitur bear herself well. Its tremulous sweetness, + its anxious love, was without a taint of self-recollection; its sorrow was + for <i>her</i>. Mrs. Rossitur felt that she must not shew herself + overcome. She again kissed and blessed and pressed closer in her arms her + little comforter, while her other hand was given to Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "I have only heard about it this morning. Your uncle was here telling me + just now,--a little while before you came. Don't say anything about it + before him." + </p> + <p> + Why not? The words struck Fleda disagreeably. + </p> + <p> + "What will be done with the house, mamma?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Sold--sold, and everything in it." + </p> + <p> + "Papa's books, mamma! and all the things in the library!" exclaimed Hugh, + looking terrified. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur's face gave the answer; do it in words she could not. + </p> + <p> + The children were a long time silent, trying hard to swallow this bitter + pill; and still Hugh's hand was in his mother's and Fleda's head lay on + her bosom. Thought was busy, going up and down, and breaking the + companionship they had so long held with the pleasant drawing-room and the + tasteful arrangements among which Fleda was so much at home;--the easy + chairs in whose comfortable arms she had had so many an hour of nice + reading; the soft rug where in the very wantonness of frolic she had + stretched herself to play with King; that very luxurious, bright grateful + of fire, which had given her so often the same warm welcome home, an apt + introduction to the other stores of comfort which awaited her above and + below stairs; the rich-coloured curtains and carpet, the beauty of which + had been such a constant gratification to Fleda's eye; and the exquisite + French table and lamps they had brought out with them, in which her uncle + and aunt had so much pride and which could nowhere be matched for + elegance;--they must all be said 'good-bye' to; and as yet fancy had + nothing to furnish the future with; it looked very bare. + </p> + <p> + King had come in and wagged himself up close to his mistress, but even he + could obtain nothing but the touch of most abstracted finger ends. Yet, + though keenly recognized, these thoughts were only passing compared with + the anxious and sorrowful ones that went to her aunt and uncle; for Hugh + and her, she judged, it was less matter. And Mrs. Rossitur's care was most + for her husband; and Hugh's was for them all. His associations were less + quick and his tastes less keen than Fleda's and less a part of himself. + Hugh lived in his affections; with a salvo to them, he could bear to lose + anything and go anywhere. + </p> + <p> + "Mamma," said he after a long time,--"will anything be done with Fleda's + books?" + </p> + <p> + A question that had been in Fleda's mind before, but which she had + patiently forborne just then to ask. + </p> + <p> + "No indeed!" said Mrs. Rossitur, pressing Fleda more closely and kissing + in a kind of rapture the sweet thoughtful face;--"not yours, my darling; + they can't touch anything that belongs to you--I wish it was more--and I + don't suppose they will take anything of mine either." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, well!" said Fleda raising her head, "you have got quite a parcel of + books, aunt Lucy, and I have a good many--how well it is I have had so + many given me since I have been here!--That will make quite a nice little + library, both together, and Hugh has some; I thought perhaps we shouldn't + have one at all left, and that would have been rather bad." + </p> + <p> + 'Rather bad'! Mrs. Rossitur looked at her, and was dumb. + </p> + <p> + "Only don't you wear a sad face for anything!" Fleda went on + earnestly;--"we shall be perfectly happy if you and uncle Rolf only will + be." + </p> + <p> + "My dear children!" said Mrs. Rossitur wiping her eyes,--"it is for you I + am unhappy--you and your uncle;--I do not think of myself." + </p> + <p> + "And we do not think of ourselves, mamma," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "I know it--but having good children don't make one care less about them," + said Mrs. Rossitur, the tears fairly raining over her fingers. + </p> + <p> + Hugh pulled the fingers down and again tried the efficacy of his lips. + </p> + <p> + "And you know papa thinks most of you, mamma." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, your father!"--said Mrs. Rossitur shaking her head,--"I am afraid it + will go hard with him!--But I will be happy as long as I have you two, or + else I should be a very wicked woman. It only grieves me to think of your + education and prospects--" + </p> + <p> + "Fleda's piano, mamma!" said Hugh with sudden dismay. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur shook her head again and covered her eyes, while Fleda + stretching across to Hugh gave him by look and touch an earnest admonition + to let that subject alone. And then with a sweetness and gentleness like + nothing but the breath of the south wind, she wooed her aunt to hope and + resignation. Hugh held back, feeling, or thinking, that Fleda could do it + better than he, and watching her progress, as Mrs. Rossitur took her hand + from her face, and smiled, at first mournfully and then really mirthfully + in Fleda's face, at some sally that nobody but a nice observer would have + seen was got up for the occasion. And it was hardly that, so completely + had the child forgotten her own sorrow in ministering to that of another. + "Blessed are the peacemakers"! It is always so. + </p> + <p> + "You are a witch or a fairy," said Mrs. Rossitur, catching her again in + her arms,--"nothing else! You must try your powers of charming upon your + uncle." + </p> + <p> + Fleda laughed, without any effort; but as to trying her slight wand upon + Mr. Rossitur she had serious doubts. And the doubts became certainty when + they met at dinner; he looked so grave that she dared not attack him. It + was a gloomy meal, for the face that should have lighted the whole table + cast a shadow there. + </p> + <p> + Without at all comprehending the whole of her husband's character the sure + magnetism of affection had enabled Mrs. Rossitur to divine his thoughts. + Pride was his ruling passion; not such pride as Mr. Carleton's, which was + rather like exaggerated self-respect, but wider and more indiscriminate in + its choice of objects. It was pride in his family name; pride in his own + talents, which were considerable; pride in his family, wife and children + and all of which he thought did him honour,--if they had not his love for + them assuredly would have known some diminishing; pride in his wealth and + in the attractions with which it surrounded him; and lastly, pride in the + skill, taste and connoisseurship which enabled him to bring those + attractions together. Furthermore, his love for both literature and art + was true and strong; and for many years he had accustomed himself to lead + a life of great luxuriousness; catering for body and mind in every taste + that could be elegantly enjoyed; and again proud of the elegance of every + enjoyment. The change of circumstances which touched his pride wounded him + at every point where he was vulnerable at all. + </p> + <p> + Fleda had never felt so afraid of him. She was glad to see Dr. Gregory + come in to tea. Mr. Rossitur was not there. The doctor did not touch upon + affairs, if he had heard of their misfortune; he went on as usual in a + rambling cheerful way all tea-time, talking mostly to Fleda and Hugh. But + after tea he talked no more but sat still and waited till the master of + the house came in. + </p> + <p> + Fleda thought Mr. Rossitur did not look glad to see him. But how could he + look glad about anything? He did not sit down, and for a few minutes there + was a kind of meaning silence. Fleda sat in the corner with the heartache, + to see her uncle's gloomy tramp up and down the rich apartment, and her + aunt Lucy gaze at him. + </p> + <p> + "Humph!--well--So!" said the doctor at last,--"You've all gone overboard + with a smash, I understand?" + </p> + <p> + The walker gave him no regard. + </p> + <p> + "True, is it?" said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur made no answer, unless a smothered grunt might be taken for + one. + </p> + <p> + "How came it about?" + </p> + <p> + "Folly and Devilry." + </p> + <p> + "Humph!--bad capital to work upon. I hope the principal is gone with the + interest. What's the amount of your loss?" + </p> + <p> + "Ruin." + </p> + <p> + "Humph.--French ruin, or American ruin? because there's a difference. What + do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not so happy as to understand you sir, but we shall not pay seventy + cents on the dollar." + </p> + <p> + The old gentleman got up and stood before the fire with his back to Mr. + Rossitur, saying "that was rather bad." + </p> + <p> + "What are you going to do?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur hesitated a few moments for an answer and then said, + </p> + <p> + "Pay the seventy cents and begin the world anew with nothing." + </p> + <p> + "Of course!" said the doctor. "I understand that; but where and how? What + end of the world will you take up first?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur writhed in impatience or disgust, and after again hesitating + answered dryly that he had not determined. + </p> + <p> + "Have you thought of anything in particular?" + </p> + <p> + "Zounds! no sir, except my misfortune. That's enough for one day." + </p> + <p> + "And too much," said the old doctor, "unless you can mix some other + thought with it. That's what I came for. Will you go into business?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda was startled by the vehemence with which her uncle said, "No, + never!"--and he presently added, "I'll do nothing here." + </p> + <p> + "Well,--well," said the doctor to himself;--"Will you go into the + country?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes!--anywhere!--the further the better." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur startled, but her husband's face did not encourage her to + open her lips. + </p> + <p> + "Ay but on a farm, I mean?" + </p> + <p> + "On anything, that will give me a standing." + </p> + <p> + "I thought that too," said Dr. Gregory, now whirling about. "I have a fine + piece of land that wants a tenant. You may take it at an easy rate, and + pay me when the crops come in. I shouldn't expect so young a farmer, you + know, to keep any closer terms." + </p> + <p> + "How far is it?" + </p> + <p> + "Far enough--up in Wyandot County." + </p> + <p> + "How large?" + </p> + <p> + "A matter of two or three hundred acres or so. It is very fine, they say. + It came into a fellow's hands that owed me what I thought was a bad debt, + so for fear he would never pay me I thought best to take it and pay him; + whether the place will ever fill my pockets again remains to be seen; + doubtful, I think." + </p> + <p> + "I'll take it, Dr. Gregory, and see if I cannot bring that about." + </p> + <p> + "Pooh, pooh! fill your own. I am not careful about it; the less money one + has the more it jingles, unless it gets <i>too</i> low indeed." + </p> + <p> + "I will take it, Dr. Gregory, and feel myself under obligation to you." + </p> + <p> + "No, I told you, not till the crops come in. No obligation is binding till + the term is up. Well, I'll see you further about it." + </p> + <p> + "But Rolf!" said Mrs. Rossitur,--"stop a minute, uncle, don't go + yet,--Rolf don't know anything in the world about the management of a + farm, neither do I." + </p> + <p> + "The 'faire Una' can enlighten you," said the doctor, waving his hand + towards his little favourite in the corner,--"but I forgot!--Well, if you + don't know, the crops won't come in--that's all the difference." + </p> + <p> + But Mrs. Rossitur looked anxiously at her husband. "Do you know exactly + what you are undertaking, Rolf?" she said. + </p> + <p> + "If I do not, I presume I shall discover in time." + </p> + <p> + "But it may be too late," said Mrs Rossitur, in the tone of sad + remonstrance that had gone all the length it dared. + </p> + <p> + "It <i>can not</i> be too late!" said her husband impatiently. "If I do + not know what I am taking up, I know very well what I am laying down; and + it does not signify a straw what comes after--if it was a snail-shell, + that would cover my head!" + </p> + <p> + "Hum--" said the old doctor,--"the snail is very well in his way, but I + have no idea that he was ever cut out for a farmer." + </p> + <p> + "Do you think you will find it a business you would like, Mr. Rossitur?" + said his wife timidly. + </p> + <p> + "I tell you," said he facing about, "it is not a question of liking. I + will like anything that will bury me out of the world!" + </p> + <p> + Poor Mrs. Rossitur. She had not yet come to wishing herself buried alive, + and she had small faith in the permanence of her husband's taste for it. + She looked desponding. + </p> + <p> + "You don't suppose," said Mr. Rossitur stopping again in the middle of the + floor after another turn and a half,--"you do not suppose that I am going + to take the labouring of the farm upon myself? I shall employ some one of + course, who understands the matter, to take all that off my hands." + </p> + <p> + The doctor thought of the old proverb and the alternative the plough + presents to those who would thrive by it; Fleda thought of Mr. Didenhover; + Mrs. Rossitur would fain have suggested that such an important person must + be well paid; but neither of them spoke. + </p> + <p> + "Of course," said Mr. Rossitur haughtily as he went on with his walk, "I + do not expect any more than you to live in the back-woods the life we have + been leading here. That is at an end." + </p> + <p> + "Is it a very wild country?" asked Mrs. Rossitur of the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "No wild beasts, my dear, if that is your meaning,--and I do not suppose + there are even many snakes left by this time." + </p> + <p> + "No, but dear uncle, I mean, is it in an unsettled state?" + </p> + <p> + "No my dear, not at all,--perfectly quiet." + </p> + <p> + "Ah but do not play with me," exclaimed poor Mrs. Rossitur between + laughing and crying;--"I mean is it far from any town and not among + neighbours?" + </p> + <p> + "Far enough to be out of the way of morning calls," said the doctor;--"and + when your neighbours come to see you they will expect tea by four o'clock. + There are not a great many near by, but they don't mind coming from five + or six miles off." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur looked chilled and horrified. To her he had described a very + wild country indeed. Fleda would have laughed if it had not been for her + aunt's face; but that settled down into a doubtful anxious look that + pained her. It pained the old doctor too. + </p> + <p> + "Come," said he touching her pretty chin with his forefinger,--"what are + you thinking of? folks may be good folks and yet have tea at four o'clock, + mayn't they?" + </p> + <p> + "When do they have dinner!" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "I really don't know. When you get settled up there I'll come and see." + </p> + <p> + "Hardly," said Mrs. Rossitur. "I don't believe it would be possible for + Emile to get dinner before the tea-time; and I am sure I shouldn't like to + propose such a thing to Mrs. Renney." + </p> + <p> + The doctor fidgeted about a little on the hearth-rug and looked comical, + perfectly understood by one acute observer in the corner. + </p> + <p> + "Are you wise enough to imagine, Lucy," said Mr. Rossitur sternly, "that + you can carry your whole establishment with you? What do you suppose Emile + and Mrs. Renney would do in a farmhouse?" + </p> + <p> + "I can do without whatever you can," said Mrs. Rossitur meekly. "I did not + know that you would be willing to part with Emile, and I do not think Mrs. + Renney would like to leave us." + </p> + <p> + "I told you before, it is no more a question of liking," answered he. + </p> + <p> + "And if it were," said the doctor, "I have no idea that Monsieur Emile and + Madame Renney would be satisfied with the style of a country kitchen, or + think the interior of Yankee land a hopeful sphere for their energies." + </p> + <p> + "What sort of a house is it?" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "A wooden frame house, I believe." + </p> + <p> + "No but, dear uncle, do tell me." + </p> + <p> + "What sort of a house?--Humph--Large enough, I am told. It will + accommodate you, in one way." + </p> + <p> + "Comfortable?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said the doctor shaking his head;--"depends on who's in + it. No house is that per se. But I reckon there isn't much plate glass. I + suppose you'll find the doors all painted blue, and every fireplace with a + crane in it." + </p> + <p> + "A crane!" said Mrs. Rossitur, to whose imagination the word suggested + nothing but a large water-bird with a long neck. + </p> + <p> + "Ay!" said the doctor. "But it's just as well. You won't want hanging + lamps there,--and candelabra would hardly be in place either, to hold + tallow candles." + </p> + <p> + "Tallow candles!" exclaimed Mrs. Rossitur. Her husband winced, but said + nothing. + </p> + <p> + "Ay," said the doctor again,--"and make them yourself if you are a good + housewife. Come, Lucy," said he taking her hand, "do you know how the wild + fowl do on the Chesapeake?--duck and swim under water till they can shew + their heads with safety? O spoil your eyes to see by a tallow candle." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur half smiled, but looked anxiously towards her husband. + </p> + <p> + "Pooh, pooh! Rolf won't care what the light burns that lights him to + independence,--and when you get there you may illuminate with a whole + whale if you like. By the way, Rolf, there is a fine water power up + yonder, and a saw-mill in good order, they tell me, but a short way from + the house. Hugh might learn to manage it, and it would be fine employment + for him." + </p> + <p> + "Hugh!" said his mother disconsolately. Mr. Rossitur neither spoke nor + looked an answer. Fleda sprang forward. + </p> + <p> + "A saw-mill!--Uncle Orrin!--where is it?" + </p> + <p> + "Just a little way from the house, they say. <i>You</i> can't manage it, + fair Saxon!--though you look as if you would undertake all the mills in + creation, for a trifle." + </p> + <p> + "No but the place, uncle Orrin;--where is the place?" + </p> + <p> + "The place? Hum--why it's up in Wyandot County--some five or six miles + from the Montepoole Spring--what's this they call it?--Queechy!--By the + way!" said he, reading Fleda's countenance, "it is the very place where + your father was born!--it is! I didn't think of that before." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's hands were clasped. + </p> + <p> + "O I am very glad!" she said. "It's my old home. It is the most lovely + place, aunt Lucy!--most lovely--and we shall have some good neighbours + there too. O I am very glad!--The dear old saw-mill!--" + </p> + <p> + "Dear old saw-mill!" said the doctor looking at her. "Rolf, I'll tell you + what, you shall give me this girl. I want her. I can take better care of + her, perhaps, now than you can. Let her come to me when you leave the + city--it will be better for her than to help work the saw-mill; and I have + as good a right to her as anybody, for Amy before her was like my own + child." + </p> + <p> + The doctor spoke not with his usual light jesting manner but very + seriously. Hugh's lips parted,--Mrs. Rossitur looked with a sad thoughtful + look at Fleda,--Mr. Rossitur walked up and down looking at nobody. Fleda + watched him. + </p> + <p> + "What does Fleda herself say?" said he stopping short suddenly. His face + softened and his eye changed as it fell upon her, for the first time that + day. Fleda saw her opening; she came to him, within his arms, and laid her + head upon his breast. + </p> + <p> + "What does Fleda say?" said he, softly kissing her. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's tears said a good deal, that needed no interpreter. She felt her + uncle's hand passed more and more tenderly over her head, so tenderly that + it made it all the more difficult for her to govern herself and stop her + tears. But she did stop them, and looked up at him then with such a + face--so glowing through smiles and tears--it was like a very rainbow of + hope upon the cloud of their prospects. Mr. Rossitur felt the power of the + sunbeam wand, it reached his heart; it was even with a smile that he said + as he looked at her, + </p> + <p> + "Will you go to your uncle Orrin, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Not if uncle Rolf will keep me." + </p> + <p> + "Keep you!" said Mr. Rossitur;--"I should like to see who wouldn't keep + you!--There, Dr. Gregory, you have your answer." + </p> + <p> + "Hum!--I might have known," said the doctor, "that the 'faire Una' would + abjure cities.--Come here, you Elf!"--and he wrapped her in his arms so + tight she could not stir,--"I have a spite against you for this. What + amends will you make me for such an affront?" + </p> + <p> + "Let me take breath," said Fleda laughing, "and I'll tell you. You don't + want any amends, uncle Orrin." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said he, gazing with more feeling than he cared to shew into that + sweet face, so innocent of apology-making,--"you shall promise me that you + will not forget uncle Orrin and the old house in Bleecker street." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eyes grew more wistful. + </p> + <p> + "And will you promise me that if ever you want anything you will come or + send straight there?" + </p> + <p> + "If ever I want anything I can't get nor do without," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw!" said the doctor letting her go, but laughing at the same time. + "Mind my words, Mr. and Mrs. Rossitur;--if ever that girl takes the wrong + bit in her mouth--Well, well! I'll go home." + </p> + <p> + Home he went. The rest drew together particularly near, round the fire; + Hugh at his father's shoulder, and Fleda kneeling on the rug between her + uncle and aunt with a hand on each; and there was not one of them whose + gloom was not lightened by her bright face and cheerful words of hope that + in the new scenes they were going to, "they would all be so happy." + </p> + <p> + The days that followed were gloomy; but Fleda's ministry was unceasing. + Hugh seconded her well, though more passively. Feeling less pain himself, + he perhaps for that very reason was less acutely alive to it in others; + not so quick to foresee and ward off, not so skilful to allay it. Fleda + seemed to have intuition for the one and a charm for the other. To her + there was pain in every parting; her sympathies clung to whatever wore the + livery of habit. There was hardly any piece of furniture, there was no + book or marble or picture, that she could take leave of without a pang. + But it was kept to herself; her sorrowful good-byes were said in secret; + before others, in all those weeks she was a very Euphrosyne; light, + bright, cheerful, of eye and foot and hand; a shield between her aunt and + every annoyance that <i>she</i> could take instead; a good little fairy, + that sent her sunbeam wand, quick as a flash, where any eye rested + gloomily. People did not always find out where the light came from, but it + was her witchery. + </p> + <p> + The creditors would touch none of Mrs. Rossitur's things, her husband's + honourable behaviour had been so thorough. They even presented him with + one or two pictures which he sold for a considerable sum; and to Mrs. + Rossitur they gave up all the plate in daily use; a matter of great + rejoicing to Fleda who knew well how sorely it would have been missed. She + and her aunt had quite a little library too, of their own private store; a + little one it was indeed, but the worth of every volume was now trebled in + her eyes. Their furniture was all left behind; and in its stead went some + of neat light painted wood which looked to Fleda deliciously countryfied. + A promising cook and housemaid were engaged to go with them to the wilds; + and about the first of April they turned their backs upon the city. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="17"></a>Chapter XVII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + The thresher's weary flingin-tree<br /> The lee-lang day had tired me:<br /> + And whan the day bad closed his e'e,<br /> Far i' the west,<br /> Ben i' + the spence, right pensivelie,<br /> I 'gaed to rest. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Burns. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Queechy was reached at night. Fleda had promised herself to be off almost + with the dawn of light the next morning to see aunt Miriam, but a heavy + rain kept her fast at home the whole day. It was very well; she was wanted + there. + </p> + <p> + Despite the rain and her disappointment it was impossible for Fleda to lie + abed from the time the first grey light began to break in at her + windows,--those old windows that had rattled their welcome to her all + night. She was up and dressed and had had a long consultation with herself + over matters and prospects, before anybody else had thought of leaving the + indubitable comfort of a feather bed for the doubtful contingency of + happiness that awaited them down stairs. Fleda took in the whole length + and breadth of it, half wittingly and half through some finer sense than + that of the understanding. + </p> + <p> + The first view of things could not strike them pleasantly; it was not to + be looked for. The doors did not happen to be painted blue; they were a + deep chocolate colour; doors and wainscot. The fireplaces were not all + furnished with cranes, but they were all uncouthly wide and deep. Nobody + would have thought them so indeed in the winter, when piled up with + blazing hickory logs, but in summer they yawned uncomfortably upon the + eye. The ceilings were low; the walls rough papered or rougher + white-washed; the sashes not hung; the rooms, otherwise well enough + proportioned, stuck with little cupboards, in recesses and corners and out + of the way places, in a style impertinently suggestive of housekeeping, + and fitted to shock any symmetrical set of nerves. The old house had + undergone a thorough putting in order, it is true; the chocolate paint was + just dry, and the paper hangings freshly put up; and the bulk of the new + furniture had been sent on before and unpacked, though not a single + article of it was in its right place. The house was clean and tight, that + is, as tight as it ever was. But the colour had been unfortunately + chosen--perhaps there was no help for that;--the paper was <i>very</i> + coarse and countryfied; the big windows were startling, they looked so + bare, without any manner of drapery; and the long reaches of wall were + unbroken by mirror or picture-frame. And this to eyes trained to eschew + ungracefulness and that abhorred a vacuum as much as nature is said to do! + Even Fleda felt there was something disagreeable in the change, though it + reached her more through the channel of other people's sensitiveness than + her own. To her it was the dear old house still, though her eyes had seen + better things since they loved it. No corner or recess had a pleasanter + filling, to her fancy, than the old brown cupboard or shelves which had + always been there. But what <i>would</i> her uncle say to them! and to + that dismal paper! and what would aunt Lucy think of those rattling window + sashes! this cool raw day too, for the first!-- + </p> + <p> + Think as she might Fleda did not stand still to think. She had gone softly + all over the house, taking a strange look at the old places and the images + with which memory filled them, thinking of the last time, and many a time + before that;--and she had at last come back to the sitting-room, long + before anybody else was down stairs; the two tired servants were just + rubbing their eyes open in the kitchen and speculating themselves awake. + Leaving them, at their peril, to get ready a decent breakfast, (by the way + she grudged them the old kitchen) Fleda set about trying what her wand + could do towards brightening the face of affairs in the other part of the + house. It was quite cold enough for a fire, luckily. She ordered one made, + and meanwhile busied herself with the various stray packages and articles + of wearing apparel that lay scattered about giving the whole place a look + of discomfort. Fleda gathered them up and bestowed them in one or two of + the impertinent cupboards, and then undertook the labour of carrying out + all the wrong furniture that had got into the breakfast-room and bringing + in that which really belonged there from the hall and the parlour beyond; + moving like a mouse that she might not disturb the people up stairs. A + quarter of an hour was spent in arranging to the best advantage these + various pieces of furniture in the room; it was the very same in which Mr. + Carleton and Charlton Rossitur had been received the memorable day of the + roast pig dinner, but that was not the uppermost association in Fleda's + mind. Satisfied at last that a happier effect could not be produced with + the given materials, and well pleased too with her success, Fleda turned + to the fire. It was made, but not by any means doing its part to encourage + the other portions of the room to look their best. Fleda knew something of + wood fires from old times; she laid hold of the tongs, and touched and + loosened and coaxed a stick here and there, with a delicate hand, till, + seeing the very opening it had wanted,--without which neither fire nor + hope can keep its activity,--the blaze sprang up energetically, crackling + through all the piled oak and hickory and driving the smoke clean out of + sight. Fleda had done her work. It would have been a misanthropical person + indeed that could have come into the room then and not felt his face + brighten. One other thing remained,--setting the breakfast table; and + Fleda would let no hands but hers do it this morning; she was curious + about the setting of tables. How she remembered or divined where + everything had been stowed; how quietly and efficiently her little fingers + unfastened hampers and pried into baskets, without making any noise; till + all the breakfast paraphernalia of silver, china, and table-linen was + found, gathered from various receptacles, and laid in most exquisite order + on the table. State street never saw better. Fleda stood and looked at it + then, in immense satisfaction, seeing that her uncle's eye would miss + nothing of its accustomed gratification. To her the old room, shining with + firelight and new furniture, was perfectly charming. If those great + windows were staringly bright, health and cheerfulness seemed to look in + at them. And what other images of association, with "nods and becks and + wreathed smiles," looked at her out of the curling flames in the old wide + fireplace! And one other angel stood there unseen,--the one whose errand + it is to see fulfilled the promise, "Give and it shall be given to you; + full measure, and pressed down, and heaped up, and running over." + </p> + <p> + A little while Fleda sat contentedly eying her work; then a new idea + struck her and she sprang up. In the next meadow, only one fence between, + a little spring of purest water ran through from the woodland; water + cresses used to grow there. Uncle Rolf was very fond of them. It was + pouring with rain, but no matter. Her heart beating between haste and + delight, Fleda slipped her feet into galoches and put an old cloak of + Hugh's over her head, and ran out through the kitchen, the old accustomed + way. The servants exclaimed and entreated, but Fleda only flashed a bright + look at them from under her cloak as she opened the door, and ran off, + over the wet grass, under the fence, and over half the meadow, till she + came to the stream. She was getting a delicious taste of old times, and + though the spring water was very cold and with it and the rain one-half of + each sleeve was soon thoroughly wetted, she gathered her cresses and + scampered back with a pair of eyes and cheeks that might have struck any + city belle chill with envy. + </p> + <p> + "Then but that's a sweet girl!" said Mary the cook to Jane the housemaid. + </p> + <p> + "A lovely countenance she has," answered Jane, who was refined in her + speech. + </p> + <p> + "Take her away and you've taken the best of the house, I'm a thinking." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Rossitur is a lady," said Jane in a low voice. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, and a very proper-behaved one she is, and him the same, that is, for + a gentleman I maan; but Jane! I say, I'm thinking he'll have eat too much + sour bread lately! I wish I knowed how they'd have their eggs boiled, till + I'd have 'em ready." + </p> + <p> + "Sure it's on the table itself they'll do 'em," said Jane. "They've an + elegant little fixture in there for the purpose." + </p> + <p> + "Is that it!" + </p> + <p> + Nobody found out how busy Fleda's wand had been in the old breakfast room. + But she was not disappointed; she had not worked for praise. Her cresses + were appreciated; that was enough. She enjoyed her breakfast, the only one + of the party that did. Mr. Rossitur looked moody; his wife looked anxious; + and Hugh's face was the reflection of theirs. If Fleda's face reflected + anything it was the sunlight of heaven. + </p> + <p> + "How sweet the air is after New York!" said she. + </p> + <p> + They looked at her. There was a fresh sweetness of another kind about that + breakfast-table. They all felt it, and breathed more freely. + </p> + <p> + "Delicious cresses!" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I wonder where they came from," said her husband. "Who got them?" + </p> + <p> + "I guess Fleda knows," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "They grow in a little stream of spring water over here in the meadow," + said Fleda demurely. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but you don't answer my question," said her uncle, putting his hand + under her chin and smiling at the blushing face he brought round to + view;--"Who got them?" + </p> + <p> + "I did." + </p> + <p> + "You have been out in the rain?" + </p> + <p> + "O Queechy rain don't hurt me, uncle Rolf." + </p> + <p> + "And don't it wet you either?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir--a little." + </p> + <p> + "How much?" + </p> + <p> + "My sleeves,--O I dried them long ago." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you repeat that experiment, Fleda," said he seriously, but with a + look that was a good reward to her nevertheless. + </p> + <p> + "It is a raw day!" said Mrs. Rossitur, drawing her shoulders together as + an ill-disposed window sash gave one of its admonitory shakes. + </p> + <p> + "What little panes of glass for such big windows!" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "But what a pleasant prospect through them," said Fleda,--"look, + Hugh!--worth all the Batteries and Parks in the world." + </p> + <p> + "In the world!--in New York you mean," said her uncle. "Not better than + the Champs Elysées?" + </p> + <p> + "Better to me," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "For to-day I must attend to the prospect in-doors," said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Now aunt Lucy," said Fleda, "you are just going to put yourself down in + the corner, in the rocking-chair there, with your book, and make yourself + comfortable; and Hugh and I will see to all these things. Hugh and I and + Mary and Jane,--that makes quite an army of us, and we can do everything + without you, and you must just keep quiet. I'll build you up a fine fire, + and then when I don't know what to do I will come to you for orders. Uncle + Rolf, would you be so good as just to open that box of books in the hall? + because I am afraid Hugh isn't strong enough. I'll take care of you, aunt + Lucy." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's plans were not entirely carried out, but she contrived pretty well + to take the brunt of the business on her own shoulders. She was as busy as + a bee the whole day. To her all the ins and outs of the house, its + advantages and disadvantages, were much better known than to anybody else; + nothing could be done but by her advice; and more than that, she contrived + by some sweet management to baffle Mrs. Rossitur's desire to spare her, + and to bear the larger half of every burden that should have come upon her + aunt. What she had done in the breakfast room she did or helped to do in + the other parts of the house; she unpacked boxes and put away clothes and + linen, in which Hugh was her excellent helper; she arranged her uncle's + dressing-table with a scrupulosity that left nothing uncared-for;--and the + last thing before tea she and Hugh dived into the book-box to get out some + favourite volumes to lay upon the table in the evening, that the room + might not look to her uncle quite so dismally bare. He had been abroad + notwithstanding the rain near the whole day. + </p> + <p> + It was a weary party that gathered round the supper-table that night, + weary it seemed as much in mind as in body; and the meal exerted its + cheering influence over only two of them; Mr. and Mrs. Rossitur sipped + their cups of tea abstractedly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe that fellow Donohan knows much about his business," + remarked the former at length. + </p> + <p> + "Why don't you get somebody else, then?" said his wife. + </p> + <p> + "I happen to have engaged him, unfortunately." + </p> + <p> + A pause.-- + </p> + <p> + "What doesn't he know?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur laughed, not a pleasant laugh. + </p> + <p> + "It would take too long to enumerate. If you had asked me what part of his + business he <i>does</i> understand, I could have told you shortly that I + don't know." + </p> + <p> + "But you do not understand it very well yourself. Are you sure?" + </p> + <p> + "Am I sure of what?" + </p> + <p> + "That this man does not know his business?" + </p> + <p> + "No further sure than I can have confidence in my own common sense." + </p> + <p> + "What will you do?" said Mrs. Rossitur after a moment + </p> + <p> + A question men are not fond of answering, especially when they have not + made up their minds. Mr. Rossitur was silent, and his wife too, after + that. + </p> + <p> + "If I could get some long-headed Yankee to go along with him"--he remarked + again, balancing his spoon on the edge of his cup in curious illustration + of his own mental position at the moment; Donohan being the only fixed + point and all the rest wavering in uncertainty. There were a few silent + minutes before anybody answered. + </p> + <p> + "If you want one and don't know of one, uncle Rolf," said Fleda, "I dare + say cousin Seth might." + </p> + <p> + That gentle modest speech brought his attention round upon her. His face + softened. + </p> + <p> + "Cousin Seth? who is cousin Seth?" + </p> + <p> + "He is aunt Miriam's son," said Fleda. "Seth Plumfield. He's a very good + farmer, I know; grandpa used to say he was; and he knows everybody." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Plumfield," said Mrs. Rossitur, as her husband's eyes went + inquiringly to her,--"Mrs. Plumfield was Mr. Ringgan's sister, you + remember. This is her son." + </p> + <p> + "Cousin Seth, eh?" said Mr. Rossitur dubiously. "Well--Why Fleda, your + sweet air don't seem to agree with you, as far as I see; I have not known + you look so--so <i>triste</i>--since we left Paris. What have you been + doing, my child?" + </p> + <p> + "She has been doing everything, father," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "O! it's nothing," said Fleda, answering Mr. Rossitur's look and tone of + affection with a bright smile. "I'm a little tired, that's all." + </p> + <p> + 'A little tired!' She went to sleep on the sofa directly after supper and + slept like a baby all the evening; but her power did not sleep with her; + for that quiet, sweet, tired face, tired in their service, seemed to bear + witness against the indulgence of anything harsh or unlovely in the same + atmosphere. A gentle witness-bearing, but strong in its gentleness. They + sat close together round the fire, talked softly, and from time to time + cast loving glances at the quiet little sleeper by their side. They did + not know that she was a fairy, and that though her wand had fallen out of + her hand it was still resting upon them. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="18"></a>Chapter XVIII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + <i>Gon</i>. Here is everything advantageous to lift. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + <i>Ant</i>. True; save means to live. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Tempest. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Fleda's fatigue did not prevent her being up before sunrise the next day. + Fatigue was forgotten, for the light of a fair spring morning was shining + in at her windows and she meant to see aunt Miriam before breakfast. She + ran out to find Hugh, and her merry shout reached him before she did, and + brought him to meet her. + </p> + <p> + "Come, Hugh!--I'm going off up to aunt Miriam's, and I want you. Come! + Isn't this delicious?" + </p> + <p> + "Hush!--" said Hugh. "Father's just here in the barn. I can't go, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's countenance clouded. + </p> + <p> + "Can't go! what's the matter?--can't you go, Hugh?" + </p> + <p> + He shook his head and went off into the barn. + </p> + <p> + A chill came upon Fleda. She turned away with a very sober step. What if + her uncle was in the barn, why should she hush? He never had been a check + upon her merriment, never; what was coming now? Hugh too looked disturbed. + It was a spring morning no longer. Fleda forgot the glittering wet grass + that had set her own eyes a sparkling but a minute ago; she walked along, + cogitating, swinging her bonnet by the strings in thoughtful + vibration,--till by the help of sunlight and sweet air, and the loved + scenes, her spirits again made head and swept over the sudden hindrance + they had met. There were the blessed old sugar maples, seven in number, + that fringed the side of the road,--how well Fleda knew them. Only + skeletons now, but she remembered how beautiful they looked after the + October frosts; and presently they would be putting out their new green + leaves and be beautiful in another way. How different in their free-born + luxuriance from the dusty and city-prisoned elms and willows she had left. + She came to the bridge then, and stopped with a thrill of pleasure and + pain to look and listen, Unchanged!--all but herself. The mill was not + going; the little brook went by quietly chattering to itself, just as it + had done the last time she saw it, when she rode past on Mr. Carleton's + horse. Four and a half years ago!--And now how strange that she had come + to live there again. + </p> + <p> + Drawing a long breath, and swinging her bonnet again, Fleda softly went on + up the hill; past the saw-mill, the ponds, the factories, the houses of + the settlement. The same, and not the same!--Bright with the morning sun, + and yet somehow a little browner and homelier than of old they used to be. + Fleda did not care for that; she would hardly acknowledge it to herself; + her affection never made any discount for infirmity. Leaving the little + settlement behind her thoughts as behind her back, she ran on now towards + aunt Miriam's, breathlessly, till field after field was passed and her eye + caught a bit of the smooth lake and the old farmhouse in its old place. + Very brown it looked, but Fleda dashed on, through the garden and in at + the front door. + </p> + <p> + Nobody at all was in the entrance room, the common sitting-room of the + family. With trembling delight Fleda opened the well-known door and stole + noiselessly through the little passage-way to the kitchen. The door of + that was only on the latch and a gentle movement of it gave to Fleda's eye + the tall figure of aunt Miriam, just before her, stooping down to look in + at the open mouth of the oven which she was at that moment engaged in + supplying with more work to do. It was a huge one, and beyond her aunt's + head Fleda could see in the far end the great loaves of bread, half baked, + and more near a perfect squad of pies and pans of gingerbread just going + in to take the benefit of the oven's milder mood. Fleda saw all this as it + were without seeing it; she stood still as a mouse and breathless till her + aunt turned; and then, a spring and a half shout of joy, and she had + clasped her in her arms and was crying with her whole heart. Aunt Miriam + was taken all aback; she could do nothing but sit down and cry too and + forget her oven door. + </p> + <p> + "Ain't breakfast ready yet, mother?" said a manly voice coming in. "I must + be off to see after them ploughs. Hollo!--why mother!--" + </p> + <p> + The first exclamation was uttered as the speaker put the door to the + oven's mouth; the second as he turned in quest of the hand that should + have done it. He stood wondering, while his mother and Fleda between + laughing and crying tried to rouse themselves and look up. + </p> + <p> + "What is all this?" + </p> + <p> + "Don't you see, Seth?" + </p> + <p> + "I see somebody that had like to have spoiled your whole baking--I don't + know who it is, yet." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you now, cousin Seth?" said Fleda shaking away her tears and + getting up. + </p> + <p> + "I ha'n't quite lost my recollection. Cousin, you must give me a + kiss.--How do you do? You ha'n't forgot how to colour, I see, for all + you've been so long among the pale city-folks." + </p> + <p> + "I haven't forgotten any thing, cousin Seth," said Fleda, blushing indeed + but laughing and shaking his hand with as hearty good-will. + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe you have,--anything that is good," said he. "Where have + you been all this while?" + </p> + <p> + "O part of the time in New York, and part of the time in Paris, and some + other places." + </p> + <p> + "Well you ha'n't seen anything better than Queechy, or Queechy bread and + butter, have you?" + </p> + <p> + "No indeed!" + </p> + <p> + "Come, you shall give me another kiss for that," said he, suiting the + action to the word;--"and now sit down and eat as much bread and butter as + you can. It's just as good as it used to be. Come mother!--I guess + breakfast is ready by the looks of that coffee-pot." + </p> + <p> + "Breakfast ready!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Ay indeed; it's a good half hour since it ought to ha' been ready. If it + ain't I can't stop for it. Them boys will be running their furrows like + sarpents 'f I ain't there to start them." + </p> + <p> + "Which like serpents," said Fleda,--"the furrows or the men?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, I was thinking of the furrows," said he glancing at her;--"I guess + there ain't cunning enough in the others to trouble them. Come sit down, + and let me see whether you have forgotten a Queechy appetite." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda doubtfully,--"they will expect me at home." + </p> + <p> + "I don't care who expects you--sit down! you ain't going to eat any bread + and butter this morning but my mother's--you haven't got any like it at + your house. Mother, give her a cup of coffee, will you, and set her to + work." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was too willing to comply with the invitation, were it only for the + charm of old times. She had not seen such a table for years, and little as + the conventionalities of delicate taste were known there, it was not + without a comeliness of its own in its air of wholesome abundance and the + extreme purity of all its arrangements. If but a piece of cold pork were + on aunt Miriam's table, it was served with a nicety that would not have + offended the most fastidious; and amid irregularities that the fastidious + would scorn, there was a sound excellence of material and preparation that + they very often fail to know. Fleda made up her mind she would be wanted + at home; all the rather perhaps for Hugh's mysterious "hush"; and there + was something in the hearty kindness and truth of these friends that she + felt particularly genial. And if there was a lack of silver at the board + its place was more than filled with the pure gold of association. They sat + down to table, but aunt Miriam's eyes devoured Fleda. Mr. Plum field set + about his more material breakfast with all despatch. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus11.jpg"><img src="images/illus11.jpg" height="250" + alt="'They will expect me at home.'" title="'They will expect me at home.'" /><br /> + "They will expect me at home."</a> + </p> + <p> + "So Mr. Rossitur has left the city for good," said aunt Miriam. "How does + he like it?" + </p> + <p> + "He hasn't been here but a day, you know, aunt Miriam," said Fleda + evasively. + </p> + <p> + "Is he anything of a farmer?" asked her cousin. + </p> + <p> + "Not much," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Is he going to work the farm himself?" + </p> + <p> + "How do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I mean, is he going to work the farm himself, or hire it out, or let + somebody else work it on shares?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda;--"I think he is going to have a farmer and + oversee things himself." + </p> + <p> + "He'll get sick o' that," said Seth; "unless he's the luck to get hold of + just the right hand." + </p> + <p> + "Has he hired anybody yet?" said aunt Miriam, after a little interval of + supplying Fleda with 'bread and butter.' + </p> + <p> + "Yes ma'am, I believe so." + </p> + <p> + "What's his name?" + </p> + <p> + "Donohan,--an Irishman, I believe; uncle Rolf hired him in New York." + </p> + <p> + "For his head man?" said Seth, with a sufficiently intelligible look. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda. "Why?" + </p> + <p> + But he did not immediately answer her. + </p> + <p> + "The land's in poor heart now," said he, "a good deal of it; it has been + wasted; it wants first-rate management to bring it in order and make much + of it for two or three years to come. I never see an Irishman's head yet + that was worth more than a joke. Their hands are all of 'em that's good + for anything." + </p> + <p> + "I believe uncle Rolf wants to have an American to go with this man," said + Fleda. + </p> + <p> + Seth said nothing, but Fleda understood the shake of his head as he + reached over after a pickle. + </p> + <p> + "Are you going to keep a dairy, Fleda?" said her aunt. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, ma'am;--I haven't heard anything about it." + </p> + <p> + "Does Mrs. Rossitur know anything about country affairs?" + </p> + <p> + "No--nothing," Fleda said, her heart sinking perceptibly with every new + question. + </p> + <p> + "She hasn't any cows yet?" + </p> + <p> + <i>She</i>!--any cows!--But Fleda only said they had not come; she + believed they were coming. + </p> + <p> + "What help has she got?" + </p> + <p> + "Two women--Irishwomen," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Mother you'll have to take hold and learn her," said Mr. Plumfield. + </p> + <p> + "Teach <i>her</i>?" cried Fleda, repelling the idea;--"aunt Lucy? she + cannot do anything--she isn't strong enough;--not anything of that kind." + </p> + <p> + "What did she come here for?" said Seth. + </p> + <p> + "You know," said his mother, "that Mr. Rossitur's circumstances obliged + him to quit New York." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, but that ain't my question. A man had better keep his fingers off + anything he can't live by. A farm's one thing or t'other, just as it's + worked. The land won't grow specie--it must be fetched out of it. Is Mr. + Rossitur a smart man?" + </p> + <p> + "Very," Fleda said, "about everything but farming." + </p> + <p> + "Well if he'll put himself to school maybe, he'll learn," Seth concluded + as he finished his breakfast and went off. Fleda rose too, and was + standing thoughtfully by the fire, when aunt Miriam came up and put her + arms round her. Fleda's eyes sparkled again. + </p> + <p> + "You're not changed--you're the same little Fleda," she said. + </p> + <p> + "Not quite so little," said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Not quite so little, but my own darling. The world hasn't spoiled thee + yet." + </p> + <p> + "I hope not, aunt Miriam." + </p> + <p> + "You have remembered your mother's prayer, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Always!"-- + </p> + <p> + How tenderly aunt Miriam's hand was passed over the bowed head,--how + fondly she pressed her. And Fleda's answer was as fond. + </p> + <p> + "I wanted to bring Hugh up to see you, aunt Miriam, with me, but he + couldn't come. You will like Hugh. He is so good!" + </p> + <p> + "I will come down and see him," said aunt Miriam; and then she went to + look after her oven's doings. Fleda stood by, amused to see the quantities + of nice things that were rummaged out of it. They did not look like Mrs. + Renney's work, but she knew from old experience that they were good. + </p> + <p> + "How early you must have been up, to put these things in," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Put them in! yes, and make them. These were all made this morning, + Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "This morning!--before breakfast! Why the sun was only just rising when I + set out to come up the hill; and I wasn't long coming, aunt Miriam." + </p> + <p> + "To be sure; that's the way to get things done. Before breakfast!--What + time do you breakfast, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Not till eight or nine o'clock." + </p> + <p> + "Eight or nine!--<i>Here?</i>" + </p> + <p> + "There hasn't been any change made yet, and I don't suppose there will be. + Uncle Rolf is always up early, but he can't bear to have breakfast early." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam's face showed what she thought; and Fleda went away with all + its gravity and doubt settled like lead upon her heart. Though she had one + of the identical apple pies in her hands, which aunt Miriam had quietly + said was "for her and Hugh," and though a pleasant savour of old times was + about it, Fleda could not get up again the bright feeling with which she + had come up the hill. There was a miserable misgiving at heart. It would + work off in time. + </p> + <p> + It had begun to work off, when at the foot of the hill she met her uncle. + He was coming after her to ask Mr. Plumfield about the desideratum of a + Yankee. Fleda put her pie in safety behind a rock, and turned back with + him, and aunt Miriam told them the way to Seth's ploughing ground. + </p> + <p> + A pleasant word or two had get Fleda's spirits a bounding again, and the + walk was delightful. Truly the leaves were not on the trees, but it was + April, and they soon would be; there was promise in the light, and hope in + the air, and everything smelt of the country and spring-time. The soft + tread of the sod, that her foot had not felt for so long,--the fresh look + of the newly-turned earth,--here and there the brilliance of a field of + winter grain,--and that nameless beauty of the budding trees, that the + full luxuriance of summer can never equal,--Fleda's heart was springing + for sympathy. And to her, with whom association was everywhere so strong, + there was in it all a shadowy presence of her grandfather, with whom she + had so often seen the spring-time bless those same hills and fields long + ago. She walked on in silence, as her manner commonly was when deeply + pleased; there were hardly two persons to whom she would speak her mind + freely then. Mr. Kossitur had his own thoughts. + </p> + <p> + "Can anything equal the spring-time!" she burst forth at length. + </p> + <p> + Her uncle looked at her and smiled. "Perhaps not; but it is one thing," + said he sighing, "for taste to enjoy and another thing for calculation to + improve." + </p> + <p> + "But one can do both, can't one?" said Fleda brightly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said he sighing again. "Hardly." + </p> + <p> + Fleda knew he was mistaken and thought the sighs out of place. But they + reached her; and she had hardly condemned them before they set her off + upon a long train of excuses for him, and she had wrought herself into + quite a fit of tenderness by the time they reached her cousin. + </p> + <p> + They found him on a gentle side-hill, with two other men and teams, both + of whom were stepping away in different parts of the field. Mr. Plumfield + was just about setting off to work his way to the other side of the lot + when they came up with him. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was not ashamed of her aunt Miriam's son, even before such critical + eyes as those of her uncle. Farmer-like as were his dress and air, they + shewed him nevertheless a well-built, fine-looking man, with the + independent bearing of one who has never recognised any but mental or + moral superiority. His face might have been called handsome; there was at + least manliness in every line of it; and his excellent dark eye shewed an + equal mingling of kindness and acute common sense. Let Mr. Plumfield wear + what clothes he would one felt obliged to follow Burns' notable example + and pay respect to the <i>man</i> that was in them. + </p> + <p> + "A fine day, sir," he remarked to Mr. Rossitur after they had shaken + hands. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and I will not interrupt you but a minute. Mr. Plumfield, I am in + want of hands,--hands for this very business you are about, + ploughing,--and Fleda says you know everybody; so I have come to ask if + you can direct me." + </p> + <p> + "Heads or hands, do you want?" said Seth, clearing his boot-sole from some + superfluous soil upon the share of his plough. + </p> + <p> + "Why both, to tell you the truth. I want hands, and teams, for that + matter, for I have only two, and I suppose there is no time to be lost. + And I want very much to get a person thoroughly acquainted with the + business to go along with my man. He is an Irishman, and I am afraid not + very well accustomed to the ways of doing things here." + </p> + <p> + "Like enough," said Seth;--"and the worst of 'em is you can't learn 'em." + </p> + <p> + "Well!--can you help me?" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Douglass!"--said Seth, raising his voice to speak to one of his + assistants who was approaching them,--"Mr. Douglass!--you're holding that + 'ere plough a little too obleekly for my grounds." + </p> + <p> + "Very good, Mr. Plumfield!" said the person called upon, with a quick + accent that intimated, "If you don't know what is best it is not my + affair!"--the voice very peculiar, seeming to come from no lower than the + top of his throat, with a guttural roll of the words. + </p> + <p> + "Is that Earl Douglass?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "You remember him?" said her cousin smiling. "He's just where he was, and + his wife too.--Well Mr. Rossitur, 'tain't very easy to find what you want + just at this season, when most folks have their hands full and help is all + taken up. I'll see if I can't come down and give you a lift myself with + the ploughing, for a day or two, as I'm pretty beforehand with the spring, + but you'll want more than that. I ain't sure--I haven't more hands than + I'll want myself, but I think it is possible Squire Springer may spare you + one of his'n. He ain't taking in any new land this year, and he's got + things pretty snug; I guess he don't care to do any more than + common--anyhow you might try. You know where uncle Joshua lives, Fleda? + Well Philetus--what now?" + </p> + <p> + They had been slowly walking along the fence towards the furthest of Mr. + Plumfield's coadjutors, upon whom his eye had been curiously fixed as he + was speaking; a young man who was an excellent sample of what is called + "the raw material." He had just come to a sudden stop in the midst of the + furrow when his employer called to him; and he answered somewhat + lack-a-daisically, + </p> + <p> + "Why I've broke this here clevis--I ha'n't touched anything nor nothing, + and it broke right in teu!" + </p> + <p> + "What do you s'pose'll be done now?" said Mr. Plumfield gravely going up + to examine the fracture. + </p> + <p> + "Well 'twa'n't none of my doings," said the young man. "I ha'n't touched + anything nor nothing--and the mean thing broke right in teu. 'Tain't so + handy as the old kind o' plough, by a long jump." + </p> + <p> + "You go 'long down to the house and ask my mother for a new clevis; and + talk about ploughs when you know how to hold 'em," said Mr. Plumfield. + </p> + <p> + "It don't look so difficult a matter," said Mr. Rossitur,--"but I am a + novice myself. What is the principal thing to be attended to in ploughing, + Mr. Plumfield?" + </p> + <p> + There was a twinkle in Seth's eye, as he looked down upon a piece of straw + he was breaking to bits, which Fleda, who could see, interpreted + thoroughly. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said he, looking up,--"the breadth of the stitches and the width + and depth of the farrow must be regulated according to the nature of the + soil and the lay of the ground, and what you're ploughing for;--there's + stubble ploughing, and breaking up old lays, and ploughing for fallow + crops, and ribbing, where the land has been some years in grass,--and so + on; and the plough must be geared accordingly, and so as not to take too + much land nor go out of the land; and after that the best part of the work + is to guide the plough right and run the furrows straight and even." + </p> + <p> + He spoke with the most impenetrable gravity, while Mr. Rossitur looked + blank and puzzled. Fleda could hardly keep her countenance. + </p> + <p> + "That row of poles," said Mr. Rossitur presently,--"are they to guide you + in running the furrow straight?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir--they are to mark out the crown of the stitch. I keep 'em right + between the horses and plough 'em down one after another. It's a kind of + way country folks play at ninepins," said Seth, with a glance half + inquisitive, half sly, at his questioner. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur asked no more. Fleda felt a little uneasy again. It was + rather a longish walk to uncle Joshua's, and hardly a word spoken on + either side. + </p> + <p> + The old gentleman was "to hum;" and while Fleda went back into some remote + part of the house to see "aunt Syra," Mr. Rossitur set forth his errand. + </p> + <p> + "Well,--and so you're looking for help, eh?" said uncle Joshua when he had + heard him through. + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir,--I want help." + </p> + <p> + "And a team too?" + </p> + <p> + "So I have said, sir," Mr. Rossitur answered rather shortly. "Can you + supply me?" + </p> + <p> + "Well,--I don't know as I can," said the old man, rubbing his hands slowly + over his knees.--"You ha'n't got much done yet, I s'pose?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing. I came the day before yesterday." + </p> + <p> + "Land's in rather poor condition in some parts, ain't it?" + </p> + <p> + "I really am not able to say, sir,--till I have seen it." + </p> + <p> + "It ought to be," said the old gentleman shaking his head,--the fellow + that was there last didn't do right by it--he worked the land too hard, + and didn't put on it anywhere near what he had ought to--I guess you'll + find it pretty poor in some places. He was trying to get all he could out + of it, I s'pose. There's a good deal of fencing to be done too, ain't + there?" + </p> + <p> + "All that there was, sir,--I have done none since I came." + </p> + <p> + "Seth Plumfield got through ploughing yet?" + </p> + <p> + "We found him at it." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, he's a smart man. What are you going to do, Mr. Rossitur, with that + piece of marsh land that lies off to the south-east of the barn, beyond + the meadow, between the hills? I had just sich another, and I"-- + </p> + <p> + "Before I do anything with the wet land, Mr. ---- I am so unhappy as to + have forgotten your name?--" + </p> + <p> + "Springer, sir," said the old gentleman,--"Springer--Joshua Springer. That + is my name, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Springer, before I do anything with the wet land I should like to + have something growing on the dry; and as that is the present matter in + hand will you be so good as to let me know whether I can have your + assistance." + </p> + <p> + "Well I don't know,--" said the old gentleman; "there ain't anybody to + send but my boy Lucas, and I don't know whether he would make up his mind + to go or not." + </p> + <p> + "Well sir!"--said Mr. Rossitur rising,--"in that case I will bid you good + morning. I am sorry to have given you the trouble." + </p> + <p> + "Stop," said the old man,--"stop a bit. Just sit down--I'll go in and see + about it." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur sat down, and uncle Joshua left him to go into the kitchen + and consult his wife, without whose counsel, of late years especially, he + rarely did anything. They never varied in opinion, but aunt Syra's wits + supplied the steel edge to his heavy metal. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know but Lucas would as leave go as not," the old gentleman + remarked on coming back from this sharpening process,--"and I can make out + to spare him, I guess. You calculate to keep him, I s'pose?" + </p> + <p> + "Until this press is over; and perhaps longer, if I find he can do what I + want." + </p> + <p> + "You'll find him pretty handy at a' most anything; but I mean,--I s'pose + he'll get his victuals with you." + </p> + <p> + "I have made no arrangements of the kind," said Mr. Rossitur controlling + with some effort his rebelling muscles. "Donohan is boarded somewhere + else, and for the present it will be best for all in my employ to follow + the same plan." + </p> + <p> + "Very good," said uncle Joshua, "it makes no difference,--only of course + in that case it is worth more, when a man has to find himself and his + team." + </p> + <p> + "Whatever it is worth I am quite ready to pay, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Very good! You and Lucas can agree about that. He'll be along in the + morning." + </p> + <p> + So they parted; and Fleda understood the impatient quick step with which + her uncle got over the ground. + </p> + <p> + "Is that man a brother of your grandfather?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir--Oh no! only his brother-in-law. My grandmother was his sister, + but they weren't in the least like each other." + </p> + <p> + "I should think they could not," said Mr. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Oh they were not!" Fleda repeated. "I have always heard that." + </p> + <p> + After paying her respects to aunt Syra in the kitchen she had come back + time enough to hear the end of the discourse in the parlour, and had felt + its full teaching. Doubts returned, and her spirits were sobered again. + Not another word was spoken till they reached home; when Fleda seized upon + Hugh and went off to the rock after her forsaken pie. + </p> + <p> + "Have you succeeded!' asked Mrs. Rossitur while they were gone. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--that is, a cousin has kindly consented to come and help me." + </p> + <p> + "A cousin!" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Ay,--we're in a nest of cousins." + </p> + <p> + "In a <i>what</i>, Mr. Rossitur?" + </p> + <p> + "In a nest of cousins; and I had rather be in a nest of rooks. I wonder if + I shall be expected to ask my ploughmen to dinner! Every second man is a + cousin, and the rest are uncles." + </p> + <h1> + <a name="19"></a>Chapter XIX. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Whilst skies are blue and bright.<br /> Whilst flowers are + gay,<br /> Whilst eyes that change ere night<br /> Make glad + the day;<br /> Whilst yet the calm hours creep,<br /> Dream thou--and from + thy sleep<br /> Then wake to weep. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Shelley. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The days of summer flew by, for the most part lightly, over the heads of + Hugh and Fleda. The farm was little to them but a place of pretty and + picturesque doings and the scene of nameless delights by wood and stream, + in all which, all that summer, Fleda rejoiced; pulling Hugh along with her + even when sometimes he would rather have been poring over his books at + home. She laughingly said it was good for him; and one half at least of + every fine day their feet were abroad. They knew nothing practically of + the dairy but that it was an inexhaustible source of the sweetest milk and + butter, and indirectly of the richest custards and syllabubs. The flock of + sheep that now and then came in sight running over the hill-side, were to + them only an image of pastoral beauty and a soft link with the beauty of + the past. The two children took the very cream of country life. The books + they had left were read with greater eagerness than ever. When the weather + was "too lovely to stay in the house," Shakspeare or Massillon or Sully or + the "Curiosities of Literature" or "Corinne" or Milner's Church History, + for Fleda's reading was as miscellaneous as ever, was enjoyed under the + flutter of leaves and along with the rippling of the mountain spring; + whilst King curled himself up on the skirt of his mistress's gown and + slept for company; hardly more thoughtless and fearless of harm than his + two companions. Now and then Fleda opened her eyes to see that her uncle + was moody and not like himself, and that her aunt's gentle face was + clouded in consequence; and she could not sometimes help the suspicion + that he was not making a farmer of himself; but the next summer wind would + blow these thoughts away, or the next look of her flowers would put them + out of her head. The whole courtyard in front of the house had been given + up to her peculiar use as a flower-garden, and there she and Hugh made + themselves very busy. + </p> + <p> + But the summer-time came to an end. + </p> + <p> + It was a November morning, and Fleda had been doing some of the last jobs + in her flower-beds. She was coming in with spirits as bright as her + cheeks, when her aunt's attitude and look, more than usually spiritless, + suddenly checked them. Fleda gave her a hopeful kiss and asked for the + explanation. + </p> + <p> + "How bright you look, darling!" said her aunt, stroking her cheek. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but you don't, aunt Lucy. What has happened?" + </p> + <p> + "Mary and Jane are going away." + </p> + <p> + "Going away!--What for?" + </p> + <p> + "They are tired of the place--don't like it, I suppose." + </p> + <p> + "Very foolish of them! Well, aunt Lucy, what matter? we can get plenty + more in their room." + </p> + <p> + "Not from the city--not possible; they would not come at this time of + year." + </p> + <p> + "Sure?--Well, then here we can at any rate." + </p> + <p> + "Here! But what sort of persons shall we get here? And your uncle--just + think!"-- + </p> + <p> + "O but I think we can manage," said Fleda. "When do Mary and Jane want to + go?" + </p> + <p> + "Immediately!--to-morrow--they are not willing to wait till we can get + somebody. Think of it!" + </p> + <p> + "Well let them go," said Fleda,--"the sooner the better." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and I am sure I don't want to keep them; but--" and Mrs. Rossitur + wrung her hands--"I haven't money enough to pay them quite,--and they + won't go without it." + </p> + <p> + Fleda felt shocked--so much that she could not help looking it. + </p> + <p> + "But can't uncle Rolf give it you?" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur shook her head. "I have asked him." + </p> + <p> + "How much is wanting?" + </p> + <p> + "Twenty-five. Think of his not being able to give me that!"--Mrs. Rossitur + burst into tears. + </p> + <p> + "Now don't, aunt Lucy!"--said Fleda, guarding well her own + composure;--"you know he has had a great deal to spend upon the farm and + paying men, and all, and it is no wonder that he should be a little short + just now,--now cheer up!--we can get along with this anyhow." + </p> + <p> + "I asked him," said Mrs. Rossitur through her tears, "when he would be + able to give it to me; and he told me he didn't know!--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda ventured no reply but some of the tenderest caresses that lips and + arms could give; and then sprang away and in three minutes was at her + aunt's side again. + </p> + <p> + "Look here, aunt Lucy," said she gently,--"here is twenty dollars, if you + can manage the five." + </p> + <p> + "Where did you get this?" Mrs. Rossitur exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + "I got it honestly. It is mine, aunt Lucy," said Fleda smiling. "Uncle + Orrin gave me some money just before we came away, to do what I liked + with; and I haven't wanted to do anything with it till now." + </p> + <p> + But this seemed to hurt Mrs. Rossitur more than all the rest. Leaning her + head forward upon Fleda's breast and clasping her arms about her she cried + worse tears than Fleda had seen her shed. If it had not been for the + emergency Fleda would have broken down utterly too. + </p> + <p> + "That it should have come to this!--I can't take it, dear Fleda!"-- + </p> + <p> + "Yes you must, aunt Lucy," said Fleda soothingly. "I couldn't do anything + else with it that would give me so much pleasure. I don't want it--it + would lie in my drawer till I don't know when. We'll let these people be + off as soon as they please. Don't take it so--uncle Rolf will have money + again--only just now he is out, I suppose--and we'll get somebody else in + the kitchen that will do nicely--you see if we don't." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur's embrace said what words were powerless to say. + </p> + <p> + "But I don't know how we're to find any one here in the country--I don't + know who'll go to look--I am sure your uncle won't want to,--and Hugh + wouldn't know--" + </p> + <p> + "I'll go," said Fleda cheerfully;--"Hugh and I. We can do famously--if + you'll trust me. I won't promise to bring home a French cook." + </p> + <p> + "No indeed--we must take what we can get. But you can get no one to-day, + and they will be off by the morning's coach--what shall we do + to-morrow,--for dinner? Your uncle--" + </p> + <p> + "I'll get dinner," said Fleda caressing her;--"I'll take all that on + myself. It sha'n't be a bad dinner either. Uncle Rolf will like what I do + for him I dare say. Now cheer up, aunt Lucy!--do--that's all I ask of you. + Won't you?--for me?" + </p> + <p> + She longed to speak a word of that quiet hope with which in every trouble + she secretly comforted herself--she wanted to whisper the words that were + that moment in her own mind, "Truly I know that it shall be well with them + that fear God;"--but her natural reserve and timidity kept her lips shut; + to her grief. + </p> + <p> + The women were paid off and dismissed and departed in the next day's coach + from Montepoole. Fleda stood at the front door to see them go, with a + curious sense that there was an empty house at her back, and indeed upon + her back. And in spite of all the cheeriness of her tone to her aunt, she + was not without some shadowy feeling that soberer times might be coming + upon them. + </p> + <p> + "What is to be done now?" said Hugh close beside her. + </p> + <p> + "O we are going to get somebody else," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Where?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know!--You and I are going to find out." + </p> + <p> + "You and I!--" + </p> + <p> + "Yes. We are going out after dinner, Hugh dear," said she turning her + bright merry face towards him,--"to pick up somebody." + </p> + <p> + Linking her arm within his she went back to the deserted kitchen premises + to see how her promise about taking Mary's place was to be fulfilled. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know where to look?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "I've a notion;--but the first thing is dinner, that uncle Rolf mayn't + think the world is turning topsy turvy. There is nothing at all here, + Hugh!--nothing in the world but bread--it's a blessing there is that. + Uncle Rolf will have to be satisfied with a coffee dinner to-day, and I'll + make him the most superb omelette--that my skill is equal to! Hugh dear, + you shall set the table.--You don't know how?--then you shall make the + toast, and I will set it the first thing of all. You perceive it is well + to know how to do everything, Mr. Hugh Rossitur." + </p> + <p> + "Where did you learn to make omelettes?" said Hugh with laughing + admiration, as Fleda bared two pretty arms and ran about the very + impersonation of good-humoured activity. The table was set; the coffee was + making; and she had him established at the fire with two great plates, a + pile of slices of bread, and a toasting-iron. + </p> + <p> + "Where? Oh don't you remember the days of Mrs. Renney? I have seen Emile + make them. And by dint of trying to teach Mary this summer I have taught + myself. There is no knowing, you see, what a person may come to." + </p> + <p> + "I wonder what father would say if he knew you had made all the coffee + this summer!" + </p> + <p> + "That is an unnecessary speculation, my dear Hugh, as I have no intention + of telling him. But see!--that is the way with speculators! 'While they go + on refining'--the toast burns!" + </p> + <p> + The coffee and the omelette and the toast and Mr. Rossitur's favourite + French salad, were served with beautiful accuracy; and he was quite + satisfied. But aunt Lucy looked sadly at Fleda's flushed face and saw that + her appetite seemed to have gone off in the steam of her preparations. + Fleda had a kind of heart-feast however which answered as well. + </p> + <p> + Hugh harnessed the little wagon, for no one was at hand to do it, and he + and Fleda set off as early as possible after dinner. Fleda's thoughts had + turned to her old acquaintance Cynthia Gall, who she knew was out of + employment and staying at home somewhere near Montepoole. They got the + exact direction from aunt Miriam who approved of her plan. + </p> + <p> + It was a pleasant peaceful drive they had. They never were alone together, + they two, but vexations seemed to lose their power or be forgotten; and an + atmosphere of quietness gather about them, the natural element of both + hearts. It might refuse its presence to one, but the attraction of both + together was too strong to be resisted. + </p> + <p> + Miss Cynthia's present abode was in an out of the way place, and a good + distance off; they were some time in reaching it. The barest-looking and + dingiest of houses, set plump in a green field, without one softening or + home-like touch from any home-feeling within; not a flower, not a shrub, + not an out-house, not a tree near. One would have thought it a deserted + house, but that a thin wreath of smoke lazily stole up from one of the + brown chimneys; and graceful as that was it took nothing from the hard + stern barrenness below which told of a worse poverty than that of paint + and glazing. + </p> + <p> + "Can this be the place?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "It must be. You stay here with the horse, and I'll go in and seek my + fortune.--Don't promise much," said Fleda shaking her head. + </p> + <p> + The house stood back from the road. Fleda picked her way to it along a + little footpath which seemed to be the equal property of the geese. Her + knock brought an invitation to "come in." + </p> + <p> + An elderly woman was sitting there whose appearance did not mend the + general impression. She had the same dull and unhopeful look that her + house had. + </p> + <p> + "Does Mrs. Gall live here?" + </p> + <p> + "I do," said this person. + </p> + <p> + "Is Cynthia at home?" + </p> + <p> + The woman upon this raised her voice and directed it at an inner door. + </p> + <p> + "Lucindy!" said she in a diversity of tones,--"Lucindy!--tell Cynthy + here's somebody wants to see her."--But no one answered, and throwing the + work from her lap the woman muttered she would go and see, and left Fleda + with a cold invitation to sit down. + </p> + <p> + Dismal work! Fleda wished herself out of it. The house did not look + poverty-stricken within, but poverty must have struck to the very heart, + Fleda thought, where there was no apparent cherishing of anything. There + was no absolute distress visible, neither was there a sign of real comfort + or of a happy home. She could not fancy it was one. + </p> + <p> + She waited so long that she was sure Cynthia did not hold herself in + readiness to see company. And when the lady at last came in it was with + very evident marks of "smarting up" about her. + </p> + <p> + "Why it's Flidda Ringgan!" said Miss Gall after a dubious look or two at + her visitor. "How <i>do</i> you do? I didn't 'spect to see <i>you</i>. How + much you have growed!" + </p> + <p> + She looked really pleased and gave Fleda's hand a very strong grasp as she + shook it. + </p> + <p> + "There ain't no fire here to-day," pursued Cynthy, paying her attentions + to the fireplace,--"we let it go down on account of our being all busy out + at the back of the house. I guess you're cold, ain't you?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda said no, and remembered that the woman she had first seen was + certainly not busy at the back of the house nor anywhere else but in that + very room, where she had found her deep in a pile of patchwork. + </p> + <p> + "I heerd you had come to the old place. Were you glad to be back again?" + Cynthy asked with a smile that might be taken to express some doubt upon + the subject. + </p> + <p> + "I was very glad to see it again." + </p> + <p> + "I hain't seen it in a great while. I've been staying to hum this year or + two. I got tired o' going out," Cynthy remarked, with again a smile very + peculiar and Fleda thought a little sardonical. She did not know how to + answer. + </p> + <p> + "Well, how do you come along down yonder?" Cynthy went on, making a great + fuss with the shovel and tongs to very little purpose. "Ha' you come all + the way from Queechy?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes. I came on purpose to see you, Cynthy." + </p> + <p> + Without staying to ask what for, Miss Gall now went out to "the back of + the house" and came running in again with a live brand pinched in the + tongs, and a long tail of smoke running after it. Fleda would have + compounded for no fire and no choking. The choking was only useful to give + her time to think. She was uncertain how to bring in her errand. + </p> + <p> + "And how is Mis' Plumfield?" said Cynthy, in an interval of blowing the + brand. + </p> + <p> + "She is quite well; but Cynthy, you need not have taken all that trouble + for me. I cannot stay but a few minutes." + </p> + <p> + "There is wood enough!" Cynthia remarked with one of her grim smiles; an + assertion Fleda could not help doubting. Indeed she thought Miss Gall had + grown altogether more disagreeable than she used to be in old times. Why, + she could not divine, unless the souring effect had gone on with the + years. + </p> + <p> + "And what's become of Earl Douglass and Mis' Douglass? I hain't heerd + nothin' of 'em this great while. I always told your grandpa he'd ha' saved + himself a great deal o' trouble if he'd ha' let Earl Douglass take hold of + things. You ha'n't got Mr. Didenhover into the works again I guess, have + you? He was there a good spell after your grandpa died." + </p> + <p> + "I haven't seen Mrs. Douglass," said Fleda. "But Cynthy, what do you think + I have come here for?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Cynthy, with another of her peculiar looks directed + at the fire. "I s'pose you want someh'n nother of me." + </p> + <p> + "I have come to see if you wouldn't come and live with my aunt, Mrs. + Rossitur. We are left alone and want somebody very much; and I thought I + would find you out and see if we couldn't have you, first of all,--before + I looked for anybody else." + </p> + <p> + Cynthy was absolutely silent. She sat before the fire, her feet stretched + out towards it as far as they would go and her arms crossed, and not + moving her steady gaze at the smoking wood, or the chimney-back, whichever + it might be; but there was in the corners of her mouth the threatening of + a smile that Fleda did not at all like. + </p> + <p> + "What do you say to it, Cynthy?" + </p> + <p> + "I reckon you'd best get somebody else," said Miss Gall with a kind of + condescending dryness, and the smile shewing a little more. + </p> + <p> + "Why?" said Fleda, "I would a great deal rather have an old friend than a + stranger." + </p> + <p> + "Be you the housekeeper?" said Cynthy a little abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "O I am a little of everything," said Fleda;--"cook and housekeeper and + whatever comes first. I want you to come and be housekeeper, Cynthy." + </p> + <p> + "I reckon Mis' Rossitur don't have much to do with her help, does she?" + said Cynthy after a pause, during which the corners of her mouth never + changed. The tone of piqued independence let some light into Fleda's mind. + </p> + <p> + "She is not strong enough to do much herself, and she wants some one that + will take all the trouble from her. You'd have the field all to yourself, + Cynthy." + </p> + <p> + "Your aunt sets two tables I calculate, don't she?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--my uncle doesn't like to have any but his own family around him." + </p> + <p> + "I guess I shouldn't suit!" said Miss Gall, after another little pause, + and stooping very diligently to pick up some scattered shreds from the + floor. But Fleda could see the flushed face and the smile which pride and + a touch of spiteful pleasure in the revenge she was taking made + particularly hateful. She needed no more convincing that Miss Gall + "wouldn't suit;" but she was sorry at the same time for the perverseness + that had so needlessly disappointed her; and went rather pensively back + again down the little foot-path to the waiting wagon. + </p> + <p> + "This is hardly the romance of life, dear Hugh," she said as she seated + herself. + </p> + <p> + "Haven't you succeeded?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda shook her head. + </p> + <p> + "What's the matter?" + </p> + <p> + "O--pride,--injured pride of station! The wrong of not coming to our table + and putting her knife into our butter." + </p> + <p> + "And living in such a place!" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "You don't know what a place. They are miserably poor, I am sure; and + yet--I suppose that the less people have to be proud of the more they make + of what is left. Poor people!--" + </p> + <p> + "Poor Fleda!" said Hugh looking at her. "What will you do now?" + </p> + <p> + "O we'll do somehow," said she cheerfully. "Perhaps it is just as well + after all, for Cynthy isn't the smartest woman in the world. I remember + grandpa used to say he didn't believe she could get a bean into the middle + of her bread." + </p> + <p> + "A bean into the middle of her bread!" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + But Fleda's sobriety was quite banished by his mystified look, and her + laugh rang along over the fields before she answered him. + </p> + <p> + That laugh had blown away all the vapours, for the present at least, and + they jogged on again very sociably. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know," said Fleda, after a while of silent enjoyment in the + changes of scene and the mild autumn weather,--"I am not sure that it + wasn't very well for me that we came away from New York." + </p> + <p> + "I dare say it was," said Hugh,--"since we came; but what makes you say + so?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean that it was for anybody else, but for me. I think I was a + little proud of our nice things there." + </p> + <p> + "<i>You,</i> Fleda!" said Hugh with a look of appreciating affection. + </p> + <p> + "Yes I was, a little. It didn't make the greatest part of my love for + them, I am sure; but I think I had a little, undefined, sort of pleasure + in the feeling that they were better and prettier than other people had." + </p> + <p> + "You are sure you are not proud of your little King Charles now?" said + Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know but I am," said Fleda laughing. "But how much pleasanter it + is here on almost every account. Look at the beautiful sweep of the ground + off among those hills--isn't it? What an exquisite horizon line, Hugh!" + </p> + <p> + "And what a sky over it!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--I love these fall skies. Oh I would a great deal rather be here than + in any city that ever was built!" + </p> + <p> + "So would I," said Hugh. "But the thing is--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda knew quite well what the thing was, and did not answer. + </p> + <p> + "But my dear Hugh," she said presently,--"I don't remember that sweep of + hills when we were coming?" + </p> + <p> + "You were going the other way," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Yes but, Hugh,--I am sure we did not pass these grain fields. We must + have got into the wrong road." + </p> + <p> + Hugh drew the reins, and looked, and doubted. + </p> + <p> + "There is a house yonder," said Fleda,--"we had better drive on and ask." + </p> + <p> + "There is no house--" + </p> + <p> + "Yes there is--behind that piece of wood. Look over it--don't you see a + light curl of blue smoke against the sky?--We never passed that house and + wood, I am certain. We ought to make haste, for the afternoons are short + now, and you will please to recollect there is nobody at home to get tea." + </p> + <p> + "I hope Lucas will get upon one of his everlasting talks with father," + said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "And that it will hold till we get home," said Fleda. "It will be the + happiest use Lucas has made of his tongue in a good while." + </p> + <p> + Just as they stopped before a substantial-looking farm-house a man came + from the other way and stopped there too, with his hand upon the gate. + </p> + <p> + "How far are we from Queechy, sir?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "You're not from it at all, sir," said the man politely. "You're in + Queechy, sir, at present." + </p> + <p> + "Is this the right road from Montepoole to Queechy village?" + </p> + <p> + "It is not, sir. It is a very tortuous direction indeed. Have I not the + pleasure of speaking to Mr. Rossitur's young gentleman?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur's young gentleman acknowledged his relationship and begged + the favour of being set in the right way home. + </p> + <p> + "With much pleasure! You have been shewing Miss Rossitur the picturesque + country about Montepoole?" + </p> + <p> + "My cousin and I have been there on business, and lost our way coming + back." + </p> + <p> + "Ah I dare say. Very easy. First time you have been there?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir, and we are in a hurry to get home." + </p> + <p> + "Well sir,--you know the road by Deacon Patterson's?--comes out just above + the lake?" + </p> + <p> + Hugh did not remember. + </p> + <p> + "Well--you keep this road straight on,--I'm sorry you are in a hurry,--you + keep on till--do you know when you strike Mr. Harris's ground?" + </p> + <p> + No, Hugh knew nothing about it, nor Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well I'll tell you now how it is," said the stranger, "if you'll permit + me. You and your--a--cousin--come in and do us the pleasure of taking some + refreshment--I know my sister'll have her table set out by this time--and + I'll do myself the honour of introducing you to--a--these strange roads + afterwards." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir, but that trouble is unnecessary--cannot you direct us?" + </p> + <p> + "No trouble--indeed sir, I assure you, I should esteem it a favour--very + highly. I--I am Dr. Quackenboss, sir; you may have heard--" + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Dr. Quackenboss, but we have no time this afternoon--we are + very anxious to reach home as soon as possible; if you would be be so good + as to put us in the way." + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus12.jpg"><img src="images/illus12.jpg" height="250" + alt="'Well, sir, you know the road by Deacon Patterson's?'" + title="'Well, sir, you know the road by Deacon Patterson's?'" /><br /> + "Well, sir, you know the road by Deacon Patterson's?"</a> + </p> + <p> + "I--really sir, I am afraid--to a person ignorant of the various + localities--You will lose no time--I will just hitch your horse here, and + I'll have mine ready by the time this young lady has rested. + Miss--a--won't you join with me? I assure you I will not put you to the + expense of a minute--Thank you!--Mr. Harden!--Just clap the saddle on to + Lollypop and have him up here in three seconds.--Thank you!--My dear + Miss--a--won't you take my arm? I am gratified, I assure you." + </p> + <p> + Yielding to the apparent impossibility of getting anything out of Dr. + Quackenboss, except civility, and to the real difficulty of disappointing + such very earnest good will, Fleda and Hugh did what older persons would + not have done,--alighted and walked up to the house. + </p> + <p> + "This is quite a fortuitous occurrence," the doctor went on:--"I have + often had the pleasure of seeing Mr Rossitur's family in church--in the + little church at Queechy Run--and that enabled me to recognise your cousin + as soon as I saw him in the wagon. Perhaps Miss--a--you may have possibly + heard of my name?--Quackenboss--I don't know that you understood--" + </p> + <p> + "I have heard it, sir." + </p> + <p> + "My Irishmen, Miss--a--my Irish labourers, can't get hold of but one end + of it; they call me Boss--ha, ha, ha!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda hoped his patients did not get hold of the other end of it, and + trembled, visibly. + </p> + <p> + "Hard to pull a man's name to pieces before his face,--ha, ha! but I + am--a--not one thing myself,--a kind of heterogynous--I am a piece of a + physician and a little in the agricultural line also; so it's all fair." + </p> + <p> + "The Irish treat my name as hardly, Dr. Quackenboss--they call me nothing + but Miss Ring-again." + </p> + <p> + And then Fleda could laugh, and laugh she did, so heartily that the doctor + was delighted. + </p> + <p> + "Ring-again! ha, ha!--Very good!--Well, Miss--a--I shouldn't think that + anybody in your service would ever--a--ever let you put your name in + practice." + </p> + <p> + But Fleda's delight at the excessive gallantry and awkwardness of this + speech was almost too much; or, as the doctor pleasantly remarked, her + nerves were too many for her; and every one of them was dancing by the + time they reached the hall-door. The doctor's flourishes lost not a bit of + their angularity from his tall ungainly figure and a lantern-jawed face, + the lower member of which had now and then a somewhat lateral play when he + was speaking, which curiously aided the quaint effect of his words. He + ushered his guests into the house, seeming in a flow of self-gratulation. + </p> + <p> + The supper-table was spread, sure enough, and hovering about it was the + doctor's sister; a lady in whom Fleda only saw a Dutch face, with eyes + that made no impression, disagreeable fair hair, and a string of gilt + beads round her neck. A painted yellow floor under foot, a room that + looked excessively <i>wooden</i> and smelt of cheese, bare walls and a + well-filled table, was all that she took in besides. + </p> + <p> + "I have the honour of presenting you to my sister," said the doctor with + suavity. "Flora, the Irish domestics of this young lady call her name Miss + Ring-again--if she will let us know how it ought to be called we shall be + happy to be informed." + </p> + <p> + Dr. Quackenboss was made happy. + </p> + <p> + "Miss <i>Ringgan</i>--and this young gentleman is young Mr. Rossitur--the + gentleman that has taken Squire Ringgan's old place. We were so fortunate + as to have them lose their way this afternoon, coming from the Pool, and + they have just stepped in to see if you can't find 'em a mouthful of + something they can eat, while Lollypop is a getting ready to see them + home." + </p> + <p> + Poor Miss Flora immediately disappeared into the kitchen, to order a bit + of superior cheese and to have some slices of ham put on the gridiron, and + then coming back to the common room went rummaging about from cupboard to + cupboard, in search of cake and sweetmeats. Fleda protested and begged in + vain. + </p> + <p> + "She was so sorry she hadn't knowed," Miss Flora said,--"she'd ha' had + some cakes made that maybe they could have eaten, but the bread was dry; + and the cheese wa'n't as good somehow as the last one they cut, maybe Miss + Ringgan would prefer a piece of newer-made, if she liked it; and she + hadn't had good luck with her preserves last summer--the most of 'em had + fomented--she thought it was the damp weather, but there was some stewed + pears that maybe she would be so good as to approve--and there was some + ham! whatever else it was it was hot!--" + </p> + <p> + It was impossible, it was impossible, to do dishonour to all this + hospitality and kindness and pride that was brought out for them. Early or + late, they must eat, in mere gratitude. The difficulty was to avoid eating + everything. Hugh and Fleda managed to compound the matter with each other, + one taking the cake and pears, and the other the ham and cheese. In the + midst of all this over flow of good will Fleda bethought her to ask if + Miss Flora knew of any girl or woman that would go out to service. Miss + Flora took the matter into grave consideration as soon as her anxiety on + the subject of their cups of tea had subsided. She did not commit herself, + but thought it possible that one of the Finns might be willing to go out. + </p> + <p> + "Where do they live?" + </p> + <p> + "It's--a--not far from Queechy Run," said the doctor, whose now and then + hesitation in the midst of his speech was never for want of a thought but + simply and merely for the best words to clothe it in. + </p> + <p> + "Is it in our way to-night?" + </p> + <p> + He could make it so, the doctor said, with pleasure, for it would give him + permission to gallant them a little further. + </p> + <p> + They had several miles yet to go, and the sun went down as they were + passing through Queechy Run. Under that still cool clear autumn sky Fleda + would have enjoyed the ride very much, but that her unfulfilled errand was + weighing upon her, and she feared her aunt and uncle might want her + services before she could be at home. Still, late as it was, she + determined to stop for a minute at Mrs. Finn's and go home with a clear + conscience. At her door, and not till there, the doctor was prevailed upon + to part company, the rest of the way being perfectly plain. + </p> + <p> + "Not I!--at least I think not. But, Hugh, don't say anything about all + this to aunt Lucy. She would be troubled." + </p> + <p> + Fleda had certainly when she came away no notion of improving her + acquaintance with Miss Anastasia; but the supper, and the breakfast and + the dinner of the next day, with all the nameless and almost numberless + duties of housework that filled up the time between, wrought her to a very + strong sense of the necessity of having some kind of "help" soon. Mrs. + Rossitur wearied herself excessively with doing very little, and then + looked so sad to see Fleda working on, that it was more disheartening and + harder to bear than the fatigue. Hugh was a most faithful and invaluable + coadjutor, and his lack of strength was like her own made up by energy of + will; but neither of them could bear the strain long; and when the final + clearing away of the dinner-dishes gave her a breathing-time she resolved + to dress herself and put her thimble in her pocket and go over to Miss + Finn's quilting. Miss Lucy might not be like Miss Anastasia; and if she + were, anything that had hands and feet to move instead of her own would be + welcome. + </p> + <p> + Hugh went with her to the door and was to come for her at sunset. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="20"></a>Chapter XX. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + With superfluity of breeding<br /> First makes you sick, and then with + feeding. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Jenyns. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Miss Anastasia was a little surprised and a good deal gratified, Fleda + saw, by her coming, and played the hostess with great benignity. The + quilting-frame was stretched in an upper room, not in the long kitchen, to + Fleda's joy; most of the company were already seated at it, and she had to + go through a long string of introductions before she was permitted to take + her place. First of all Earl Douglass's wife, who rose up and taking both + Fleda's hands squeezed and shook them heartily, giving her with eye and + lip a most genial welcome. This lady had every look of being a very <i>clever</i> + woman; "a manager" she was said to be; and indeed her very nose had a + little pinch which prepared one for nothing superfluous about her. Even + her dress could not have wanted another breadth from the skirt and had no + fulness to spare about the body. Neat as a pin though; and a well-to-do + look through it all. Miss Quackenboss Fleda recognised as an old friend, + gilt beads and all. Catherine Douglass had grown up to a pretty girl + during the five years since Fleda had left Queechy, and gave her a + greeting half smiling, half shy. There was a little more affluence about + the flow of her drapery, and the pink ribbon round her neck was confined + by a little dainty Jew's harp of a brooch; she had her mother's pinch of + the nose too. Then there were two other young ladies;--Miss Letitia Ann + Thornton, a tall grown girl in pantalettes, evidently a would-be + aristocrat from the air of her head and lip, with a well-looking face and + looking well knowing of the same, and sporting neat little white cuffs at + her wrists, the only one who bore such a distinction. The third of these + damsels, Jessie Healy, impressed Fleda with having been brought up upon + coarse meat and having grown heavy in consequence; the other two were + extremely fair and delicate, both in complexion and feature. Her aunt Syra + Fleda recognised without particular pleasure and managed to seat herself + at the quilt with the sewing-woman and Miss Hannah between them. Miss Lucy + Finn she found seated at her right hand, but after all the civilities she + had just gone through Fleda had not courage just then to dash into + business with her, and Miss Lucy herself stitched away and was dumb. + </p> + <p> + So were the rest of the party--rather. The presence of the new-comer + seemed to have the effect of a spell. Fleda could not think they had been + as silent before her joining them as they were for some time afterwards. + The young ladies were absolutely mute, and conversation seemed to flag + even among the elder ones; and if Fleda ever raised her eyes from the + quilt to look at somebody she was sure to see somebody's eyes looking at + her, with a curiosity well enough defined and mixed with a more <i>or less</i> + amount of benevolence and pleasure. Fleda was growing very industrious and + feeling her cheeks grow warm, when the checked stream of conversation + began to take revenge by turning its tide upon her. + </p> + <p> + "Are you glad to be back to Queechy, Fleda?" said Mrs. Douglass from the + opposite far end of the quilt. + </p> + <p> + "Yes ma'am," said Fleda, smiling back her answer,--"on some accounts." + </p> + <p> + "Ain't she growed like her father, Mis' Douglass?" said the sewing woman. + "Do you recollect Walter Ringgan--what a handsome feller he was?" + </p> + <p> + The two opposite girls immediately found something to say to each other. + </p> + <p> + "She ain't a bit more like him than she is like her mother," said Mrs. + Douglass, biting off the end of her thread energetically. "Amy Ringgan was + a sweet good woman as ever was in this town." + </p> + <p> + Again her daughter's glance and smile went over to the speaker. + </p> + <p> + "You stay in Queechy and live like Queechy folks do," Mrs. Douglass added, + nodding encouragingly, "and you'll beat both on 'em." + </p> + <p> + But this speech jarred, and Fleda wished it had not been spoken. + </p> + <p> + "How does your uncle like farming?" said aunt Syra. + </p> + <p> + A home-thrust, which Fleda parried by saying he had hardly got accustomed + to it yet. + </p> + <p> + "What's been his business? what has he been doing all his life till now?" + said the sewing-woman. + </p> + <p> + Fleda replied that he had had no business; and after the minds of the + company had had time to entertain this statement she was startled by Miss + Lucy's voice at her elbow. + </p> + <p> + "It seems kind o' curious, don't it, that a man should live to be forty or + fifty years old and not know anything of the earth he gets his bread + from?" + </p> + <p> + "What makes you think he don't?" said Miss Thornton rather tartly. + </p> + <p> + "She wa'n't speaking o' nobody," said aunt Syra. + </p> + <p> + "I was--I was speaking of <i>man</i>--I was speaking abstractly," said + Fleda's right hand neighbour. + </p> + <p> + "What's abstractly?" said Miss Anastasia scornfully. + </p> + <p> + "Where do you get hold of such hard words, Lucy?" said Mrs. Douglass. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, Mis' Douglass;--they come to me;--it's practice, I suppose. + I had no intention of being obscure." + </p> + <p> + "One kind o' word's as easy as another I suppose, when you're used to it, + ain't it?" said the sewing-woman. + </p> + <p> + "What's abstractly?" said the mistress of the house again. + </p> + <p> + "Look in the dictionary, if you want to know," said her sister. + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to know--I only want you to tell." + </p> + <p> + "When do you get time for it, Lucy? ha'n't you nothing else to practise?" + pursued Mrs. Douglass. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Mis' Douglass; but then there are times for exertion, and other + times less disposable; and when I feel thoughtful, or low, I commonly + retire to my room and contemplate the stars or write a composition." + </p> + <p> + The sewing-woman greeted this speech with an unqualified ha! ha! and Fleda + involuntarily raised her head to look at the last speaker; but there was + nothing to be noticed about her, except that she was in rather nicer order + than the rest of the Finn family. + </p> + <p> + "Did you get home safe last night?" inquired Miss Quackenboss, bending + forward over the quilt to look down to Fleda. + </p> + <p> + Fleda thanked her, and replied that they had been overturned and had + several ribs broken. + </p> + <p> + "And where have you been, Fleda, all this while?" said Mrs. Douglass. + </p> + <p> + Fleda told, upon which all the quilting-party raised their heads + simultaneously to take another review of her. + </p> + <p> + "Your uncle's wife ain't a Frenchwoman, be she?" asked the sewing-woman. + </p> + <p> + Fleda said "oh no"--and Miss Quackenboss remarked that "she thought she + wa'n't;" whereby Fleda perceived it had been a subject of discussion. + </p> + <p> + "She lives like one, don't she?" said aunt Syra. + </p> + <p> + Which imputation Fleda also refuted to the best of her power. + </p> + <p> + "Well, don't she have dinner in the middle of the afternoon?" pursued aunt + Syra. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was obliged to admit that. + </p> + <p> + "And she can't eat without she has a fresh piece of roast meat on table + every day, can she?" + </p> + <p> + "It is not always roast," said Fleda, half vexed and half laughing. + </p> + <p> + "I'd rather have a good dish o' bread and 'lasses than the hull on't;" + observed old Mrs. Finn; from the corner where she sat manifestly turning + up her nose at the far-off joints on Mrs. Rossitur's dinner-table. + </p> + <p> + The girls on the other side of the quilt again held counsel together, deep + and low. + </p> + <p> + "Well didn't she pick up all them notions in that place yonder?--where you + say she has been?" aunt Syra went on. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda; "everybody does so in New York." + </p> + <p> + "I want to know what kind of a place New York is, now," said old Mrs. Finn + drawlingly. "I s'pose it's pretty big, ain't it?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda replied that it was. + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't wonder if it was a'most as far as from here to Queechy Run, + now, ain't it?" + </p> + <p> + The distance mentioned being somewhere about one-eighth of New York's + longest diameter, Fleda answered that it was quite as far. + </p> + <p> + "I s'pose there's plenty o' mighty rich folks there, ain't there?" + </p> + <p> + "Plenty, I believe," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I should hate to live in it awfully!" was the old woman's conclusion. + </p> + <p> + "I should admire to travel in many countries," said Miss Lucy, for the + first time seeming to intend her words particularly for Fleda's ear. "I + think nothing makes people more genteel. I have observed it frequently." + </p> + <p> + Fleda said it was very pleasant; but though encouraged by this opening + could not muster enough courage to ask if Miss Lucy had a "notion" to come + and prove their gentility. Her next question was startling,--if Fleda had + ever studied mathematics? + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda. "Have you?" + </p> + <p> + "O my, yes! There was a lot of us concluded we would learn it; and we + commenced to study it a long time ago. I think it's a most elevating--" + </p> + <p> + The discussion was suddenly broken off, for the sewing-woman exclaimed, as + the other sister came in and took her seat, + </p> + <p> + "Why Hannah! you ha'n't been makin' bread with that crock on your hands!" + </p> + <p> + "Well Mis' Barnes!" said the girl,--"I've washed 'em, and I've made bread + with 'em, and even <i>that</i> didn't take it off!" + </p> + <p> + "Do you look at the stars, too, Hannah?" said Mrs. Douglass. + </p> + <p> + Amidst a small hubbub of laugh and talk which now became general, poor + Fleda fell back upon one single thought--one wish; that Hugh would come to + fetch her home before tea-time. But it was a vain hope. Hugh was not to be + there till sundown, and supper was announced long before that. They all + filed down, and Fleda with them, to the great kitchen below stairs; and + she found herself placed in the seat of honour indeed, but an honour she + would gladly have escaped, at Miss Anastasia's right hand. + </p> + <p> + A temporary locked-jaw would have been felt a blessing. Fleda dared hardly + even look about her; but under the eye of her hostess the instinct of + good-breeding was found sufficient to swallow everything; literally and + figuratively. There was a good deal to swallow. The usual variety of + cakes, sweetmeats, beef, cheese, biscuits, and pies, was set out with some + peculiarity of arrangement which Fleda had never seen before, and which + left that of Miss Quackenboss elegant by comparison. Down each side of the + table ran an advanced guard of little sauces, in Indian file, but in + companies of three, the file leader of each being a saucer of custard, its + follower a ditto of preserves, and the third keeping a sharp look-out in + the shape of pickles; and to Fleda's unspeakable horror she discovered + that the guests were expected to help themselves at will from these + several stores with their own spoons, transferring what they took either + to their own plates or at once to its final destination, which last mode + several of the company preferred. The advantage of this plan was the + necessary great display of the new silver tea-spoons which Mrs. Douglass + slyly hinted to aunt Syra were the moving cause of the tea-party. But aunt + Syra swallowed sweetmeats and would not give heed. + </p> + <p> + There was no relief for poor Fleda. Aunt Syra was her next neighbour, and + opposite to her, at Miss Anastasia's left hand, was the disagreeable + countenance and peering eyes of the old crone her mother. Fleda kept her + own eyes fixed upon her plate and endeavoured to see nothing but that. + </p> + <p> + "Why here's Fleda ain't eating anything," said Mrs. Douglass. "Won't you + have some preserves? take some custard, do!--Anastasy, she ha'n't a + spoon--no wonder!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda had secretly conveyed hers under cover. + </p> + <p> + "There <i>was</i> one," said Miss Anastasia, looking about where one + should have been,--"I'll get another as soon as I give Mis' Springer her + tea." + </p> + <p> + "Ha'n't you got enough to go round?" said the old woman plucking at her + daughter's sleeve,--"Anastasy!--ha'n't you got enough to go round?" + </p> + <p> + This speech which was spoken with a most spiteful simplicity Miss + Anastasia answered with superb silence, and presently produced spoons + enough to satisfy herself and the company. But Fleda! No earthly + persuasion could prevail upon her to touch pickles, sweetmeats, or + custard, that evening; and even in the bread and cakes she had a vision of + hands before her that took away her appetite. She endeavoured to make a + shew with hung beef and cups of tea, which indeed was not Pouchong; but + her supper came suddenly to an end upon a remark of her hostess, addressed + to the whole table, that they needn't be surprised if they found any bite + of pudding in the gingerbread, for it was made from the molasses the + children left the other day. Who "the children" were Fleda did not know, + neither was it material. + </p> + <p> + It was sundown, but Hugh had not come when they went to the upper rooms + again. Two were open now, for they were small and the company promised not + to be such. Fathers and brothers and husbands began to come, and loud + talking and laughing and joking took place of the quilting chit-chat. + Fleda would fain have absorbed herself in the work again, but though the + frame still stood there the minds of the company were plainly turned aside + from their duty, or perhaps they thought that Miss Anastasia had had + admiration enough to dispense with service. Nobody shewed a thimble but + one or two old ladies; and as numbers and spirits gathered strength, a + kind of romping game was set on foot in which a vast deal of kissing + seemed to be the grand wit of the matter. Fleda shrank away out of sight + behind the open door of communication between the two rooms, pleading with + great truth that she was tired and would like to keep perfectly quiet; and + she had soon the satisfaction of being apparently forgotten. + </p> + <p> + In the other room some of the older people were enjoying themselves more + soberly. Fleda's ear was too near the crack of the door not to have the + benefit of more of their conversation than she cared for. It soon put + quiet of mind out of the question. + </p> + <p> + "He'll twist himself up pretty short; that's my sense of it; and he won't + take long to do it, nother," said Earl Douglass's voice. + </p> + <p> + Fleda would have known it anywhere from its extreme peculiarity. It never + either rose or fell much from a certain pitch; and at that level the words + gurgled forth, seemingly from an ever-brimming fountain; he never wanted + one; and the stream had neither let nor stay till his modicum of sense had + fairly run out. People thought he had not a greater stock of that than + some of his neighbours; but he issued an amount of word-currency + sufficient for the use of the county. + </p> + <p> + "He'll run himself agin a post pretty quick," said uncle Joshua in a + confirmatory tone of voice. + </p> + <p> + Fleda had a confused idea that somebody was going to hang himself. + </p> + <p> + "He ain't a workin' things right," said Douglass,--"he ain't a workin' + things right; he's takin' hold o' everything by the tail end. He ain't + studied the business; he doesn't know when things is right, and he doesn't + know when things is wrong;--and if they're wrong he don't know how to set + 'em right. He's got a feller there that ain't no more fit to be there than + I am to be Vice President of the United States; and I ain't a going to say + what I think I <i>am</i> fit for, but I ha'n't studied for <i>that</i> + place and I shouldn't like to stand an examination for't; and a man hadn't + ought to be a farmer no more if he ha'n't qualified himself. That's my + idee. I like to see a thing done well if it's to be done at all; and there + ain't a stitch o' land been laid right on the hull farm, nor a furrow + driv' as it had ought to be, since he come on to it; and I say, Squire + Springer, a man ain't going to get along in that way, and he hadn't ought + to. I work hard myself, and I calculate to work hard; and I make a livin + by't; and I'm content to work hard. When I see a man with his hands in his + pockets, I think he'll have nothin' else in 'em soon. I don't believe he's + done a hand's turn himself on the land the hull season!" + </p> + <p> + And upon this Mr. Douglass brought up. + </p> + <p> + "My son Lucas has been workin' with him, off and on, pretty much the hull + time since he come; and <i>he</i> says he ha'n't begun to know how to + spell farmer yet." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay! My wife--she's a little harder on folks than I be--I think it + ain't worth while to say nothin' of a man without I can say some good of + him--that's my idee--and it don't do no harm, nother,--but my wife, she + says he's got to let down his notions a peg or two afore they'll hitch + just in the right place; and I won't say but what I think she ain't maybe + fur from right. If a man's above his business he stands a pretty fair + chance to be below it some day. I won't say myself, for I haven't any + acquaintance with him, and a man oughtn't to speak but of what he is + knowing to,--but I have heerd say, that he wa'n't as conversationable as + it would ha' been handsome in him to be, all things considerin'. There + seems to be a good many things said of him, somehow, and I always think + men don't talk of a man if he don't give 'em occasion; but anyhow I've + been past the farm pretty often myself this summer, workin' with Seth + Plumfield; and I've took notice of things myself; and I know he's been + makin' beds o' sparrowgrass when he had ought to ha' been makin' fences, + and he's been helpin' that little girl o' his'n set her flowers, when he + would ha' been better sot to work lookin' after his Irishman; but I don't + know as it made much matter nother, for if he went wrong Mr. Rossitur + wouldn't know how to set him right, and if he was a going right Mr. + Rossitur would ha' been just as likely to ha' set him wrong. Well I'm + sorry for him!" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Rossitur is a most gentlemanlike man," said the voice of Dr. + Quackenboss. + </p> + <p> + "Ay,--I dare say he is," Earl responded in precisely the same tone. "I was + down to his house one day last summer to see him.--He wa'n't to hum, + though." + </p> + <p> + "It would be strange if harm come to a man with such a guardian angel in + the house as that man has in his'n," said Dr. Quackenboss. + </p> + <p> + "Well she's a pretty creetur'!" said Douglass, looking up with some + animation. "I wouldn't blame any man that sot a good deal by her. I will + say I think she's as handsome as my own darter; and a man can't go no + furder than that I suppose." + </p> + <p> + "She won't help his farming much, I guess," said uncle Joshua,--"nor his + wife, nother." + </p> + <p> + Fleda heard Dr. Quackenboss coming through the doorway and started from + her corner for fear he might find her out there and know what she had + heard. + </p> + <p> + He very soon found her out in the new place she had chosen and came up to + pay his compliments. Fleda was in a mood for anything but laughing, yet + the mixture of the ludicrous which the doctor administered set her nerves + a twitching. Bringing his chair down sideways at one angle and his person + at another, so as to meet at the moment of the chair's touching the floor, + and with a look and smile slanting to match, the doctor said, + </p> + <p> + "Well, Miss Ringgan, has--a--Mrs. Rossitur,--does she feel herself + reconciled yet?" + </p> + <p> + "Reconciled, sir?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--a--to Queechy?" + </p> + <p> + "She never quarrelled with it, sir," said Fleda, quite unable to keep from + laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Yes,--I mean--a--she feels that she can sustain her spirits in different + situations?" + </p> + <p> + "She is very well, sir, thank you." + </p> + <p> + "It must have been a great change to her--and to you all--coming to this + place." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir; the country is very different from the city." + </p> + <p> + "In what part of New York was Mr. Rossitur's former residence?" + </p> + <p> + "In State street, sir." + </p> + <p> + "State street,--that is somewhere in the direction of the Park?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir, not exactly." + </p> + <p> + "Was Mrs. Rossitur a native of the city?" + </p> + <p> + "Not of New York. O Hugh, my dear Hugh," exclaimed Fleda in another + tone,--"what have you been thinking of?" + </p> + <p> + "Father wanted me," said Hugh. "I could not help it, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "You are not going to have the cruelty to take your--a--cousin away, Mr. + Rossitur?" said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + But Fleda was for once happy to be cruel; she would hear no remonstrances. + Though her desire for Miss Lucy's "help" had considerably lessened she + thought she could not in politeness avoid speaking on the subject, after + being invited there on purpose. But Miss Lucy said she "calculated to stay + at home this winter," unless she went to live with somebody at Kenton for + the purpose of attending a course of philosophy lectures that she heard + were to be given there. So that matter was settled; and clasping Hugh's + arm Fleda turned away from the house with a step and heart both lightened + by the joy of being out of it. + </p> + <p> + "I couldn't come sooner, Fleda," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "No matter--O I'm so glad to be away! Walk a little faster, dear + Hugh.--Have you missed me at home?" + </p> + <p> + "Do you want me to say no or yes?" said Hugh smiling. "We did very + well--mother and I--and I have left everything ready to have tea the + minute you get home. What sort of a time have you had?" + </p> + <p> + In answer to which Fleda gave him a long history; and then they walked on + awhile in silence. The evening was still and would have been dark but for + the extreme brilliancy of the stars through the keen clear atmosphere. + Fleda looked up at them and drew large draughts of bodily and mental + refreshment with the bracing air. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know to-morrow will be Thanksgiving day?" + </p> + <p> + "Ye--what made you think of it?" + </p> + <p> + "They were talking about it--they make a great fuss here Thanksgiving + day." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think we shall make much of a fuss," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think we shall. I wonder what I shall do--I am afraid uncle Rolf + will get tired of coffee and omelettes in the course of time; and my list + of receipts is very limited." + </p> + <p> + "It is a pity you didn't beg one of Mrs. Renney's books," said Hugh + laughing. "If you had only known--" + </p> + <p> + "'Tisn't too late!" said Fleda quickly,--"I'll send to New York for one. I + will! I'll ask uncle Orrin to get it for me. That's the best thought!--" + </p> + <p> + "But, Fleda! you're not going to turn cook in that fashion?" + </p> + <p> + "It would be no harm to have the book," said Fleda. "I can tell you we + mustn't expect to get anybody here that can make an omelette, or even + coffee, that uncle Rolf will drink. Oh Hugh!--" + </p> + <p> + "What?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know where we are going to get anybody!--But don't say anything + to aunt Lucy about it." + </p> + <p> + "Well, we can keep Thanksgiving day, Fleda, without a dinner," said Hugh + cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + "Yes indeed; I am sure I can--after being among these people to-night. How + much I have that they want! Look at the Great Bear over there!--isn't that + better than New York?" + </p> + <p> + "The Great Bear hangs over New York too," Hugh said with a smile. + </p> + <p> + "Ah but it isn't the same thing. Heaven hasn't the same eyes for the city + and the country." + </p> + <p> + As Hugh and Fleda went quick up to the kitchen door they overtook a dark + figure, at whom looking narrowly as she passed, Fleda recognised Seth + Plumfield. He was joyfully let into the kitchen, and there proved to be + the bearer of a huge dish carefully covered with a napkin. + </p> + <p> + "Mother guessed you hadn't any Thanksgiving ready," he said,--"and she + wanted to send this down to you; so I thought I would come and fetch it + myself." + </p> + <p> + "O thank her! and thank you, cousin Seth;--how good you are?" + </p> + <p> + "Mother ha'n't lost her old trick at 'em," said he, "so I hope <i>that's</i> + good." + </p> + <p> + "O I know it is," said Fleda. "I remember aunt Miriam's Thanksgiving + chicken-pies. Now, cousin Seth, you must come in and see aunt Lucy." + </p> + <p> + "No," said he quietly,--"I've got my farm-boots on--I guess I won't see + anybody but you." + </p> + <p> + But Fleda would not suffer that, and finding she could not move him she + brought her aunt out into the kitchen. Mrs. Rossitur's manner of speaking + and thanking him quite charmed Seth, and he went away with a kindly + feeling towards those gentle bright eyes which he never forgot. + </p> + <p> + "Now we've something for to-morrow, Hugh!" said Fleda;--"and such a + chicken-pie I can tell you as <i>you</i> never saw. Hugh, isn't it odd how + different a thing is in different circumstances? You don't know how glad I + was when I put my hands upon that warm pie-dish and knew what it was; and + when did I ever care in New York about Emile's doings?" + </p> + <p> + "Except the almond gauffres," said Hugh smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I never thought to be so glad of a chicken-pie," said Fleda, shaking her + head. + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam's dish bore out Fleda's praise, in the opinion of all that + tasted it; for such fowls, such butter, and such cream, as went to its + composition could hardly be known but in an unsophisticated state of + society. But one pie could not last for ever; and as soon as the signs of + dinner were got rid of, Thanksgiving day though it was, poor Fleda was + fain to go up the hill to consult aunt Miriam about the possibility of + getting "help." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, dear Fleda," said she;--"if you cannot get Lucy Finn--I + don't know who else there is you can get. Mrs. Toles wants both her + daughters at home I know this winter, because she is sick; and Marietta + Winchel is working at aunt Syra's;--I don't know--Do you remember Barby + Elster, that used to live with me?" + </p> + <p> + "O yes!" + </p> + <p> + "She <i>might</i> go--she has been staying at home these two years, to + take care of her old mother, that's the reason she left me; but she has + another sister come home now,--Hetty, that married and went to + Montepoole,--she's lost her husband and come home to live; so perhaps + Barby would go out again. But I don't know,--how do you think your aunt + Lucy would get along with her?" + </p> + <p> + "Dear aunt Miriam! you know we must do as we can. We <i>must</i> have + somebody." + </p> + <p> + "Barby is a little quick," said Mrs. Plumfield, "but I think she is + good-hearted, and she is thorough, and faithful as the day is long. If + your aunt and uncle can put up with her ways." + </p> + <p> + "I am sure we can, aunt Miriam. Aunt Lucy's the easiest person in the + world to please, and I'll try and keep her away from uncle Rolf. I think + we can get along. I know Barby used to like me." + </p> + <p> + "But then Barby knows nothing about French cooking, my child; she can do + nothing but the common country things. What will your uncle and aunt say + to that?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda, "but anything is better than nothing. I must + try and do what she can't do. I'll come up and get you to teach me, aunt + Miriam." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam hugged and kissed her before speaking. + </p> + <p> + "I'll teach you what I know, my darling;--and now we'll go right off and + see Barby--we shall catch her just in a good time." + </p> + <p> + It was a poor little unpainted house, standing back from the road, and + with a double row of boards laid down to serve as a path to it. But this + board-walk was scrubbed perfectly clean. They went in without knocking. + There was nobody there but an old woman seated before the fire shaking all + over with the St. Vitus's Dance. She gave them no salutation, calling + instead on "Barby!"--who presently made her appearance from the inner + door. + </p> + <p> + "Barby!--who's this?" + </p> + <p> + "That's Mis' Plumfield, mother," said the daughter, speaking loud as to a + deaf person. + </p> + <p> + The old lady immediately got up and dropped a very quick and what was + meant to be a very respect-shewing curtsey, saying at the same time with + much deference and with one of her involuntary twitches,--"I ''maun' to + know!"--The sense of the ludicrous and the feeling of pity together were + painfully oppressive. Fleda turned away to the daughter who came forward + and shook hands with a frank look of pleasure at the sight of her elder + visitor. + </p> + <p> + "Barby," said Mrs. Plumfield, "this is little Fleda Ringgan--do you + remember her?" + </p> + <p> + "I 'mind to know!" said Barby, transferring her hand to Fleda's and giving + it a good squeeze.--"She's growed a fine gal, Mis' Plumfield. You ha'n't + lost none of your good looks--ha' you kept all your old goodness along + with 'em?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda laughed at this abrupt question, and said she didn't know. + </p> + <p> + "If you ha'n't, I wouldn't give much for your eyes," said Barby letting go + her hand. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Plumfield laughed too at Barby's equivocal mode of complimenting. + </p> + <p> + "Who's that young gal, Barby?" inquired Mrs. Elster. + </p> + <p> + "That's Mis' Plumfield's niece, mother!" + </p> + <p> + "She's a handsome little creetur, ain't she?" + </p> + <p> + They all laughed at that, and Fleda's cheeks growing crimson, Mrs. + Plumfield stepped forward to ask after the old lady's health; and while + she talked and listened Fleda's eyes noted the spotless condition of the + room--the white table, the nice rag-carpet, the bright many-coloured + patch-work counterpane on the bed, the brilliant cleanliness of the floor + where the small carpet left the boards bare, the tidy look of the two + women; and she made up her mind that <i>she</i> could get along with Miss + Barbara very well. Barby was rather tall, and in face decidedly a + fine-looking woman, though her figure had the usual scantling proportions + which nature or fashion assigns to the hard-working dwellers in the + country. A handsome quick grey eye and the mouth were sufficiently + expressive of character, and perhaps of temper, but there were no lines of + anything sinister or surly; you could imagine a flash, but not a cloud. + </p> + <p> + "Barby, you are not tied at home any longer, are you?" said Mrs. + Plumfield, coming back from the old lady and speaking rather low;--"now + that Hetty is here, can't your mother spare you?" + </p> + <p> + "Well I reckon she could, Mis' Plumfield,--if I could work it so that + she'd be more comfortable by my being away." + </p> + <p> + "Then you'd have no objection to go out again?" + </p> + <p> + "Where to?" + </p> + <p> + "Fleda's uncle, you know, has taken my brother's old place, and they have + no help. They want somebody to take the whole management--just you, Barby. + Mrs. Rossitur isn't strong." + </p> + <p> + "Nor don't want to be, does she? I've heerd tell of her. Mis' Plumfield, I + should despise to have as many legs and arms as other folks and not be + able to help myself!" + </p> + <p> + "But you wouldn't despise to help other folks, I hope," said Mrs. + Plumfield smiling. + </p> + <p> + "People that want you very much too," said Fleda; for she quite longed to + have that strong hand and healthy eye to rely upon at home. Barby looked + at her with a relaxed face, and after a little consideration said "she + guessed she'd try." + </p> + <p> + "Mis' Plumfield," cried the old lady as they were moving,--"Mis' + Plumfield, you said you'd send me a piece of pork." + </p> + <p> + "I haven't forgotten it, Mrs. Elster--you shall have it." + </p> + <p> + "Well you get it out for me yourself," said the old woman speaking very + energetically,--"don't you send no one else to the barrel for't; because I + know you'll give me the biggest piece." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Plumfield laughed and promised. + </p> + <p> + "I'll come up and work it out some odd day," said the daughter nodding + intelligently as she followed them to the door. + </p> + <p> + "We'll talk about that," said Mrs. Plumfield. + </p> + <p> + "She was wonderful pleased with the pie," said Barby, "and so was Hetty; + she ha'n't seen anything so good, she says, since she quit Queechy." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Barby," said Mrs. Plumfield, as she turned and grasped her hand, + "did you remember your Thanksgiving over it?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Mis' Plumfield," and the fine grey eyes fell to the floor,--"but I + minded it only because it had come from you. I seemed to hear you saying + just that out of every bone I picked." + </p> + <p> + "You minded <i>my</i> message," said the other gently. + </p> + <p> + "Well I don't mind the things I had ought to most," said Barby in a + subdued voice,--"never!--'cept mother--I ain't very apt to forget her." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Plumfield saw a tell-tale glittering beneath the drooping eye-lid. + She added no more but a sympathetic strong squeeze of the hand she held, + and turned to follow Fleda who had gone on ahead. + </p> + <p> + "Mis' Plumfield!" said Barby, before they had reached the stile that led + into the road, where Fleda was standing,--"Will I be sure of having the + money regular down yonder? You know I hadn't ought to go otherways, on + account of mother." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it will be sure," said Mrs. Plumfield,--"and regular;" adding + quietly, "I'll make it so." + </p> + <p> + There was a bond for the whole amount in aunt Miriam's eyes; and quite + satisfied, Barby went back to the house. + </p> + <p> + "Will she expect to come to our table, aunt Miriam?" said Fleda when they + had walked a little way. + </p> + <p> + "No--she will not expect that--but Barby will want a different kind of + managing from those Irish women of yours. She won't bear to be spoken to + in a way that don't suit her notions of what she thinks she deserves; and + perhaps your aunt and uncle will think her notions rather high--I don't + know." + </p> + <p> + "There is no difficulty with aunt Lucy," said Fleda;--"and I guess I can + manage uncle Rolf--I'll try. <i>I</i> like her very much." + </p> + <p> + "Barby is very poor," said Mrs. Plumfield; "she has nothing but her own + earnings to support herself and her old mother, and now I suppose her + sister and her child; for Hetty is a poor thing--never did much, and now I + suppose does nothing." + </p> + <p> + "Are those Finns poor, aunt Miriam?" + </p> + <p> + "O no--not at all--they are very well off." + </p> + <p> + "So I thought--they seemed to have plenty of everything, and silver spoons + and all. But why then do they go out to work?" + </p> + <p> + "They are a little too fond of getting money I expect," said aunt Miriam. + "And they are a queer sort of people rather--the mother is queer and the + children are queer--they ain't like other folks exactly--never were." + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad we are to have Barby instead of that Lucy Finn," said + Fleda. "O aunt Miriam! you can't think how much easier my heart feels." + </p> + <p> + "Poor child!" said aunt Miriam looking at her. "But it isn't best, Fleda, + to have things work too smooth in this world." + </p> + <p> + "No, I suppose not," said Fleda sighing. "Isn't it very strange, aunt + Miriam, that it should make people worse instead of better to have + everything go pleasantly with them?" + </p> + <p> + "It is because they are apt then to be so full of the present that they + forget the care of the future." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and forget there is anything better than the present, I suppose," + said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "So we mustn't fret at the ways our Father takes to keep us from hurting + ourselves?" said aunt Miriam cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + "O no!" said Fleda, looking up brightly in answer to the tender manner in + which these words were spoken;--"and I didn't mean that <i>this</i> is + much of a trouble--only I am very glad to think that somebody is coming + to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam thought that gentle unfretful face could not stand in need of + much discipline. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="21"></a>Chapter XXI. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Wise men alway<br /> Affyrme and say,<br /> That best is for a man<br /> + Diligently,<br /> For to apply,<br /> The business that he can. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + More. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Fleda waited for Barby's coming the next day with a little anxiety. The + introduction and installation however were happily got over. Mrs. + Rossitur, as Fleda knew, was most easily pleased; and Barby Elster's quick + eye was satisfied with the unaffected and universal gentleness and + politeness of her new employer. She made herself at home in half an hour; + and Mrs. Rossitur and Fleda were comforted to perceive, by unmistakeable + signs, that their presence was not needed in the kitchen and they might + retire to their own premises and forget there was another part of the + house. Fleda had forgotten it utterly, and deliciously enjoying the rest + of mind and body she was stretched upon the sofa, luxuriating over some + volume from her remnant of a library; when the inner door was suddenly + pushed open far enough to admit the entrance of Miss Elster's head. + </p> + <p> + "Where's the soft soap?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's book went down and her heart jumped to her mouth, for her uncle + was sitting over by the window. Mrs. Rossitur looked up in a maze and + waited for the question to be repeated. + </p> + <p> + "I say, where's the soft soap?" + </p> + <p> + "Soft soap!" said Mrs. Rossitur,--"I don't know whether there is + any.--Fleda, do you know?" + </p> + <p> + "I was trying to think, aunt Lucy. I don't believe there is any." + </p> + <p> + "<i>Where</i> is it?" said Barby. + </p> + <p> + "There is none, I believe," said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Where <i>was</i> it, then?" + </p> + <p> + "Nowhere--there has not been any in the house," said Fleda, raising + herself up to see over the back of her sofa. + </p> + <p> + "There ha'n't been none!" said Miss Elster, in a tone more significant + than her words, and shutting the door as abruptly as she had opened it. + </p> + <p> + "What upon earth does the woman mean?" exclaimed Mr. Rossitur, springing + up and advancing towards the kitchen door. Fleda threw herself before him. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing at all, uncle Rolf--she doesn't mean anything at all--she doesn't + know any better." + </p> + <p> + "I will improve her knowledge--get out the way, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "But uncle Rolf, just hear me one moment--please don't!--she didn't mean + any harm--these people don't know any manners--just let me speak to her, + please uncle Rolf!--" said Fleda laying both hands upon her uncle's + arms,--"I'll manage her." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur's wrath was high, and he would have run over or knocked down + anything less gentle that had stood in his way; but even the harshness of + strength shuns to set itself in array against the meekness that does not + <i>oppose</i>; if the touch of those hands had been a whit less light, or + the glance of her eye less submissively appealing, it would have availed + nothing. As it was, he stopped and looked at her, at first scowling, but + then with a smile. + </p> + <p> + "<i>You</i> manage her!" said he. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda laughing, and now exerting her force she gently pushed + him back towards the seat he had quitted,--"yes. uncle Rolf--you've enough + else to manage--don't undertake our 'help.' Deliver over all your + displeasure upon me when anything goes wrong--I will be the conductor to + carry it off safely into the kitchen and discharge it just at that point + where I think it will do most execution. Now will you, uncle + Rolf?--Because we have got a new-fashioned piece of firearms in the other + room that I am afraid will go off unexpectedly if it is meddled with by an + unskilful hand;--and that would leave us without arms, you see, or with + only aunt Lucy's and mine, which are not reliable." + </p> + <p> + "You saucy girl!"--said her uncle, who was laughing partly at and partly + with her,--"I don't know what you deserve exactly.--Well--keep this + precious new operative of yours out of my way and I'll take care to keep + out of hers. But mind, you must manage not to have your piece snapping in + my face in this fashion, for I won't stand it." + </p> + <p> + And so, quieted, Mr. Rossitur sat down to his book again; and Fleda + leaving hers open went to attend upon Barby. + </p> + <p> + "There ain't much yallow soap neither," said this personage,--"if this is + all. There's one thing--if we ha'n't got it we can make it. I must get + Mis' Rossitur to have a leach-tub sot up right away. I'm a dreadful hand + for havin' plenty o' soap." + </p> + <p> + "What is a leach-tub?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Why, a leach-tub, for to leach ashes in. That's easy enough. I'll fix it, + afore we're any on us much older. If Mr. Rossitur'll keep me in good hard + wood I sha'n't cost him hardly anything for potash." + </p> + <p> + "I'll see about it," said Fleda, "and I will see about having the + leach-tub, or whatever it is, put up for you. And Barby, whenever you want + anything, will you just speak to me about it?--and if I am in the other + room ask me to come out here. Because my aunt is not strong, and does not + know where things are as well as I do; and when my uncle is in there he + sometimes does not like to be disturbed with hearing any such talk. If + you'll tell me I'll see and have everything done for you." + </p> + <p> + "Well--you get me a leach sot up--that's all I'll ask of you just now," + said Barby good-humouredly; "and help me to find the soap-grease, if there + is any. As to the rest, I don't want to see nothin' o' him in the kitchen + so I'll relieve him if he don't want to see much o' me in the parlour.--I + shouldn't wonder if there wa'n't a speck of it in the house." + </p> + <p> + Not a speck was there to be found. + </p> + <p> + "Your uncle's pockets must ha' had a good hole in 'em by this time," + remarked Barby as they came back from the cellar. "However, there never + was a crock so empty it couldn't be filled. You get me a leach-tub sot up, + and I'll find work for it." + </p> + <p> + From that time Fleda had no more trouble with her uncle and Barby. Each + seemed to have a wholesome appreciation of the other's combative qualities + and to shun them. With Mrs. Rossitur Barby was soon all-powerful. It was + enough that she wanted a thing, if Mrs Rossitur's own resources could + compass it. For Fleda, to say that Barby had presently a perfect + understanding with her and joined to that a most affectionate careful + regard, is not perhaps saying much; for it was true of every one without + exception with whom Fleda had much to do. Barby was to all of them a very + great comfort and stand-by. + </p> + <p> + It was well for them that they had her within doors to keep things, as she + called it, "right and tight;" for abroad the only system in vogue was one + of fluctuation and uncertainty. Mr. Rossitur's Irishman, Donohan, staid + his year out, doing as little good and as much at least negative harm as + he well could; and then went, leaving them a good deal poorer than he + found them. Dr. Gregory's generosity had added to Mr. Rossitur's own small + stock of ready money, giving him the means to make some needed outlays on + the farm. But the outlay, ill-applied, had been greater than the income; a + scarcity of money began to be more and more felt; and the comfort of the + family accordingly drew within more and more narrow bounds. The temper of + the head of the family suffered in at least equal degree. + </p> + <p> + From the first of Barby's coming poor Fleda had done her utmost to prevent + the want of Mons. Emile from being felt. Mr. Rossitur's table was always + set by her careful hand, and all the delicacies that came upon it were, + unknown to him, of her providing. Even the bread. One day at breakfast Mr. + Rossitur had expressed his impatient displeasure at that of Miss Elster's + manufacture. Fleda saw the distressed shade that came over her aunt's + face, and took her resolution. It was the last time. She had followed her + plan of sending for the receipts, and she studied them diligently, both at + home and under aunt Miriam. Natural quickness of eye and hand came in aid + of her affectionate zeal, and it was not long before she could trust + herself to undertake any operation in the whole range of her cookery book. + But meanwhile materials were growing scarce and hard to come by. The + delicate French rolls which were now always ready for her uncle's plate in + the morning had sometimes nothing to back them, unless the unfailing water + cress from the good little spring in the meadow. Fleda could not spare her + eggs, for perhaps they might have nothing else to depend upon for dinner. + It was no burden to her to do these things; she had a sufficient reward in + seeing that her aunt and Hugh eat the better and that her uncle's brow was + clear; but it <i>was</i> a burden when her hands were tied by the lack of + means; for she knew the failure of the usual supply was bitterly felt, not + for the actual want, but for that other want which it implied and + prefigured. + </p> + <p> + On the first dismissal of Donohan Fleda hoped for a good turn of affairs. + But Mr. Rossitur, disgusted with his first experiment, resolved this + season to be his own head man; and appointed Lucas Springer the second in + command, with a posse of labourers to execute his decrees. It did not work + well. Mr. Rossitur found he had a very tough prime minister, who would + have every one of his plans to go through a kind of winnowing process by + being tossed about in an argument. The arguments were interminable, until + Mr. Rossitur not unfrequently quit the field with, "Well, do what you like + about it!"--not conquered, but wearied. The labourers, either from want of + ready money or of what they called "manners" in their employer, fell off + at the wrong times, just when they were most wanted. Hugh threw himself + then into the breach and wrought beyond his strength; and that tried Fleda + worst of all. She was glad to see haying and harvest pass over; but the + change of seasons seemed to bring only a change of disagreeableness, and + she could not find that hope had any better breathing-time in the short + days of winter than in the long days of summer. Her gentle face grew more + gentle than ever, for under the shade of sorrowful patience which was + always there now its meekness had no eclipse. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur was struck with it one morning. She was coming down from her + room and saw Fleda standing on the landing-place gazing out of the window. + It was before breakfast one cold morning in winter. Mrs. Rossitur put her + arms round her softly and kissed her. + </p> + <p> + "What are you thinking about, dear Fleda?--you ought not to be standing + here." + </p> + <p> + "I was looking at Hugh," said Fleda, and her eye went back to the window. + Mrs. Rossitur's followed it. The window gave them a view of the ground + behind the house; and there was Hugh, just coming in with a large armful + of heavy wood which he had been sawing. + </p> + <p> + "He isn't strong enough to do that, aunt Lucy," said Fleda softly. + </p> + <p> + "I know it," said his mother in a subdued tone, and not moving her eye, + though Hugh had disappeared. + </p> + <p> + "It is too cold for him--he is too thinly clad to bear this exposure," + said Fleda anxiously. + </p> + <p> + "I know it," said his mother again. + </p> + <p> + "Can't you tell uncle Rolf?--can't you get him to do it? I am afraid Hugh + will hurt himself, aunt Lucy." + </p> + <p> + "I did tell him the other day--I did speak to him about it," said Mrs. + Rossitur; "but he said there was no reason why Hugh should do it,--there + were plenty of other people--" + </p> + <p> + "But how can he say so when he knows we never can ask Lucas to do anything + of the kind, and that other man always contrives to be out of the way when + he is wanted?--Oh what is he thinking of?" said Fleda bitterly, as she saw + Hugh again at his work. + </p> + <p> + It was so rarely that Fleda was seen to shed tears that they always were a + signal of dismay to any of the household. There was even agony in Mrs. + Rossitur's voice as she implored her not to give way to them. But + notwithstanding that, Fleda's tears came this time from too deep a spring + to be stopped at once. + </p> + <p> + "It makes me feel as if all was lost, Fleda, when I see you do so,"-- + </p> + <p> + Fleda put her arms about her neck and whispered that "she would not"--that + "she should not"-- + </p> + <p> + Yet it was a little while before she could say any more. + </p> + <p> + "But, aunt Lucy, he doesn't know what he is doing!" + </p> + <p> + "No--and I can't make him know. I cannot say anything more, Fleda--it + would do no good. I don't know what is the matter--he is entirely changed + from what he used to be--" + </p> + <p> + "I know what is the matter," said Fleda, now turning comforter in her turn + as her aunt's tears fell more quietly, because more despairingly, than her + own,--"I know what it is--he is not happy;--that is all. He has not + succeeded well in these farm doings, and he wants money, and he is + worried--it is no wonder if he don't seem exactly as he used to." + </p> + <p> + "And oh, that troubles me most of all!" said Mrs. Rossitur. "The farm is + bringing in nothing, I know,--he don't know how to get along with it,--I + was afraid it would be so;--and we are paying nothing to uncle Orrin--and + it is just a dead weight on his hands;--and I can't bear to think of + it!--And what will it come to!--" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur was now in her turn surprised into shewing the strength of + her sorrows and apprehensions. Fleda was fain to put her own out of sight + and bend her utmost powers to soothe and compose her aunt, till they could + both go down to the breakfast table. She had got ready a nice little dish + that her uncle was very fond of; but her pleasure in it was all gone; and + indeed it seemed to be thrown away upon the whole table. Half the meal was + over before anybody said a word. + </p> + <p> + "I am going to wash my hands of these miserable farm affairs," said Mr. + Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Are you?" said his wife. + </p> + <p> + "Yes,--of all personal concern in them, that is. I am wearied to death + with the perpetual annoyances and vexations, and petty calls upon my + time--life is not worth having at such a rate! I'll have done with it." + </p> + <p> + "You will give up the entire charge to Lucas?" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus13.jpg"><img src="images/illus13.jpg" height="250" + alt="'O uncle Rolf, don't have anything to do with him.'" + title="'O uncle Rolf, don't have anything to do with him.'" /><br /> "O + uncle Rolf, don't have anything to do with him."</a> + </p> + <p> + "Lucas!--No!--I wouldn't undergo that man's tongue for another year if he + would take out his wages in talking. I could not have more of it in that + case than I have had the last six months. After money, the thing that man + loves best is certainly the sound of his own voice; and a most + insufferable egotist! No,--I have been talking with a man who wants to + take the whole farm for two years upon shares--that will clear me of all + trouble." + </p> + <p> + There was sober silence for a few minutes, and then Mrs. Rossitur asked + who it was. + </p> + <p> + "His name is Didenhover." + </p> + <p> + "O uncle Rolf, don't have anything to do with him!" exclaimed Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" + </p> + <p> + "Because he lived with grandpa a great while ago, and behaved very ill. + Grandpa had a great deal of trouble with him." + </p> + <p> + "How old were you then?" + </p> + <p> + "I was young, to be sure," said Fleda hanging her head, "but I remember + very well how it was." + </p> + <p> + "You may have occasion to remember it a second time," said Mr. Rossitur + dryly, "for the thing is done. I have engaged him." + </p> + <p> + Not another word was spoken. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur went out after breakfast, and Mrs. Rossitur busied herself + with the breakfast cups and a tub of hot water, a work she never would let + Fleda share with her and which lasted in consequence long enough, Barby + said, to cook and eat three breakfasts. Fleda and Hugh sat looking at the + floor and the fire respectively. + </p> + <p> + "I am going up the hill to get a sight of aunt Miriam," said Fleda, + bringing her eyes from the fire upon her aunt. + </p> + <p> + "Well, dear, do. You have been shut up long enough by the snow. Wrap + yourself up well, and put on my snow-boots." + </p> + <p> + "No indeed!" said Fleda. "I shall just draw on another pair of stockings + over my shoes, within my India-rubbers--I will take a pair of Hugh's + woollen ones." + </p> + <p> + "What has become of your own?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "My own what? Stockings?" + </p> + <p> + "Snow-boots." + </p> + <p> + "Worn out, Mr. Rossitur! I have run them to death, poor things. Is that a + slight intimation that you are afraid of the same fate for your socks?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Hugh, smiling in spite of himself at her manner,--"I will lend + you anything I have got, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + His tone put Fleda in mind of the very doubtful pretensions of the socks + in question to be comprehended under the term; she was silent a minute. + </p> + <p> + "Will you go with me, Hugh?" + </p> + <p> + "No dear, I can't;--I must get a little ahead with the wood while I can; + it looks as if it would snow again; and Barby isn't provided for more than + a day or two." + </p> + <p> + "And how for this fire?" + </p> + <p> + Hugh shook his head, and rose up to go forth into the kitchen. Fleda went + too, linking her arm in his and bearing affectionately upon it, a sort of + tacit saying that they would sink or swim together. Hugh understood it + perfectly. + </p> + <p> + "I am very sorry you have to do it, dear Hugh--Oh that wood-shed!--If it + had only been made!--" + </p> + <p> + "Never mind--can't help it now--we shall get through the winter by and + by." + </p> + <p> + "Can't you get uncle Rolf to help you a little?" whispered Fleda;--"It + would do him good." But Hugh only shook his head. + </p> + <p> + "What are we going to do for dinner, Barby?" said Fleda, still holding + Hugh there before the fire. + </p> + <p> + "Ain't much choice," said Barby. "It would puzzle anybody to spell much + more out of it than pork and ham. There's plenty o' them. <i>I</i> shan't + starve this some time." + </p> + <p> + "But we had ham yesterday and pork the day before yesterday and ham + Monday," said Fleda. "There is plenty of vegetables, thanks to you and me, + Hugh," she said with a little reminding squeeze of his arm. "I could make + soups nicely, if I had anything to make them of!" + </p> + <p> + "There's enough to be had for the catching," said Barby. "If I hadn't a + man-mountain of work upon me, I'd start out and shoot or steal something." + </p> + <p> + "<i>You</i> shoot, Barby!" said Fleda laughing. + </p> + <p> + "I guess I can do most anything I set my hand to. If I couldn't I'd shoot + myself. It won't do to kill no more o' them chickens." + </p> + <p> + "O no,--now they are laying so finely. Well, I am going up the hill, and + when I come home I'll try and make up something, Barby." + </p> + <p> + "Earl Douglass'll go out in the woods now and then, of a day when he + ha'n't no work particular to do, and fetch hum as many pigeons and + woodchucks as you could shake a stick at." + </p> + <p> + "Hugh, my dear," said Fleda laughing, "it's a pity you aren't a hunter--I + would shake a stick at you with great pleasure. Well, Barby, we will see + when I come home." + </p> + <p> + "I was just a thinkin," said Barby;--"Mis' Douglass sent round to know if + Mis' Rossitur would like a piece of fresh meat--Earl's been killing a + sheep--there's a nice quarter, she says, if she'd like to have it." + </p> + <p> + "A quarter of mutton?"--said Fleda,--"I don't know--no, I think not, + Barby; I don't know when we should be able to pay it back again.--And + yet--Hugh, do you think uncle Rolf will kill another sheep this winter?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sure he will not," said Hugh;--"there have so many died." + </p> + <p> + "If he only knowed it, that is a reason for killing more," said Barby,--" + and have the good of them while he can." + </p> + <p> + "Tell Mrs. Douglass we are obliged to her, but we do not want the mutton, + Barby." + </p> + <p> + Hugh went to his chopping and Fleda set out upon her walk; the lines of + her face settling into a most fixed gravity so soon as she turned away + from the house. It was what might be called a fine winter's day; cold and + still, and the sky covered with one uniform grey cloud. The snow lay in + uncompromising whiteness thick over all the world; a kindly shelter for + the young grain and covering for the soil; but Fleda's spirits just then + in another mood saw in it only the cold refusal to hope and the barren + check to exertion. The wind had cleared the snow from the trees and + fences, and they stood in all their unsoftened blackness and nakedness, + bleak and stern. The high grey sky threatened a fresh fall of snow in a + few hours; it was just now a lull between two storms; and Fleda's spirits, + that sometimes would have laughed in the face of nature's soberness, + to-day sank to its own quiet. Her pace neither slackened nor quickened + till she reached aunt Miriam's house and entered the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam was in high tide of business over a pot of boiling lard, and + the enormous bread-tray by the side of the fire was half full of very + tempting light-brown cruller, which however were little more than a kind + of sweet bread for the workmen. In the bustle of putting in and taking out + aunt Miriam could give her visitor but a word and a look. Fleda pulled off + her hood and sitting down watched in unusual silence the old lady's + operations. + </p> + <p> + "And how are they all at your house to-day?" aunt Miriam asked as she was + carefully draining her cruller out of the kettle. + </p> + <p> + Fleda answered that they were as well as usual, but a slight hesitation + and the tell-tale tone of her voice made the old lady look at her more + narrowly. She came near and kissed that gentle brow and looking in her + eyes asked her what the matter was? + </p> + <p> + "I don't know,--" said Fleda, eyes and voice wavering alike,--"I am + foolish, I believe,--" + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam tenderly put aside the hair from her forehead and kissed it + again, but the cruller was burning and she went back to the kettle. + </p> + <p> + "I got down-hearted somehow this morning," Fleda went on, trying to steady + her voice and school herself. + </p> + <p> + "<i>You</i> down-hearted, dear? About what?" + </p> + <p> + There was a world of sympathy in these words, in the warmth of which + Fleda's shut-up heart unfolded itself at once. + </p> + <p> + "It's nothing new, aunt Miriam,--only somehow I felt it particularly this + morning,--I have been kept in the house so long by this snow I have got + dumpish I suppose.--" + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam looked anxiously at the tears which seemed to come + involuntarily, but she said nothing. + </p> + <p> + "We are not getting along well at home." + </p> + <p> + "I supposed that," said Mrs. Plumfield quietly. "But anything new?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--uncle Rolf has let the farm--only think of it!--he has let the farm + to that Didenhover." + </p> + <p> + "Didenhover!" + </p> + <p> + "For two years." + </p> + <p> + "Did you tell him what you knew about him?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but it was too late--the mischief was done." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam went on skimming out her cruller with a very grave face. + </p> + <p> + "How came your uncle to do so without learning about him first?" + </p> + <p> + "O I don't know!--he was in a hurry to do anything that would take the + trouble of the farm off his hands,--he don't like it." + </p> + <p> + "On what terms has he let him have it?" + </p> + <p> + "On shares--and I know, I know, under that Didenhover it will bring us in + nothing, and it has brought us in nothing all the time we have been here; + and I don't know what we are going to live upon."-- + </p> + <p> + "Has your uncle nor your aunt no property at all left?" + </p> + <p> + "Not a bit--except some waste lands in Michigan I believe, that were left + to aunt Lucy a year or two ago; but they are as good as nothing." + </p> + <p> + "Has he let Didenhover have the saw-mill too?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--he didn't say--if he has there will be nothing at all left + for us to live upon. I expect nothing from Didenhover,--his face is + enough. I should have thought it might have been for uncle Rolf. O if it + wasn't for aunt Lucy and Hugh I shouldn't care!--" + </p> + <p> + "What has your uncle been doing all this year past?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, aunt Miriam,--he can't bear the business and he has left + the most of it to Lucas; and I think Lucas is more of a talker than a + doer. Almost nothing has gone right. The crops have been ill managed--I do + not know a great deal about it, but I know enough for that; and uncle Rolf + did not know anything about it but what he got from books. And the sheep + are dying off--Barby says it is because they were in such poor condition + at the beginning of winter, and I dare say she is right." + </p> + <p> + "He ought to have had a thorough good man at the beginning, to get along + well." + </p> + <p> + "O yes!--but he hadn't, you see; and so we have just been growing poorer + every month. And now, aunt Miriam, I really don't know from day to day + what to do to get dinner. You know for a good while after we came we used + to have our marketing brought every few days from Albany; but we have run + up such a bill there already at the butcher's as I don't know when in the + world will get paid; and aunt Lucy and I will do anything before we will + send for any more; and if it wasn't for her and Hugh I wouldn't care, but + they haven't much appetite, and I know that all this takes what little + they have away--this, and seeing the effect it has upon uncle Rolf----" + </p> + <p> + "Does he think so much more of eating than of anything else?" said aunt + Miriam. + </p> + <p> + "Oh no, it is not that!" said Fleda earnestly,--"it is not that at all--he + is not a great eater--but he can't bear to have things different from what + they used to be and from what they ought to be--O no, don't think that! I + don't know whether I ought to have said what I have said, but I couldn't + help it--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's voice was lost for a little while. + </p> + <p> + "He is changed from what he used to be--a little thing vexes him now, and + I know it is because he is not happy;--he used to be so kind and pleasant, + and he is still, sometimes; but aunt Lucy's face--Oh aunt Miriam!--" + </p> + <p> + "Why, dear?" said aunt Miriam, tenderly. + </p> + <p> + "It is so changed from what it used to be!" + </p> + <p> + Poor Fleda covered her own, and aunt Miriam came to her side to give + softer and gentler expression to sympathy than words could do; till the + bowed face was raised again and hid in her neck. + </p> + <p> + "I can't see thee do so my child--my dear child!--Hope for brighter days, + dear Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "I could bear it," said Fleda after a little interval, "if it wasn't for + aunt Lucy and Hugh--oh that is the worst!--" + </p> + <p> + "What about Hugh?" said aunt Miriam, soothingly. + </p> + <p> + "Oh he does what he ought not to do, aunt Miriam, and there is no help for + it,--and he did last summer--when we wanted men; and in the hot + haying-time, he used to work, I know, beyond his strength,--and aunt Lucy + and I did not know what to do with ourselves!--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's head which had been raised sunk again and more heavily. + </p> + <p> + "Where was his father?" said Mrs. Plumfield. + </p> + <p> + "Oh he was in the house--he didn't know it--he didn't think about it." + </p> + <p> + "Didn't think about it!" + </p> + <p> + "No--O he didn't think Hugh was hurting himself, but he was--he shewed it + for weeks afterward.--I have said what I ought not now," said Fleda + looking up and seeming to check her tears and the spring of them at once. + </p> + <p> + "So much security any woman has in a man without religion!" said aunt + Miriam, going back to her work. Fleda would have said something if she + could; she was silent; she stood looking into the fire while the tears + seemed to come as it were by stealth and ran down her face unregarded. + </p> + <p> + "Is Hugh not well?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know,--" said Fleda faintly,--"he is not ill--but he never was + very strong, and he exposes himself now I know in a way he ought not.--I + am sorry I have just come and troubled you with all this now, aunt + Miriam," she said after a little pause,--"I shall feel better by and by--I + don't very often get such a fit." + </p> + <p> + "My dear little Fleda!"--and there was unspeakable tenderness in the old + lady's voice, as she came up and drew Fleda's head again to rest upon + her;--"I would not let a rough wind touch thee if I had the holding of + it.--But we may be glad the arranging of things is not in my hand--I + should be a poor friend after all, for I do not know what is best. Canst + thou trust him who does know, my child?" + </p> + <p> + "I do, aunt Miriam,--O I do," said Fleda, burying her face in her + bosom;--"I don't often feel so as I did to-day." + </p> + <p> + "There comes not a cloud that its shadow is not wanted," said aunt Miriam. + "I cannot see why,--but it is that thou mayest bloom the brighter, my dear + one." + </p> + <p> + "I know it,--" Fleda's words were hardly audible,--"I will try--" + </p> + <p> + "Remember his own message to every one under a cloud--'cast all thy care + upon him, for he careth for thee;'--thou mayest keep none of it;--and then + the peace that passeth understanding shall keep thee. 'So he giveth his + beloved sleep.'" + </p> + <p> + Fleda wept for a minute on the old lady's neck, and then she looked up, + dried her tears, and sat down with a face greatly quieted and lightened of + its burden; while aunt Miriam once more went back to her work. The one + wrought and the other looked on in silence. + </p> + <p> + The cruller were all done at last; the great bread-trough was filled and + set away; the remnant of the fat was carefully disposed of, and aunt + Miriam's handmaid was called in to "take the watch." She herself and her + visitor adjourned to the sitting-room. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Fleda, in a tone again steady and clear,--"I must go home to + see about getting up a dinner. I am the greatest hand at making something + out of nothing, aunt Miriam, that ever you saw. There is nothing like + practice. I only wish the man uncle Orrin talks about would come along + once in a while." + </p> + <p> + "Who was that?" said aunt Miriam. + </p> + <p> + "A man that used to go about from house to house," said Fleda laughing, + "when the cottages were making soup, with a ham-bone to give it a relish, + and he used to charge them so much for a dip, and so much for a wallop." + </p> + <p> + "Come, come, I can do as much for you as that," said aunt Miriam, + proceeding to her store-pantry,--"see here--wouldn't this be as good as a + ham-bone?" said she, bringing out of it a fat fowl;--"how would a wallop + of this do?" + </p> + <p> + "Admirably!--only--the ham-bone used to come out again,--and I am + confident this never would." + </p> + <p> + "Well I guess I'll stand that," said aunt Miriam smiling,--"you wouldn't + mind carrying this under your cloak, would you?" + </p> + <p> + "I have no doubt I shall go home lighter with it than without it, + ma'am,--thank you, dear aunty!--dear aunt Miriam!" + </p> + <p> + There was a change of tone, and of eye, as Fleda sealed each thank with a + kiss. + </p> + <p> + "But how is it?--does all the charge of the house come upon you, dear?" + </p> + <p> + "O, this kind of thing, because aunt Lucy doesn't understand it and can't + get along with it so well. She likes better to sew, and I had quite as + lief do this." + </p> + <p> + "And don't you sew too?" + </p> + <p> + "O--a little. She does as much as she can," said Fleda gravely. + </p> + <p> + "Where is your other cousin?" said Mrs. Plumfield abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "Marion?--she is in England I believe;--we don't hear from her very + often." + </p> + <p> + "No, no, I mean the one who is in the army?" + </p> + <p> + "Charlton!--O he is just ordered off to Mexico," said Fleda sadly, "and + that is another great trouble to aunt Lucy. This miserable war!--" + </p> + <p> + "Does he never come home?" + </p> + <p> + "Only once since we came from Paris--while we were in New York. He has + been stationed away off at the West." + </p> + <p> + "He has a captain's pay now, hasn't he?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but he doesn't know at all how things are at home--he hasn't an idea + of it,--and he will not have. Well good-bye, dear aunt Miriam--I must run + home to take care of my chicken." + </p> + <p> + She ran away; and if her eyes many a time on the way down the hill filled + and overflowed, they were not bitter nor dark tears; they were the + gushings of high and pure and generous affections, weeping for fulness, + not for want. + </p> + <p> + That chicken was not wasted in soup; it was converted into the nicest + possible little fricassee, because the toast would make so much more of + it; and to Fleda's own dinner little went beside the toast, that a greater + portion of the rest might be for her aunt and Hugh. + </p> + <p> + That same evening Seth Plumfield came into the kitchen while Fleda was + there. + </p> + <p> + "Here is something belongs to you, I believe," said he with a covert + smile, bringing out from under his cloak the mate to Fleda's + fowl;--"mother said somethin' had run away with t'other one and she didn't + know what to do with this one alone. Your uncle at home?" + </p> + <p> + The next news that Fleda heard was that Seth had taken a lease of the + saw-mill for two years. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Didenhover did not disappoint Fleda's expectations. Very little could + be got from him or the farm under him beyond the immediate supply wanted + for the use of the family; and that in kind, not in cash. Mrs. Rossitur + was comforted by knowing that some portion of rent had also gone to Dr. + Gregory--how large or how small a portion she could not find out. But this + left the family in increasing straits, which narrowed and narrowed during + the whole first summer and winter of Didenhover's administration. Very + straitened they would have been but for the means of relief adopted by the + two <i>children</i>, as they were always called. Hugh, as soon as the + spring opened, had a quiet hint, through Fleda, that if he had a mind to + take the working of the saw-mill he might, for a consideration merely + nominal. This offer was immediately and gratefully closed with; and Hugh's + earnings were thenceforward very important at home. Fleda had her own ways + and means. Mr. Rossitur, more low-spirited and gloomy than ever, seemed to + have no heart to anything. He would have worked perhaps if he could have + done it alone; but to join Didenhover and his men, or any other gang of + workmen, was too much for his magnanimity. He helped nobody but Fleda. For + her he would do anything, at any time; and in the garden and among her + flowers in the flowery courtyard he might often be seen at work with her. + But nowhere else. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="22"></a>Chapter XXII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Some bring a capon, some a rurall cake,<br /> Some nuts, some apples; + some that thinke they make<br /> The better cheeses, bring 'hem; or else + send<br /> By their ripe daughters, whom they would commend<br /> This way + to husbands; and whose baskets beare<br /> An embleme of themselves, in + plum or peare. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Ben Jonson. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + So the time walked away, for this family was not now of those "whom time + runneth withal,"--to the second summer of Mr. Didenhover's term. + </p> + <p> + One morning Mrs. Rossitur was seated in the breakfast-room at her usual + employment, mending and patching; no sinecure now. Fleda opened the + kitchen door and came in folding up a calico apron she had just taken off. + </p> + <p> + "You are tired, dear," said Mrs. Rossitur sorrowfully;--"you look pale." + </p> + <p> + "Do I?"--said Fleda, sitting down. "I am a little tired!" + </p> + <p> + "Why do you do so?" + </p> + <p> + "O it's nothing" said Fleda cheerfully;--"I haven't hurt myself. I shall + be rested again in a few minutes." + </p> + <p> + "What have you been doing?" + </p> + <p> + "O I tired myself a little before breakfast in the garden, I suppose. Aunt + Lucy, don't you think I had almost a bushel of peas?--and there was a + little over a half bushel last time, so I shall call it a bushel. Isn't + that fine?" + </p> + <p> + "You didn't pick them all yourself?" + </p> + <p> + "Hugh helped me a little while; but he had the horse to get ready, and I + was out before him this morning--poor fellow, he was tired from yesterday, + I dare say." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur looked at her, a look between remonstrance and reproach, and + cast her eyes down without saying a word, swallowing a whole heartful of + thoughts and feelings. Fleda stooped forward till her own forehead softly + touched Mrs. Rossitur's, as gentle a chiding of despondency as a very + sunbeam could have given. + </p> + <p> + "Now aunt Lucy!--what do you mean? Don't you know it's good for me?--And + do you know, Mr. Sweet will give me four shillings a bushel; and aunt + Lucy, I sent three dozen heads of lettuce this morning besides. Isn't that + doing well? and I sent two dozen day before yesterday. It is time they + were gone, for they are running up to seed, this set; I have got another + fine set almost ready." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur looked at her again, as if she had been a sort of + terrestrial angel. + </p> + <p> + "And how much will you get for them?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know exactly--threepence, or sixpence perhaps,--I guess not so + much--they are so easily raised; though I don't believe there are so fine + as mine to be seen in this region.--If I only had somebody to water the + strawberries!--we should have a great many. Aunt Lucy, I am going to send + as many as I can without robbing uncle Rolf--he sha'n't miss them; but the + rest of us don't mind eating rather fewer than usual? I shall make a good + deal by them. And I think these morning rides do Hugh good; don't you + think so?" + </p> + <p> + "And what have you been busy about ever since breakfast, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "O--two or three things," said Fleda lightly. + </p> + <p> + "What?" + </p> + <p> + "I had bread to make--and then I thought while my hands were in I would + make a custard for uncle Rolf." + </p> + <p> + "You needn't have done that, dear! it was not necessary." + </p> + <p> + "Yes it was, because you know we have only fried pork for dinner to-day, + and while we have the milk and eggs it doesn't cost much--the sugar is + almost nothing. He will like it better, and so will Hugh. As for you," + said Fleda, gently touching her forehead again, "you know it is of no + consequence!" + </p> + <p> + "I wish you would think yourself of some consequence," said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Don't I think myself of consequence!" naid Fleda affectionately. "I don't + know how you'd all get on without me. What do you think I have a mind to + do now, by way of resting myself?" + </p> + <p> + "Well?" said Mrs Rossitur, thinking of something else. + </p> + <p> + "It is the day for making presents to the minister, you know?" + </p> + <p> + "The minister?"-- + </p> + <p> + "Yes, the new minister--they expect him to-day;--you have heard of + it;--the things are all to be carried to his house to-day. I have a great + notion to go and see the fun--if I only had anything in the world I could + possibly take with me--" + </p> + <p> + "Aren't you too tired, dear?" + </p> + <p> + "No--it would rest me--it is early yet--if I only had something to + take!--I couldn't go without taking something----" + </p> + <p> + "A basket of eggs?" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Can't, aunt Lucy--I can't spare them; so many of the hens are setting + now.--A basket of strawberries!--that's the thing! I've got enough picked + for that and to-night too. That will do!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's preparations were soon made, and with her basket on her arm she + was ready to set forth. + </p> + <p> + "If pride had not been a little put down in me," she said smiling, "I + suppose I should rather stay at home than go with such a petty offering. + And no doubt every one that sees it or hears of it will lay it to anything + but the right reason. So much the world knows about the people it + judges!--It is too bad to leave you all alone, aunt Lucy." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur pulled her down for a kiss, a kiss in which how much was + said on both sides!--and Fleda set forth, choosing as she very commonly + did the old-time way through the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + "Off again?" said Barby, who was on her knees scrubbing the great + flag-stones of the hearth. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I am going up to see the donation party." + </p> + <p> + "Has the minister come?" + </p> + <p> + "No, but he is coming to-day, I understand." + </p> + <p> + "He ha'n't preached for 'em yet, has he?" + </p> + <p> + "Not yet; I suppose he will next Sunday." + </p> + <p> + "They are in a mighty hurry to give him a donation party!" said Barby. + "I'd ha' waited till he was here first. I don't believe they'd be quite so + spry with their donations if they had paid the last man up as they ought. + I'd rather give a man what belongs to him, and make him presents + afterwards." + </p> + <p> + "Why, so I hope they will, Barby," said Fleda laughing. But Barby said no + more. + </p> + <p> + The parsonage-house was about a quarter of a mile, a little more, from the + saw-mill, in a line at right angles with the main road. Fleda took Hugh + from his work to see her safe there. The road ran north, keeping near the + level of the mid-hill where it branched off a little below the saw-mill; + and as the ground continued rising towards the east and was well clothed + with woods, the way at this hour was still pleasantly shady. To the left + the same slope of ground carried down to the foot of the hill gave them an + uninterrupted view over a wide plain or bottom, edged in the distance with + a circle of gently swelling hills. Close against the hills, in the far + corner of the plain, lay the little village of Queechy Run, hid from sight + by a slight intervening rise of ground; not a chimney shewed itself in the + whole spread of country. A sunny landscape just now; but rich in + picturesque associations of hay-cocks and winnows, spotting it near and + far; and close by below them was a field of mowers at work; they could + distinctly hear the measured rush of the scythes through the grass, and + then the soft clink of the rifles would seem to play some old delicious + tune of childish days. Fleda made Hugh stand still to listen. It was a + warm day, but "the sweet south that breathes upon a bank of violets," + could hardly be more sweet than the air which coming to them over the + whole breadth of the valley had been charged by the new-made hay. + </p> + <p> + "How good it is, Hugh," said Fleda, "that one can get out of doors and + forget everything that ever happened or ever will happen within four + walls!" + </p> + <p> + "Do you?" said Hugh, rather soberly. + </p> + <p> + "Yes I do,--even in my flower-patch, right before the house-door; but <i>here</i>--" + said Fleda, turning away and swinging her basket of strawberries as she + went, "I have no idea I ever did such a thing as make bread!--and how + clothes get mended I do not comprehend in the least!" + </p> + <p> + "And have you forgotten the peas and the asparagus too?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid you haven't, dear Hugh," said Fleda, linking her arm within + his. "Hugh,--I must find some way to make money." + </p> + <p> + "More money?" said Hugh smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--this garden business is all very well, but it doesn't come to any + very great things after all, if you are aware of it; and, Hugh, I want to + get aunt Lucy a new dress. I can't bear to see her in that old merino, and + it isn't good for her. Why, Hugh, she couldn't possibly see anybody, if + anybody should come to the house." + </p> + <p> + "Who is there to come?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Why nobody; but still, she ought not to be so." + </p> + <p> + "What more can you do, dear Fleda? You work a great deal too hard + already," said Hugh sighing. "You should have seen the way father and + mother looked at you last night when you were asleep on the sofa." + </p> + <p> + Fleda stifled her sigh, and went on. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure there are things that might be done--things for the + booksellers--translating, or copying, or something,--I don't know + exactly--I have heard of people's doing such things. I mean to write to + uncle Orrin and ask him. I am sure he can manage it for me." + </p> + <p> + "What were you writing the other night?" said Hugh suddenly. + </p> + <p> + "When?" + </p> + <p> + "The other night--when you were writing by the firelight? I saw your + pencil scribbling away at a furious rate over the paper, and you kept your + hand up carefully between me and your face, but I could see it was + something very interesting. Ha?--" said Hugh, laughingly trying to get + another view of Fleda's face which was again kept from him. "Send <i>that</i> + to uncle Orrin, Fleda;--or shew it to me first and then I will tell you." + </p> + <p> + Fleda made no answer; and at the parsonage door Hugh left her. + </p> + <p> + Two or three wagons were standing there, but nobody to be seen. Fleda went + up the steps and crossed the broad piazza, brown and unpainted, but + picturesque still, and guided by the sound of tongues turned to the right + where she found a large low room, the very centre of the stir. But the + stir had not by any means reached the height yet. Not more than a dozen + people were gathered. Here were aunt Syra and Mrs. Douglass, appointed a + committee to receive and dispose the offerings as they were brought in. + </p> + <p> + "Why there is not much to be seen yet," said Fleda. "I did not know I was + so early." + </p> + <p> + "Time enough," said Mrs. Douglass. "They'll come the thicker when they do + come. Good-morning, Dr. Quackenboss!--I hope you're a going to give us + something else besides a bow? and I won't take none of your physic, + neither." + </p> + <p> + "I humbly submit," said the doctor graciously, "that nothing ought to be + expected of gentlemen that--a--are so unhappy as to be alone; for they + really--a--have nothing to give,--but themselves." + </p> + <p> + There was a shout of merriment. + </p> + <p> + "And suppos'n that's a gift that nobody wants?" said Mrs, Douglass's sharp + eye and voice at once. + </p> + <p> + "In that case," said the doctor, "I really--Miss Ringgan, may I--a--may I + relieve your hand of this fair burden?" + </p> + <p> + "It is not a very fair burden, sir," said Fleda, laughing and + relinquishing her strawberries. + </p> + <p> + "Ah but, fair, you know, I mean,--we speak--in that sense----Mrs Douglass, + here is by far the most elegant offering that your hands will have the + honour of receiving this day." + </p> + <p> + "I hope so," said Mrs. Douglass, "or there won't be much to eat for the + minister. Did you never take notice how elegant things somehow made folks + grow poor?" + </p> + <p> + "I guess he'd as leave see something a little substantial," said aunt + Syra. + </p> + <p> + "Well now," said the doctor, "here is Miss Ringgan, who is + unquestionably--a--elegant!--and I am sure nobody will say that she--looks + poor!" + </p> + <p> + In one sense, surely not! There could not be two opinions. But with all + the fairness of health, and the flush which two or three feelings had + brought to her cheeks, there was a look as if the workings of the mind had + refined away a little of the strength of the physical frame, and as if + growing poor in Mrs. Douglass's sense, that is, thin, might easily be the + next step. + </p> + <p> + "What's your uncle going to give us, Fleda?" said aunt Syra. + </p> + <p> + But Fleda was saved replying; for Mrs. Douglass, who if she was sharp + could be good-natured too, and had watched to see how Fleda took the + double fire upon elegance and poverty, could beat no more trial of that + sweet gentle face. Without giving her time to answer she carried her off + to see the things already stored in the closet, bidding the doctor over + her shoulder "be off after his goods, whether he had got 'em or no." + </p> + <p> + There was certainly a promising beginning made for the future minister's + comfort. One shelf was already completely stocked with pies, and another + shewed a quantity of cake, and biscuits enough to last a good-sized family + for several meals. + </p> + <p> + "That is always the way," said Mrs. Douglass;--"it's the strangest thing + that folks has no sense! Now one-half o' them pies'll be dried up afore + they can eat the rest;--'tain't much loss, for Mis' Prin sent 'em down, + and if they are worth anything it's the first time anything ever come out + of her house that was. Now look at them biscuit!"-- + </p> + <p> + "How many are coming to eat them?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "How?" + </p> + <p> + "How large a family has the minister?" + </p> + <p> + "He ha'n't a bit of a family! He ain't married." + </p> + <p> + "Not!" + </p> + <p> + At the grave way in which Mrs. Douglass faced around upon her and + answered, and at the idea of a single mouth devoted to all that closetful, + Fleda's gravity gave place to most uncontrollable merriment. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Mrs. Douglass, with a curious twist of her mouth but commanding + herself,--"he ain't to be sure--not yet. He ha'n't any family but himself + and some sort of a housekeeper, I suppose; they'll divide the house + between 'em." + </p> + <p> + "And the biscuits, I hope," said Fleda. "But what will he do with all the + other things, Mrs. Douglass?" + </p> + <p> + "Sell 'em if he don't want 'em," said Mrs. Douglass quizzically. "Shut up, + Fleda, I forget who sent them biscuit--somebody that calculated to make a + shew for a little, I reckon.--My sakes! I believe it was Mis' Springer + herself!--she didn't hear me though," said Mrs. Douglass peeping out of + the half-open door. "It's a good thing the world ain't all alike;--there's + Mis' Plumfield--stop now, and I'll tell you all she sent;--that big jar of + lard, there's as good as eighteen or twenty pound,--and that basket of + eggs, I don't know how many there is,--and that cheese, a real fine one + I'll be bound, she wouldn't pick out the worst in her dairy,--and Seth + fetched down a hundred weight of corn meal and another of rye flour; now + that's what I call doing things something like; if everybody else would + keep up their end as well as they keep up their'n the world wouldn't be + quite so one-sided as it is. I never see the time yet when I couldn't tell + where to find Mis' Plumfield." + </p> + <p> + "No, nor anybody else," said Fleda looking happy. + </p> + <p> + "There's Mis' Silbert couldn't find nothing better to send than a kag of + soap," Mrs. Douglass went on, seeming very much amused;--"I <i>was</i> + beat when I saw that walk in! I should think she'd feel streaked to come + here by and by and see it a standing between Mis' Plumfield's lard and + Mis' Clavering's pork--that's a handsome kag of pork, ain't it? What's + that man done with your strawberries?--I'll put 'em up here afore somebody + takes a notion to 'em.--I'll let the minister know who he's got to thank + for 'em," said she, winking at Fleda. "Where's Dr. Quackenboss?" + </p> + <p> + "Coming, ma'am!" sounded from the hall, and forthwith at the open door + entered the doctor's head, simultaneously with a large cheese which he was + rolling before him, the rest of the doctor's person being thrown into the + background in consequence. A curious natural representation of a + wheelbarrow, the wheel being the only artificial part. + </p> + <p> + "Oh!--that's you, doctor, is it?" said Mrs. Douglass. + </p> + <p> + "This is me, ma'am," said the doctor, rolling up to the closet + door,--"this has the honour to be--a--myself,--bringing my service to the + feet of Miss Ringgan." + </p> + <p> + "'Tain't very elegant," said the sharp lady. + </p> + <p> + Fleda thought if his service was at her feet, her feet should be somewhere + else, and accordingly stepped quietly out of the way and went to one of + the windows, from whence she could have a view both of the comers and the + come; and by this time thoroughly in the spirit of the thing she used her + eyes upon both with great amusement. People were constantly arriving now, + in wagons and on foot; and stores of all kinds were most literally pouring + in. Bags and even barrels of meal, flour, pork, and potatoes; strings of + dried apples, <i>salt</i>, hams and beef; hops, pickles, vinegar, maple + sugar and molasses; rolls of fresh butter, cheese, and eggs; cake, bread, + and pies, without end. Mr. Penny, the storekeeper, sent a box of tea. Mr. + Winegar, the carpenter, a new ox-sled. Earl Douglass brought a handsome + axe-helve of his own fashioning; his wife a quantity of rolls of wool. Zan + Finn carted a load of wood into the wood-shed, and Squire Thornton + another. Home-made candles, custards, preserves, and smoked liver, came in + a batch from two or three miles off up on the mountain. Half a dozen + chairs from the factory man. Half a dozen brooms from the other + store-keeper at the Deepwater settlement. A carpet for the best room from + the ladies of the township, who had clubbed forces to furnish it; and a + home-made concern it was, from the shears to the loom. + </p> + <p> + The room was full now, for every one after depositing his gift turned + aside to see what others had brought and were bringing; and men and women, + the young and old, had their several circles of gossip in various parts of + the crowd. Apart from them all Fleda sat in her window, probably voted + "elegant" by others than the doctor, for they vouchsafed her no more than + a transitory attention and sheered off to find something more congenial. + She sat watching the people; smiling very often as some odd figure, or + look, or some peculiar turn of expression or tone of voice, caught her ear + or her eye. + </p> + <p> + Both ear and eye were fastened by a young countryman with a particularly + fresh face whom she saw approaching the house. He came up on foot, + carrying a single fowl slung at his back by a stick thrown across his + shoulder, and without stirring hat or stick he came into the room and made + his way through the crowd of people, looking to the one hand and the other + evidently in a maze of doubt to whom he should deliver himself and his + chicken, till brought up by Mrs. Douglass's sharp voice. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Philetus! what are you looking for?" + </p> + <p> + "Do, Mis' Douglass!"--it is impossible to express the abortive attempt at + a bow which accompanied this salutation,--"I want to know if the minister + 'll be in town to-day?" + </p> + <p> + "What do you want of him?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't want nothin' of him. I want to know if he'll be in town to-day?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--I expect he'll be along directly--why, what then?" + </p> + <p> + "Cause I've got ten chickens for him here, and mother said they hadn't + ought to be kept no longer, and if he wa'n't to hum I were to fetch 'em + back, straight." + </p> + <p> + "Well he'll be here, so let's have 'em," said Mrs. Douglass biting her + lips. + </p> + <p> + "What's become o' t'other one?" said Earl, as the young man's stick was + brought round to the table;--"I guess you've lost it, ha'n't you?" + </p> + <p> + "My gracious!" was all Philetus's powers were equal to. Mrs. Douglass went + off into fits which rendered her incapable of speaking and left the + unlucky chicken-bearer to tell his story his own way, but all he brought + forth was "Du tell!--I <i>am</i> beat!--" + </p> + <p> + "Where's t'other one?" said Mrs. Douglass between paroxysms. + </p> + <p> + "Why I ha'n't done nothin' to it," said Philetus dismally,--there was teu + on 'em afore I started, and I took and tied 'em together and hitched 'em + onto the stick, and that one must ha' loosened itself off some way.--I + believe the darned thing did it o' purpose." + </p> + <p> + "I guess your mother knowed that one wouldn't keep till it got here," said + Mrs. Douglass. + </p> + <p> + The room was now all one shout, in the midst of which poor Philetus took + himself off as speedily as possible. Before Fleda had dried her eyes her + attention was taken by a lady and gentleman who had just got out of a + vehicle of more than the ordinary pretension and were coming up to the + door. The gentleman was young, the lady was not, both had a particularly + amiable and pleasant appearance; but about the lady there was something + that moved Fleda singularly and somehow touched the spring of old + memories, which she felt stirring at the sight of her. As they neared the + house she lost them--then they entered the room and came through it + slowly, looking about them with an air of good-humoured amusement. Fleda's + eye was fixed but her mind puzzled itself in vain to recover what in her + experience had been connected with that fair and lady-like physiognomy and + the bland smile that was overlooked by those acute eyes. The eyes met + hers, and then seemed to reflect her doubt, for they remained as fixed as + her own while the lady quickening her steps came up to her. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure," she said, holding out her hand, and with a gentle + graciousness that was very agreeable,--"I am sure you are somebody I know. + What is your name?" + </p> + <p> + "Fleda Ringgan." + </p> + <p> + "I thought so!" said the lady, now shaking her hand warmly and kissing + her,--"I knew nobody could have been your mother but Amy Charlton! How + like her you look!--Don't you know me? don't you remember Mrs. Evelyn?" + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Evelyn!" said Fleda, the whole coming back to her at once. + </p> + <p> + "You remember me now?--How well I recollect you! and all that old time at + Montepoole. Poor little creature that you were! and dear little creature, + as I am sure you have been ever since. And how is your dear aunt Lucy?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda answered that she was well. + </p> + <p> + "I used to love her very much--that was before I knew you--before she went + abroad. <i>We</i> have just got home--this spring; and now we are staying + at Montepoole for a few days. I shall come and see her to-morrow--I knew + you were somewhere in this region, but I did not know exactly where to + find you; that was one reason why I came here to-day--I thought I might + hear something of you. And where are your aunt Lucy's children? and how + are they?" + </p> + <p> + "Hugh is at home," said Fleda, "and rather delicate--Charlton is in the + army.' + </p> + <p> + "In the army. In Mexico!"-- + </p> + <p> + "In Mexico he has been"-- + </p> + <p> + "Your poor aunt Lucy!" + </p> + <p> + --"In Mexico he has been, but he is just coming home now--he has been + wounded, and he is coming home to spend a long furlough." + </p> + <p> + "Coming home. That will make you all very happy. And Hugh is delicate--and + how are you, love? you hardly look like a country-girl. Mr. Olmney!--" + said Mrs. Evelyn looking round for her companion, who was standing quietly + a few steps off surveying the scene,--"Mr. Olmney!--I am going to do you a + favour, sir, in introducing you to Miss Ringgan--a very old friend of + mine. Mr. Olmney,--these are not exactly the apple-cheeks and <i>robustious</i> + demonstrations we are taught to look for in country-land?" + </p> + <p> + This was said with a kind of sly funny enjoyment which took away + everything disagreeable from the appeal; but Fleda conceived a favourable + opinion of the person to whom it was made from the fact that he paid her + no compliment and made no answer beyond a very pleasant smile. + </p> + <p> + "What is Mrs. Evelyn's definition of a <i>very old</i> friend?" said he + with with another smile, as that lady moved off to take a more particular + view of what she had come to see. "To judge by the specimen before me I + should consider it very equivocal." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps Mrs. Evelyn counts friendships by inheritance," said Fleda. "I + think they ought to be counted so." + </p> + <p> + "'Thine own friend and thy father's friend forsake not'?" said the young + man. + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up and smiled a pleased answer. + </p> + <p> + "There is something very lovely in the faithfulness of tried + friendship--and very uncommon." + </p> + <p> + "I know that it is uncommon only by hearsay," said Fleda, "I have so many + good friends." + </p> + <p> + He was silent for an instant, possibly thinking there might be a reason + for that unknown only to Fleda herself. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps one must be in peculiar circumstances to realize it," he said + sighing;--"circumstances that leave one of no importance to any one in the + world.--But it is a kind lesson I--one learns to depend more on the one + friendship that can never disappoint." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eyes again gave an answer of sympathy, for she thought from the + shade that had come upon his face that these circumstances had probably + been known to himself. + </p> + <p> + "This is rather an amusing scene," he remarked presently in a low tone. + </p> + <p> + "Very," said Fleda. "I have never seen such a one before." + </p> + <p> + "Nor I," said he. "It is a pleasant scene too, it is pleasant to see so + many evidences of kindness and good feeling on the part of all these + people." + </p> + <p> + "There is all the more shew of it, I suppose, to-day," said Fleda, + "because we have a new minister coming;--they want to make a favourable + impression." + </p> + <p> + "Does the old proverb of the 'new broom' hold good here too?" said he, + smiling. "What's the name of your new minister?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not certain," said Fleda,--"there were two talked of--the last I + heard was that it was an old Mr. Carey; but from what I hear this morning + I suppose it must be the other--a Mr. Ollum, or some such queer name, I + believe." + </p> + <p> + Fleda thought her hearer looked very much amused, and followed his eye + into the room, where Mrs. Evelyn was going about in all quarters looking + at everything, and finding occasion to enter into conversation with at + least a quarter of the people who were present. Whatever she was saying it + seemed at that moment to have something to do with them, for sundry eyes + turned in their direction; and presently Dr. Quackenboss came up, with + even more than common suavity of manner. + </p> + <p> + "I trust Miss Ringgan will do me the favour of making me acquainted + with--a--with our future pastor!" said the doctor, looking however not at + all at Miss Ringgan but straight at the pastor in question. "I have great + pleasure in giving you the first welcome, sir,--or, I should say, rather + the second; since no doubt Miss Ringgan has been in advance of me. It is + not un--a--appropriate, sir, for I may say we--a--divide the town between + us. You are, I am sure, a worthy representative of Peter and Paul; and I + am--a--a pupil of Esculapus, sir! You are the intellectual physician, and + I am the external." + </p> + <p> + "I hope we shall both prove ourselves good workmen, sir," said the young + minister, shaking the doctor's hand heartily. + </p> + <p> + "This is Dr. Quackenboss, Mr. Olmney," said Fleda, making a tremendous + effort. But though she could see corresponding indications about her + companion's eyes and mouth, she admired the kindness and self-command with + which he listened to the doctor's civilities and answered them; expressing + his grateful sense of the favours received not only from him but from + others. + </p> + <p> + "O--a little to begin with," said the doctor, looking round upon the room, + which would certainly have furnished <i>that</i> for fifty people;--"I + hope we ain't done yet by considerable--But here is Miss Ringgan, + Mr.--a--Ummin, that has brought you some of the fruits of her own garden, + with her own fair hands--a basket of fine strawberries--which I am + sure--a--will make you forget everything else!" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Olmney had the good-breeding not to look at Fleda, as he answered, "I + am sure the spirit of kindness was the same in all, Dr. Quackenboss, and I + trust not to forget that readily." + </p> + <p> + Others now came up; and Mr. Olmney was walked off to be "made acquainted" + with all or with all the chief of his parishioners then and there + assembled. Fleda watched him going about, shaking hands, talking and + smiling, in all directions, with about as much freedom of locomotion as a + fly in a spider's web; till at Mrs. Evelyn's approach the others fell off + a little, and taking him by the arm she rescued him. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Mr. Olmney!" she whispered, with an intensely amused face,--"I + shall have a vision of you every day for a month to come, sitting down to + dinner with a rueful face to a whortleberry pie; for there are so many of + them your conscience will not let you have anything else cooked--you + cannot manage more than one a day." + </p> + <p> + "Pies!" said the young gentleman, as Mrs. Evelyn left talking to indulge + her feelings in ecstatic quiet laughing,--"I have a horror of pies!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, yes," said Mrs. Evelyn nodding her head delightedly as she drew him + towards the pantry,--"I know!--Come and see what is in store for you. You + are to do penance for a month to come with tin pans of blackberry jam + fringed with pie-crust--no, they can't be blackberries, they must be + raspberries--the blackberries are not ripe yet. And you may sup upon cake + and custards--unless you give the custards for the little pig out + there--he will want something." + </p> + <p> + "A pig!--" said Mr. Olmney in a maze; Mrs. Evelyn again giving out in + distress. "A pig?" said Mr. Olmney. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--a pig--a very little one," said Mrs. Evelyn convulsively. "I am sure + he is hungry now!--" + </p> + <p> + They had reached the pantry, and Mr. Olmney's face was all that was + wanting to Mrs. Evelyn's delight. How she smothered it, so that it should + go no further than to distress his self-command, is a mystery known only + to the initiated. Mrs. Douglass was forthwith called into council. + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Douglass," said Mr. Olmney, "I feel very much inclined to play the + host, and beg my friends to share with me some of these good things they + have been so bountifully providing." + </p> + <p> + "He would enjoy them much more than he would alone, Mrs. Douglass," said + Mrs. Evelyn, who still had hold of Mr. Olmney's arm, looking round to the + lady with a most benign face. + </p> + <p> + "I reckon some of 'em would be past enjoying by the time he got to 'em, + wouldn't they?" said the lady. "Well, they'll have to take 'em in their + fingers, for our crockery ha'n't come yet--I shall have to jog Mr. Flatt's + elbow--but hungry folks ain't curious." + </p> + <p> + "In their fingers, or any way, provided you have only a knife to cut them + with," said Mr. Olmney, while Mrs. Evelyn squeezed his arm in secret + mischief;--"and pray if we can muster two knives let us cut one of these + cheeses, Mrs. Douglass." + </p> + <p> + And presently Fleda saw pieces of pie walking about in all directions + supported by pieces of cheese. And then Mrs. Evelyn and Mr. Olmney came + out from the pantry and came towards her, the latter bringing her with his + own hands a portion in a tin pan. The two ladies sat down in the window + together to eat and be amused. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda, I hope you are hungry!" said Mrs. Evelyn, biting her pie + Fleda could not help thinking with an air of good-humoured condescension. + </p> + <p> + "I am, ma'am," she said laughing. + </p> + <p> + "You look just as you used to do," Mrs. Evelyn went on earnestly. + </p> + <p> + "Do I?" said Fleda, privately thinking that the lady must have good eyes + for features of resemblance. + </p> + <p> + "Except that you have more colour in your cheeks and more sparkles in your + eyes. Dear little creature that you were! I want to make you know my + children. Do you remember that Mr. and Mrs. Carleton that took such care + of you at Montepoole?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly I do!--very well." + </p> + <p> + "We saw them last winter--we were down at their country-place in---- + shire. They have a magnificent place there--everything you can think of to + make life pleasant. We spent a week with them. My dear Fleda!--I wish I + could shew you that place! you never saw anything like it." + </p> + <p> + Fleda eat her pie. + </p> + <p> + "We have nothing like it in this country--of course--cannot have. One of + those superb English country-seats is beyond even the imagination of an + American." + </p> + <p> + "Nature has been as kind to us, hasn't she?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "O yes, but such fortunes you know. Mr. Olmney, what do you think of those + overgrown fortunes? I was speaking to Miss Ringgan just now of a gentleman + who has forty thousand pounds a year income--sterling, sir;--forty + thousand pounds a year sterling. Somebody says, you know, that 'he who has + more than enough is a thief of the rights of his brother,'--what do you + think?" + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Olmney's attention was at the moment forcibly called off by the + "income" of a parishioner. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose," said Fleda, "his thievish character must depend entirely on + the use he makes of what he has." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Mrs. Evelyn shaking her head,--"I think the + possession of great wealth is very hardening." + </p> + <p> + "To a fine nature?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Evelyn shook her head again, but did not seem to think it worth while + to reply; and Fleda was trying the question in her own mind whether wealth + or poverty might be the most hardening in its effects; when Mr. Olmney + having succeeded in getting free again came and took his station beside + them; and they had a particularly pleasant talk, which Fleda who had seen + nobody in a great while enjoyed very much. They had several such talks in + the course of the day; for though the distractions caused by Mr. Olmney's + other friends were many and engrossing, he generally contrived in time to + find his way back to their window. Meanwhile Mrs. Evelyn had a great deal + to say to Fleda and to hear from her; and left her at last under an + engagement to spend the next day at the Pool. + </p> + <p> + Upon Mr. Olmney's departure with Mrs. Evelyn the attraction which had held + the company together was broken, and they scattered fast. Fleda presently + finding herself in the minority was glad to set out with Miss Anastasia + Finn and her sister Lucy, who would leave her but very little way from her + own door. But she had more company than she bargained for. Dr. Quackenboss + was pleased to attach himself to their party, though his own shortest road + certainly lay in another direction; and Fleda wondered what he had done + with his wagon, which beyond a question must have brought the cheese in + the morning. She edged herself out of the conversation as much as + possible, and hoped it would prove so agreeable that he would not think of + attending her home. In vain. When they made a stand at the cross-roads the + doctor stood on her side. + </p> + <p> + "I hope, now you've made a commencement, you will come to see us again, + Fleda," said Miss Lucy. + </p> + <p> + "What's the use of asking?" said her sister abruptly. "If she has a mind + to she will, and if she ha'n't I am sure we don't want her." + </p> + <p> + They turned off. + </p> + <p> + "Those are excellent people," said the doctor when they were beyond + hearing;--"really respectable!" + </p> + <p> + "Are they?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But your goodness does not look, I am sure, to find--a--Parisian graces + in so remote a circle?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly not!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "We have had a genial day!" said the doctor, quitting the Finns. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda, permitting a little of her inward merriment to + work off,--"I think it has been rather too hot." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said the doctor, "the sun has been ardent; but I referred rather to + the--a--to the warming of affections, and the pleasant exchange of + intercourse on all sides which has taken place. How do you like + our--a--the stranger?" + </p> + <p> + "Who, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "The new-comer,--this young Mr. Ummin?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda answered, but she hardly knew what, for she was musing whether the + doctor would go away or come in. They reached the door, and Fleda invited + him, with terrible effort after her voice; the doctor having just blandly + offered an opinion upon the decided polish of Mr. Olmney's manners! + </p> + <h1> + <a name="23"></a>Chapter XXIII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Labour is light, where lore (quoth I) doth pay;<br /> (Saith he) light + burthens heavy, if far borne. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Drayton. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Fleda pushed open the parlour door and preceded her convoy, in a kind of + tip-toe state of spirits. The first thing that met her eyes was her aunt + in one of the few handsome silks which were almost her sole relic of past + wardrobe prosperity, and with a face uncommonly happy and pretty; and the + next instant she saw the explanation of this appearance in her cousin + Charlton, a little palish, but looking better than she had ever seen him, + and another gentleman of whom her eye took in only the general outlines of + fashion and comfortable circumstances; now too strange to it to go + unnoted. In Fleda's usual mood her next movement would have been made with + a demureness that would have looked like bashfulness. But the amusement + and pleasure of the day just passed had for the moment set her spirits + free from the burden that generally bound them down; and they were as + elastic as her step as she came forward and presented to her aunt "Dr. + Quackenboss,--and then turned to shake her cousin's hand." + </p> + <p> + "Charlton!--Where did you come from? We didn't expect you so soon." + </p> + <p> + "You are not sorry to see me, I hope?" + </p> + <p> + "Not at all--very glad;"--and then as her eye glanced towards the other + new-comer Charlton presented to her "Mr. Thorn;" and Fleda's fancy made a + sudden quick leap on the instant to the old hall at Montepoole and the + shot dog. And then Dr. Quackenboss was presented, an introduction which + Capt. Rossitur received coldly, and Mr. Thorn with something more than + frigidity. + </p> + <p> + The doctor's elasticity however defied depression, especially in the + presence of a silk dress and a military coat. Fleda presently saw that he + was agonizing her uncle. Mrs. Rossitur had drawn close to her son. Fleda + was left to take care of the other visitor. The young men had both seemed + more struck at the vision presented to them than she had been on her part. + She thought neither of them was very ready to speak to her. + </p> + <p> + "I did not know," said Mr. Thorn softly, "what reason I had to thank + Rossitur for bringing me home with him to-night--he promised me a supper + and a welcome,--but I find he did not tell me the half of my + entertainment." + </p> + <p> + "That was wise in him," said Fleda;--"the half that is not expected is + always worth a great deal more than the other." + </p> + <p> + "In this case, most assuredly," said Thorn bowing, and Fleda was sure not + knowing what to make of her. + </p> + <p> + "Have you been in Mexico too, Mr. Thorn?" + </p> + <p> + "Not I!--that's an entertainment I beg to decline. I never felt inclined + to barter an arm for a shoulder-knot, or to abridge my usual means of + locomotion for the privilege of riding on parade--or selling oneself for a + name--Peter Schlemil's selling his shadow I can understand; but this is + really lessening oneself that one's shadow may grow the larger." + </p> + <p> + "But you were in the army?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--It wasn't my doing. There is a time, you know, when one must please + the old folks--I grew old enough and wise enough to cut loose from the + army before I had gained or lost much by it." + </p> + <p> + He did not understand the displeased gravity of Fleda's face, and went on + insinuatingly;-- + </p> + <p> + "Unless I have lost what Charlton has gained--something I did not know + hung upon the decision--Perhaps you think a man is taller for having iron + heels to his boots?" + </p> + <p> + "I do not measure a man by his inches," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Then you have no particular predilection for shooting men?" + </p> + <p> + "I have no predilection for shooting anything, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Then I am safe!" said he, with an arrogant little air of satisfaction. "I + was born under an indolent star, but I confess to you, privately, of the + two I would rather gather my harvests with the sickle than the sword. How + does your uncle find it?" + </p> + <p> + "Find what, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "The worship of Ceres?--I remember he used to be devoted to Apollo and the + Muses." + </p> + <p> + "Are they rival deities?" + </p> + <p> + "Why--I have been rather of the opinion that they were too many for one + house to hold," said Thorn glancing at Mr. Rossitur. "But perhays the + Graces manage to reconcile them!" + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever hear of the Graces getting supper?" said Fleda. "Because + Ceres sometimes sets them at that work. Uncle Rolf," she added as she + passed him,--"Mr. Thorn is inquiring after Apollo--will you set him right, + while I do the same for the tablecloth?" + </p> + <p> + Her uncle looked from her sparkling eyes to the rather puzzled expression + of his guest's face. + </p> + <p> + "I was only asking your lovely niece," said Mr. Thorn coming down from his + stilts,--"how you liked this country life?" + </p> + <p> + Dr. Quackenboss bowed, probably in approbation of the epithet. + </p> + <p> + "Well sir--what information did she give you on the subject?" + </p> + <p> + "Left me in the dark, sir, with a vague hope that you would enlighten me." + </p> + <p> + "I trust Mr. Rossitur can give a favourable report?" said the doctor + benignly. + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Rossitur's frowning brow looked very little like it. + </p> + <p> + "What do you say to our country life, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "It's a confounded life, sir," said Mr. Rossitur, taking a pamphlet from + the table to fold and twist as he spoke,--"it is a confounded life; for + the head and the hands must either live separate, or the head must do no + other work but wait upon the hands. It is an alternative of loss and + waste, sir." + </p> + <p> + "The alternative seems to be of--a--limited application," said the doctor, + as Fleda, having found that Hugh and Barby had been beforehand with her, + now came back to the company. "I am sure this lady would not give such a + testimony." + </p> + <p> + "About what?" said Fleda, colouring under the fire of so many eyes. + </p> + <p> + "The blighting influence of Ceres' sceptre," said Mr. Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "This country life," said her uncle;--"do you like it, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "You know, uncle," said she cheerfully, "I was always of the old + Douglasses' mind--I like better to hear the lark sing than the mouse + squeak." + </p> + <p> + "Is that one of Earl Douglass's sayings?" said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir," said Fleda with quivering lips,--"but not the one you know--an + older man." + </p> + <p> + "Ah!" said the doctor intelligently. "Mr. Rossitur,--speaking of hands,--I + have employed the Irish very much of late years--they are as good as one + can have, if you do not want a head." + </p> + <p> + "That is to say,--if you have a head," said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Exactly" said the doctor, all abroad,--"and when there are not too many + of them together. I had enough of that, sir, some years ago when a + multitude of them were employed on the public works. The Irish were in a + state of mutilation, sir, all through the country." + </p> + <p> + "Ah!" said Thorn,--"had the military been at work upon them?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir, but I wish they had, I am sure; it would have been for the peace + of the town. There were hundreds of them. We were in want of an army." + </p> + <p> + "Of surgeons,--I should think," said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + Fleda saw the doctor's dubious air and her uncle's compressed lips; and + commanding herself, with even a look of something like displeasure she + quitted her seat by Mr. Thorn and called the doctor to the window to look + at a cluster of rose acacias just then in their glory. He admired, and she + expatiated, till she hoped everybody but herself had forgotten what they + had been talking about. But they had no sooner returned to their seats + than Thorn began again. + </p> + <p> + "The Irish in your town are not in the same mutilated state now, I + suppose, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir, no," said the doctor;--"there are much fewer of them to break + each other's bones. It was all among themselves, sir." + </p> + <p> + "The country is full of foreigners," said Mr. Rossitur with praiseworthy + gravity. + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir," said Dr. Quackenboss thoughtfully;--"we shall have none of our + ancestors left in a short time, if they go on as they are doing." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was beaten from the field, and rushing into the breakfast-room + astonished Hugh by seizing hold of him and indulging in a most prolonged + and unbounded laugh. She did not shew herself again till the company came + in to supper; but then she was found as grave as Minerva. She devoted + herself particularly to the care and entertainment of Dr. Quackenboss till + he took leave; nor could Thorn get another chance to talk to her through + all the evening. + </p> + <p> + When he and Rossitur were at last in their rooms Fleda told her story. + </p> + <p> + "You don't know how pleasant it was, aunt Lucy--how much I enjoyed + it--seeing and talking to somebody again. Mrs. Evelyn was so very kind." + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad, my darling," said Mrs. Rossitur, stroking away the hair + from the forehead that was bent down towards her;--"I am glad you had it + to-day and I am glad you will have it again to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "You will have it too, aunt Lucy. Mrs. Evelyn will be here in the + morning--she said so." + </p> + <p> + "I shall not see her." + </p> + <p> + "Why? Now aunt Lucy!--you will." + </p> + <p> + "I have nothing in the world to see her in--I cannot." + </p> + <p> + "You have this?" + </p> + <p> + "For the morning? A rich French silk?--It would be absurd. No, no,--it + would be better to wear my old merino than that." + </p> + <p> + "But you will have to dress in the morning for Mr. Thorn?--he will be here + to breakfast." + </p> + <p> + "I shall not come down to breakfast.--Don't look so, love!--I can't help + it." + </p> + <p> + "Why was that calico got for me and not for you?" said Fleda, bitterly. + </p> + <p> + "A sixpenny calico," said Mrs. Rossitur smiling,--"it would be hard if you + could not have so much as that, love." + </p> + <p> + "And you will not see Mrs. Evelyn and her daughters at all!--and I was + thinking that it would do you so much good!--" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur drew her face a little nearer and kissed it, over and over. + </p> + <p> + "It will do you good, my darling--that is what I care for much more." + </p> + <p> + "It will not do me half as much," said Fleda sighing. + </p> + <p> + Her spirits were in their old place again; no more a tip-toe to-night. The + short light of pleasure was overcast. She went to bed feeling very quiet + indeed; and received Mrs. Evelyn and excused her aunt the next day, almost + wishing the lady had not been as good as her word. But though in the same + mood she set off with her to drive to Montepoole, it could not stand the + bright influences with which she found herself surrounded. She came home + again at night with dancing spirits. + </p> + <p> + It was some days before Capt. Rossitur began at all to comprehend the + change which had come upon his family. One morning Fleda and Hugh having + finished their morning's work were in the breakfast-room waiting for the + rest of the family, when Charlton made his appearance, with the cloud on + his brow which had been lately gathering. + </p> + <p> + "Where is the paper?" said he. "I haven't seen a paper since I have been + here." + </p> + <p> + "You mustn't expect to find Mexican luxuries in Queechy, Capt. Rossitur," + said Fleda pleasantly.--"Look at these roses, and don't ask me for + papers!" + </p> + <p> + He did look a minute at the dish of flowers she was arranging for the + breakfast table, and at the rival freshness and sweetness of the face that + hung over them. + </p> + <p> + "You don't mean to say you live without a paper?" + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus14.jpg"><img src="images/illus14.jpg" height="250" + alt="'Look at these roses, and don't ask me for papers!'" + title="'Look at these roses, and don't ask me for papers!'" /><br /> "Look + at these roses, and don't ask me for papers!"</a> + </p> + <p> + "Well, it's astonishing how many things people can live without," said + Fleda rather dreamily, intent upon settling an uneasy rose that would + topple over. + </p> + <p> + "I wish you'd answer me really," said Charlton. "Don't you take a paper + here?" + </p> + <p> + "We would take one thankfully if it would be so good as to come; but + seriously, Charlton, we haven't any," she said changing her tone. + </p> + <p> + "And have you done without one all through the war?" + </p> + <p> + "No--we used to borrow one from a kind neighbour once in a while, to make + sure, as Mr. Thorn says, that you had not bartered an arm for a + shoulder-knot." + </p> + <p> + "You never looked to see whether I was killed in the meanwhile, I + suppose?" + </p> + <p> + "No--never," said Fleda gravely, as she took her place on a low seat in + the corner,--"I always knew you were safe before I touched the paper." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not an enemy, Charlton," said Fleda laughing. "I mean that I used to + make aunt Miriam look over the accounts before I did." + </p> + <p> + Charlton walked up and down the room for a little while in sullen silence; + and then brought up before Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "What are you doing?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up,--a glance that as sweetly and brightly as possible half + asked half bade him be silent and ask no questions. + </p> + <p> + "What <i>are</i> you doing?" he repeated. + </p> + <p> + "I am putting a patch on my shoe." + </p> + <p> + His look expressed more indignation than anything else. + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "Just what I say," said Fleda, going on with her work. + </p> + <p> + "What in the name of all the cobblers in the land do you do it for?" + </p> + <p> + "Because I prefer it to having a hole in my shoe; which would give me the + additional trouble of mending my stockings." + </p> + <p> + Charlton muttered an impatient sentence, of which Fleda only understood + that "the devil" was in it, and then desired to know if whole shoes would + not answer the purpose as well as either holes or patches? + </p> + <p> + "Quite--if I had them," said Fleda, giving him another glance which, with + all its gravity and sweetness, carried also a little gentle reproach. + </p> + <p> + "But do you know," said he after standing still a minute looking at her, + "that any cobbler in the country would do what you are doing much better + for sixpence?" + </p> + <p> + "I am quite aware of that," said Fleda, stitching away. + </p> + <p> + "Your hands are not strong enough for that work!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda again smiled at him, in the very dint of giving a hard push to her + needle; a smile that would have witched him into good humour if he had not + been determinately in a cloud and proof against everything. It only + admonished him that he could not safely remain in the region of sunbeams; + and he walked up and down the room furiously again. The sudden ceasing of + his footsteps presently made her look up. + </p> + <p> + "What have you got there?--Oh, Charlton, don't!--please put that down!--I + didn't know I had left them there.--They were a little wet and I laid them + on the chair to dry." + </p> + <p> + "What do you call this?" said he, not minding her request. + </p> + <p> + "They are only my gardening gloves--I thought I had put them away." + </p> + <p> + "Gloves!" said he, pulling at them disdainfully,--"why here are two--one + within the other--what's that for?" + </p> + <p> + "It's an old-fashioned way of mending matters,--two friends covering each + other's deficiencies. The inner pair are too thin alone, and the outer + ones have holes that are past cobbling." + </p> + <p> + "Are we going to have any breakfast to-day?" said he flinging the gloves + down. "You are very late!" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda quietly,--"it is not time for aunt Lucy to be down yet." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you have breakfast before nine o'clock?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--by half-past eight generally." + </p> + <p> + "Strange way of getting along on a farm!--Well I can't wait--I promised + Thorn I would meet him this morning--Barby!--I wish you would bring me my + boots!--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda made two springs,--one to touch Charlton's mouth, the other to close + the door of communication with the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + "Well!--what is the matter?--can't I have them?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, yes, but ask me for what you want. You mustn't call upon Barby in + that fashion." + </p> + <p> + "Why not? is she too good to be spoken to? What is she in the kitchen + for?" + </p> + <p> + "She wouldn't be in the kitchen long if we were to speak to her in that + way," said Fleda. "I suppose she would as soon put your boots on for you + as fetch and carry them. I'll see about it." + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me Fleda rules the house," remarked Capt. Rossitur when she + had left the room. + </p> + <p> + "Well who should rule it?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Not she!" + </p> + <p> + "I don't think she does," said Hugh; "but if she did, I am sure it could + not be in better hands." + </p> + <p> + "It shouldn't be in her hands at all. But I have noticed since I have been + here that she takes the arrangement of almost everything. My mother seems + to have nothing to do in her own family." + </p> + <p> + "I wonder what the family or anybody in it would do without Fleda!" said + Hugh, his gentle eyes quite firing with indignation. "You had better know + more before you speak, Charlton." + </p> + <p> + "What is there for me to know?" + </p> + <p> + "Fleda does everything." + </p> + <p> + "So I say; and that is what I don't like." + </p> + <p> + "How little you know what you are talking about!" said Hugh. "I can tell + you she is the life of the house, almost literally; we should have had + little enough to live upon this summer if it had not been for her." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?"--impatiently enough. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda--if it had not been for her gardening and management. She has taken + care of the garden these two years and sold I can't tell you how much from + it. Mr. Sweet, the hotel-man at the Pool, takes all we can give him." + </p> + <p> + "How much does her 'taking care of the garden' amount to?" + </p> + <p> + "It amounts to all the planting and nearly all the other work, after the + first digging,--by far the greater part of it." + </p> + <p> + Charlton walked up and down a few turns in most unsatisfied silence. + </p> + <p> + "How does she get the things to Montepoole?" + </p> + <p> + "I take them." + </p> + <p> + "You!--When?" + </p> + <p> + "I ride with them there before breakfast. Fleda is up very early to gather + them." + </p> + <p> + "You have not been there this morning?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "With what?" + </p> + <p> + "Peas and strawberries." + </p> + <p> + "And Fleda picked them?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--with some help from Barby and me." + </p> + <p> + "That glove of hers was wringing wet." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, with the pea-vines, and strawberries too; you know they get so + loaded with dew. O Fleda gets more than her gloves wet. But she does not + mind anything she does for father and mother." + </p> + <p> + "Humph!--And does she get enough when all is done to pay for the trouble?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Hugh rather sadly. "<i>She</i> thinks so. It is no + trifle." + </p> + <p> + "Which?--the pay or the trouble?" + </p> + <p> + "Both. But I meant the pay. Why she made ten dollars last year from the + asparagus beds alone, and I don't know how much more this year." + </p> + <p> + "Ten dollars!--The devil!" + </p> + <p> + "Why?" + </p> + <p> + "Have you come to counting your dollars by the tens?" + </p> + <p> + "We have counted our sixpences so a good while," said Hugh quietly. + </p> + <p> + Charlton strode about the room again in much perturbation. Then came in + Fleda, looking as bright as if dollars had been counted by the thousand, + and bearing his boots. + </p> + <p> + "What on earth did you do that for?" said he angrily. "I could have gone + for them myself." + </p> + <p> + "No harm done," said Fleda lightly,--"only I have got something else + instead of the thanks I expected." + </p> + <p> + "I can't conceive," said he, sitting down and sulkily drawing on his + foot-gear, "why this piece of punctiliousness should have made any more + difficulty about bringing me my boots than about blacking them." + </p> + <p> + A sly glance of intelligence, which Charlton was quick enough to detect, + passed between Fleda and Hugh. His eye carried its question from one to + the other. Fleda's gravity gave way. + </p> + <p> + "Don't look at me so, Charlton," said she laughing;--"I can't help it, you + are so excessively comical!--I recommend that you go out upon the + grass-plat before the door and turn round two or three times." + </p> + <p> + "Will you have the goodness to explain yourself? Who <i>did</i> black + these boots?" + </p> + <p> + "Never pry into the secrets of families," said Fleda. "Hugh and I have a + couple of convenient little fairies in our service that do things <i>unknownst</i>." + </p> + <p> + "I blacked them, Charlton," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Rossitur gave his slippers a fling that carried them clean into the + corner of the room. + </p> + <p> + "I will see," he said rising, "whether some other service cannot be had + more satisfactory than that of fairies!" + </p> + <p> + "Now Charlton," said Fleda with a sudden change of manner, coming to him + and laying her hand most gently on his arm,--"please don't speak about + these things before uncle Rolf or your mother--Please do + not!--Charlton!--It would only do a great deal of harm and do no good." + </p> + <p> + She looked up in his face, but he would not meet her pleading eye, and + shook off her hand. + </p> + <p> + "I don't need to be instructed how to speak to my father and mother; and I + am not one of the household that has submitted itself to your direction." + </p> + <p> + Fleda sat down on her bench and was quiet, but with a lip that trembled a + little and eyes that let fall one or two witnesses against him. Charlton + did not see them, and he knew better than to meet Hugh's look of reproach. + But for all that there was a certain consciousness that hung about the + neck of his purpose and kept it down in spite of him; and it was not till + breakfast was half over that his ill-humour could make head against this + gentle thwarting and cast it off. For so long the meal was excessively + dull. Hugh and Fleda had their own thoughts; Charlton was biting his + resolution into every slice of bread and butter that occupied him; and Mr. + Rossitur's face looked like anything but encouraging an inquiry into his + affairs. Since his son's arrival he had been most uncommonly gloomy; and + Mrs. Rossitur's face was never in sunshine when his was in shade. + </p> + <p> + "You'll have a warm day of it at the mill, Hugh," said Fleda, by way of + saying something to break the dismal monotony of knives and forks. + </p> + <p> + "Does that mill make much?" suddenly inquired Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "It has made a new bridge to the brook, literally," said Fleda gayly; "for + it has sawn out the boards; and you know you mustn't speak evil of what + carries you over the water." + </p> + <p> + "Does that mill pay for the working?" said Charlton, turning with the + dryest disregard from her interference and addressing himself + determinately to his father. + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean? It does not work gratuitously," answered Mr. Rossitur, + with at least equal dryness. + </p> + <p> + "But, I mean, are the profits of it enough to pay for the loss of Hugh's + time?" + </p> + <p> + "If Hugh judges they are not, he is at liberty to let it alone." + </p> + <p> + "My time is not lost," said Hugh; "I don't know what I should do with it." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what we should do without the mill," said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + That gave Charlton an unlucky opening. + </p> + <p> + "Has the prospect of farming disappointed you, father?" + </p> + <p> + "What is the prospect of your company?" said Mr. Rossitur, swallowing half + an egg before he replied. + </p> + <p> + "A very limited prospect!" said Charlton,--"if you mean the one that went + with me. Not a fifth part of them left." + </p> + <p> + "What have you done with them?" + </p> + <p> + "Shewed them where the balls were flying, sir, and did my best to shew + them the thickest of it." + </p> + <p> + "Is it necessary to shew it to us too?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I believe there are not twenty living that followed me into Mexico," he + went on, as if he had not heard her. + </p> + <p> + "Was all that havoc made in one engagement?" said Mrs. Rossitur, whose + cheek had turned pale. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, mother--in the course of a few minutes." + </p> + <p> + "I wonder what would pay for <i>that</i> loss!" said Fleda indignantly. + </p> + <p> + "Why, the point was gained! and it did not signify what the cost was so we + did that. My poor boys were a small part of it." + </p> + <p> + "What point do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I mean the point we had in view, which was taking the place." + </p> + <p> + "And what was the advantage of gaining the place." + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw!--The advantage of doing one's duty." + </p> + <p> + "But what made it duty?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Orders." + </p> + <p> + "I grant you," said Fleda,--"I understand that--but bear with me, + Charlton,--what was the advantage to the army or the country?" + </p> + <p> + "The advantage of great honour if we succeeded, and avoiding the shame of + failure." + </p> + <p> + "Is that all?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "All!" said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Glory must be a precious thing when other men's lives are so cheap to buy + it," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "We did not risk theirs without our own," said Charlton colouring. + </p> + <p> + "No,--but still theirs were risked for you." + </p> + <p> + "Not at all;--why this is absurd! you are saying that the whole war was + for nothing." + </p> + <p> + "What better than nothing was the end of it? We paid Mexico for the + territory she yielded to us, didn't we, uncle Rolf?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "How much?" + </p> + <p> + "Twenty millions, I believe." + </p> + <p> + "And what do you suppose the war has cost?" + </p> + <p> + "Hum--I don't know,--a hundred." + </p> + <p> + "A hundred million! besides--how much besides!--And don't you suppose, + uncle Rolf, that for half of that sum Mexico would have sold us peaceably + what she did in the end?" + </p> + <p> + "It is possible--I think it is very likely." + </p> + <p> + "What was the fruit of the war, Capt. Rossitur?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, a great deal of honour to the army and the nation at large." + </p> + <p> + "Honour again! But granting that the army gained it, which they certainly + did, for one I do not feel very proud of the nation's share." + </p> + <p> + "Why they are one" said Charlton impatiently. + </p> + <p> + "In an unjust war" + </p> + <p> + "It was <i>not</i> an unjust war!" + </p> + <p> + "That's what you call a knock-downer," said Fleda laughing. "But I confess + myself so simple as to have agreed with Seth Plumfield, when I heard him + and Lucas disputing about it last winter, that it was a shame to a great + and strong nation like ours to display its might in crushing a weak one." + </p> + <p> + "But they drew it upon themselves. <i>They</i> began hostilities." + </p> + <p> + "There is a diversity of opinion about that." + </p> + <p> + "Not in heads that have two grains of information." + </p> + <p> + "I beg your pardon. Mrs. Evelyn and Judge Sensible were talking over that + very question the other day at Montepoole; and he made it quite clear to + my mind that we were the aggressors." "Judge Sensible is a fool!" said Mr. + Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Very well!" said Fleda laughing;--"but as I do not wish to be + comprehended in the same class, will you shew me how he was wrong, uncle?" + </p> + <p> + This drew on a discussion of some length, to which Fleda listened with + profound attention, long after her aunt had ceased to listen at all, and + Hugh was thoughtful, and Charlton disgusted. At the end of it Mr. Rossitur + left the table and the room, and Fleda subsiding turned to her cold + coffee-cup. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't know you ever cared anything about politics before," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Didn't you?" said Fleda smiling, "You do me injustice." + </p> + <p> + Their eyes met for a second, with a most appreciating smile on his part; + and then he too went off to his work. There was a few minutes' silent + pause after that. + </p> + <p> + "Mother," said Charlton looking up and bursting forth, "what is all this + about the mill and the farm?--Is not the farm doing well?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid not very well," said Mrs. Rossitur, gently. + </p> + <p> + "What is the difficulty?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, your father has let it to a man by the name of Didenhover, and I am + afraid he is not faithful; it does not seem to bring us in what it ought." + </p> + <p> + "What did he do that for?" + </p> + <p> + "He was wearied with the annoyances he had to endure before, and thought + it would be better and more profitable to have somebody else take the + whole charge and management. He did not know Didenhover's character at the + time." + </p> + <p> + "Engaged him without knowing him!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda was the only third party present, and Charlton unwittingly allowing + himself to meet her eye received a look of keen displeasure that he was + not prepared for. + </p> + <p> + "That is not like him," he said in a much moderated tone. "But you must be + changed too, mother, or you would not endure such anomalous service in + your kitchen." + </p> + <p> + "There are a great many changes, dear Charlton," said his mother, looking + at him with such a face of sorrowful sweetness and patience that his mouth + was stopped. Fleda left the room. + </p> + <p> + "And have you really nothing to depend upon but that child's strawberries + and Hugh's wood-saw?" he said in the tone he ought to have used from the + beginning. + </p> + <p> + "Little else." + </p> + <p> + Charlton stifled two or three sentences that rose to his lips, and began + to walk up and down the room again. His mother sat musing by the tea-board + still, softly clinking her spoon against the edge of her tea-cup. + </p> + <p> + "She has grown up very pretty," he remarked after a pause. + </p> + <p> + "Pretty!" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Why?" + </p> + <p> + "No one that has seen much of Fleda would ever describe her by that name." + </p> + <p> + Charlton had the candour to think he had seen something of her that + morning. + </p> + <p> + "Poor child!" said Mrs. Rossitur sadly,--"I can't bear to think of her + spending her life as she is doing--wearing herself out, I know, + sometimes--and buried alive." + </p> + <p> + "Buried!" said Charlton in his turn. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--without any of the advantages and opportunities she ought to have. I + can't bear to think of it. And yet how should I ever live without + her!"--said Mrs. Rossitur, leaning her face upon her hands. "And if she + were known she would not be mine long. But it grieves me to have her go + without her music that she is so fond of, and the books she wants--she and + Hugh have gone from end to end of every volume there is in the house, I + believe, in every language, except Greek." + </p> + <p> + "Well, she looks pretty happy and contented, mother." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know!" said Mrs. Rossitur shaking her head. + </p> + <p> + "Isn't she happy?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Mrs. Rossitur again;--"she has a spirit that is happy + in doing her duty, or anything for those she loves; but I see her + sometimes wearing a look that pains me exceedingly. I am afraid the way + she lives and the changes in our affairs have worn upon her more than we + know of--she feels doubly everything that touches me, or Hugh, or your + father. She is a gentle spirit!--" + </p> + <p> + "She seems to me not to want character," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Character! I don't know who has so much. She has at least fifty times as + much character as I have. And energy. She is admirable at managing + people--she knows how to influence them somehow so that everybody does + what she wants." + </p> + <p> + "And who influences her?" said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Who influences her? Everybody that she loves. Who has the most influence + over her, do you mean?--I am sure I don't know--Hugh, if anybody,--but <i>she</i> + is rather the moving spirit of the household." + </p> + <p> + Capt. Rossitur resolved that he would be an exception to her rule. + </p> + <p> + He forgot, however, for some reason or other, to sound his father any more + on the subject of mismanagement. His thoughts indeed were more pleasantly + taken up. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="24"></a>Chapter XXIV. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + My + lord Sebastian,<br /> The truth you speak doth lack some gentleness<br /> + And time to speak it in: you rub the sore.<br /> When you should bring + the plaster. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Tempest. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The Evelyns spent several weeks at the Pool; and both mother and daughters + conceiving a great affection for Fleda kept her in their company as much + as possible For those weeks Fleda had enough of gayety. She was constantly + spending the day with them at the Pool, or going on some party of + pleasure, or taking quiet sensible walks and rides with them along or with + only one or two more of the most rational and agreeable people that the + place could command. And even Mrs. Rossitur was persuaded, more times than + one, to put herself in her plainest remaining French silk and entertain + the whole party, with the addition of one or two of Charlton's friends, at + her Queechy farm-house. + </p> + <p> + Fleda enjoyed it all with the quick spring of a mind habitually bent to + the patient fulfilment of duty and habitually under the pressure of rather + sobering thoughts. It was a needed and very useful refreshment. Charlton's + being at home gave her the full good of the opportunity more than would + else have been possible. He was her constant attendant, driving her to and + from the Pool, and finding as much to call him there as she had; for + besides the Evelyns his friend Thorn abode there all this time. The only + drawback to Fleda's pleasure as she drove off from Queechy would be the + leaving Hugh plodding away at his saw-mill. She used to nod and wave to + him as they went by, and almost feel that she ought not to go on and enjoy + herself while he was tending that wearisome machinery all day long. Still + she went on and enjoyed herself; but the mere thought of his patient smile + as she passed would have kept her from too much elation of spirits, if + there had been any danger. There never was any. + </p> + <p> + "That's a lovely little cousin of yours," said Thorn one evening, when he + and Rossitur, on horseback, were leisurely making their way along the up + and down road between Montepoole and Queechy. + </p> + <p> + "She is not particularly little," said Rossitur with a dryness that + somehow lacked any savour of gratification. + </p> + <p> + "She is of a most fair stature," said Thorn;--"I did not mean anything + against that,--but there are characters to which one gives instinctively a + softening appellative." + </p> + <p> + "Are there?" said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Yes. She is a lovely little creature." + </p> + <p> + "She is not to compare to one of those girls we have left behind us at + Montepoole," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Hum--well perhaps you are right; but which girl do you mean?--for I + profess I don't know." + </p> + <p> + "The second of Mrs. Evelyn's daughters--the auburn-haired one." + </p> + <p> + "Miss Constance, eh?" said Thorn. "In what isn't the other one to be + compared to her?" + </p> + <p> + "In anything! Nobody would ever think of looking at her in the same room?" + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" said Thorn coolly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know why not," said Charlton, "except that she has not a tithe of + her beauty. That's a superb girl!" + </p> + <p> + For a matter of twenty yards Mr. Thorn went softly humming a tune to + himself and leisurely switching the flies off his horse. + </p> + <p> + "Well,"--said he,--"there's no accounting for tastes-- + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + 'I ask + no red and white<br /> To make up my + delight,<br /> No odd becoming graces,<br /> + Black eyes, or little know-not-what in faces.'" + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + "What <i>do</i> you want then?" said Charlton, half laughing at him, + though his friend was perfectly grave. + </p> + <p> + "A cool eye, and a mind in it." + </p> + <p> + "A cool eye!" said Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Yes. Those we have left behind us are arrant will-o'the-wisps--dancing + fires--no more." + </p> + <p> + "I can tell you there is fire sometimes in the other eyes," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Very likely," said his friend composedly,--"I could have guessed as much; + but that is a fire you may warm yourself at; no eternal + phosphorescence;--it is the leaping up of an internal fire, that only + shews itself upon occasion." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you know what you are talking about," said Charlton, "but I + can't follow you into the region of volcanos. Constance Evelyn has superb + eyes. It is uncommon to see a light blue so brilliant." + </p> + <p> + "I would rather trust a sick head to the handling of the lovely lady than + the superb one, at a venture." + </p> + <p> + "I thought you never had a sick head," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "That is lucky for me, as the hands do not happen to be at my service. But + no imagination could put Miss Constance in Desdemona's place, when Othello + complained of his headache,--you remember, Charlton,-- + </p> + <p> + ''Faith, that's with watching--'twill away again-- Let me but bind this + handkerchief about it hard.'" + </p> + <p> + Thorn gave the intonation truly and admirably. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda never said anything so soft as that," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "No?" + </p> + <p> + "No." + </p> + <p> + "You speak--well, but <i>soft</i>!--do you know what you are talking about + there?" + </p> + <p> + "Not very well," said Charlton. "I only remember there was nothing soft + about Othello,--what you quoted of his wife just now seemed to me to smack + of that quality." + </p> + <p> + "I forgive your memory," said Thorn, "or else I certainly would not + forgive you. If there is a fair creation in all Shakespeare it is + Desdemona, and if there is a pretty combination on earth that nearly + matches it, I believe it is that one." + </p> + <p> + "What one?" + </p> + <p> + "Your pretty cousin." + </p> + <p> + Charlton was silent. + </p> + <p> + "It is generous in me to undertake her defence," Thorn went on, "for she + bestows as little of her fair countenance upon me as she can well help. + But try as she will, she cannot be so repellant as she is attractive." + </p> + <p> + Charlton pushed his horse into a brisker pace not favourable to + conversation; and they rode forward in silence, till in descending the + hill below Deepwater they came within view of Hugh's workplace, the saw + mill. Charlton suddenly drew bridle. + </p> + <p> + "There she is." + </p> + <p> + "And who is with her?" said Thorn. "As I live!--our friend--what's his + name?--who has lost all his ancestors.--And who is the other?" + </p> + <p> + "My brother," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean your brother, Capt. Rossitur," said Thorn throwing himself + off his horse. + </p> + <p> + He joined the party, who were just leaving the mill to go down towards the + house. Very much at his leisure Charlton dismounted and came after him. + </p> + <p> + "I have brought Charlton safe home, Miss Ringgan," said Thorn, who leading + his horse had quietly secured a position at her side. + </p> + <p> + "What's the matter?" said Fleda laughing. "Couldn't he bring himself + home?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what's the matter, but he's been uncommonly dumpish--we've + been as near as possible to quarrelling for half a dozen miles back." + </p> + <p> + "We have been--a--more agreeably employed," said Dr. Quackenboss looking + round at him with a face that was a concentration of affability. + </p> + <p> + "I make no doubt of it, sir; I trust we shall bring no unharmonious + interruption.--If I may change somebody else's words," he added more low + to Fleda,--"disdain itself must convert to courtesy in your presence." + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry disdain should live to pay me a compliment," said Fleda. "Mr. + Thorn, may I introduce to you Mr. Olmney?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Thorn honoured the introduction with perfect civility, but then fell + back to his former position and slightly lowered tone. + </p> + <p> + "Are you then a sworn foe to compliments?" + </p> + <p> + "I was never so fiercely attacked by them as to give me any occasion." + </p> + <p> + "I should be very sorry to furnish the occasion,--but what's the harm in + them, Miss Ringgan?" + </p> + <p> + "Chiefly a want of agreeableness." + </p> + <p> + "Of agreeableness!--Pardon me--I hope you will be so good as to give me + the rationale of that?" + </p> + <p> + "I am of Miss Edgeworth's opinion, sir," said Fleda blushing, "that a lady + may always judge of the estimation in which she is held by the + conversation which is addressed to her." + </p> + <p> + "And you judge compliments to be a doubtful indication of esteem?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sure you do not need information on that point, sir." + </p> + <p> + "As to your opinion, or the matter of fact?" said he somewhat keenly. + </p> + <p> + "As to the matter of fact," said Fleda, with a glance both simple and + acute in its expression. + </p> + <p> + "I will not venture to say a word," said Thorn smiling. "Protestations + would certainly fall flat at the gates where <i>les douces paroles</i> + cannot enter. But do you know this is picking a man's pocket of all his + silver pennies and obliging him to produce his gold." + </p> + <p> + "That <i>would</i> be a hard measure upon a good many people," said Fleda + laughing. "But they're not driven to that. There's plenty of small change + left." + </p> + <p> + "You certainly do not deal in the coin you condemn," said Thorn bowing. + "But you will remember that none call for gold but those who can exchange + it, and the number of them is few. In a world where cowrie passes current + a man may be excused for not throwing about his guineas." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you'd throw about a few for our entertainment," said Charlton, who + was close behind. "I haven't seen a yellow-boy in a good while." + </p> + <p> + "A proof that your eyes are not jaundiced," said his friend without + turning his head, "whatever may be the case with you otherwise. Is he out + of humour with the country life you like so well, Miss Ringgan, or has he + left his domestic tastes in Mexico? How do you think he likes Queechy?" + </p> + <p> + "You might as well ask myself," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "How do you think he likes Queechy, Miss Ringgan?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid something after the fashion of Touchstone," said Fleda + laughing;--"he thinks that 'in respect of itself it is a good life; but in + respect that it is a shepherd's life it is naught. In respect that it is + solitary, he likes it very well; but in respect that it is private, it is + a very vile life. Now in respect it is in the fields, it pleaseth him + well; but in respect it is not in the court, it is tedious.'" + </p> + <p> + "There's a guinea for you, Capt. Rossitur," said his friend. "Do you know + out of what mint?" + </p> + <p> + "It doesn't bear the head of Socrates," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "'Hast no philosophy in thee,' Charlton?" said Fleda laughing back at him. + </p> + <p> + "Has not Queechy--a--the honour of your approbation, Capt. Rossitur?" said + the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly sir--I have no doubt of its being a very fine country." + </p> + <p> + "Only he has imbibed some doubts whether happiness be an indigenous crop," + said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Undoubtedly," said the doctor blandly,--"to one who has roamed over the + plains of Mexico, Queechy must seem rather--a--rather flat place." + </p> + <p> + "If he could lose sight of the hills," said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Undoubtedly, sir, undoubtedly," said the doctor; "they are a marked + feature in the landscape, and do much to relieve--a--the charge of + sameness." + </p> + <p> + "Luckily," said Mr. Olmney smiling, "happiness is not a thing of + circumstance; it depends on a man's self." + </p> + <p> + "I used to think so," said Thorn;--"that is what I have always subscribed + to; but I am afraid I could not live in this region and find it so long." + </p> + <p> + "What an evening!" said Fleda. "Queechy is doing its best to deserve our + regards under this light. Mr. Olmney, did you ever notice the beautiful + curve of the hills in that hollow where the sun sets?" + </p> + <p> + "I do notice it now" he said. + </p> + <p> + "It is exquisite!" said the doctor. "Capt. Rossitur, do you observe, + sir?--in that hollow where the sun sets?--" + </p> + <p> + Capt. Rossitur's eye made a very speedy transition from the hills to + Fleda, who had fallen back a little to take Hugh's arm and placing herself + between him and Mr. Olmney was giving her attention undividedly to the + latter. And to him she talked perseveringly, of the mountains, the + country, and the people, till they reached the courtyard gate. Mr. Olmney + then passed on. So did the doctor, though invited to tarry, averring that + the sun had gone down behind the firmament and he had something to attend + to at home. + </p> + <p> + "You will come in, Thorn," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Why--I had intended returning,--but the sun has gone down indeed, and as + our friend says there is no chance of our seeing him again I may as well + go in and take what comfort is to be had in the circumstances. Gentle + Euphrosyne, doth it not become the Graces to laugh?" + </p> + <p> + "They always ask leave, sir," said Fleda hesitating. + </p> + <p> + "A most Grace-ful answer, though it does not smile upon me," said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry, sir," said Fleda, smiling now, "that you have so many silver + pennies to dispose of we shall never get at the gold." + </p> + <p> + "I will do my very best," said he. + </p> + <p> + So he did, and made himself agreeable that evening to every one of the + circle; though Fleda's sole reason for liking to see him come in had been + that she was glad of everything that served to keep Charlton's attention + from home subjects. She saw sometimes the threatening of a cloud that + troubled her. + </p> + <p> + But the Evelyns and Thorn and everybody else whom they knew left the Pool + at last, before Charlton, who was sufficiently well again, had near run + out his furlough; and then the cloud which had only shewed itself by turns + during all those weeks gathered and settled determinately upon his brow. + </p> + <p> + He had long ago supplied the want of a newspaper. One evening in September + the family were sitting in the room where they had had tea, for the + benefit of the fire, when Barby pushed open the kitchen door and came in. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda will you let me have one of the last papers? I've a notion to look + at it." + </p> + <p> + Fleda rose and went to rummaging in the cupboards. + </p> + <p> + "You can have it again in a little while," said Barby considerately. + </p> + <p> + The paper was found and Miss Elster went out with it. + </p> + <p> + "What an unendurable piece of ill-manners that woman is!" said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "She has no idea of being ill-mannered, I assure you," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + His voice was like a brewing storm--hers was so clear and soft that it + made a lull in spite of him. But he began again. + </p> + <p> + "There is no necessity for submitting to impertinence. I never would do + it." + </p> + <p> + "I have no doubt you never will," said his father. "Unless you can't help + yourself." + </p> + <p> + "Is there any good reason, sir, why you should not have proper servants in + the house?" + </p> + <p> + "A very good reason," said Mr. Rossitur. "Fleda would be in despair." + </p> + <p> + "Is there none beside that?" said Charlton dryly. + </p> + <p> + "None--except a trifling one," Mr. Rossitur answered in the same tone. + </p> + <p> + "We cannot afford it, dear Charlton," said his mother softly. + </p> + <p> + There was a silence, during which Fleda moralized on the ways people take + to make themselves uncomfortable. + </p> + <p> + "Does that man--to whom you let the farm--does he do his duty?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not the keeper of his conscience." + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid it would be a small charge to any one," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But are you the keeper of the gains you ought to have from him? does he + deal fairly by you?" + </p> + <p> + "May I ask first what interest it is of yours?" + </p> + <p> + "It is my interest, sir, because I come home and find the family living + upon the exertions of Hugh and Fleda and find them growing thin and pale + under it." + </p> + <p> + "You, at least, are free from all pains of the kind, Capt. Rossitur." + </p> + <p> + "Don't listen to him, uncle Rolf!" said Fleda going round to her uncle, + and making as she passed a most warning impression upon Charlton's + arm,--"don't mind what he says--that young gentleman has been among the + Mexican ladies till he has lost an eye for a really proper complexion. + Look at me!--do I look pale and thin?--I was paid a most brilliant + compliment the other day upon my roses--Uncle, don't listen to him!--he + hasn't been in a decent humour since the Evelyns went away." + </p> + <p> + She knelt down before him and laid her hands upon his and looked up in his + face to bring all her plea; the plea of most winning sweetness of entreaty + in features yet flushed and trembling. His own did not unbend as he gazed + at her, but he gave her a silent answer in a pressure of the hands that + went straight from his heart to hers. Fleda's eye turned to Charlton + appealingly. + </p> + <p> + "Is it necessary," he repeated, "that that child and this boy should spend + their days in labour to keep the family alive?" + </p> + <p> + "If it were," replied Mr. Rossitur, "I am very willing that their + exertions should cease. For my own part I would quite as lief be out of + the world as in it." + </p> + <p> + "Charlton!--how can you!--" said Fleda, half beside herself,--you should + know of what you speak or be silent!--Uncle, don't mind him! he is talking + wildly--my work does me good." + </p> + <p> + "You do not understand yourself," said Charlton obstinately;--"it is more + than you ought to do, and I know my mother thinks so too." + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus15.jpg"><img src="images/illus15.jpg" height="250" + alt="She knelt down before him." title="She knelt down before him." /><br /> + She knelt down before him.</a> + </p> + <p> + "Well!" said Mr. Rossitur,--"it seems there is an agreement in my own + family to bring me to the bar--get up, Fleda,--let us hear all the charges + to be brought against me, at once, and then pass sentence. What have your + mother and you agreed upon, Charlton?--go on!" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur, now beyond speech, left the room, weeping even aloud. Hugh + followed her. Fleda wrestled with her agitation for a minute or two, and + then got up and put both arms round her uncle's neck. + </p> + <p> + "Don't talk so, dear uncle Rolf!--you make us very unhappy--aunt Lucy did + not mean any such thing--it is only Charlton's nonsense. Do go and tell + her you don't think so,--you have broken her heart by what you said;--do + go, uncle Rolf!--do go and make her happy again! Forget it all!--Charlton + did not know what he was saying--won't you go, dear uncle Rolf?--" + </p> + <p> + The words were spoken between bursts of tears that utterly overcame her, + though they did not hinder the utmost caressingness of manner. It seemed + at first spent upon a rock. Mr. Rossitur stood like a man that did not + care what happened or what became of him; dumb and unrelenting; suffering + her sweet words and imploring tears, with no attempt to answer the one or + stay the other. But he could not hold out against her beseeching. He was + no match for it. He returned at last heartily the pressure of her arms, + and unable to give her any other answer kissed her two or three times, + such kisses as are charged with the heart's whole message; and disengaging + himself left the room. + </p> + <p> + For a minute after he was gone Fleda cried excessively; and Charlton, now + alone with her, felt as if he had not a particle of self-respect left to + stand upon. One such agony would do her more harm than whole weeks of + labour and weariness. He was too vexed and ashamed of himself to be able + to utter a word, but when she recovered a little and was leaving the room + he stood still by the door in an attitude that seemed to ask her to speak + a word to him. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure, Charlton," she said gently, "you will be sorry to-morrow for + what you have done." + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry now," he said. But she passed out without saying anything + more. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Rossitur passed the night in unmitigated vexation with himself. But + his repentance could not have been very genuine, since his most painful + thought was, what Fleda must think of him. + </p> + <p> + He was somewhat reassured at breakfast to find no traces of the evening's + storm; indeed the moral atmosphere seemed rather clearer and purer than + common. His own face was the only one which had an unusual shade upon it. + There was no difference in anybody's manner towards himself; and there was + even a particularly gentle and kind pleasantness about Fleda, intended, he + knew, to soothe and put to rest any movings of self-reproach he might + feel. It somehow missed of its aim and made him feel worse; and after on + his part a very silent meal he quitted the house and took himself and his + discontent to the woods. + </p> + <p> + Whatever effect they had upon him, it was the middle of the morning before + he came back again. He found Fleda alone in the breakfast-room, sewing; + and for the first time noticed the look his mother had spoken of; a look + not of sadness, but rather of settled patient gravity; the more painful to + see because it could only have been wrought by long-acting causes, and + might be as slow to do away as it must have been to bring. Charlton's + displeasure with the existing state of things had revived as his remorse + died away, and that quiet face did not have a quieting effect upon him. + </p> + <p> + "What on earth is going on!" he began rather abruptly as soon as he + entered the room. "What horrible cookery is on foot?" + </p> + <p> + "I venture to recommend that you do not inquire," said Fleda. "It was set + on foot in the kitchen and it has walked in here. If you open the window + it will walk out." + </p> + <p> + "But you will be cold?" + </p> + <p> + "Never mind--in that case I will walk out too, into the kitchen." + </p> + <p> + "Into the thick of it!--No--I will try some other way of relief. This is + unendurable!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked, but made no other remonstrance, and not heeding the look Mr. + Charlton walked out into the kitchen, shutting the door behind him. + </p> + <p> + "Barby," said he, "you have got something cooking here that is very + disagreeable in the other room." + </p> + <p> + "Is it?" said Barby. "I reckoned it would all fly up chimney I guess the + draught ain't so strong as I thought it was." + </p> + <p> + "But I tell you it fills the house!" + </p> + <p> + "Well, it'll have to a spell yet," said Barby, "'cause if it didn't, you + see, Capt. Rossitur, there'd be nothing to fill Fleda's chickens with." + </p> + <p> + "Chickens!--where's all the corn in the land?" + </p> + <p> + "It's some place besides in our barn," said Barby. "All last year's is + out, and Mr. Didenhover ha'n't fetched any of this year's home; so I made + a bargain with 'em they shouldn't starve as long as they'd eat boiled + pursley." + </p> + <p> + "What do you give them?" + </p> + <p> + "'Most everything--they ain't particler now-a days--chunks o' cabbage, and + scarcity, and pun'kin and that--all the sass that ain't wanted." + </p> + <p> + "And do they eat that?" + </p> + <p> + "Eat it!" said Barby. "They don't know how to thank me for't!" + </p> + <p> + "But it ought to be done out of doors," said Charlton, coming back from a + kind of maze in which he had been listening to her. "It is unendurable!" + </p> + <p> + "Then I guess you'll have to go some place where you won't know it," said + Barby;--"that's the most likely plan I can hit upon; for it'll have to + stay on till it's ready." + </p> + <p> + Charlton went back into the other room really down-hearted, and stood + watching the play of Fleda's fingers. + </p> + <p> + "Is it come to this!" he said at length. "Is it possible that you are + obliged to go without such a trifle as the miserable supply of food your + fowls want!" "That's a small matter!" said Fleda, speaking lightly though + she smothered a sigh. "We have been obliged to do without more than that." + </p> + <p> + "What is the reason?" + </p> + <p> + "Why this man Didenhover is a rogue I suspect, and he manages to spirit + away all the profits that should come to uncle Rolf's hands--I don't know + how. We have lived almost entirely upon the mill for some time." + </p> + <p> + "And has my father been doing nothing all this while?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing on the farm." + </p> + <p> + "And what of anything else?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda, speaking with evident unwillingness. "But + surely, Charlton, he knows his own business best. It is not our affair." + </p> + <p> + "He is mad!" said Charlton, violently striding up and down the floor. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda with equal gentleness and sadness--"he is only + unhappy;--I understand it all--he has had no spirit to take hold of + anything ever since we came here." + </p> + <p> + "Spirit!" said Charlton;--"he ought to have worked off his fingers to + their joints before he let you do as you have been doing!" + </p> + <p> + "Don't say so!" said Fleda, looking even pale in her eagerness--"don't + think so, Charlton! it isn't right. We cannot tell what he may have had to + trouble him--I know he has suffered and does suffer a great deal.--Do not + speak again about anything as you did last night!--Oh," said Fleda, now + shedding bitter tears,--"this is the worst of growing poor! the difficulty + of keeping up the old kindness and sympathy and care for each other!--" + </p> + <p> + "I am sure it does not work so upon you," said Charlton in an altered + voice. + </p> + <p> + "Promise me, dear Charlton," said Fleda looking up after a moment and + drying her eyes again, "promise me you will not say any more about these + things! I am sure it pains uncle Rolf more than you think. Say you will + not,--for your mother's sake!" + </p> + <p> + "I will not, Fleda--for your sake. I would not give <i>you</i> any more + trouble to bear. Promise me; that you will be more careful of yourself in + future." + </p> + <p> + "O there is no danger about me," said Fleda with a faint smile and taking + up her work again. + </p> + <p> + "Who are you making shirts for?" said Charlton after a pause. + </p> + <p> + "Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "You do everything for Hugh, don't you?" + </p> + <p> + "Little enough. Not half so much as he does for me." + </p> + <p> + "Is he up at the mill to-day?" + </p> + <p> + "He is always there," said Fleda sighing. + </p> + <p> + There was another silence. + </p> + <p> + "Charlton," said Fleda looking up with a face of the loveliest + insinuation.--"isn't there something <i>you</i> might do to help us a + little?" + </p> + <p> + "I will help you garden, Fleda, with pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "I would rather you should help somebody else," said she, still looking at + him. + </p> + <p> + "What, Hugh?--You would have me go and work at the mill for him, I + suppose!" + </p> + <p> + "Don't be angry with me, Charlton, for suggesting it," said Fleda looking + down again. + </p> + <p> + "Angry!"--said he. "But is that what you would have me do?" + </p> + <p> + "Not unless you like,--I didn't know but you might take his place once in + a while for a little, to give him a rest,--" + </p> + <p> + "And suppose some of the people from Montepoole that know me should come + by? What are you thinking of?" said he in a tone that certainly justified + Fleda's deprecation. + </p> + <p> + "Well!"--said Fleda in a kind of choked voice,--"there is a strange rule + of honour in vogue in the world!" + </p> + <p> + "Why should I help Hugh rather than anybody else?" + </p> + <p> + "He is killing himself!--" said Fleda, letting her work fall and hardly + speaking the words through thick tears. Her head was down and they came + fast. Charlton stood abashed for a minute. + </p> + <p> + "You sha'n't do so, Fleda," said he gently, endeavouring to raise + her,--"you have tired yourself with this miserable work!--Come to the + window--you have got low-spirited, but I am sure without reason about + Hugh,--but you shall set me about what you will--You are right, I dare + say, and I am wrong; but don't make me think myself a brute, and I will do + anything you please." + </p> + <p> + He had raised her up and made her lean upon him. Fleda wiped her eyes and + tried to smile. + </p> + <p> + "I will do anything that will please you, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "It is not to please <i>me</i>,--" she answered meekly. + </p> + <p> + "I would not have spoken a word last night if I had known it would have + grieved you so." + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry you should have none but so poor a reason for doing right," + said Fleda gently. + </p> + <p> + "Upon my word, I think you are about as good reason as anybody need have," + said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + She put her hand upon his arm and looked up,--such a look of pure rebuke + as carried to his mind the full force of the words she did not + speak,--'Who art thou that carest for a worm which shall die, and + forgettest the Lord thy Maker!'--Charlton's eyes fell. Fleda turned gently + away and began to mend the fire. He stood watching her for a little. + </p> + <p> + "What do you think of me, Fleda?" he said at length. + </p> + <p> + "A little wrong-headed," answered Fleda, giving him a glance and a smile. + "I don't think you are very bad." + </p> + <p> + "If you will go with me, Fleda, you shall make what you please of me!" + </p> + <p> + He spoke half in jest, half in earnest, and did not himself know at the + moment which way he wished Fleda to take it. But she had no notion of any + depth in his words. + </p> + <p> + "A hopeless task!" she answered lightly, shaking her head, as she got down + on her knees to blow the fire;--"I am afraid it is too much for me. I have + been trying to mend you ever since you came, and I cannot see the + slightest change for the better!" + </p> + <p> + "Where is the bellows?" said Charlton in another tone. + </p> + <p> + "It has expired--its last breath," said Fleda. "In other words, it has + lost its nose." + </p> + <p> + "Well, look here," said he laughing and pulling her away,--"you will stand + a fair chance of losing your face if you put it in the fire. You sha'n't + do it. Come and shew me where to find the scattered parts of that old wind + instrument and I will see if it cannot be persuaded to play again." + </p> + <h1> + <a name="25"></a>Chapter XXV. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + I dinna ken what I should want<br /> If I could get but a + man. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Scotch Ballad. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Capt. Rossitur did no work at the saw-mill. But Fleda's words had not + fallen to the ground. He began to shew care for his fellow-creatures in + getting the bellows mended; his next step was to look to his gun; and from + that time so long as he staid the table was plentifully supplied with all + kinds of game the season and the country could furnish. Wild ducks and + partridges banished pork and bacon even from memory; and Fleda joyfully + declared she would not see another omelette again till she was in + distress. + </p> + <p> + While Charlton was still at home came a very urgent invitation from Mrs. + Evelyn that Fleda should pay them a long visit in New York, bidding her + care for no want of preparation but come and make it there. Fleda + demurred, however, on that very score. But before her answer was written, + another missive came from Dr. Gregory, not asking so much as demanding her + presence, and enclosing a fifty-dollar bill, for which he said he would + hold her responsible till she had paid him with,--not her own hands,--but + her own lips. There was no withstanding the manner of this entreaty. Fleda + packed up some of Mrs. Rossitur's laid-by silks, to be refreshed with an + air of fashion, and set off with Charlton at the end of his furlough. + </p> + <p> + To her simple spirit of enjoyment the weeks ran fast; and all manner of + novelties and kindnesses helped them on. It was a time of cloudless + pleasure. But those she had left thought it long. She wrote them how + delightfully she kept house for the old doctor, whose wife had long been + dead, and how joyously she and the Evelyns made time fly. And every + pleasure she felt awoke almost as strong a throb in the hearts at home. + But they missed her, as Barby said, "dreadfully;" and she was most dearly + welcomed when she came back. It was just before New Year. + </p> + <p> + For half an hour there was most gladsome use of eyes and tongues. Fleda + had a great deal to tell them. + </p> + <p> + "How well--how well you are looking, dear Fleda!" said her aunt for the + third or fourth time. + </p> + <p> + "That's more than lean say for you and Hugh, aunt Lucy. What have you been + doing to yourself?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing new," they said, as her eye went from one to the other. + </p> + <p> + "I guess you have wanted me!" said Fleda, shaking her head as she kissed + them both again. + </p> + <p> + "I guess we have," said Hugh, "but don't fancy we have grown thin upon the + want." + </p> + <p> + "But where's uncle Rolf? you didn't tell me." + </p> + <p> + "He is gone to look after those lands in Michigan." + </p> + <p> + "In Michigan!--When did he go?" + </p> + <p> + "Very soon after you." + </p> + <p> + "And you didn't let me know!--O why didn't you? How lonely you must have + been." + </p> + <p> + "Let you know indeed!" said Mrs. Rossitur, wrapping her in her arms + again;--"Hugh and I counted every week that you staid with more and + pleasure each one." + </p> + <p> + "I understand!" said Fleda laughing under her aunt's kisses. "Well I am + glad I am at home again to take care of you. I see you can't get along + without me!" + </p> + <p> + "People have been very kind, Fleda," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Have they?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--thinking we were desolate I suppose. There has been no end to aunt + Miriam's goodness and pleasantness." + </p> + <p> + "O aunt Miriam, always!" said Fleda. "And Seth." + </p> + <p> + "Catherine Douglass has been up twice to ask if her mother could do + anything for us; and Mrs. Douglass sent us once a rabbit and once a + quantity of wild pigeons that Earl had shot. Mother and I lived upon + pigeons for I don't know how long. Barby wouldn't eat 'em--she said she + liked pork better; but I believe she did it on purpose." + </p> + <p> + "Like enough," said Fleda, smiling, from her aunt's arms where she still + lay. + </p> + <p> + "And Seth has sent you plenty of your favourite hickory nuts, very fine + ones; and I gathered butternuts enough for you near home." + </p> + <p> + "Everything is for me," said Fleda. "Well, the first thing I do shall be + to make some butternut candy for you. You won't despise that, Mr. Hugh?"-- + </p> + <p> + Hugh smiled at her, and went on. + </p> + <p> + "And your friend Mr. Olmney has sent us a corn-basket full of the + superbest apples you ever saw. He has one tree of the finest in Queechy, + he says." + </p> + <p> + "<i>My</i> friend!" said Fleda, colouring a little. + </p> + <p> + "Well I don't know whose he is if he isn't yours," said Hugh. "And even + the Finns sent us some fish that their brother had caught, because, they + said, they had more than they wanted. And Dr. Quackenboss sent us a goose + and a turkey. We didn't like to keep them, but we were afraid if we sent + them back it would not be understood." + </p> + <p> + "Send them back!" said Fleda. "That would never do! All Queechy would have + rung with it." + </p> + <p> + "Well, we didn't," said Hugh. "But so we sent one of them to Barby's old + mother for Christmas." + </p> + <p> + "Poor Dr. Quackenboss!" said Fleda. "That man has as near as possible + killed me two or three times. As for the others, they are certainly the + oddest of all the finny tribes. I must go out and see Barby for a minute." + </p> + <p> + It was a good many minutes, however, before she could get free to do any + such thing. + </p> + <p> + "You ha'n't lost no flesh," said Barby shaking hands with her anew. "What + did they think of Queechy keep, down in York?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--I didn't ask them," said Fleda. "How goes the world with + you, Barby?" + </p> + <p> + "I'm mighty glad you are come home, Fleda," said Barby lowering her voice. + </p> + <p> + "Why?" said Fleda in a like tone. + </p> + <p> + "I guess I ain't all that's glad of it," Miss Elster went on, with a + glance of her bright eye. + </p> + <p> + "I guess not," said Fleda reddening a little;--"but what is the matter?" + </p> + <p> + "There's two of our friends ha'n't made us but one visit a piece + since--oh, ever since some time in October!" + </p> + <p> + "Well never mind the people," said Fleda. "Tell me what you were going to + say." + </p> + <p> + "And Mr. Olmney," said Barby not minding her, "he's took and sent us a + great basket chock full of apples. Now wa'n't that smart of him, when he + knowed there wa'n't no one here that cared about 'em?" + </p> + <p> + "They are a particularly fine kind," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Did you hear about the goose and turkey?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda laughing. + </p> + <p> + "The doctor thinks he has done the thing just about right this time, I + s'pect. He had ought to take out a patent right for his invention. He'd + feel spry if he knowed who eat one on 'em." + </p> + <p> + "Never mind the doctor, Barby. Was this what you wanted to see me for?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Barby changing her tone. "I'd give something it was. I've been + all but at my wit's end; for you know Mis' Rossitur ain't no hand about + anything--I couldn't say a word to her--and ever since he went away we + have been just winding ourselves up. I thought I should clear out, when + Mis' Rossitur said maybe you wa'n't a coming till next week." + </p> + <p> + "But what is it Barby? what is wrong?" + </p> + <p> + "There ha'n't been anything right, to my notions, for a long spell," said + Barby, wringing out her dishcloth hard and flinging it down to give + herself uninterruptedly to talk;--"but now you see, Didenhover nor none of + the men never comes near the house to do a chore; and there ain't wood to + last three days; and Hugh ain't fit to cut it if it was piled up in the + yard; and there ain't the first stick of it out of the woods yet." + </p> + <p> + Fleda sat down and looked very thoughtfully into the fire. + </p> + <p> + "He had ought to ha' seen to it afore he went away, but he ha'n't done it, + and there it is." + </p> + <p> + "Why who takes care of the cows?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "O never mind the cows," said Barby;--"they ain't suffering; I wish we was + as well off as they be;--but I guess when he went away he made a hole in + our pockets for to mend his'n. I don't say he hadn't ought to ha' done it, + but we've been pretty short ever sen, Fleda--we're in the last bushel of + flour, and there ain't but a handful of corn meal, and mighty little + sugar, white or brown.--I did say something to Mis' Rossitur, but all the + good it did was to spile her appetite, I s'pose; and if there's grain in + the floor there ain't nobody to carry it to mill,--nor to thresh it,--nor + a team to draw it, fur's I know." + </p> + <p> + "Hugh cannot cut wood!" said Fleda;--"nor drive to mill either, in this + weather." + </p> + <p> + "I could go to mill," said Barby, "now you're to hum, but that's only the + beginning; and it's no use to try to do everything--flesh and blood must + stop somewhere.--" + </p> + <p> + "No indeed!" said Fleda. "We must have somebody immediately." + </p> + <p> + "That's what I had fixed upon," said Barby. "If you could get hold o' some + young feller that wa'n't sot up with an idee that he was a grown man and + too big to be told, I'd just clap to and fix that little room up stairs + for him and give him his victuals here, and we'd have some good of him; + instead o' having him streakin' off just at the minute when he'd ought to + be along." + </p> + <p> + "Who is there we could get, Barby?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Barby; "but they say there is never a nick that there + ain't a jog some place; so I guess it can be made out. I asked Mis' + Plumfield, but she didn't know anybody that was out of work; nor Seth + Plumfield. I'll tell you who does,--that is, if there <i>is</i> + anybody,--Mis' Douglass. She keeps hold of one end of 'most everybody's + affairs, I tell her. Anyhow she's a good hand to go to." + </p> + <p> + "I'll go there at once," said Fleda. "Do you know anything about making + maple sugar, Barby?" + </p> + <p> + "That's the very thing!" exclaimed Barby ecstatically. "There's lots o' + sugar maples on the farm and it's murder to let them go to loss; and they + ha'n't done us a speck o' good ever since I come here. And in your + grandfather's time they used to make barrels and barrels. You and me and + Hugh, and somebody else we'll have, we could clap to and make as much + sugar and molasses in a week as would last us till spring come round + again. There's no sense into it! All we'd want would be to borrow a team + some place. I had all that in my head long ago. If we could see the last + of that man Didenhover oncet, I'd take hold of the plough myself and see + if I couldn't make a living out of it! I don't believe the world would go + now, Fleda, if it wa'n't for women. I never see three men yet that didn't + try me more than they were worth." + </p> + <p> + "Patience, Barby!" said Fleda smiling. "Let us take things quietly." + </p> + <p> + "Well I declare I'm beat, to see how you take 'em," said Barby, looking at + her lovingly. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you know why, Barby?" + </p> + <p> + "I s'pose I do," said Barby her face softening still more,--"or I can + guess." + </p> + <p> + "Because I know that all these troublesome things will be managed in the + best way and by my best friend, and I know that he will let none of them + hurt me. I am sure of it--isn't that enough to keep me quiet?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eyes were filling and Barby looked away from them. + </p> + <p> + "Well it beats me," she said taking up her dishcloth again, "why <i>you</i> + should have anything to trouble you. I can understand wicked folks being + plagued, but I can't see the sense of the good ones." + </p> + <p> + "Troubles are to make good people better, Barby." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Barby with a very odd mixture of real feeling and seeming + want of it,--"it's a wonder I never got religion, for I will say that all + the decent people I ever see were of that kind!--Mis' Rossitur ain't + though, is she?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, a pang crossing her at the thought that all her aunt's + loveliness must tell directly and heavily in this case to lighten + religion's testimony. It was that thought and no other which saddened her + brow as she went back into the other room. + </p> + <p> + "Troubles already!" said Mrs. Rossitur. "You will be sorry you have come + back to them, dear." + </p> + <p> + "No indeed!" said Fleda brightly; "I am very glad I have come home. We + will try and manage the troubles, aunt Lucy." + </p> + <p> + There was no doing anything that day, but the very next afternoon Fleda + and Hugh walked down through the snow to Mrs. Douglass's. It was a long + walk and a cold one and the snow was heavy; but the pleasure of being + together made up for it all. It was a bright walk, too, in spite of + everything. + </p> + <p> + In a most thrifty-looking well-painted farm-house lived Mrs. Douglass. + </p> + <p> + "Why 'tain't you, is it?" she said when she opened the door,--"Catharine + said it was, and I said I guessed it wa'n't, for I reckoned you had made + up your mind not to come and see me at all.--How do you do?" + </p> + <p> + The last sentence in the tone of hearty and earnest hospitality. Fleda + made her excuses. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay,--I can understand all that just as well as if you said it. I know + how much it means too. Take off your hat." + </p> + <p> + Fleda said she could not stay, and explained her business. + </p> + <p> + "So you ha'n't come to see me after all. Well now take off your hat, + 'cause I won't have anything to say to you till you do. I'll give you + supper right away." + </p> + <p> + "But I have left my aunt alone, Mrs. Douglass;--and the afternoons are so + short now it would be dark before we could get home." + </p> + <p> + "Serve her right for not coming along! and you sha'n't walk home in the + dark, for Earl will harness the team and carry you home like a streak--the + horses have nothing to do--Come, you sha'n't go." + </p> + <p> + And as Mrs. Douglass laid violent hands on her bonnet Fleda thought best + to submit. She was presently rewarded with the promise of the very person + she wanted--a boy, or young man, then in Earl Douglass's employ; but his + wife said "she guessed he'd give him up to her;" and what his wife said, + Fleda knew, Earl Douglass was in the habit of making good. + </p> + <p> + "There ain't enough to do to keep him busy," said Mrs. Douglass. "I told + Earl he made me more work than he saved; but he's hung on till now." + </p> + <p> + "What sort of a boy is he, Mrs. Douglass?" + </p> + <p> + "He ain't a steel trap. I tell you beforehand," said the lady, with one of + her sharp intelligent glances,--"he don't know which way to go till you + shew him; but he's a clever enough kind of a chap--he don't mean no harm. + I guess he'll do for what you want." + </p> + <p> + "Is he to be trusted?" + </p> + <p> + "Trust him with anything but a knife and fork," said she, with another + look and shake of the head. "He has no idea but what everything on the + supper-table is meant to be eaten straight off. I would keep two such men + as my husband as soon as I would Philetus." + </p> + <p> + "Philetus!" said Fleda,--"the person that brought the chicken and thought + he had brought two?" + </p> + <p> + "You've hit it," said Mrs. Douglass. "Now you know him. How do you like + our new minister?" + </p> + <p> + "We are all very much pleased with him." + </p> + <p> + "He's very good-looking, don't you think so?" + </p> + <p> + "A very pleasant face." + </p> + <p> + "I ha'n't seen him much yet except in church; but those that know say he + is very agreeable in the house." + </p> + <p> + "Truly, I dare say," answered Fleda, for Mrs. Douglass's face looked for + her testimony. + </p> + <p> + "But I think he looks as if he was beating his brains out there among his + books--I tell him he is getting the blues, living in that big house by + himself." + </p> + <p> + "Do you manage to do all your work without help, Mrs. Douglass?" said + Fleda, knowing that the question was "in order" and that the affirmative + answer was not counted a thing to be ashamed of. + </p> + <p> + "Well I guess I'll know good reason," said Mrs. Douglass complacently, + "before I'll have any help to spoil <i>my</i> work. Come along, and I'll + let you see whether I want one." + </p> + <p> + Fleda went, very willingly, to be shewn all Mrs. Douglass's household + arrangements and clever contrivances, of her own or her husband's + devising, for lessening or facilitating labour. The lady was proud, and + had some reason to be, of the very superb order and neatness of each part + and detail. No corner or closet that might not be laid open fearlessly to + a visitor's inspection. Miss Catharine was then directed to open her piano + and amuse Fleda with it while her mother performed her promise of getting + an early supper; a command grateful to one or two of the party, for + Catharine had been carrying on all this while a most stately tête-à-tête + with Hugh which neither had any wish to prolong. So Fleda filled up the + time good-naturedly with thrumming over the two or three bits of her + childish music that she could recall, till Mr. Douglass came in and they + were summoned to sit down to supper; which Mrs. Douglass introduced by + telling her guests "they must take what they could get, for she had made + fresh bread and cake and pies for them two or three times, and she wa'n't + a going to do it again." + </p> + <p> + Her table was abundantly spread however, and with most exquisite neatness, + and everything was of excellent quality, saving only certain matters which + call for a free hand in the use of material. Fleda thought the pumpkin + pies must have been made from that vaunted stock which is said to want no + eggs nor sugar, and the cakes she told Mrs. Rossitur afterwards would have + been good if half the flour had been left out and the other ingredients + doubled. The deficiency in one kind however was made up by superabundance + in another; the table was stocked with such wealth of crockery that one + could not imagine any poverty in what was to go upon it. Fleda hardly knew + how to marshal the confusion of plates which grouped themselves around her + cup and saucer, and none of them might be dispensed with. There was one + set of little glass dishes for one kind of sweetmeat, another set of ditto + for another kind; an army of tiny plates to receive and shield the + tablecloth from the dislodged cups of tea, saucers being the conventional + drinking vessels; and there were the standard bread and butter plates, + which besides their proper charge of bread and butter and beef and cheese, + were expected, Fleda knew, to receive a portion of every kind of cake that + might happen to be on the table. It was a very different thing however + from Miss Anastasia's tea-table or that of Miss Flora Quackenboss. Fleda + enjoyed the whole time without difficulty. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Douglass readily agreed to the transfer of Philetus's services. + </p> + <p> + "He's a good boy!" said Earl,--"he's a good boy; he's as good a kind of a + boy as you need to have. He wants tellin'; most boys want tellin'; but + he'll do when he <i>is</i> told, and he means to do right." + </p> + <p> + "How long do you expect your uncle will be gone?" said Mrs. Douglass. + </p> + <p> + "I do not know," said Fleda. "Have you heard from him since he left?" + </p> + <p> + "Not since I came home," said Fleda. "Mr. Douglass, what is the first + thing to be done about the maple trees in the sugar season?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, you calculate to try makin' sugar in the spring?" + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps--at any rate I should like to know about it." + </p> + <p> + "Well I should think you would," said Earl, "and it's easy done--there + ain't nothin' easier, when you know the right way to set to work about it; + and there's a fine lot of sugar trees on the old farm--I recollect of them + sugar trees as long ago as when I was a boy--I've helped to work them + afore now, but there's a good many years since--has made me a leetle + older--but the first thing you want is a man and a team, to go about and + empty the buckets--the buckets must be emptied every day, and then carry + it down to the house." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I know," said Fleda, "but what is the first thing to be done to the + trees?" + </p> + <p> + "Why la! 'tain't much to do to the trees--all you've got to do is to take + an axe and chip a bit out and stick a chip a leetle way into the cut for + to dreen the sap, and set a trough under, and then go on to the next one, + and so on;--you may make one or two cuts in the south side of the tree, + and one or two cuts in the north side, if the tree's big enough, and if it + ain't, only make one or two cuts in the south side of the tree; and for + the sap to run good it had ought to be that kind o' weather when it + freezes in the day and thaws by night;--I would say!--when it friz in the + night and thaws in the day; the sap runs more bountifully in that kind o' + weather." + </p> + <p> + It needed little from Fleda to keep Mr. Douglass at the maple trees till + supper was ended; and then as it was already sundown he went to harness + the sleigh. + </p> + <p> + It was a comfortable one, and the horses if not very handsome nor + bright-curried were well fed and had good heart to their work. A two mile + drive was before them, and with no troublesome tongues or eyes to claim + her attention Fleda enjoyed it fully. In the soft clear winter twilight + when heaven and earth mingle so gently, and the stars look forth brighter + and cheerfuller than ever at another time, they slid along over the fine + roads, too swiftly, towards home; and Fleda's thoughts as easily and + swiftly slipped away from Mr. Douglass and maple sugar and Philetus and an + unfilled wood-yard and an empty flour-barrel, and revelled in the pure + ether. A dark rising ground covered with wood sometimes rose between her + and the western horizon; and then a long stretch of snow, only less pure, + would leave free view of its unearthly white light, dimmed by no + exhalation, a gentle, mute, but not the less eloquent, witness to Earth of + what Heaven must be. + </p> + <p> + But the sleigh stopped at the gate, and Fleda's musings came home. + </p> + <p> + "Good night!" said Earl, in reply to their thanks and adieus;--"'tain't + anything to thank a body for--let me know when you're a goin' into the + sugar making and I'll come and help you." + </p> + <p> + "How sweet a pleasant message may make an unmusical tongue," said Fleda, + as she and Hugh made their way up to the house. + </p> + <p> + "We had a stupid enough afternoon," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "But the ride home was worth it all!" + </p> + <h1> + <a name="26"></a>Chapter XXVI. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + 'Tis merry, 'tis merry, in good green wood,<br /> So blithe + Lady Alice is singing;<br /> On the beech's pride, and the oak's brown + side,<br /> Lord Richard's axe is ringing. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Lady of the Lake. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Philetus came, and was inducted into office and the little room + immediately; and Fleda felt herself eased of a burden. Barby reported him + stout and willing, and he proved it by what seemed a perverted inclination + for bearing the most enormous logs of wood he could find into the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + "He will hurt himself!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I'll protect him!--against anything but buckwheat batter," said Barby + with a grave shake of her head. "Lazy folks takes the most pains, I tell + him. But it would be good to have some more ground, Fleda, for Philetus + says he don't care for no dinner when he has griddles to breakfast, and + there ain't anything much cheaper than that." + </p> + <p> + "Aunt Lucy, have you any change in the house?" said Fleda that same day. + </p> + <p> + "There isn't but three and sixpence," said Mrs. Rossitur with a pained + conscious look. "What is wanting, dear?" + </p> + <p> + "Only candles--Barby has suddenly found we are out, and she won't have any + more made before to-morrow. Never mind!" + </p> + <p> + "There is only that," repeated Mrs. Rossitur. "Hugh has a little money due + to him from last summer, but he hasn't been able to get it yet. You may + take that, dear." + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda,--"we mustn't. We might want it more." + </p> + <p> + "We can sit in the dark for once," said Hugh, "and try to make an uncommon + display of what Dr. Quackenboss calls 'sociality.'" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, who had stood busily thinking,--"I am going to send + Philetus down to the post-office for the paper, and when it comes I am not + to be balked of reading it--I've made up my mind! We'll go right off into + the woods and get some pine knots, Hugh--come! They make a lovely light. + You get us a couple of baskets and the hatchet--I wish we had two--and + I'll be ready in no time. That'll do!" + </p> + <p> + It is to be noticed that Charlton had provided against any future + deficiency of news in his family. Fleda skipped away and in five minutes + returned arrayed for the expedition, in her usual out-of-door working + trim, namely,--an old dark merino cloak, almost black, the effect of which + was continued by the edge of an old dark mousseline below, and rendered + decidedly striking by the contrast of a large whitish yarn shawl worn over + it; the whole crowned with a little close-fitting hood made of some old + silver-grey silk, shaped tight to the head, without any bow or furbelow to + break the outline. But such a face within side of it! She came almost + dancing into the room. + </p> + <p> + "This is Miss Ringgan!--as she appeared when she was going to see the pine + trees. Hugh, don't you wish you had a picture of me?" + </p> + <p> + "I have got a tolerable picture of you, somewhere," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "This is somebody very different from the Miss Ringgan that went to see + Mrs. Evelyn, I can tell you," Fleda went on gayly. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know, aunt Lucy, I have made up my mind that my visit to New York + was a dream, and the dream is nicely folded away with my silk dresses. Now + I must go tell that precious Philetus about the post-office--I am <i>so</i> + comforted, aunt Lucy, whenever I see that fellow staggering into the house + under a great log of wood! I have not heard anything in a long time so + pleasant as the ringing strokes of his axe in the yard. Isn't life made up + of little things!" + </p> + <p> + "Why don't you put a better pair of shoes on?" + </p> + <p> + "Can't afford it, Mrs. Rossitur! You are extravagant!" + </p> + <p> + "Go and put on my India-rubbers." + </p> + <p> + "No ma'am!--the rocks would cut them to pieces. I have brought my mind + down to--my shoes." + </p> + <p> + "It isn't safe, Fleda; you might see somebody." + </p> + <p> + "Well ma'am!--But I tell you I am not going to see anybody but the + chick-a-dees and the snow-birds, and there is great simplicity of manners + prevailing among them." + </p> + <p> + The shoes were changed, and Hugh and Fleda set forth, lingering awhile + however to give a new edge to their hatchet, Fleda turning the grindstone. + They mounted then the apple-orchard hill and went a little distance along + the edge of the table-land before striking off into the woods. They had + stood still a minute to look over the little white valley to the + snow-dressed woodland beyond. + </p> + <p> + "This is better than New York, Hugh," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad to hear you say that," said another voice. Fleda turned + and started a little to see Mr. Olmney at her side, and congratulated + herself instantly on her shoes. + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Rossitur told me where you had gone and gave me permission to follow + you, but I hardly hoped to overtake you so soon." + </p> + <p> + "We stopped to sharpen our tools," said Fleda. "We are out on a foraging + expedition." + </p> + <p> + "Will you let me help you?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly!--if you understand the business. Do you know a pine knot when + you see it?" + </p> + <p> + He laughed and shook his head, but avowed a wish to learn. + </p> + <p> + "Well, it would be a charity to teach you anything wholesome," said Fleda, + "for I heard one of Mr. Olmney's friends lately saying that he looked like + a person who was in danger of committing suicide." + </p> + <p> + "Suicide!--One of my friends!"--he exclaimed in the utmost astonishment. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda laughing;--"and there is nothing like the open air for + clearing away vapours." + </p> + <p> + "You cannot have known that by experience," said he looking at her. + </p> + <p> + Fleda shook her head and advising him to take nothing for granted, set off + into the woods. + </p> + <p> + They were in a beautiful state. A light snow but an inch or two deep had + fallen the night before; the air had been perfectly still during the day; + and though the sun was out, bright and mild, it had done little but + glitter on the earth's white capping. The light dry flakes of snow had not + stirred from their first resting-place. The long branches of the large + pines were just tipped with snow at the ends; on the smaller evergreens + every leaf and tuft had its separate crest. Stones and rocks were smoothly + rounded over, little shrubs and sprays that lay along the ground were all + doubled in white; and the hemlock branches, bending with their feathery + burthen, stooped to the foreheads of the party and gave them the freshest + of salutations as they brushed by. The whole wood-scene was particularly + fair and graceful. A light veil of purity, no more, thrown over the + wilderness of stones and stumps and bare ground,--like the blessing of + charity, covering all roughnesses and unsightlinesses--like the innocent + unsullied nature that places its light shield between the eye and whatever + is unequal, unkindly, and unlovely in the world. + </p> + <p> + "What do you think of this for a misanthropical man, Mr. Olmney? there's a + better tonic to be found in the woods than in any remedies of man's + devising." + </p> + <p> + "Better than books?" said he. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly!--No comparison." + </p> + <p> + "I have to learn that yet." + </p> + <p> + "So I suppose," said Fleda. "The very danger to be apprehended, as I hear, + sir, is from your running a tilt into some of those thick folios of yours, + head foremost.--There's no pitch there, Hugh--you may leave it alone. We + must go on--there are more yellow pines higher up." + </p> + <p> + "But who could give such a strange character of me to you?" said Mr. + Olmney. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure your wisdom would not advise me to tell you that, sir. You will + find nothing there, Mr. Olmney." + </p> + <p> + They went gayly on, careering about in all directions and bearing down + upon every promising stump or dead pine tree they saw in the distance. + Hugh and Mr. Olmney took turns in the labour of hewing out the fat pine + knots and splitting down the old stumps to get at the pitchy heart of the + wood; and the baskets began to grow heavy. The whole party were in + excellent spirits, and as happy as the birds that filled the woods and + whose cheery "chick-a-dee-dee-dee," was heard whenever they paused to rest + and let the hatchet be still. + </p> + <p> + "How one sees everything in the colour of one's own spectacles," said + Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "May I ask what colour yours are to-day?" said Mr. Olmney. + </p> + <p> + "Rose, I think," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, "they are better than that--they are no worse colour + than the snow's own--they shew me everything just as it is. It could not + be lovelier." + </p> + <p> + "Then we may conclude, may we not," said Mr. Olmney, "that you are not + sorry to find yourself in Queechy again?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not sorry to find myself in the woods again. That is not pitch, Mr. + Olmney." + </p> + <p> + "It has the same colour,--and weight." + </p> + <p> + "No, it is only wet--see this and smell of it--do you see the difference? + Isn't it pleasant?" + </p> + <p> + "Everything is pleasant to-day," said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I shall report you a cure. Come, I want to go a little higher and shew + you a view. Leave that, Hugh, we have got enough--" + </p> + <p> + But Hugh chose to finish an obstinate stump, and his companions went on + without him. It was not very far up the mountain and they came to a fine + look-out point; the same where Fleda and Mr. Carleton had paused long + before on their quest after nuts. The wide spread of country was a white + waste now; the delicate beauties of the snow were lost in the far view; + and the distant Catskill shewed wintrily against the fair blue sky. The + air was gentle enough to invite them to stand still, after the exercise + they had taken, and as they both looked in silence Mr. Olmney observed + that his companion's face settled into a gravity rather at variance with + the expression it had worn. + </p> + <p> + "I should hardly think," said he softly, "that you were looking through + white spectacles, if you had not told us so." + </p> + <p> + "O--a shade may come over what one is looking at you know," said Fleda. + But seeing that he still watched her inquiringly she added, + </p> + <p> + "I do not think a very wide landscape is ever gay in its effect upon the + mind--do you?" + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps--I do not know," said he, his eyes turning to it again as if to + try what the effect was. + </p> + <p> + "My thoughts had gone back," said Fleda, "to a time a good while ago, when + I was a child and stood here in summer weather--and I was thinking that + the change in the landscape is something like that which years make in the + mind." + </p> + <p> + "But you have not, for a long time at least, known any very acute sorrow?" + </p> + <p> + "No--" said Fleda, "but that is not necessary. There is a gentle kind of + discipline which does its work I think more surely." + </p> + <p> + "Thank God for <i>gentle</i> discipline!" said Mr. Olmney; "if you do not + know what those griefs are that break down mind and body together." + </p> + <p> + "I am not unthankful, I hope, for anything," said Fleda gently; "but I + have been apt to think that after a crushing sorrow the mind may rise up + again, but that a long-continued though much lesser pressure in time + breaks the spring." + </p> + <p> + He looked at her again with a mixture of incredulous and tender interest, + but her face did not belie her words, strange as they sounded from so + young and in general so bright-seeming a creature. + </p> + <p> + "'There shall no evil happen to the just,'" he said presently and with + great sympathy. + </p> + <p> + Fleda flashed a look of gratitude at him--it was no more, for she felt her + eyes watering and turned them away. + </p> + <p> + "You have not, I trust, heard any bad news?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir--not at all!" + </p> + <p> + "I beg pardon for asking, but Mrs. Rossitur seemed to be in less good + spirits than usual." + </p> + <p> + He had some reason to say so, having found her in a violent fit of + weeping. + </p> + <p> + "You do not need to be told," he went on, "of the need there is that a + cloud should now and then come over this lower scene--the danger that if + it did not our eyes would look nowhere else?" + </p> + <p> + There is something very touching in hearing a kind voice say what one has + often struggled to say to oneself. + </p> + <p> + "I know it, sir," said Fleda, her words a little choked,--"and one may not + wish the cloud away,--but it does not the less cast a shade upon the face. + I guess Hugh has worked his way into the middle of that stump by this + time, Mr. Olmney." + </p> + <p> + They rejoined him; and the baskets being now sufficiently heavy and arms + pretty well tired they left the further riches of the pine woods + unexplored and walked sagely homewards. At the brow of the table-land Mr. + Olmney left them to take a shorter cut to the high-road, having a visit to + make which the shortening day warned him not to defer. + </p> + <p> + "Put down your basket and rest a minute, Hugh," said Fleda. "I had a world + of things to talk to you about, and this blessed man has driven them all + out of my head." + </p> + <p> + "But you are not sorry he came along with us?" + </p> + <p> + "O no. We had a very good time. How lovely it is, Hugh! Look at the snow + down there--without a track; and the woods have been dressed by the + fairies. O look how the sun is glinting on the west side of that hillock!" + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus16.jpg"><img src="images/illus16.jpg" height="250" + alt="'How lovely it is, Hugh!'" title="'How lovely it is, Hugh!'" /><br /> + "How lovely it is, Hugh!"</a> + </p> + <p> + "It is twice as bright since you have come home," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "The snow is too beautiful to-day. O I was right! one may grow morbid over + books--but I defy anybody in the company of those chick-a-dees. I should + think it would be hard to keep quite sound in the city." + </p> + <p> + "You are glad to be here again, aren't you?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Very! O Hugh!--it is better to be poor and have one's feet on these + hills, than to be rich and shut up to brick walls!" + </p> + <p> + "It is best as it is," said Hugh quietly. + </p> + <p> + "Once," Fleda went on,--"one fair day when I was out driving in New York, + it did come over me with a kind of pang how pleasant it would be to have + plenty of money again and be at ease; and then, as I was looking off over + that pretty North river to the other shore, I bethought me, 'A little that + a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.'" + </p> + <p> + Hugh did not answer, for the face she turned to him in its half tearful, + half bright submission took away his speech. + </p> + <p> + "Why you cannot have enjoyed yourself as much as we thought, Fleda, if you + dislike the city so much?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes I did. O I enjoyed a great many things. I enjoyed being with the + Evelyns. You don't know how much they made of me,--every one of + them,--father and mother and all the three daughters--and uncle Orrin. I + have been well petted, I can tell you, since I have been gone." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad they shewed so much discrimination," said Hugh; "they would be + puzzled to make too much of you." + </p> + <p> + "I must have been in a remarkably discriminating society," said Fleda, + "for everybody was very kind!" + </p> + <p> + "How do you like the Evelyns on a nearer view?" + </p> + <p> + "Very much indeed; and I believe they really love me. Nothing could + possibly be kinder, in all ways of shewing kindness. I shall never forget + it." + </p> + <p> + "Who were you driving with that day?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn." + </p> + <p> + "Did you see much of him?" + </p> + <p> + "Quite as much as I wished. Hugh--I took your advice." + </p> + <p> + "About what?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "I carried down some of my scribblings and sent them to a Magazine." + </p> + <p> + "Did you!" said Hugh looking delighted. "And will they publish them?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda, "that's another matter. I sent them, or uncle + Orrin did, when I first went down; and I have heard nothing of them yet." + </p> + <p> + "You shewed them to uncle Orrin?" + </p> + <p> + "Couldn't help it, you know. I had to." + </p> + <p> + "And what did he say to them?" + </p> + <p> + "Come!--I'm not going to be cross-questioned," said Fleda laughing. "He + did not prevent my sending them." + </p> + <p> + "And if they take them, do you expect they will give anything for + them?--the Magazine people?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sure if they don't they shall have no more--that is my only possible + inducement to let them be printed. For my own pleasure, I would far rather + not." + </p> + <p> + "Did you sign with your own name?" + </p> + <p> + "My own name!--Yes, and desired it to be printed in large capitals. What + are you thinking of? No--I hope you'll forgive me, but I signed myself + what our friend the doctor calls 'Yugh.'" + </p> + <p> + "I'll forgive you if you'll do one thing for me." + </p> + <p> + "What?" + </p> + <p> + "Shew me all you have in your portfolio--Do, Fleda--to-night, by the light + of the pitch-pine knots. Why shouldn't you give me that pleasure? And + besides, you know Molière had an old woman?" + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Fleda with a face that to Hugh was extremely + satisfactory,--"we'll see--I suppose you might as well read my productions + in manuscript as in print. But they are in a terribly scratchy + condition--they go sometimes for weeks in my head before I find time to + put them down--you may guess polishing is pretty well out of the question. + Suppose we try to get home with these baskets." + </p> + <p> + Which they did. + </p> + <p> + "Has Philetus got home?" was Fleda's first question. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Mrs. Rossitur, "but Dr. Quackenboss has been here and brought + the paper--he was at the post-office this morning, he says. Did you see + Mr. Olmney?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes ma'am, and I feel he has saved me from a lame arm--those pine knots + are so heavy." + </p> + <p> + "He is a lovely young man!" said Mrs. Rossitur with uncommon emphasis. + </p> + <p> + "I should have been blind to the fact, aunt Lucy, if you had not made me + change my shoes. At present, no disparagement to him, I feel as if a cup + of tea would be rather more lovely than anything else." + </p> + <p> + "He sat with me some time," said Mrs. Rossitur; "I was afraid he would not + overtake you." + </p> + <p> + Tea was ready, and only waiting for Mrs. Rossitur to come down stairs, + when Fleda, whose eye was carelessly running along the columns of the + paper, uttered a sudden shout and covered her face with it. Hugh looked up + in astonishment, but Fleda was beyond anything but exclamations, laughing + and flushing to the very roots of her hair. + </p> + <p> + "What <i>is</i> the matter, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Fleda,--"how comical!--I was just looking over the list of + articles in the January number of the 'Excelsior'"-- + </p> + <p> + "The 'Excelsior'?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--the Magazine I sent my things to--I was running over their + advertisement here, where they give a special puff of the publication in + general and of several things in particular, and I saw--here they speak of + 'A tale of thrilling interest by Mrs. Eliza Lothbury, unsurpassed,' and so + forth and so forth; 'another valuable communication from Mr. Charleston, + whose first acute and discriminating paper all our readers will remember; + the beginning of a new tale from the infallibly graceful pen of Miss Delia + Lawriston, we are sure it will be so and so; '"<i>The wind's voices," by + our new correspondent "Hugh," has a delicate sweetness that would do no + discredit to some of our most honoured names!</i>'--What do you think of + that?" + </p> + <p> + What Hugh thought he did not say, but he looked delighted; and came to + read the grateful words for himself. + </p> + <p> + "I did not know but they had declined it utterly," said Fleda,--"it was so + long since I had sent it and they had taken no notice of it; but it seems + they kept it for the beginning of a new volume." + </p> + <p> + "'Would do no discredit to some of our most honoured names'!" said Hugh. + "Dear Fleda, I am very glad! But it is no more than I expected." + </p> + <p> + "Expected!" said Fleda. "When you had not seen a line! Hush--My dear Hugh, + aren't you hungry?" + </p> + <p> + The tea, with this spice to their appetites, was wonderfully relished; and + Hugh and Fleda kept making despatches of secret pleasure and sympathy to + each other's eyes; though Fleda's face after the first flush had faded was + perhaps rather quieter than usual. Hugh's was illuminated. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Skillcorn is a smart man!" said Barby coming in with a package,--"he + has made out to go two miles in two hours and get back again safe!" + </p> + <p> + "More from the post-office!" exclaimed Fleda pouncing upon it,--"oh yes, + there has been another mail. A letter for you, aunt Lucy! from uncle + Rolf!--We'll forgive him, Barby--And here's a letter for me, from uncle + Orrin, and--yes--the 'Excelsior.' Hugh, uncle Orrin said he would send it. + Now for those blessed pine knots! Aunt Lucy, you shall be honoured with + the one whole candle the house contains." + </p> + <p> + The table soon cleared away, the basket of fat fuel was brought in; and + one or two splinters being delicately insinuated between the sticks on the + fire a very brilliant illumination sprang out. Fleda sent a congratulatory + look over to Hugh on the other side of the fireplace as she cosily + established herself on her little bench at one corner with her letter; he + had the Magazine. Mrs. Rossitur between them at the table with her one + candle was already insensible to all outward things. + </p> + <p> + And soon the other two were as delightfully absorbed. The bright light of + the fire shone upon three motionless and rapt figures, and getting no + greeting from them went off and danced on the old cupboard doors and paper + hangings, in a kindly hearty joviality that would have put any number of + stately wax candles out of countenance. There was no poverty in the room + that night. But the people were too busy to know how cosy they were; till + Fleda was ready to look up from her note and Hugh had gone twice carefully + over the new poem,--when there was a sudden giving out of the pine + splinters. New ones were supplied in eager haste and silence, and Hugh was + beginning "The wind's voices" for the third time when a soft-whispered + "Hugh!" across the fire made him look over to Fleda's corner. She was + holding up with both hands a five-dollar bank note and just shewing him + her eyes over it. + </p> + <p> + "What's that?" said Hugh in an energetic whisper. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know!" said Fleda, shaking her head comically;--"I am told 'The + wind's voices' have blown it here, but privately I am afraid it is a + windfall of another kind." + </p> + <p> + "What?" said Hugh laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Uncle Orrin says it is the first fruits of what I sent to the + 'Excelsior,' and that more will come; but I do not feel at all sure that + it is entirely the growth of that soil." + </p> + <p> + "I dare say it is," said Hugh; "I am sure it is worth more than that. Dear + Fleda, I like it so much!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda gave him such a smile of grateful affection!--not at all as if she + deserved his praise but as if it was very pleasant to have. + </p> + <p> + "What put it into your head? anything in particular?" + </p> + <p> + "No--nothing--I was looking out of the window one day and seeing the + willow tree blow; and that looked over my shoulder; as you know Hans + Andersen says his stories did." + </p> + <p> + "It is just like you!--exactly as it can be." + </p> + <p> + "Things put themselves in my head," said Fleda, tucking another splinter + into the fire. "Isn't this better than a chandelier?" + </p> + <p> + "Ten times!" + </p> + <p> + "And so much pleasanter for having got it ourselves. What a nice time we + had, Hugh?" + </p> + <p> + "Very. Now for the portfolio, Fleda--come!--mother is fast; she won't see + or hear anything. What does father say, mother?" + </p> + <p> + In answer to this they had the letter read, which indeed contained nothing + remarkable beyond its strong expressions of affection to each one of the + little family; a cordial which Mrs. Rossitur drank and grew strong upon in + the very act of reading. It is pity the medicine of kind words is not more + used in the world--it has so much power. Then, having folded up her + treasure and talked a little while about it, Mrs. Rossitur caught up the + Magazine like a person who had been famished in that kind; and soon she + and it and her tallow candle formed a trio apart from all the world again. + Fleda and Hugh were safe to pass most mysterious-looking little papers + from hand to hand right before her, though they had the care to read them + behind newspapers, and exchanges of thought and feeling went on more + swiftly still, and softly, across the fire. + </p> + <p> + Looks, and smiles, and whispers, and tears too, under cover of a Tribune + and an Express. And the blaze would die down just when Hugh had got to the + last verse of something, and then while impatiently waiting for the new + pine splinters to catch he would tell Fleda how much he liked it, or how + beautiful he thought it, and whisper enquiries and critical questions; + till the fire reached the fat vein and leaped up in defiant emulation of + gas-lights unknown, and then he would fall to again with renewed gusto. + And Fleda hunted out in her portfolio what bits to give him first, and + bade him as she gave them remember this and understand that, which was + necessary to be borne in mind in the reading. And through all the + brightening and fading blaze, and all the whispering, congratulating, + explaining, and rejoicing going on at her side, Mrs. Rossitur and her + tallow candle were devoted to each other, happily and engrossingly. At + last, however, she flung the Magazine from her and turning from the table + sat looking into the fire with a rather uncommonly careful and unsatisfied + brow. + </p> + <p> + "What did you think of the second piece of poetry there, mother?" said + Hugh;--"that ballad?--'The wind's voices' it is called." + </p> + <p> + "'The wind's voices'?--I don't know--I didn't read it, I believe." + </p> + <p> + "Why mother! I liked it very much. Do read it--read it aloud." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur took up the Magazine again abstractedly, and read-- + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'Mamma, what makes your face so sad?<br /> The sound of the wind makes + me feel glad;<br /> But whenever it blows, as grave you look,<br /> As if + you were reading a sorrowful book.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'A sorrowful book I am reading, dear,--<br /> A book of weeping and pain + and fear,--<br /> A book deep printed on my heart,<br /> Which I cannot + read but the tears will start. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'That breeze to my ear was soft and mild,<br /> Just so, when I was a + little child;<br /> But now I hear in its freshening breath<br /> The + voices of those that sleep in death.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'Mamma,' said the child with shaded brow,<br /> 'What is this book you + are reading now?<br /> And why do you read what makes you cry?'<br /> 'My + child, it comes up before my eye. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'Tis the memory, love, of a far-off day<br /> When my life's best friend + was taken away;--<br /> Of the weeks and months that my eyes were dim<br /> + Watching for tidings--watching for him. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'Many a year has come and past<br /> Since a ship sailed over the ocean + fast,<br /> Bound for a port on England's shore,--<br /> She sailed--but + was never heard of more.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'Mamma'--and she closer pressed her side,--<br /> 'Was that the time + when my father died?--<br /> Is it his ship you think you see?--<br /> + Dearest mamma--won't you speak to me?' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "The lady paused, but then calmly said,<br /> 'Yes, Lucy--the sea was his + dying bed,<br /> And now whenever I hear the blast<br /> I think again of + that storm long past. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'The winds' fierce bowlings hurt not me,<br /> But I think how they beat + on the pathless sea,--<br /> Of the breaking mast--of the parting rope,--<br /> + Of the anxious strife and the failing hope.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'Mamma,' said the child with streaming eyes,<br /> 'My father has gone + above the skies;<br /> And you tell me this world is mean and base<br /> + Compared with heaven--that blessed place.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'My daughter, I know--I believe it all,--<br /> I would not his spirit + to earth recall.<br /> The blest one he--his storm was brief,--<br /> + Mine, a long tempest of tears and grief. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'I have you, my darling--I should not sigh.<br /> I have one star more + in my cloudy sky,--<br /> The hope that we both shall join him there,<br /> + In that perfect rest from weeping and care.'" + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + "Well, mother,--how do you like it?" said Hugh whose eyes gave tender + witness to <i>his</i> liking for it. + </p> + <p> + "It is pretty--" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + Hugh exclaimed, and Fleda laughing took it out of her hand. + </p> + <p> + "Why mother!" said Hugh,--"it is Fleda's." + </p> + <p> + "Fleda's!" exclaimed Mrs. Rossitur, snatching the Magazine again. "My dear + child, I was not thinking in the least of what I was reading. Fleda's!--" + </p> + <p> + She read it over anew, with swimming eyes this time, and then clasped + Fleda in her arms and gave her, not words, but the better reward of kisses + and tears. They remained so a long time, even till Hugh left them; and + then Fleda released from her aunt's embrace still crouched by her side + with one arm in her lap. + </p> + <p> + They both sat thoughtfully looking into the fire till it had burnt itself + out and nothing but a glowing bed of coals remained. + </p> + <p> + "That is an excellent young man!" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Who?" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Olmney. He sat with me some time after you had gone." + </p> + <p> + "So you said before," said Fleda, wondering at the troubled expression of + her aunt's face. + </p> + <p> + "He made me wish," said Mrs. Rossitur hesitating,--"that I could be + something different from what I am--I believe I should be a great deal + happier"-- + </p> + <p> + The last word was hardly spoken. Fleda rose to her knees and putting both + arms about her aunt pressed face to face, with a clinging sympathy that + told how very near her spirit was; while tears from the eyes of both fell + without measure. + </p> + <p> + "Dear aunt Lucy--<i>dear</i> aunt Lucy--I wish you would!--I am sure you + would be a great deal happier--" + </p> + <p> + But the mixture of feelings was too much for Fleda; her head sank lower on + her aunt's bosom and she wept aloud. + </p> + <p> + "But I don't know anything about it!" said Mrs. Rossitur, as well as she + could speak,--"I am as ignorant as a child!--" + </p> + <p> + "Dear aunty! that is nothing--God will teach you if you ask him; he has + promised. Oh ask him, aunt Lucy! I know you would be happier!--I know it + is better--a million times!--to be a child of God than to have everything + in the world--If they only brought us that, I would be very glad of all + our troubles!--indeed I would!" + </p> + <p> + "But I don't think I ever did anything right in my life!" said poor Mrs. + Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Dear aunt Lucy!" said Fleda, straining her closer and with her very heart + gushing out at these words,--"<i>dear</i> aunty--Christ came for just such + sinners!--for just such as you and I." + </p> + <p> + "<i>You,</i>"--said Mrs. Rossitur, but speech failed utterly, and with a + muttered prayer that Fleda would help her, she sunk her head upon her + shoulder and sobbed herself into quietness, or into exhaustion. The glow + of the firelight faded away till only a faint sparkle was left in the + chimney. + </p> + <p> + There was not another word spoken, but when they rose up, with such kisses + as gave and took unuttered affection, counsel and sympathy, they bade each + other good-night. + </p> + <p> + Fleda went to her window, for the moon rode high and her childish habit + had never been forgotten. But surely the face that looked out that night + was as the face of an angel. In all the pouring moonbeams that filled the + air, she could see nothing but the flood of God's goodness on a dark + world. And her heart that night had nothing but an unbounded and + unqualified thanksgiving for all the "gentle discipline" they had felt; + for every sorrow and weariness and disappointment;--except besides the + prayer, almost too deep to be put into words, that its due and hoped-for + fruit might be brought forth unto perfection. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="27"></a>Chapter XXVII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + I become not a cart as well as another man, a plague on my bringing up. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Shakspeare. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Every day could not be as bright as the last, even by the help of pitch + pine knots. They blazed indeed, many a time, but the blaze shone upon + faces that it could not sometimes light up. Matters drew gradually within + a smaller and smaller compass. Another five dollars came from uncle Orrin, + and the hope of more; but these were carefully laid by to pay Philetus; + and for all other wants of the household excepting those the farm supplied + the family were dependent on mere driblets of sums. None came from Mr. + Rossitur. Hugh managed to collect a very little. That kept them from + absolute distress; that, and Fleda's delicate instrumentality. Regular + dinners were given up, fresh meat being now unheard-of, unless when a kind + neighbour made them a present; and appetite would have lagged sadly but + for Fleda's untiring care. She thought no time nor pains ill bestowed + which could prevent her aunt and Hugh from feeling the want of old + comforts; and her nicest skill was displayed in varying the combinations + of their very few and simple stores. The diversity and deliciousness of + her bread stuffs, Barby said, was "beyond everything!" and a cup of rich + coffee was found to cover all deficiencies of removes and entremêts; + and this was always served, Barby said further, as if the President of the + United States was expected. Fleda never permitted the least slackness in + the manner of doing this or anything else that she could control. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Plumfield had sent down an opportune present of a fine porker. One + cold day in the beginning of February Fleda was busy in the kitchen making + something for dinner, and Hugh at another table was vigorously chopping + sausage meat. + </p> + <p> + "I should like to have some cake again," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well, why don't you?" said Hugh, chopping away. + </p> + <p> + "No eggs, Mr. Rossitur,--and can't afford 'em at two shillings a dozen. I + believe I am getting discontented--I have a great desire to do something + to distinguish myself--I would make a plum pudding if I had raisins, but + there is not one in the house." + </p> + <p> + "You can get 'em up to Mr. Hemps's for sixpence a pound," said Barby. + </p> + <p> + But Fleda shook her head at the sixpence and went on moulding out her + biscuits diligently. + </p> + <p> + "I wish Philetus would make his appearance with the cows--it is a very odd + thing they should be gone since yesterday morning and no news of them." + </p> + <p> + "I only hope the snow ain't so bright it'll blind his eyes," said Barby. + </p> + <p> + "There he is this minute," said Hugh. "It is impossible to tell from his + countenance whether successful or not." + </p> + <p> + "Well where are the cows, Mr. Skillcorn?" said Barby as he came in. + </p> + <p> + "I have went all over town," said the person addressed, "and they ain't no + place." + </p> + <p> + "Have you asked news of them, Philetus?" + </p> + <p> + "I have asked the hull town, and I have went all over, 'till I was a'most + beat out with the cold,--and I ha'n't seen the first sight of 'em yet!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda and Hugh exchanged looks, while Barby and Mr. Skillcorn entered into + an animated discussion of probabilities and impossibilities. + </p> + <p> + "If we should be driven from our coffee dinners to tea with no milk in + it!"--said Hugh softly in mock dismay. + </p> + <p> + "Wouldn't!" said Fleda. "We'd beat up an egg and put it in the coffee." + </p> + <p> + "We couldn't afford it," said Hugh smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Could!--cheaper than to keep the cows. I'll have some sugar at any rate, + I'm determined. Philetus!" + </p> + <p> + "Marm." + </p> + <p> + "I wish, when you have got a good pile of wood chopped, you would make + some troughs to put under the maple trees--you know how to make them, + don't you?" + </p> + <p> + "I do!" + </p> + <p> + "I wish you would make some--you have pine logs out there large enough, + haven't you?" + </p> + <p> + "They hadn't ought to want much of it--there's some gregious big ones!" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know how many we shall want, but a hundred or two at any rate; + and the sooner the better. Do you know how much sugar they make from one + tree?" + </p> + <p> + "Wall I don't," said Mr. Skillcorn, with the air of a person who was at + fault on no other point;--"the big trees give more than the little ones--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eyes flashed at Hugh, who took to chopping in sheer desperation; + and the muscles of both gave them full occupation for five minutes. + Philetus stood comfortably warming himself at the fire, looking first at + one and then at the other, as if they were a show and he had paid for it. + Barby grew impatient. + </p> + <p> + "I guess this cold weather makes lazy people of me!" she said bustling + about her fire with an amount of energy that was significant. It seemed to + signify nothing to Philetus. He only moved a little out of the way. + </p> + <p> + "Didenhover's cleared out," he burst forth at length abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "What!" said Fleda and Barby at once, the broom and the biscuits standing + still. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Didenhover." + </p> + <p> + "What of him?" + </p> + <p> + "He has tuk himself off out o" town." + </p> + <p> + "Where to?" + </p> + <p> + "I can't tell you where teu--he ain't coming back, 'tain't likely." + </p> + <p> + "How do you know?" + </p> + <p> + "'Cause he's tuk all his traps and went, and he said farming didn't pay + and he wa'n't a going to have nothin' more to deu with it;--he telled Mis' + Simpson so--he lived to Mis' Simpson's; and she telled Mr. Ten Eyck." + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure, Philetus?" + </p> + <p> + "Sure as 'lection!--he telled Mis' Simpson so, and she telled Mr. Ten + Eyck; and he's cleared out." + </p> + <p> + Fleda and Hugh again looked at each other. Mr. Skillcorn having now + delivered himself of his news went out to the woodyard. + </p> + <p> + "I hope he ha'n't carried off our cows along with him," said Barby, as she + too went out to some other part of her premises. + </p> + <p> + "He was to have made us quite a payment on the first of March," said + Fleda. "Yes, and that was to have gone to uncle Orrin," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "We shall not see a cent of it. And we wanted a little of it for + ourselves.--I have that money from the Excelsior, but I can't touch a + penny of it for it must go to Philetus's wages. What Barby does without + hers I do not know--she has had but one five dollars in six months. Why + she stays I cannot imagine; unless it is for pure love." + </p> + <p> + "As soon as the spring opens I can go to the mill again," said Hugh after + a little pause. Fleda looked at him sorrowfully and shook her head as she + withdrew her eyes. + </p> + <p> + "I wish father would give up the farm," Hugh went on under his breath. "I + cannot bear to live upon uncle Orrin so." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's answer was to clasp her hands. Her only words were, "Don't say + anything to aunt Lucy." + </p> + <p> + "It is of no use to say anything to anybody," said Hugh. "But it weighs me + to the ground, Fleda!" + </p> + <p> + "If uncle Rolf doesn't come home by spring--I hope, I hope he will!--but + if he does not, I will take desperate measures. I will try farming myself, + Hugh. I have thought of it, and I certainly will. I will get Earl Douglass + or somebody else to play second fiddle, but I will have but one head on + the farm and I will try what mine is worth." + </p> + <p> + "You could not do it, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "One can do anything!--with a strong enough motive." + </p> + <p> + "I'm afraid you'd soon be tired, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "Not if I succeeded--not so tired as I am now." + </p> + <p> + "Poor Fleda! I dare say you are tired." + </p> + <p> + "It wasn't <i>that</i> I meant," said Fleda, slightly drawing her + breath;--"I meant this feeling of everything going wrong, and uncle Orrin, + and all--" + </p> + <p> + "But you <i>are</i> weary," said Hugh affectionately. "I see it in your + face." + </p> + <p> + "Not so much body as mind, after all. Oh Hugh! this is the worst part of + being poor!--the constant occupation of one's mind on a miserable + succession of trifles. I am so weary sometimes!--If I only had a nice book + to rest myself for a while and forget all these things--I would give so + much for it!--" + </p> + <p> + "Dear Fleda! I wish you had!" + </p> + <p> + "That was one delight of being in New York--I forgot all about money from + one end of it to the other--I put all that away;--and not having to think + of meals till I came to eat them. You can't think how tired I get of + ringing the changes on pork and flour and Indian meal and eggs and + vegetables!--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked tired and pale; and Hugh looked sadly conscious of it. + </p> + <p> + "Don't tell aunt Lucy I have said all this!" she exclaimed after a moment + rousing herself,--"I don't always feel so--only once in a while I get such + a fit--And now I have just troubled you by speaking of it!" + </p> + <p> + "You don't trouble any one in that way very often, dear Fleda," said Hugh + kissing her. + </p> + <p> + "I ought not at all--you have enough else to think of--but it is a kind of + relief sometimes. I like to do these things in general,--only now and then + I get tired, as I was just now, I suppose, and then one sees everything + through a different medium." + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid it would tire you more to have the charge of Earl Douglass + and the farm upon your mind;--and mother could be no help to you,--nor I, + if I am at the mill." + </p> + <p> + "But there's Seth Plumfield. O I've thought of it all. You don't know what + I am up to, Mr. Rossitur. You shall see how I will manage--unless uncle + Rolf comes home, in which case I will very gladly forego all my honours + and responsibilities together." + </p> + <p> + "I hope he will come!" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + But this hope was to be disappointed. Mr. Rossitur wrote again about the + first of March, saying that he hoped to make something of his lands in + Michigan, and that he had the prospect of being engaged in some land + agencies which would make it worth his while to spend the summer there. He + bade his wife let anybody take the farm that could manage it and would + pay; and to remit to Dr. Gregory whatever she should receive and could + spare. He hoped to do something where he was. + </p> + <p> + It was just then the beginning of the sugar season; and Mrs. Douglass + having renewed and urged Earl's offer of help, Fleda sent Philetus down to + ask him to come the next day with his team. Seth Plumfield's, which had + drawn the wood in the winter, was now busy in his own sugar business. On + Earl Douglass's ground there happpened to be no maple trees. His lands + were of moderate extent and almost entirely cultivated as a sheep farm; + and Mr. Douglass himself though in very comfortable circumstances was in + the habit of assisting, on advantageous terms, all the farmers in the + neighbourhood. + </p> + <p> + Philetus came back again in a remarkably short time; and announced that he + had met Dr. Quackenboss in the way, who had offered to come with <i>his</i> + team for the desired service. + </p> + <p> + "Then you have not been to Mr. Douglass's?" + </p> + <p> + "I have not," said Philetus;--"I thought likely you wouldn't calculate to + want him teu." + </p> + <p> + "How came the doctor to know what you were going for?" + </p> + <p> + "I told him." + </p> + <p> + "But how came you to tell him?" + </p> + <p> + "Wall I guess he had a mind to know," said Philetus, "so I didn't keep it + no closer than I had teu." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Fleda biting her lips, "you will have to go down to Mr. + Douglass's nevertheless, Philetus, and tell him the doctor is coming + to-morrow, but I should be very much obliged to him if he will be here + next day. Will you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes marm!" + </p> + <p> + "Now dear Hugh, will you make me those little spouts for the trees!--of + some dry wood--you can get plenty out here. You want to split them up with + a hollow chisel about a quarter of an inch thick, and a little more than + half an inch broad. Have you got a hollow chisel?" + </p> + <p> + "No, but I can get one up the hill. Why must it be hollow?" + </p> + <p> + "To make little spouts, you know,--for the sap to run in. And then, my + dear Hugh! they must be sharpened at one end so as to fit where the chisel + goes in--I am afraid I have given you a day's work of it. How sorry I am + you must go to-morrow to the mill!--and yet I am glad too." + </p> + <p> + "Why need you go round yourself with these people?" said Hugh. "I don't + see the sense of it." + </p> + <p> + "They don't know where the trees are," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure I do not. Do you?" + </p> + <p> + "Perfectly well. And besides," said Fleda laughing, "I should have great + doubts of the discreetness of Philetus's auger if it were left to his + simple direction. I have no notion the trees would yield their sap as + kindly to him as to me. But I didn't bargain for Dr. Quackenboss." + </p> + <p> + Dr. Quackenboss arrived punctually the next morning with his oxen and + sled; and by the time it was loaded with the sap-troughs, Fleda in her + black cloak, yarn shawl, and grey little hood came out of the house to the + wood-yard. Earl Douglass was there too, not with his team, but merely to + see how matters stood and give advice. + </p> + <p> + "Good day, Mr. Douglass!" said the doctor. "You see I'm so fortunate as to + have got the start of you." + </p> + <p> + "Very good," said Earl contentedly,--"you may have it;--the start's one + thing and the pull's another. I'm willin' anybody should have the start, + but it takes a pull to know whether a man's got stuff in him or no." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean nothin' at all. You make a start to-day and I'll come ahint + and take the pull to-morrow. Ha' you got anythin' to boil down in, + Fleda?--there's a potash kittle somewheres, ain't there? I guess there is. + There is in most houses." + </p> + <p> + "There is a large kettle--I suppose large enough," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "That'll do, I guess. Well what do you calculate to put the syrup in--ha' + you got a good big cask, or plenty o' tubs and that? or will you sugar off + the hull lot every night and fix it that way? You must do one thing or + t'other, and it's good to know what you're a going to do afore you come to + do it." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, Mr. Douglass," said Fleda;--"whichever is the best way--we + have no cask large enough, I am afraid." + </p> + <p> + "Well I tell you what I'll do--I know where there's a tub, and where they + ain't usin' it nother, and I reckon I can get 'em to let me have it--I + reckon I can--and I'll go round for't and fetch it here to-morrow mornin' + when I come with the team. 'Twon't be much out of my way. It's more + handier to leave the sugarin' off till the next day; and it had ought to + have a settlin' besides. Where'll you have your fire built?--in doors or + out?" + </p> + <p> + "Out--I would rather, if we can. But can we?" + </p> + <p> + "La, 'tain't nothin' easier--it's as easy out as in--all you've got to do + is to take and roll a couple of pretty sized billets for your fireplace + and stick a couple o' crotched sticks for to hang the kittle over--I'd as + lieve have it out as in, and if anythin' a leetle liever. If you'll lend + me Philetus, me and him'll fix it all ready agin you come back--'tain't no + trouble at all--and if the sticks ain't here we'll go into the woods after + 'em, and have it all sot up." + </p> + <p> + But Fleda represented that the services of Philetus were just then in + requisition, and that there would be no sap brought home till to-morrow. + </p> + <p> + "Very good!" said Earl amicably,--"<i>very</i> good! it's just as easy + done one day as another--it don't make no difference to me, and if it + makes any difference to you, of course we'll leave it to-day, and there'll + be time enough to do it to-morrow; me and him'll knock it up in a + whistle.--What's them little shingles for?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda explained the use and application of Hugh's mimic spouts. He turned + one about, whistling, while he listened to her. + </p> + <p> + "That's some o' Seth Plumfield's new jigs, ain't it. I wonder if he thinks + now the sap's a goin to run any sweeter out o' that 'ere than it would off + the end of a chip that wa'n't quite so handsome?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Mr. Douglass," said Fleda smiling,--"he only thinks that this will + catch a little more." + </p> + <p> + "His sugar won't never tell where it come from," remarked Earl, throwing + the spout down. "Well,--you shall see more o' me to-morrow. Good-bye, Dr. + Quackenboss!" + </p> + <p> + "Do you contemplate the refining process?" said the doctor, as they moved + off. + </p> + <p> + "I have often contemplated the want of it," said Fleda; "but it is best + not to try to do too much. I should like to make sure of something worth + refining in the first place." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Douglass and I," said the doctor,--"I hope--a--he's a very + good-hearted man, Miss Fleda, but, ha! ha!--he wouldn't suffer loss from a + little refining himself.--Haw! you rascal--where are you going! Haw! I + tell ye--" + </p> + <p> + "I am very sorry, Dr. Quackenboss," said Fleda when she had the power and + the chance to speak again,--"I am very sorry you should have to take this + trouble; but unfortunately the art of driving oxen is not among Mr. + Skillcorn's accomplishments." + </p> + <p> + "My dear Miss Ringgan!" said the doctor, "I--I--nothing I assure you could + give me greater pleasure than to drive my oxen to any place where you + would like to have them go." + </p> + <p> + Poor Fleda wished she could have despatched them and him in one direction + while she took another; the art of driving oxen <i>quietly</i> was + certainly not among the doctor's accomplishments. She was almost deafened. + She tried to escape from the immediate din by running before to shew + Philetus about tapping the trees and fixing the little spouts, but it was + a longer operation than she had counted upon, and by the time they were + ready to leave the tree the doctor was gee-hawing alongside of it; and + then if the next maple was not within sight she could not in decent + kindness leave him alone. The oxen went slowly, and though Fleda managed + to have no delay longer than to throw down a trough as the sled came up + with each tree which she and Philetus had tapped, the business promised to + make a long day of it. It might have been a pleasant day in pleasant + company; but Fleda's spirits were down to set out with, and Dr. + Quackenboss was not the person to give them the needed spring; his + long-winded complimentary speeches had not interest enough even to divert + her. She felt that she was entering upon an untried and most weighty + undertaking; charging her time and thoughts with a burthen they could well + spare. Her energies did not flag, but the spirit that should have + sustained them was not strong enough for the task. + </p> + <p> + It was a blustering day of early March; with that uncompromising + brightness of sky and land which has no shadow of sympathy with a heart + overcast. The snow still lay a foot thick over the ground, thawing a + little in sunny spots; the trees quite bare and brown, the buds even of + the early maples hardly shewing colour; the blessed evergreens alone doing + their utmost to redeem the waste, and speaking of patience and fortitude + that can brave the blast and outstand the long waiting and cheerfully bide + the time when "the winter shall be over and gone." Poor Fleda thought they + were like her in their circumstances, but she feared she was not like them + in their strong endurance. She looked at the pines and hemlocks as she + passed, as if they were curious preachers to her; and when she had a + chance she prayed quietly that she might stand faithfully like them to + cheer a desolation far worse and she feared far more abiding than snows + could make or melt away. She thought of Hugh, alone in his mill-work that + rough chilly day, when the wind stalked through the woods and over the + country as if it had been the personification of March just come of ape + and taking possession of his domains. She thought of her uncle, doing + what?--in Michigan,--leaving them to fight with difficulties as they + might,--why?--why? and her gentle aunt at home sad and alone, pining for + the want of them all, but most of him, and fading with their fortunes. And + Fleda's thoughts travelled about from one to the other and dwelt with them + all by turns till she was heart-sick; and tears, tears, fell hot on the + snow many a time when her eyes had a moment's shield from the doctor and + his somewhat more obtuse coadjutor. She felt half superstitiously as if + with her taking the farm were beginning the last stage of their falling + prospects, which would leave them with none of hope's colouring. Not that + in the least she doubted her own ability and success; but her uncle did + not deserve to have his affairs prosper under such a system and she had no + faith that they would. + </p> + <p> + "It is most grateful," said the doctor with that sideway twist of his jaw + and his head at once, in harmony,--"it is a most grateful thing to see + such a young lady--Haw I there now I--what are you about? haw,--haw + then!--It is a most grateful thing to see--" + </p> + <p> + But Fleda was not at his side; she had bounded away and was standing under + a great maple tree a little ahead, making sure that Philetus screwed his + auger <i>up</i> into the tree instead of <i>down</i>, which he had several + times shewed an unreasonable desire to do. The doctor had steered his oxen + by her little grey hood and black cloak all the day. He made for it now. + </p> + <p> + "Have we arrived at the termination of our--a--adventure?" said he as he + came up and threw down the last trough. + </p> + <p> + "Why no, sir," said Fleda, "for we have yet to get home again." + </p> + <p> + "'Tain't so fur going that way as it were this'n," said Philetus. "My! + ain't I glad." + </p> + <p> + "Glad of what?" said the doctor. "Here's Miss Ringgan's walked the whole + way, and she a lady--ain't you ashamed to speak of being tired?" + </p> + <p> + "I ha'n't said the first word o' being tired!" said Philetus in an injured + tone of voice,--"but a man ha'n't no right to kill hisself, if he ain't a + gal!" + </p> + <p> + "I'll qualify to your being safe enough," said the doctor. "But Miss + Ringgan, my dear, you are--a--you have lost something since you came + out--" + </p> + <p> + "What?" said Fleda laughing. "Not my patience?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said the doctor, "no,--you're--a--you're an angel! but your cheeks, + my dear Miss Ringgan, shew that you have exceeded your--a--" + </p> + <p> + "Not my intentions, doctor," said Fleda lightly. "I am very well satisfied + with our day's work, and with my share of it, and a cup of coffee will + make me quite up again. Don't look at my cheeks till then." + </p> + <p> + "I shall disobey you constantly," said the doctor;--"but, my dear Miss + Fleda, we must give you some felicities for reaching home, or Mrs. + Rossitur will be--a--distressed when she sees them. Might I propose--that + you should just bear your weight on this wood-sled and let my oxen and me + have the honour--The cup of coffee, I am confident, would be at your lips + considerably earlier--" + </p> + <p> + "The sun won't be a great haighth by the time we get there," said Philetus + in a cynical manner; "and I ha'n't took the first thing to-day!" + </p> + <p> + "Well who has?" said the doctor; "you ain't the only one. Follow your nose + down hill, Mr. Skillcorn, and it'll smell supper directly. Now, my dear + Miss Ringgan!--will you?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda hesitated, but her relaxed energies warned her not to despise a + homely mode of relief. The wood-sled was pretty clean, and the road + decently good over the snow. So Fleda gathered her cloak about her and sat + down flat on the bottom of her rustic vehicle; too grateful for the rest + to care if there had been a dozen people to laugh at her; but the doctor + was only delighted, and Philetus regarded every social phenomenon as + coolly and in the same business light as he would the butter to his bread, + or any other infallible every-day matter. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was very glad presently that she had taken this plan, for besides + the rest of body she was happily relieved from all necessity of speaking. + The doctor though but a few paces off was perfectly given up to the care + of his team, in the intense anxiety to shew his skill and gallantry in + saving her harmless from every ugly place in the road that threatened a + jar or a plunge. Why his oxen didn't go distracted was a question; but the + very vehemence and iteration of his cries at last drowned itself in + Fleda's ear and she could hear it like the wind's roaring, without + thinking of it. She presently subsided to that. With a weary frame, and + with that peculiar quietness of spirits that comes upon the ending of a + days work in which mind and body have both been busily engaged, and the + sudden ceasing of any call upon either, fancy asked no leave and dreamily + roved hither and thither between the material and the spirit world; the + will too subdued to stir. Days gone by came marshalling their scenes and + their actors before her; again she saw herself a little child under those + same trees that stretched their great black arms over her head and swaying + their tops in the wind seemed to beckon her back to the past. They talked + of their old owner, whose steps had so often passed beneath them with her + own light tread,--light now, but how dancing then!--by his side; and of + her father whose hand perhaps had long ago tapped those very trees where + she had noticed the old closed-up soars of the axe. At any rate his + boyhood had rejoiced there, and she could look back to one time at least + in his manhood when she had taken a pleasant walk with him in summer + weather among those same woods, in that very ox-track she believed. + Gone--two generations that she had known there; hopes and fears and + disappointments, akin to her own, at rest,--as hers would be; and how + sedately the old trees stood telling her of it, and waving their arms in + grave and gentle commenting on the folly of anxieties that came and went + with the wind. Fleda agreed to it all; she heard all they said; and her + own spirit was as sober and quiet as their quaint moralizing. She felt as + if it would never dance again. + </p> + <p> + The wind had greatly abated of its violence; as if satisfied with the shew + of strength it had given in the morning it seemed willing to make no more + commotion that day. The sun was far on his way to the horizon, and many a + broad hill-side slope was in shadow; the snow had blown or melted from off + the stones and rocks leaving all their roughness and bareness unveiled; + and the white crust of snow that lay between them looked a cheerless waste + in the shade of the wood and the hill. But there were other spots where + the sunbeams struck and bright streams of light ran between the trees, + smiling and making them smile. And as Fleda's eye rested there another + voice seemed to say, "At evening-time it shall be light,"--and "Sorrow may + endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." She could have cried, + but spirits were too absolutely at an ebb. She knew this was partly + physical, because she was tired and faint, but it could not the better be + overcome. Yet those streaks of sunlight were pleasant company, and Fleda + watched them, thinking how bright they used to be once; till the oxen and + sled came out from the woods, and she could see the evening colours on the + hill-tops beyond the village, lighting up the whole landscape with promise + of the morrow. She thought her day had seen its brightest; but she thought + too that if she must know sorrows it was a very great blessing to know + them at Queechy. + </p> + <p> + The smoke of the chimney-tops came in sight, and fancy went home,--a few + minutes before her. + </p> + <p> + "I wonder what you'll take and do to yourself next!" said Barby in extreme + vexation when she saw her come in. "You're as white as the wall,--and as + cold, ain't you? I'd ha' let Philetus cut all the trees and drink all the + sap afterwards. I wonder which you think is the worst, the want o' you or + the want o' sugar." + </p> + <p> + A day's headache was pretty sure to visit Fleda after any over-exertion or + exhaustion, and the next day justified Barby's fears. She was the quiet + prisoner of pain. But Earl Douglass and Mr. Skillcorn could now do without + her in the woods; and her own part of the trouble Fleda always took with + speechless patience. She had the mixed comfort that love could bestow; + Hugh's sorrowful kiss and look before setting off for the mill, Mrs. + Rossitur's caressing care, and Barby's softened voice, and sympathizing + hand on her brow, and hearty heart-speaking kiss, and poor little King lay + all day with his head in her lap, casting grave wistful glances up at his + mistress's face and licking her hand with intense affection when even in + her distress it stole to his head to reward and comfort him. He never + would budge from her side, or her feet, till she could move herself and he + knew that she was well. As sure as King came trotting into the kitchen + Barby used to look into the other room and say, "So you're better, ain't + you, Fleda? I knowed it!" + </p> + <p> + After hours of suffering the fit was at last over; and in the evening, + though looking and feeling racked, Fleda would go out to see the + sap-boilers. Earl Douglass and Philetus had had a very good day of it, and + now were in full blast with the evening part of the work. The weather was + mild, and having the stay of Hugh's arm Fleda grew too amused to leave + them. + </p> + <p> + It was a very pretty scene. The sap-boilers had planted themselves near + the cellar door on the other side of the house from the kitchen door and + the wood-yard; the casks and tubs for syrup being under cover there; and + there they had made a most picturesque work-place. Two strong crotched + sticks were stuck in the ground some six or eight feet apart and a pole + laid upon them, to which by the help of some very rustic hooks two + enormous iron kettles were slung. Under them a fine fire of smallish split + sticks was doing duty, kept in order by a couple of huge logs which walled + it in on the one side and on the other. It was a dark night, and the fire + painted all this in strong lights and shadows; threw a faint fading Aurora + like light over the snow, beyond the shade of its log barriers; glimmered + by turns upon the paling of the garden fence, whenever the dark figures + that were passing and repassing between gave it a chance; and invested the + cellar-opening and the outstanding corner of the house with striking and + unwonted dignity, in a light that revealed nothing except to the + imagination. Nothing was more fancifully dignified or more quaintly + travestied by that light than the figures around it, busy and flitting + about and shewing themselves in every novel variety of grouping and + colouring. There was Earl Douglass, not a hair different from what he was + every day in reality, but with his dark skin and eyes, and a hat that like + its master had concluded to abjure all fashions and perhaps for the same + reason, he looked now like any bandit and now in a more pacific view could + pass for nothing less than a Spanish shepherd at least, with an iron ladle + in lieu of crook. There was Dr. Quackenboss, who had come too, determined + as Earl said, "to keep his eend up," excessively bland and busy and + important, the fire would throw his one-sidedness of feature into such + aspects of gravity or sternness that Fleda could make nothing of him but a + poor clergyman or a poor schoolmaster alternately. Philetus, who was kept + handing about a bucket of sap or trudging off for wood, defied all + comparison; he was Philetus still; but when Barby came once or twice and + peered into the kettle her strong features with the handkerchief she + always wore about her head were lit up into a very handsome gypsy. Fleda + stood some time unseen in the shadow of the house to enjoy the sight, and + then went forward on the same principle that a sovereign princess shews + herself to her army, to grace and reward the labours of her servants. The + doctor was profuse in enquiries after her health and Earl informed her of + the success of the day. + </p> + <p> + "We've had first rate weather," he said;--"I don't want to see no better + weather for sugar-makin'; it's as good kind o' weather as you need to + have. It friz everythin' up tight in the night, and it thew in the sun + this mornin' as soon as the sun was anywhere; the trees couldn't do no + better than they have done. I guess we ha'n't got much this side o' two + hundred gallon--I ain't sure about it, but that's what I think; and + there's nigh two hundred gallon we've fetched down; I'll qualify to better + than a hundred and fifty, or a hundred and sixty either. We should ha' had + more yet if Mr. Skillcorn hadn't managed to spill over one cask of it--I + reckon he wanted it for sass for his chicken." + </p> + <p> + "Now, Mr. Douglass!"--said Philetus, in a comical tone of deprecation. + </p> + <p> + "It is an uncommonly fine lot of sugar trees," said the doctor, "and they + stand so on the ground as to give great felicities to the oxen." + </p> + <p> + "Now, Fleda," Earl went on, busy all the while with his iron ladle in + dipping the boiling sap from one kettle into the other,--"you know how + this is fixed when we've done all we've got to do with it?--it must be + strained out o' this biler into a cask or a tub or somethin' + 'nother,--anythin' that'll hold it,--and stand a day or so;--you may + strain it through a cotton cloth, or through a woollen cloth, or through + any kind of a cloth!--and let it stand to settle; and then when it's biled + down--Barby knows about bilin' down--you can tell when it's comin' to the + sugar when the yellow blobbers rises thick to the top and puffs off, and + then it's time to try it in cold water,--it's best to be a leetle the + right side o' the sugar and stop afore it's done too much, for the + molasses will dreen off afterwards--" + </p> + <p> + "It must be clarified in the commencement," put in the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "O' course it must be clarified," said Earl,--"Barby knows about + clarifyin'--that's when you first put it on--you had ought to throw in a + teeny drop o' milk fur to clear it,--milk's as good as a'most + anything,--or if you can get it calf's blood's better "-- + </p> + <p> + "Eggs would be a more preferable ingredient on the present occasion, I + presume," said the doctor. "Miss Ringgan's delicacy would be--a--would + shrink from--a--and the albumen of eggs will answer all the same purpose." + </p> + <p> + "Well anyhow you like to fix it," said Earl,--"eggs or calf's blood--I + won't quarrel with you about the eggs, though I never heerd o' blue ones + afore, 'cept the robin's and bluebird's--and I've heerd say the swamp + black bird lays a handsome blue egg, but I never happened to see the nest + myself;--and there's the chippin' sparrow,--but you'd want to rob all the + birds' nests in creation to get enough of 'em, and they ain't here in + sugar time, nother; but anyhow any eggs'll do I s'pose if you can get + 'em--or milk'll do if you ha'n't nothin' else--and after it is turned out + into the barrel you just let it stand still a spell till it begins to + grain and look clean on top"-- + </p> + <p> + "May I suggest an improvement?" said the doctor. "Many persons are of the + opinion that if you take and stir it up well from the bottom for a length + of time it will help the coagulation of the particles. I believe that is + the practice of Mr. Plumfield and others." + </p> + <p> + "'Tain't the practice of as good men as him and as good sugar-bilers, + besides," said Earl; "though I don't mean to say nothin' agin Seth + Plumfield nor agin his sugar, for the both is as good as you'd need to + have; he's a good man and he's a good farmer--there ain't no better man in + town than Seth Plumfield, nor no better farmer, nor no better sugar + nother; but I hope there's as good; and I've seen as handsome sugar that + wa'n't stirred as I'd want to see or eat either." + </p> + <p> + "It would lame a man's arms the worst kind!" said Philetus. + </p> + <p> + Fleda stood listening to the discussion and smiling, when Hugh suddenly + wheeling about brought her face to face with Mr. Olmney. + </p> + <p> + "I have been sitting some time with Mrs. Rossitur," he said, "and she + rewarded me with permission to come and look at you. I mean!--not that I + wanted a reward, for I certainly did not--" + </p> + <p> + "Ah Mr. Olmney!" said Fleda laughing, "you are served right. You see how + dangerous it is to meddle with such equivocal things as compliments. But + we are worth looking at, aren't we? I have been standing here this half + hour." + </p> + <p> + He did not say this time what he thought. + </p> + <p> + "Pretty, isn't it?" said Fleda. "Stand a little further back, Mr. + Olmney--isn't it quite a wild-looking scene, in that peculiar light and + with the snowy background? Look at Philetus now with that bundle of + sticks--Hugh! isn't he exactly like some of the figures in the old + pictures of the martyrdoms, bringing billets to feed the fire?--that old + martyrdom of St. Lawrence--whose was it--Spagnoletto!--at Mrs. + Decatur's--don't you recollect? It is fine, isn't it, Mr. Olmney?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid," said he shaking his head a little, "my eye wants training. + I have not been once in your company I believe without your shewing me + something I could not see." + </p> + <p> + "That young lady, sir," said Dr. Quackenboss from the far side of the + fire, where he was busy giving it more wood,--"that young lady, sir, is a + pattron to her--a--to all young ladies." + </p> + <p> + "A patron!" said Mr. Olmney. + </p> + <p> + "Passively, not actively, the doctor means," said Fleda softly. + </p> + <p> + "Well I won't say but she's a good girl," said Mr. Douglass in an + abstracted manner, busy with his iron ladle,--"she means to be a good + girl--she's as clever a girl as you need to have!" + </p> + <p> + Nobody's gravity stood this, excepting Philetus, in whom the principle of + fun seemed not to be developed. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Ringgan, sir," Dr. Quackenboss went on with a most benign expression + of countenance,--"Miss Ringgan, sir, Mr. Olmney, sets an example to all + ladies who--a--have had elegant advantages. She gives her patronage to the + agricultural interest in society." + </p> + <p> + "Not exclusively, I hope?" said Mr. Olmney smiling, and making the + question with his eye of Fleda. But she did not meet it. + </p> + <p> + "You know," she said rather quickly, and drawing back from the fire, "I am + of an agricultural turn perforce--in uncle Rolf's absence I am going to be + a farmer myself." + </p> + <p> + "So I have heard--so Mrs. Rossitur told me,--but I fear--pardon me--you do + not look fit to grapple with such a burden of care." + </p> + <p> + Hugh sighed, and Fleda's eyes gave Mr. Olmney a hint to be silent. + </p> + <p> + "I am not going to grapple with any thing, sir; I intend to take things + easily." + </p> + <p> + "I wish I could take an agricultural turn too," said he smiling, "and be + of some service to you." + </p> + <p> + "O I shall have no lack of service," said Fleda gayly;--"I am not going + unprovided into the business. There is my cousin Seth Plumfield, who has + engaged himself to be my counsellor and instructor in general; I could not + have a better; and Mr. Douglass is to be my right hand; I occupying only + the quiet and unassuming post of the will, to convey the orders of the + head to the hand. And for the rest, sir, there is Philetus!" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Olmney looked, half laughing, at Mr. Skillcorn, who was at that moment + standing with his hands on his sides, eying with concentrated gravity the + movements of Earl Douglass and the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "Don't shake your head at him!" said Fleda. "I wish you had come an hour + earlier, Mr. Olmney." + </p> + <p> + "Why?" + </p> + <p> + "I was just thinking of coming out here," said Fleda, her eyes flashing + with hidden fun,--"and Hugh and I were both standing in the kitchen, when + we heard a tremendous shout from the woodyard. Don't laugh, or I can't go + on. We all ran out, towards the lantern which we saw standing there, and + so soon as we got near we heard Philetus singing out, 'Ho, Miss + Elster!--I'm dreadfully on't!'--Why he called upon Barby I don't know, + unless from some notion of her general efficiency, though to be sure he + was nearer her than the sap-boilers and perhaps thought her aid would come + quickest. And he was in a hurry, for the cries came thick--'Miss + Elster!--here!--I'm dreadfully on't'--" + </p> + <p> + "I don't understand--" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, whose amusement seemed to be increased by the + gentleman's want of understanding,--"and neither did we till we came up to + him. The silly fellow had been sent up for more wood, and splitting a log + he had put his hand in to keep the cleft, instead of a wedge, and when he + took out the axe the wood pinched him; and he had the fate of Milo before + his eyes, I suppose, and could do nothing but roar. You should have seen + the supreme indignation with which Barby took the axe and released him + with 'You're a smart man, Mr. Skillcorn!'" + </p> + <p> + "What was the fate of Milo?" said Mr. Olmney presently. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you remember,--the famous wrestler that in his old age trying to + break open a tree found himself not strong enough; and the wood closing + upon his hands held him fast till the wild beasts came and made an end of + him. The figure of our unfortunate wood-cutter though, was hardly so + dignified as that of the old athlete in the statue.--Dr. Quackenboss, and + Mr. Douglass,--you will come in and see us when this troublesome business + is done?" + </p> + <p> + "It'll be a pretty spell yet," said Earl;--"but the doctor, he can go + in,--he ha'n't nothin' to do. It don't take more'n half a dozen men to + keep one pot a bilin'." + </p> + <p> + "Ain't there ten on 'em, Mr. Douglass?" said Philetus. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="28"></a>Chapter XXVIII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + He that has light within his own clear breast,<br /> May sit i' the + centre and enjoy bright day. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Milton. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The farming plan succeeded beyond Fleda's hopes; thanks not more to her + wisdom than to the nice tact with which the wisdom was brought into play. + The one was eked out with Seth Plumfield's; the other was all her own. + Seth was indefatigably kind and faithful. After his own day's work was + done he used to walk down to see Fleda, go with her often to view the + particular field or work just then in question, and give her the best + counsel dictated by great sagacity and great experience. It was given too + with equal frankness and intelligence, so that Fleda knew the steps she + took and could maintain them against the prejudice or the ignorance of her + subordinates. But Fleda's delicate handling stood her yet more in stead + than her strength. Earl Douglass was sometimes unmanageable, and held out + in favour of an old custom or a prevailing opinion in spite of all the + weight of testimony and light of discovery that could be brought to bear + upon him. Fleda would let the thing go. But seizing her opportunity + another time she would ask him to try the experiment, on a piece of the + ground; so pleasantly and skilfully that Earl could do nothing but shut + his mouth and obey, like an animal fairly stroked into good humour. And as + Fleda always forgot to remind him that she had been right and he wrong, he + forgot it too, and presently took to the new way kindly. In other matters + he could be depended on, and the seed-time and harvest prospered well. + There was hope of making a good payment to Dr. Gregory in the course of a + few months. + </p> + <p> + As the spring came forward Fleda took care that her garden should,--both + gardens indeed. There she and Philetus had the game in their own hands, + and beautifully it was managed. Hugh had full occupation at the mill. Many + a dollar this summer was earned by the loads of fine fruit and vegetables + which Philetus carried to Montepoole; and accident opened a new source of + revenue. When the courtyard was in the full blaze of its beauty, one day + an admiring passer-by modestly inquired if a few of those exquisite + flowers might be had for money. They were given him most cheerfully that + time; but the demand returned, accompanied by the offer, and Fleda obliged + herself not to decline it. A trial it was to cut her roses and jessamines + for anything but her own or her friends' pleasure, but according to custom + she bore it without hesitation. The place became a resort for all the + flower-lovers who happened to be staying at the Pool; and rose-leaves were + changed into silver pennies as fast as in a fairy-tale. + </p> + <p> + But the delicate mainspring that kept all this machinery in order suffered + from too severe a strain. There was too much running, too much + considering, too much watchfulness. In the garden pulling peas and seeing + that Philetus weeded the carrots right,--in the field or the woodyard + consulting and arranging or maybe debating with Earl Douglass, who + acquired by degrees an unwonted and concentrated respect for womankind in + her proper person; breakfast waiting for her often before she came in; in + the house her old housewifery concerns, her share in Barby's cares or + difficulties, her sweet countenancing and cheering of her aunt, her + dinner, her work;--then when evening came, budding her roses or tying her + carnations or weeding or raking the ground between them, (where Philetus + could do nothing,) or training her multiflora and sweet-briar + branches;--and then often after all, walking up to the mill to give Hugh a + little earlier a home smile and make his way down pleasant. No wonder if + the energies which owed much of their strength to love's nerving, should + at last give out, and Fleda's evening be passed in wearied slumbers. No + wonder if many a day was given up to the forced quietude of a headache, + the more grievous to Fleda because she knew that her aunt and Hugh always + found the day dark that was not lightened by her sunbeam. How brightly it + shone out the moment the cloud of pain was removed, winning the shadow + from their faces and a smile to their lips, though solitude always saw her + own settle into a gravity as fixed as it was soft. + </p> + <p> + "You have been doing too much, Fleda," said Mrs. Rossitur one morning when + she came in from the garden. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't know it would take me so long," said Fleda drawing a long + breath;--"but I couldn't help it. I had those celery plants to prick + out,--and then I was helping Philetus to plant another patch of corn." + </p> + <p> + "He might have done that without help I should think." + </p> + <p> + "But it must be put in to-day, and he had other things to do." + </p> + <p> + "And then you were at your flowers?--" + </p> + <p> + "O well!--budding a few roses--that's only play. It was time they were + done. But I <i>am</i> tired; and I am going up to see Hugh--it will rest + me and him too." + </p> + <p> + The gardening frock and gloves were exchanged for those of ordinary wear, + and Fleda set off slowly to go up to the saw-mill. + </p> + <p> + She stopped a moment when she came upon the bridge, to look off to the + right where the waters of the little run came hurrying along through a + narrow wooded chasm in the hill, murmuring to her of the time when a + little child's feet had paused there and a child's heart danced to its + music. The freshness of its song was unchanged, the glad rush of its + waters was as joyous as ever, but the spirits were quieted that used to + answer it with sweeter freshness and lighter joyousness. Its faint echo of + the old-time laugh was blended now in Fleda's ear with a gentle wail for + the rushing days and swifter fleeing delights of human life;--gentle, + faint, but clear,--she could hear it very well. Taking up her walk again + with a step yet slower and a brow yet more quiet, she went on till she + came in sight of the little mill; and presently above the noise of the + brook could hear the saw going. To her childish ears what a signal of + pleasure that had always been; and now,--she sighed, and stopping at a + little distance looked for Hugh. He was there; she saw him in a moment + going forward to stop the machinery, the piece of timber in hand having + walked its utmost length up to the saw; she saw him throwing aside the + new-cut board, and adjusting what was left till it was ready for another + march up to headquarters. When it stopped the second time Fleda went + forward. Hugh must have been busy in his own thoughts, for he did not see + her until he had again adjusted the log and set the noisy works in motion. + She stood still. Several huge timbers lay close by, ready for the saw; and + on one of them where he had been sitting Fleda saw his Bible lying open. + As her eye went from it to him it struck her heart with a pang that he + looked tired and that there was a something of delicacy, even of + fragility, in the air of face and figure both. + </p> + <p> + He came to meet her and welcomed her with a smile that coming upon this + feeling set Fleda's heart a quivering. Hugh's smile was always one of very + great sweetness, though never unshadowed; there was often something + ethereal in its pure gentleness. This time it seemed even sweeter than + usual, but though not sadder, perhaps less sad, Fleda could hardly command + herself to reply to it. She could not at the moment speak; her eye glanced + at his open book. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it rests me," he said, answering her. + </p> + <p> + "Rests you, dear Hugh!--" + </p> + <p> + He smiled again. "Here is somebody else that wants resting, I am afraid," + said he, placing her gently on the log; and before she had found anything + to say he went off again to his machinery. Fleda sat looking at him and + trying to clear her bosom of its thick breathing. + </p> + <p> + "What has brought you up here through the hot sun?" said he, coming back + after he had stopped the saw, and sitting down beside her. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's lip moved nervously and her eye shunned meeting his. Softly + pushing back the wet hair from his temples, she said, + </p> + <p> + "I had one of my fits of doing nothing at home--I didn't feel very bright + and thought perhaps you didn't,--so on the principle that two negatives + make an affirmative--" + </p> + <p> + "I feel bright," said Hugh gently. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eye came down to his, which was steady and clear as the reflection + of the sky in Deepwater lake,--and then hers fell lower. + </p> + <p> + "Why don't you, dear Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I believe I am a little tired," Fleda said, trying but in vain to command + herself and look up,--"and there are states of body when anything almost + is enough to depress one--" + </p> + <p> + "And what depresses you now?" said he, very steadily and quietly. + </p> + <p> + "O--I was feeling a little down about things in general," said Fleda in a + choked voice, trying to throw off her load with a long breath;--"it's + because I am tired, I suppose--" + </p> + <p> + "I felt so too, a little while ago," said Hugh. "But I have concluded to + give all that up, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked at him. Her eyes were swimming full, but his were clear and + gentle as ever, only glistening a little in sympathy with hers. + </p> + <p> + "I thought all was going wrong with us," he went on. "But I found it was + only I that was wrong; and since that I have been quite happy, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + Fleda could not speak to him; his words made her pain worse. + </p> + <p> + "I told you this rested me," said he reaching across her for his book; + "and now I am never weary long. Shall I rest you with it? What have you + been troubling yourself about to-day?" + </p> + <p> + She did not answer while he was turning over the leaves, and he then said, + </p> + <p> + "Do you remember this, Fleda?--'<i>Truly God is good to Israel, even to + them that are of a clean heart</i>.'" + </p> + <p> + Fleda bent her head down upon her hands. + </p> + <p> + "I was moody and restless the other day," said Hugh,--"desponding of + everything;--and I came upon this psalm; and it made me ashamed of myself. + I had been disbelieving it, and because I could not see how things were + going to work good I thought they were going to work evil. I thought we + were wearing out our lives alone here in a wearisome way, and I forgot + that it must be the very straightest way that we could get home. I am sure + we shall not want anything that will do us good; and the rest I am willing + to want--and so are you, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda squeezed his hand,--that was all. For a minute he was silent, and + then went on, without any change of tone. + </p> + <p> + "I had a notion awhile ago that I should like it if it were possible for + me to go to college; but I am quite satisfied now. I have good time and + opportunity to furnish myself with a better kind of knowledge, that I + shall want where college learning wouldn't be of much use to me; and I can + do it, I dare say, better here in this mill than if we had stayed in New + York and I had lived in our favourite library." + </p> + <p> + "But dear Hugh," said Fleda, who did not like this speech in any sense of + it,--"the two things do not clash. The better man the better Christian + always, other things being equal. The more precious kind of knowledge + should not make one undervalue the less?" + </p> + <p> + "No,"--he said; but the extreme quietness and simplicity of his reply + smote Fleda's fears; it answered her words and waived her thought; she + dared not press him further. She sat looking over the road with an aching + heart. + </p> + <p> + "You haven't taken enough of my medicine," said Hugh smiling. "Listen, + Fleda--'<i>All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep + his covenant and his testimonies</i>.'" + </p> + <p> + But that made Fleda cry again. + </p> + <p> + "'All his paths,' Fleda--then, whatever may happen to you, and whatever + may happen to me, or to any of us.--I can trust him. I am willing any one + should have the world, if I may have what Abraham had--'<i>Fear not; I am + thy shield and thy exceeding great reward;</i>'--and I believe I shall, + Fleda; for it is not the hungry that he has threatened to send empty + away." + </p> + <p> + Fleda could say nothing, and Hugh just then said no more. For a little + while, near and busy as thoughts might be, tongues were silent. Fleda was + crying quietly, the utmost she could do being to keep it quiet; Hugh, more + quietly, was considering again the strong pillars on which he had laid his + hope, and trying their strength and beauty; till all other things were to + him as the mist rolling off from the valley is to the man planted on a + watch tower. + </p> + <p> + His meditations were interrupted by the tramp of horse, and a party of + riders male and female came past them up the hill. Hugh looked on as they + went by; Fleda's head was not raised. + </p> + <p> + "There are some people enjoying themselves," said Hugh. "After all, dear + Fleda, we should be very sorry to change places with those gay riders. I + would not for a thousand worlds give my hope and treasure for all other + they can possibly have, in possession or prospect." + </p> + <p> + "No, indeed!" said Fleda energetically, and trying to rouse herself;--"and + besides that, Hugh, we have as it is a great deal more to enjoy than most + other people. We are so happy--" + </p> + <p> + In each other, she was going to say, but the words choked her. + </p> + <p> + "Those people looked very hard at us, or at one of us," said Hugh. "It + must have been you, I think, Fleda" + </p> + <p> + "They are welcome," said Fleda; "they couldn't have made much out of the + back of my sun bonnet." + </p> + <p> + "Well, dear Fleda, I must content myself with little more than looking at + you now, for Mr. Winegar is in a hurry for his timber to be sawn, and I + must set this noisy concern a going again." + </p> + <p> + Fleda sat and watched him, with rising and falling hopes and fears, + forcing her lips to a smile when he came near her, and hiding her tears at + other times; till the shadows stretching well to the east of the meridian, + admonished her she had been there long enough; and she left him still + going backward and forward tending the saw. + </p> + <p> + As she went down the hill she pressed involuntarily her hands upon her + heart, for the dull heavy pain there. But that was no plaster for it; and + when she got to the bridge the soft singing of the little brook was just + enough to shake her spirits from the doubtful poise they had kept. Giving + one hasty glance along the road and up the hill to make sure that no one + was near she sat down on a stone in the edge of the woods, and indulged in + such weeping as her gentle eyes rarely knew; for the habit of patience so + cultivated for others' sake constantly rewarded her own life with its + sweet fruits. But deep and bitter in proportion was the flow of the + fountain once broken up. She struggled to remind herself that "Providence + runneth not on broken wheels," she struggled to repeat to herself, what + she did not doubt that "<i>all</i> the ways of the Lord are mercy and + truth" to his people;--in vain. The slight check for a moment to the + torrent of grief but gave it greater head to sweep over the barrier; and + the self-reproach that blamed its violence and needlessness only made the + flood more bitter. Nature fought against patience for awhile; but when the + loaded heart had partly relieved itself patience came in again and she + rose up to go home. It startled her exceedingly to find Mr. Olmney + standing before her, and looking so sorrowful that Fleda's eyes could not + bear it. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Miss Ringgan!--forgive me--I hope you will forgive me,--but I + could not leave you in such distress. I knew that in <i>you</i> it could + only be from some very serious cause of grief." + </p> + <p> + "I cannot say it is from anything new, Mr. Olmney--except to my + apprehensions." + </p> + <p> + "You are all <i>well</i>?" he said inquiringly, after they had walked a + few steps in silence. + </p> + <p> + "Well?--yes, sir,--" said Fleda hesitatingly,--"but I do not think that + Hugh looks very well." + </p> + <p> + The trembling of her voice told him her thought. But he remained silent. + </p> + <p> + "You have noticed it?" she said hastily, looking up. + </p> + <p> + "I think you have told me he always was delicate?" + </p> + <p> + "And you have noticed him looking so lately, Mr. Olmney?" + </p> + <p> + "I have thought so,--but you say he always was that. If you will permit me + to say so, I have thought the same of you, Miss Fleda." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was silent; her heart ached again. + </p> + <p> + "We would gladly save each other from every threatening trouble," said Mr. + Olmney again after a pause;--"but it ought to content us that we do not + know how. Hugh is in good hands, my dear Miss Ringgan." + </p> + <p> + "I know it, sir," said Fleda unable quite to keep back her tears,--"and I + know very well this thread of our life will not bear the strain + always,--and I know that the strands must in all probability part + unevenly,--and I know it is in the power of no blind fate,--but that--" + </p> + <p> + "Does not lessen our clinging to each other. Oh no!--it grows but the + tenderer and the stronger for the knowledge." + </p> + <p> + Fleda could but cry. + </p> + <p> + "And yet," said he very kindly,--"we who are Christians may and ought to + learn to take troubles hopefully; for 'tribulation worketh patience; and + patience,' that is, quiet waiting on God, 'works experience' of his + goodness and faithfulness; 'and experience worketh hope; and that hope, we + know, 'maketh not ashamed.'" + </p> + <p> + "I know it," said Fleda;--"but, Mr. Olmney, how easily the brunt of a new + affliction breaks down all that chain of reasoning!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes!--" he said sadly and thoughtfully;--"but my dear Miss Fleda, you + know the way to build it up again. I would be very glad to bear all need + for it away from you!" + </p> + <p> + They had reached the gate. Fleda could not look up to thank him; the hand + she held out was grasped, more than kindly, and he turned away. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's tears came hot again as she went up the walk; she held her head + down to hide them and went round the back way. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="29"></a>Chapter XXIX. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Now, the melancholy god protect thee; and the tailor make thy doublet of + changeable taffeta, for thy mind is a very opal!--Twelfth Night. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + "Well what did you come home for?" was Barby's salutation;--"here's + company been waiting for you till they're tired, and I am sure I be." + </p> + <p> + "Company!!--" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and it's ungrateful in you to say so," said Barby, "for she's been + in a wonderful hurry to see you,--or to get somethin' to eat; I don't know + which; a little o' both, I hope in charity." + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you give her something to eat? Who is it?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know who it is! It's one of your highfliers, that's all I can + make out. She 'a'n't a hat a bit better than a man's beaver,--one 'ud + think she had stole her little brother's for a spree, if the rest of her + was like common folks; but she's got a tail to her dress as long as from + here to Queechy Run; and she's been tiddling in and out here with it + puckered up under her arm sixty times. I guess she belongs to some company + of female militie, for the body of it is all thick with braid and buttons. + I believe she ha'n't sot still five minutes since she come into the house, + till I don't know whether I am on my head or my heels." + </p> + <p> + "But why didn't you give her something to eat?" said Fleda, who was + hastily throwing off her gloves and smoothing her disordered hair with her + hands into something of composure. + </p> + <p> + "Did!" said Barby;--"I give her some o' them cold biscuit and butter and + cheese and a pitcher of milk--sot a good enough meal for anybody--but she + didn't take but a crumb, and she turned up her nose at that. Come, + go!--you've slicked up enough--you're handsome enough to shew yourself to + her any time o' day, for all her jig-em-bobs." + </p> + <p> + "Where is aunt Lucy?" + </p> + <p> + "She's up stairs;--there's been nobody to see to her but me. She's had the + hull lower part of the house to herself, kitchen and all, and she's done + nothing but go out of one room into another ever since she come. She'll be + in here again directly if you ain't spry." + </p> + <p> + Fleda went in, round to the west room, and there found herself in the arms + of the second Miss Evelyn, who jumped to meet her and half stifled her + with caresses. + </p> + <p> + "You wicked little creature! what have you been doing? Here have I been + growing melancholy over the tokens of your absence, and watching the + decline of the sun with distracted feelings these six hours." + </p> + <p> + "Six hours!" said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "My dear little Fleda!--it's so delicious to see you again!" said Miss + Evelyn with another prolonged hug and kiss. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Constance!--I am very glad--But where are the rest?" + </p> + <p> + "It's unkind of you to ask after anybody but me, when I came here this + morning on purpose to talk the whole day to you. Now dear little Fleda," + said Miss Constance, executing an impatient little persuasive caper round + her,--"won't you go out and order dinner? for I'm raging. Your woman did + give me something, but I found the want of you had taken away all my + appetite; and now the delight of seeing you has exhausted me, and I feel + that nature is sinking. The stimulus of gratified affection is too much + for me." + </p> + <p> + "You absurd child!" said Fleda,--"you haven't mended a bit. But I told + Barby to put on the tea-kettle and I will administer a composing draught + as soon as it can be got ready; we don't indulge in dinners here in the + wilderness. Meanwhile suppose that exhausted nature try the support of + this easy-chair?" + </p> + <p> + She put her visitor gently into it, and seating herself upon the arm held + her hand and looked at her, with a smiling face and yet with eyes that + were almost too gentle in their welcoming. + </p> + <p> + "My dear little Fleda!--you're as lovely as you can be! Are you glad to + see me?" + </p> + <p> + "Very." + </p> + <p> + "Why don't you ask after somebody else?" + </p> + <p> + "I was afraid of overtasking your exhausted energies." + </p> + <p> + "Come and sit down here upon my lap!--you shall, or I won't say another + word to you. Fleda! you've grown thin! what have you been doing to + yourself?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing, with that particular purpose." + </p> + <p> + "I don't care, you've done something. You have been insanely imagining + that it is necessary for you to be in three or four places at the same + time, and in the distracted effort after ubiquity you are in imminent + danger of being nowhere--there's nothing left of you." + </p> + <p> + "I don't wonder you were overcome at the sight of me," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But you are looking charmingly for all that," Constance went on;--"so + charmingly that I feel a morbid sensation creeping all over me while I sit + regarding you. Really, when you come to us next winter if you persist in + being,--by way of shewing your superiority to ordinary human nature,--a + rose without a thorn, the rest of the flowers may all shut up at once. And + the rose reddens in my very face, to spite me!" + </p> + <p> + "Is 'ordinary human nature' typified by a thorn? You give it rather a poor + character." + </p> + <p> + "I never heard of a Thorn that didn't bear an excellent character!" said + Constance gravely. + </p> + <p> + "Hush!" said Fleda laughing;--"I don't want to hear about Mr. Thorn.--Tell + me of somebody else." + </p> + <p> + "I haven't said a word about Mr. Thorn!" said Constance ecstatically, "but + since you ask about him I will tell you. He has not acted like himself + since you disappeared from our horizon--that is, he has ceased to be at + all pointed in his attentions to me; his conversation has lost all the + acuteness for which I remember you admired it; he has walked Broadway in a + moody state of mind all winter, and grown as dull as is consistent with + the essential sharpness of his nature. I ought to except our last + interview, though, for his entreaties to mamma that she would bring you + home with her were piercing." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was unable in spite of herself to keep from laughing, but entreated + that Constance would tell her of somebody else. + </p> + <p> + "My respected parents are at Montepoole, with all their offspring,--that + is, Florence and Edith,--I am at present anxiously enquired after, being + nobody knows where, and to be fetched by mamma this evening. Wasn't I + good, little Fleda, to run away from Mr. Carleton to come and spend a + whole day in social converse with you?" + </p> + <p> + "Carleton!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--O you don't know who <i>he</i> is! he's a new attraction--there's + been nothing like him this great while, and all New York is topsy-turvy + about him; the mothers are dying with anxiety and the daughters with + admiration; and it's too delightful to see the cool superiority with which + he takes it all;--like a new star that all the people are pointing their + telescopes at,--as Thorn said spitefully the other day. O he has turned <i>my</i> + head; I have looked till I cannot look at anything else. I can just manage + to see a rose, but my dazzled powers of vision are equal to nothing more." + </p> + <p> + "My dear Constance!--" + </p> + <p> + "It's perfectly true! Why as soon as we knew he was coming to Montepoole I + wouldn't let mamma rest till we all made a rush after him--and when we got + here first and I was afraid he wasn't coming, nothing can express the + state of my feelings!--But he appeared the next morning, and then I was + quite happy," said Constance, rising and falling in her chair on what must + have been ecstatic springs, for wire ones it had none. + </p> + <p> + "Constance!--" said Fleda with a miserable attempt at rebuke,--"how can + you talk so!" + </p> + <p> + "And so we were all riding round here this morning and I had the + self-denial to stop to see you and leave Florence and the Marlboroughs to + monopolize him all the way home. You ought to love me for ever for it. My + dear Fleda!--" said Constance, clasping her hands and elevating her eyes + in mock ecstasy,--"if you had ever seen Mr. Carleton I--" + </p> + <p> + "I dare say I have seen somebody as good," said Fleda quietly. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda!" said Constance, a little scornfully this time,--"you + haven't the least idea what you are talking about! I tell you he is an + Englishman--he's of one of the best families in England,--not such as you + ever see here but once in an age,--he's rich enough to count Mr. Thorn + over I don't know how many times." + </p> + <p> + "I don't like anybody the better for being an Englishman," said Fleda; + "and it must be a small man whose purse will hold his measure." + </p> + <p> + Constance made an impatient gesture. + </p> + <p> + "But I tell you it isn't! We knew him when we were abroad, and we know + what he is, and we know his mother very well. When we were in England we + were a week with them down at their beautiful place in ----shire,--the + loveliest time! You see she was over here with Mr. Carleton once before, a + good while ago; and mamma and papa were polite to them, and so they shewed + us a great deal of attention when we were in England. We had the loveliest + time down there you can possibly conceive. And my dear Fleda he wears such + a fur cloak!--lined with the most exquisite black fox." + </p> + <p> + "But, Constance!" said Fleda, a little vexed though laughing,--"any man + may wear a fur cloak--the thing is, what is inside of it?" + </p> + <p> + "It is perfectly indifferent to me what is inside of it!" said Constance + ecstatically. "I can see nothing but the edges of the black fox, + especially when it is worn so very gracefully." + </p> + <p> + "But in some cases there might be a white fox within?" + </p> + <p> + "There is nothing of the fox about Mr. Carleton!" said Constance + impatiently. "If it had been anybody else I should have said he was a bear + two or three times; but he wears everything as he does his cloak, and + makes you take what he pleases from him; what I wouldn't take from anybody + else I know." + </p> + <p> + "With a fox lining?" said Fleda laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Then foxes haven't got their true character, that's all. Now I'll just + tell you an instance--it was at a party somewhere--it was at that tiresome + Mrs. Swinburne's, where the evenings are always so stupid, and there was + nothing worth going or staying for but the supper,--except Mr. Carleton! + and he never stays five minutes, except at two or three places; and it + drives me crazy, because they are places I don't go to very often--" + </p> + <p> + "Suppose you keep your wits and tell me your story?" + </p> + <p> + "Well--don't interrupt me!--he was there, and he had taken me into the + supper-room, when mamma came along and took it into her head to tell me + not to take something--I forget what--punch, I believe,--because I had not + been well in the morning. Now you know, it was absurd! I was perfectly + well then, and I told her I shouldn't mind her; but do you believe Mr. + Carleton wouldn't give it to me?--absolutely told me he wouldn't, and told + me why, as coolly as possible, and gave me a glass of water and made me + drink it; and if it had been anybody else I do assure you I would have + flung it in his face and never spoken to him again; and I have been in + love with him ever since. Now <i>is</i> that tea going to be ready?" + </p> + <p> + "Presently. How long have you been here?" + </p> + <p> + "O a day or two--and it has poured with rain every single day since we + came, till this one;--and just think!"--said Constance with a ludicrously + scared face,--"I must make haste and be back again. You see, I came away + on principle, that I may strike with the effect of novelty when I appear + again; but if I stay <i>too</i> long, you know,--there is a point--" + </p> + <p> + "On the principle of the ice-boats," said Fleda, "that back a little to + give a better blow to the ice, where they find it tough?" + </p> + <p> + "Tough!" said Constance. + </p> + <p> + "Does Florence like this paragon of yours as well as you do?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--she don't talk so much about him, but that proves nothing; + she's too happy to talk <i>to</i> him.--I expect our family concord will + be shattered by and by!" said Constance shaking her head. + </p> + <p> + "You seem to take the prospect philosophically," said Fleda, looking + amused. "How long are you going to stay at the Pool?" + </p> + <p> + Constance gave an expressive shrug, intimating that the deciding of that + question did not rest with her. + </p> + <p> + "That is to say, you are here to watch the transit of this star over the + meridian of Queechy?" + </p> + <p> + "Of Queechy!--of Montepoole." + </p> + <p> + "Very well--of Montepoole. I don't wonder that nature is exhausted. I will + go and see after this refection." + </p> + <p> + The prettiest little meal in the world was presently set forth for the + two,--Fleda knew her aunt would not come down, and Hugh was yet at the + mill; so she led her visitor into the breakfast-room alone, Constance by + the way again fondly embracing her and repeating, "My dear little + Fleda!--how glad I am to see you!" + </p> + <p> + The lady was apparently hungry, for there was a minute of silence while + the refection begun, and then Constance exclaimed, perhaps with a sudden + appreciation of the delicious bread and butter and cream and strawberries, + </p> + <p> + "What a lovely old room this is!--and what lovely times you have here, + don't you, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--sometimes," Fleda said with a sigh. + </p> + <p> + "But I shall tell mamma you are growing thin, and the first minute we get + home I shall send for you to come to us. Mrs. Thorn will be amazingly glad + to see you." + </p> + <p> + "Has she got back from Europe?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Ages!--and she's been entertaining the world as hard as she could ever + since. I have no doubt Lewis has confided to the maternal bosom all his + distresses; and there never was anything like the rush that I expect will + be made to our greenhouse next winter. O Fleda, you should see Mr. + Carleton's greenhouses!" + </p> + <p> + "Should I?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Dear me! I hope mamma will come!" said Constance with a comical fidgety + shake of herself;--"when I think of those greenhouses I lose my + self-command. And the park!--Fleda, it's the loveliest thing you ever saw + in your life; and it's all that delightful man's doing; only he won't have + a geometric flower-garden, as I did everything I could think of to + persuade him. I pity the woman that will be his wife,--she won't have her + own way in a single thing; but then he will fascinate her into thinking + that his way is the best, so it will do just as well I suppose. Do you + know I can't conceive what he has come over here for? He has been here + before, you know, and he don't seem to me to know exactly what he means to + do; at least I can't find out, and I have tried." + </p> + <p> + "How long has he been here?" + </p> + <p> + "O a month or two--since the beginning of April, I believe. He came over + with some friends of his--a Sir George Egerton and his family;--he is + going to Canada, to be established in some post there, I forget what; and + they are spending part of the summer here before they fix themselves at + the North. It is easy to see what <i>they</i> are here for,--they are + strangers and amusing themselves; but Mr. Carleton is at home, and <i>not</i> + amusing himself, at least he don't seem to be. He goes about with the + Egertons, but that is just for his friendship for them; and he puzzles me. + He don't snow whether he is going to Niagara,--he has been once + already--and 'perhaps' he may go to Canada,--and 'possibly' he will make a + journey to the West,--and I can't find out that he wants anything in + particular." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps he don't mean that you shall," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps he don't; but you see that aggravates my state of mind to a + distressing degree. And then I'm afraid he will go somewhere where I can't + keep watch of him!--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda could not help laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps he was tired of home and came for mere weariness." + </p> + <p> + "Weariness! it's my opinion he has no idea there is such a word in the + language,--I am certain if he heard it he would call for a dictionary the + next minute. Why at Carleton it seems to me he was half the time on + horseback, flying about from one end of the country to the other; and when + he is in the house he is always at work at something; it's a piece of + condescension to get him to attend to you at all; only when he does, my + dear Fleda!--he is so enchanting that you live in a state of delight till + next time. And yet I never could get him to pay me a compliment to this + minute,--I tried two or three times, and he rewarded me with some very + rude speeches." + </p> + <p> + "Rude!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes,--that is, they were the most graceful and fascinating things + possible, but they would have been rudeness in anybody else. Where <i>is</i> + mamma!" said Constance with another comic counterfeit of distress "My dear + Fleda, it's the most captivating thing to breakfast at Carleton!--" + </p> + <p> + "I have no idea the bread and butter is sweeter there than in some other + parts of the world," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know about the bread and butter," said Constance, "but those + exquisite little sugar dishes! My dear Fleda, every one has his own + sugar-dish and cream-ewer--the loveliest little things!--" + </p> + <p> + "I have heard of such things before," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I don't care about the bread and butter," said Constance; "eating is + immaterial, with those perfect little things right opposite to me. They + weren't like any you ever saw, Fleda--the sugar-bowl was just a little + plain oval box, with the lid on a hinge, and not a bit of chasing, only + the arms on the cover; like nothing I ever saw but an old-fashioned silver + tea-caddy; and the cream-jug a little straight up and down thing to match. + Mamma said they were clumsy, but they bewitched me!--" + </p> + <p> + "I think everything bewitched you," said Fleda smiling. "Can't your head + stand a sugar-dish and milk-cup?" + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda, I never had your superiority to the ordinary weaknesses of + human nature--I can stand <i>one</i> sugar-bowl, but I confess myself + overcome by a dozen. How we have all wanted to see you, Fleda! and papa; + you have captivated papa; and he says--" + </p> + <p> + "Never mind--don't tell me what he says," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "There--that's your modesty, that everybody raves about--I wish I could + catch it. Fleda, where did you get that little Bible?--while I was waiting + for you I tried to soothe my restless anticipations with examining all the + things in all the rooms;--where did you get it?" + </p> + <p> + "It was given me a long while ago," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But it is real gold on the outside!--the clasps and all--do you know it? + it is not washed." + </p> + <p> + "I know it," said Fleda smiling; "and it is better than gold inside." + </p> + <p> + "Wasn't that mamma's favourite Mr. Olmney that parted from you at the + gate?" said Constance after a minute's silence. + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Is he a favourite of yours too?" + </p> + <p> + "You must define what you mean by a favourite?" said Fleda gravely. + </p> + <p> + "Well, how do you like him?" + </p> + <p> + "I believe everybody likes him," said Fleda, colouring and vexed at + herself that she could not help it. The bright eyes opposite her took note + of the fact with a sufficiently wide-awake glance. + </p> + <p> + "He's very good!" said Constance hugging herself, and taking a fresh + supply of butter,--"but don't let him know I have been to see you or he'll + tell you all sorts of evil things about me for fear you should innocently + be contaminated. Don't you like to be taken care of?" + </p> + <p> + "Very much," said Fleda smiling,--"by people that know how." + </p> + <p> + "I can't bear it!" said Constance, apparently with great sincerity;--"I + think it is the most impertinent thing in the world people can do. I can't + endure it--except from--! Oh my dear Fleda! it is perfect luxury to have + him put a shawl round your shoulders!--" + </p> + <p> + "Fleda," said Earl Douglass putting his head in from the kitchen, and + before he said any more bobbing it frankly at Miss Evelyn, half in + acknowledgment of her presence and half as it seemed in apology for his + own,--"Fleda, will you let Barby pack up somethin' 'nother for the men's + lunch?--my wife would ha' done it, as she had ought to, if she wa'n't down + with the teeth-ache, and Catherine's away on a jig to Kenton, and the men + won't do so much work on nothin', and I can't say nothin' to 'em if they + don't; and I'd like to get that 'ere clover field down afore night--it's + goin' to be a fine spell o' weather. I was a goin' to try to get along + without it; but I believe we can't." + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said Fleda. "But, Mr. Douglass, you'll try the experiment of + curing it in cocks?" + </p> + <p> + "Well I don't know," said Earl in a tone of very discontented + acquiescence,--"I don't see how anythin' should be as sweet as the sun for + dryin' hay--I know folks says it is, and I've heerd 'em say it is! and + they'll stand to it and you can't beat 'em off the notion it is; but + somehow or 'nother I can't seem to come into it. I know the sun makes + sweet hay, and I think the sun was meant to make hay, and I don't want to + see no sweeter hay than the sun makes; it's as good hay as you need to + have." + </p> + <p> + "But you wouldn't mind trying it for once, Mr. Douglass, just for me?" + </p> + <p> + "I'll do just what you please," said he with a little exculpatory shake of + his head;--"'tain't my concern--it's no concern of mine--the gain or the + loss'll be your'n, and it's fair you should have the gain or the loss, + which ever on 'em you choose to have. I'll put it in cocks--how much heft + should be in 'em?" + </p> + <p> + "About a hundred pounds--and you don't want to cut any more than you can + put up to-night, Mr. Douglass. We'll try it." + </p> + <p> + "Very good! And you'll send along somethin' for the men--Barby knows," + said Earl bobbing his head again intelligently at Fleda,--"there's four on + 'em and it takes somethin' to feed 'em--workin' men'll put away a good + deal o' meat." + </p> + <p> + He withdrew his head and closed the door, happily for Constance, who went + off into a succession of ecstatic convulsions. + </p> + <p> + "What time of day do your eccentric hay-makers prefer for the rest of + their meals, if they lunch at three o'clock? I never heard anything so + original in my life." + </p> + <p> + "This is lunch number two," said Fleda smiling; "lunch number one is about + ten in the morning; and dinner at twelve." + </p> + <p> + "And do they gladden their families with their presence at the other + ordinary convivial occasions?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly." + </p> + <p> + "And what do they have for lunch?" + </p> + <p> + "Varieties. Bread and cheese, and pies, and Quirlcakes; at every other + meal they have meat." + </p> + <p> + "Horrid creatures!" + </p> + <p> + "It is only during haying and harvesting." + </p> + <p> + "And you have to see to all this! poor little Fleda! I declare, if I was + you--I'd do something!--" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda quietly, "Mrs. Douglass and Barby manage the lunch + between them. I am not at all desperate." + </p> + <p> + "But to have to talk to these people!" + </p> + <p> + "Earl Douglass is not a very polished specimen," said Fleda smiling, "but + I assure you in some of 'these people' there is an amount of goodness and + wit, and shrewd practical sense and judgment, that would utterly distance + many of those that would call them bears." + </p> + <p> + Constance looked a good deal more than she said. + </p> + <p> + "My dear little Fleda! you're too sensible for anything; but as I don't + like sense from anybody but Mr. Carleton I would rather look at you in the + capacity of a rose, smiling a gentle rebuke upon me while I talk + nonsense." + </p> + <p> + And she did talk, and Fleda did smile and laugh, in spite of herself, till + Mrs. Evelyn and her other daughters made their appearance. + </p> + <p> + Then Barby said she thought they'd have talked the house down; and she + expected there'd be nothing left of Fleda after all the kissing she got. + But it was not too much for Fleda's pleasure. Mrs. Evelyn was so tenderly + kind, and Miss Evelyn as caressing as her sister had been, and Edith, who + was but a child, so joyously delighted, that Fleda's eyes were swimming in + happiness as she looked from one to the other, and she could hardly answer + kisses and questions fast enough. + </p> + <p> + "Them is good-looking enough girls," said Barby as Fleda came back to the + house after seeing them to their carriage,--"if they knowed how to dress + themselves. I never see this fly away one 'afore--I knowed the old one as + soon as I clapped my eyes onto her. Be they stopping at the Pool again?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Well when are you going up there to see 'em?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda quietly. And then sighing as the thought of her + aunt came into her head she went off to find her and bring her down. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's brow was sobered, and her spirits were in a flutter that was not + all of happiness and that threatened not to settle down quietly. But as + she went slowly up the stairs faith's hand was laid, even as her own + grasped the balusters, on the promise, + </p> + <p> + "All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his + covenant and his testimonies." + </p> + <p> + She set faith's foot down on those sure stepping-stones; and she opened + her aunt's door and looked in with a face that was neither troubled nor + afraid. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="30"></a>Chapter XXX. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + <i>Ant</i>. He misses not much. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + <i>Seb</i>. No; he doth but mistake the truth totally. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Tempest. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + It was the very next morning that several ladies and gentlemen were + gathered on the piazza of the hotel at Montepoole, to brace minds or + appetites with the sweet mountain air while waiting for breakfast. As they + stood there a young countryman came by bearing on his hip a large basket + of fruit and vegetables. + </p> + <p> + "O look at those lovely strawberries!" exclaimed Constance Evelyn running + down the steps.--"Stop if you please--where are you going with these?" + </p> + <p> + "Marm!" responded the somewhat startled carrier. + </p> + <p> + "What are you going to do with them?" + </p> + <p> + "I ain't going to do nothin' with 'em." + </p> + <p> + "Whose are they? Are they for sale?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, 'twon't deu no harm, as I know," said the young man making a virtue + of necessity, for the fingers of Constance were already hovering over the + dainty little leaf-strewn baskets and her eyes complacently searching for + the most promising;--"I ha'n't got nothin' to deu with 'em." + </p> + <p> + "Constance!" said Mrs. Evelyn from the piazza,--"don't take that! I dare + say they are for Mr. Sweet." + </p> + <p> + "Well, mamma!--" said Constance with great equanimity,--"Mr. Sweet gets + them for me, and I only save him the trouble of spoiling them. My taste + leads me to prefer the simplicity of primitive arrangements this morning." + </p> + <p> + "Young man!" called out the landlady's reproving voice, "won't you never + recollect to bring that basket round the back way?" + </p> + <p> + "'Tain't no handier than this way," said Philetus, with so much + belligerent demonstration that the landlady thought best in presence of + her guests to give over the question. + </p> + <p> + "Where do you get them?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "How?--" said Philetus. + </p> + <p> + "Where do they come from? Are they fresh picked?" + </p> + <p> + "Just afore I started." + </p> + <p> + "Started from where?" said a gentleman standing by Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "From Mr. Rossitur's down to Queechy." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Rossitur's!" said Mrs. Evelyn;--"does he send them here?" + </p> + <p> + "He doos not," said Philetus;--"he doosn't keep to hum for a long spell." + </p> + <p> + "Who does send them then?" said Constance. + </p> + <p> + "Who doos? It's Miss Fliddy Ringgan." + </p> + <p> + "Mamma!" exclaimed Constance looking up. + </p> + <p> + "What does she have to do with it?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "There don't nobody else have nothin' to deu with it--I guess she's pretty + much the hull," said her coadjutor. "Her and me was a picking 'em afore + sunrise." + </p> + <p> + "All that basketful!" + </p> + <p> + "'Tain't all strawberries--there's garden sass up to the top." + </p> + <p> + "And does she send that too?" + </p> + <p> + "She sends that teu," said Philetus succinctly. + </p> + <p> + "But hasn't she any help in taking care of the garden?" said Constance. + </p> + <p> + "Yes marm--I calculate to help considerable in the back garden--she won't + let no one into the front where she grows her posies." + </p> + <p> + "But where is Mr. Hugh?" + </p> + <p> + "He's to hum." + </p> + <p> + "But has he nothing to do with all this? does he leave it all to his + cousin?" + </p> + <p> + "He's to the mill." + </p> + <p> + "And Miss Ringgan manages farm and garden and all?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "She doos," said Philetus. + </p> + <p> + And receiving a gratuity which he accepted without demonstration of any + kind whatever, the basket-bearer at length released moved off. + </p> + <p> + "Poor Fleda!" said Miss Evelyn as he disappeared with his load. + </p> + <p> + "She's a very clever girl," said Mrs. Evelyn dismissing the subject. + </p> + <p> + "She's too lovely for anything!" said Constance. "Mr. Carleton,--if you + will just imagine we are in China, and introduct a pair of familiar + chop-sticks into this basket, I shall be repaid for the loss of a + strawberry by the expression of ecstasy which will immediately spread + itself over your features. I intend to patronize the natural mode of + eating in future. I find the ends of my fingers decidedly odoriferous." + </p> + <p> + He smiled a little as he complied with the young lady's invitation, but + the expression of ecstasy did not come. + </p> + <p> + "Are Mr. Rossitur's circumstances so much reduced?" he said, drawing + nearer to Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know them!" exclaimed both the daughters at once. + </p> + <p> + "I knew Mrs. Rossitur very well some years ago, when she was in Paris." + </p> + <p> + "They are all broken to pieces," said Mrs. Evelyn, as Mr. Carleton's eye + went back to her for his answer;--"Mr. Rossitur failed and lost + everything--bankrupt--a year or two after they came home." + </p> + <p> + "And what has he been doing since?' + </p> + <p> + "I don't know!--trying to farm it here; but I am afraid he has not + succeeded well--I am afraid not. They don't look like it. Mrs. Rossitur + will not see anybody, and I don't believe they have done any more than + struggle for a living since they came here." + </p> + <p> + "Where is Mr. Rossitur now?" + </p> + <p> + "He is at the West somewhere--Fleda tells me he is engaged in some + agencies there; but I doubt," said Mrs. Evelyn shaking her head + compassionately,--"there is more in the name of it than anything else. He + has gone down hill sadly since his misfortunes. I am very sorry for them." + </p> + <p> + "And his niece takes care of his farm in the meantime?" + </p> + <p> + "Do you know her?" asked both the Miss Evelyns again. + </p> + <p> + "I can hardly say that," he replied. "I had such a pleasure formerly. Do I + understand that <i>she</i> is the person to fill Mr. Rossitur's place when + he is away?" + </p> + <p> + "So she says." + </p> + <p> + "And so she acts," said Constance. "I wish you had heard her yesterday. It + was beyond everything. We were conversing very amicably, regarding each + other through a friendly vista formed by the sugar-bowl and tea-pot, when + a horrid man, that looked as if he had slept all his life in a hay-cock + and only waked up to turn it over, stuck his head in and immediately + introduced a clover-field; and Fleda and he went to tumbling about the + cocks till I do assure you I was deluded into a momentary belief that + hay-making was the principal end of human nature, and looked upon myself + as a burden to society; and after I had recovered my locality and ventured + upon a sentence of gentle commiseration for her sufferings, Fleda went off + into a eulogium upon the intelligence of hay-makers in general and the + strength of mind barbarians are universally known to possess." + </p> + <p> + The manner still more than the matter of this speech was beyond the + withstanding of any good-natured muscles, though the gentleman's smile was + a grave one and quickly lost in gravity. Mrs. Evelyn laughed and reproved + in a breath; but the laugh was admiring and the reproof was stimulative. + The bright eye of Constance danced in return with the mischievous delight + of a horse that has slipped his bridle and knows you can't catch him. + </p> + <p> + "And this has been her life ever since Mr. Rossitur lost his property?" + </p> + <p> + "Entirely,--sacrificed!--" said Mrs. Evelyn, with a compassionately + resigned air;--"education, advantages and everything given up; and set + down here where she has seen nobody from year's end to year's end but the + country people about--very good people--but not the kind of people she + ought to have been brought up among." + </p> + <p> + "Oh mamma!" said the eldest Miss Evelyn in a deprecatory tone,--"you + shouldn't talk so--it isn't right--I am sure she is very nice--nicer now + than anybody else I know; and clever too." + </p> + <p> + "Nice!" said Edith. "I wish <i>I</i> had such a sister!" + </p> + <p> + "She is a good girl--a very good girl," said Mrs. Evelyn, in a tone which + would have deterred any one from wishing to make her acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + "And happy, mamma--Fleda don't look miserable--she seems perfectly happy + and contented!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"she has got accustomed to this state of + things--it's her life--she makes delicious bread and puddings for her + aunt, and raises vegetables for market, and oversees her uncle's farmers, + and it isn't a hardship to her; she finds her happiness in it. She is a + very good girl! but she might have been made something much better than a + farmer's wife." + </p> + <p> + "You may set your mind at rest on that subject, mamma," said Constance, + still using her chop-sticks with great complacency;--"it's my opinion that + the farmer is not in existence who is blessed with such a conjugal + futurity. I think Fleda's strong pastoral tastes are likely to develope + themselves in a new direction." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Evelyn looked with a partial smile at the pretty features which the + business of eating the strawberries displayed in sundry novel and + picturesque points of view; and asked what she meant? + </p> + <p> + "I don't know,--" said Constance, intent upon her basket,--"I feel a + friend's distress for Mr. Thorn--it's all your doing, mamma,--you won't be + able to look him in the face when we have Fleda next fall--I am sure I + shall not want to look at his! He'll be too savage for anything." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn!" said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Mrs. Evelyn in an indulgent tone,--"he was very attentive to + her last winter when she was with us, but she went away before anything + was decided. I don't think he has forgotten her." + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't think anybody could forget her," said Edith. + </p> + <p> + "I am confident he would be here at this moment," said Constance, "if he + wasn't in London." + </p> + <p> + "But what is 'all mamma's doing,' Constance?" inquired her sister. + </p> + <p> + "The destruction of the peace of the whole family of Thorns--shouldn't + sleep sound in my bed if I were she with such a reflection. I look forward + to heart-rending scenes,--with a very disturbed state of mind." + </p> + <p> + "But what have I done, my child?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Didn't you introduce your favourite Mr. Olmney to Miss Ringgan last + summer? I don't know!--her native delicacy shrunk from making any + disclosures, and of course the tongue of friendship is silent,--but they + were out ages yesterday while I was waiting for her, and their parting at + the gate was--I feel myself unequal to the task of describing it!" said + Constance ecstatically;--"and she was in the most elevated tone of mind + during our whole interview afterwards, and took all my brilliant remarks + with as much coolness as if they had been drops of rain--more, I presume, + considering that it was hay-time." + </p> + <p> + "Did you see him?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Only at that impracticable distance, mamma; but I introduced his name + afterwards in my usual happy manner and I found that Miss Ringgan's cheeks + were by no means indifferent to it. I didn't dare go any further." + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad of it! I hope it is so!" said Mrs. Evelyn energetically. + "It would be a most excellent match. He is a charming young man and would + make her very happy." + </p> + <p> + "You are exciting gloomy feelings in Mr. Carleton's mind, mamma, by your + felicitous suggestions. Mr. Carleton, did your ears receive a faint + announcement of ham and eggs which went quite through and through mine + just now?" + </p> + <p> + He bowed and handed the young lady in; but Constance declared that though + he sat beside her and took care of her at breakfast he had on one of his + intangible fits which drove her to the last extreme of impatience, and + captivation. + </p> + <p> + The sun was not much more than two hours high the next morning when a + rider was slowly approaching Mr. Rossitur's house from the bridge, walking + his horse like a man who wished to look well at all he was passing. He + paused behind a clump of locusts and rose-acacias in the corner of the + courtyard as a figure bonneted and gloved came out of the house and began + to be busy among the rose-bushes. Another figure presently appeared at the + hall-door and called out, + </p> + <p> + "Fleda!--" + </p> + <p> + "Well, Barby--" + </p> + <p> + This second voice was hardly raised, but it came from so much nearer that + the words could be distinctly heard. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Skillcorn wants to know if you're going to fix the flowers for him to + carry?" + </p> + <p> + "They're not ready, and it won't do for him to vait--Mr. Sweet must send + for them if he wants them. Philetus must make haste back, for you know Mr. + Douglass wants him to help in the barn meadow. Lucas won't be here and now + the weather is so fine I want to make haste with the hay." + </p> + <p> + "Well, will you have the samp for breakfast?" + </p> + <p> + "No--we'll keep that for dinner. I'll come in and poach some eggs, + Barby,--if you'll make me some thin pieces of toast--and call me when it's + time. Thin, Barby." + </p> + <p> + The gentleman turned his horse and galloped back to Montepoole. + </p> + <p> + Some disappointment was created among a portion of Mr. Sweet's guests that + afternoon by the intelligence that Mr. Carleton purposed setting off the + next morning to join his English friends at Saratoga on their way to the + falls and Canada. Which purpose was duly carried into effect. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="31"></a>Chapter XXXI. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + With your leave, sir, an' there were no more men living upon the face of + the earth, I should not fancy him, by St. George.--Every Man Out of His + Humour. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + October had come; and a fair season and a fine harvest had enabled Fleda + to ease her mind by sending a good remittance to Dr. Gregory. The family + were still living upon her and Hugh's energies. Mr. Rossitur talked of + coming home, that was all. + </p> + <p> + It sometimes happened that a pause in the urgency of business permitted + Hugh to take a day's holiday. One of these falling soon after the frosts + had opened the burrs of the chestnut trees and the shells of the + hickories, Fleda seized upon it for a nutting frolic. They took Philetus + and went up to the fine group of trees on the mountain, the most difficult + to reach and the best worth reaching of all their nut wood. The sport was + very fine; and after spoiling the trees Philetus was left to "shuck" and + bring home a load of the fruit; while Fleda and Hugh took their way slowly + down the mountain. She stopped him, as usual, on the old lookout place. + The leaves were just then in their richest colouring; and the October sky + in its strong vitality seemed to fill all inanimate nature with the breath + of lile. If ever, then on that day, to the fancy, "the little hills + rejoiced on every side." The woods stood thick with honours, and earth lay + smiling under the tokens of the summer's harvest and the promise for the + coming year; and the wind came in gusts over the lower country and up the + hill-side with a hearty good-will that blew away all vapours, physical and + mental, from its path, bidding everything follow its example and be up and + doing. Fleda drew a long breath or two that seemed to recognize its + freshening power. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus17.jpg"><img src="images/illus17.jpg" height="250" + alt="Philetus was left to 'shuck' and bring home a load of the fruit." + title="Philetus was left to 'shuck' and bring home a load of the fruit." /><br /> + Philetus was left to "shuck" and bring home a load of the fruit.</a> + </p> + <p> + "How long it seems," she said,--"how very long--since I was here with Mr. + Carleton;--just nine years ago. How changed everything is! I was a little + child then. It seems such an age ago!--" + </p> + <p> + "It is very odd he didn't come to see us," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "He did--don't you know?--the very next day after we heard he was + here--when most unluckily I was up at aunt Miriam's." + </p> + <p> + "I should think he might have come again, considering what friends you + used to be." + </p> + <p> + "I dare say he would if he had not left Montepoole so soon. But dear Hugh! + I was a mere child--how could he remember me much." + </p> + <p> + "You remember him," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Ah but I have good reason. Besides I never forget anything. I would have + given a great deal to see him--if I had it." + </p> + <p> + "I wish the Evelyns had staid longer," said Hugh. "I think you have wanted + something to brighten you up. They did you a great deal of good last year. + I am afraid all this taking care of Philetus and Earl Douglass is too much + for you." + </p> + <p> + Fleda gave him a very bright smile, half affection, half fun. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you admire my management?" said she. "Because I do. Philetus is + firmly persuaded that he is an invaluable assistant to me in the mystery + of gardening; and the origin of Earl Douglass's new ideas is so enveloped + in mist that he does not himself know where they come from. It was rich to + hear him the other day descanting to Lucas upon the evil effects of + earthing up corn and the advantages of curing hay in cocks, as to both + which matters Lucas is a thorough unbeliever, and Earl was a year ago." + </p> + <p> + "But that doesn't hinder your looking pale and thin, and a great deal + soberer than I like to see you," said Hugh. "You want a change, I know. I + don't know how you are to get it. I wish they would send for you to New + York again." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know that I should want to go if they did," said Fleda. "They + don't raise my spirits, Hugh. I am amused sometimes,--I can't help + that,--but such excessive gayety rather makes me shrink within myself; I + am too out of tone with it. I never feel more absolutely quiet than + sometimes when I am laughing at Constance Evelyn's mad sallies--and + sometimes I cannot laugh at them. I do not know what they must think of + me; it is what they can have no means of understanding." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you didn't understand it either, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "But you shouldn't say that. I am happier than they are, now, Hugh,--now + that you are better,--with all their means of happiness. They know nothing + of our quiet enjoyments, they must live in a whirl or they would think + they are not living at all, and I do not believe that all New York can + give them the real pleasure that I have in such a day as this. They would + see almost nothing in all this beauty that my eyes 'drink in,' as Cowper + says; and they would be certain to quarrel with the wind, that to me is + like the shake of an old friend's hand. Delicious!--" said Fleda, at the + wind rewarded this eulogium with a very hearty shake indeed. + </p> + <p> + "I believe you would make friends with everything, Fleda," said Hugh + laughing. + </p> + <p> + "The wind is always that to me," said Fleda,--"not always in such a + cheerful mood as to-day, though. It talks to me often of a thousand + old-time things and sighs over them with me--a most sympathizing + friend!--but to day he invites me to a waltz--Come!----" + </p> + <p> + And pulling Hugh after her away she went down the rocky path, with a step + too light to care for the stones; the little feet capering down the + mountain with a disdain of the ground that made Hugh smile to see her; and + eyes dancing for company; till they reached the lower woodland. + </p> + <p> + "A most, spirited waltz!" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "And a most slack partner. Why didn't you keep me company?" + </p> + <p> + "I never was made for waltzing," said Hugh shaking his head. + </p> + <p> + "Not to the tune of the North wind? That has done me good, Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "So I should judge, by your cheeks." + </p> + <p> + "Poverty need not always make people poor," said Fleda taking breath and + his arm together. "You and I are rich, Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "And our riches cannot take to themselves wings and flyaway," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "No, but besides those riches--there are the pleasures of the eye and the + mind that one may enjoy everywhere--everywhere in the country at + least--unless poverty bear one down very hard; and they are some of the + purest and most satisfying of any. O the blessing of a good education! how + it makes one independent of circumstances." + </p> + <p> + "And circumstances are education too," said Hugh smiling. "I dare say we + should not appreciate our mountains and woods so well if we had had our + old plenty of everything else." + </p> + <p> + "I always loved them," said Fleda. "But what good company they have been + to us for years past, Hugh;--to me especially; I have more reason to love + them." + </p> + <p> + They walked on quietly and soberly to the brow of the tableland, where + they parted; Hugh being obliged to go home, and Fleda wishing to pay a + visit to her aunt Miriam. + </p> + <p> + She turned off alone to take the way to the high road and went softly on, + no longer certainly in the momentary spirits with which she had shaken + hands with the wind and skipped down the mountain; but feeling, and + thankful that she felt, a cheerful patience to tread the dusty highway of + life. + </p> + <p> + The old lady had been rather ailing, and from one or two expressions she + had let fall Fleda could not help thinking that she looked upon her + ailments with a much more serious eye than anybody else thought was called + for. It did not, however, appear to-day. She was not worse, and Fleda's + slight anxious feeling could find nothing to justify it, if it were not + the very calm and quietly happy face and manner of the old lady; and that + if it had something to alarm, did much more to sooth. Fleda had sat with + her a long time, patience and cheerfulness all the while unconsciously + growing in her company; when catching up her bonnet with a sudden haste + very unlike her usual collectedness of manner Fleda kissed her aunt and + was rushing away. + </p> + <p> + "But stop!--where are you going, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Home, aunt Miriam--I must--don't keep me!" + </p> + <p> + "But what are you going that way for? you can't go home that way?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes I can." + </p> + <p> + "How?" + </p> + <p> + "I can cross the blackberry hill behind the barn and then over the east + hill, and then there's nothing but the water-cress meadow." + </p> + <p> + "I sha'n't let you go that way alone--sit down and tell me what you + mean,--what is this desperate hurry?" + </p> + <p> + But with equal precipitation Fleda had cast her bonnet out of sight behind + the table, and the next moment turned with the utmost possible quietness + to shake hands with Mr. Olmney. Aunt Miriam had presence of mind enough to + make no remark and receive the young gentleman with her usual dignity and + kindness. + </p> + <p> + He staid some time, but Fleda's hurry seemed to have forsaken her. She had + seized upon an interminable long grey stocking her aunt was knitting, and + sat in the corner working at it most diligently, without raising her eyes + unless spoken to. + </p> + <p> + "Do you give yourself no rest at home or abroad, Miss Fleda?" said the + gentleman. + </p> + <p> + "Put that stocking down, Fleda," said her aunt, "it is in no hurry." + </p> + <p> + "I like to do it, aunt Miriam." + </p> + <p> + But she felt with warming cheeks that she did not like to do it with two + people sitting still and looking at her. The gentleman presently rose. + </p> + <p> + "Don't go till we have had tea, Mr. Olmney," said Mrs. Plumfield. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, ma'am,--I cannot stay, I believe,--unless Miss Fleda will let + me take care of her down the hill by and by." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Mr. Olmney," said Fleda, "but I am not going home before + night, unless they send for me." + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid," said he looking at her, "that the agricultural turn has + proved an over-match for your energies." + </p> + <p> + "The farm don't complain of me, does it?" said Fleda, looking up at him + with a comic grave expression of countenance. + </p> + <p> + "No," said he laughing,--"certainly not; but--if you will forgive me for + saying so--I think you complain of it,--tacitly,--and that will raise a + good many complaints in other quarters--if you do not take care of + yourself." + </p> + <p> + He shook hands and left them; and Mrs. Plumfield sat silently looking at + Fleda, who on her part looked at nothing but the grey stocking. + </p> + <p> + "What is all this, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "What is what, aunt Miriam?" said Fleda, picking up a stitch with + desperate diligence. + </p> + <p> + "Why did you want to run away from Mr. Olmney?" + </p> + <p> + "I didn't wish to be delayed--I wanted to get home." + </p> + <p> + "Then why wouldn't you let him go home with you?" + </p> + <p> + "I liked better to go alone, aunt Miriam." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you like him, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, aunt Miriam--very much.' + </p> + <p> + "I think he likes you, Fleda," said her aunt smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I am very sorry for it," said Fleda with great gravity. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Plumfield looked at her for a few minutes in silence and then said, + </p> + <p> + "Fleda, love, come over here and sit by me and tell me what you mean. Why + are you sorry? It has given me a great deal of pleasure to think of it." + </p> + <p> + But Fleda did not budge from her seat or her stocking and seemed + tongue-tied. Mrs. Plumfield pressed for an answer. + </p> + <p> + "Because, aunt Miriam," said Fleda, with the prettiest red cheeks in the + world but speaking very clearly and steadily,--"my liking only goes to a + point which I am afraid will not satisfy either him or you." + </p> + <p> + "But why?--it will go further." + </p> + <p> + "No ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Why not? why do you say so?" + </p> + <p> + "Because I must if you ask me." + </p> + <p> + "But what can be more excellent and estimable, Fleda?--who could be more + worth liking? I should have thought he would just please you. He is one of + the most lovely young men I have ever seen." + </p> + <p> + "Dear aunt Miriam!" said Fleda looking up beseechingly,--"why should we + talk about it?" + </p> + <p> + "Because I want to understand you, Fleda, and to be sure that you + understand yourself." + </p> + <p> + "I do," said Fleda, quietly and with a quivering lip. + </p> + <p> + "What is there that you dislike about Mr. Olmney?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing in the world, aunt Miriam." + </p> + <p> + "Then what is the reason you cannot like him enough?" + </p> + <p> + "Because, aunt Miriam," said Fleda speaking in desperation,--"there isn't + enough of him. He is <i>very</i> good and excellent in every way--nobody + feels that more than I do--I don't want to say a word against him--but I + do not think he has a very strong mind; and he isn't cultivated enough." + </p> + <p> + "But you cannot have everything, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "No ma'am--I don't expect it." + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid you have set up too high a standard for yourself," said Mrs. + Plumfield, looking rather troubled. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think that is possible, aunt Miriam." + </p> + <p> + "But I am afraid it will prevent your ever liking anybody?" + </p> + <p> + "It will not prevent my liking the friends I have already--it may prevent + my leaving them for somebody else," said Fleda, with a gravity that was + touching in its expression. + </p> + <p> + "But Mr. Olmney is sensible,--and well educated." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but his tastes are not. He could not at all enter into a great many + things that give me the most pleasure. I do not think he quite understands + above half of what I say to him." + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure? I know he admires you, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, but that is only half enough, you see, aunt Miriam, unless I could + admire him too." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Plumfield looked at her in some difficulty;--Mr. Olmney was not the + only one, clearly, whose powers of comprehension were not equal to the + subject. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda," said her aunt inquiringly,--"is there anybody else that has put + Mr. Olmney out of your head?" + </p> + <p> + "Nobody in the world!" exclaimed Fleda with a frank look and tone of + astonishment at the question, and cheeks colouring as promptly. "How could + you ask?--But he never was in my head, aunt Miriam." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn?" said Mrs. Plumfield. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn!" said Fleda indignantly. "Don't you know me better than that, + aunt Miriam? But you do not know him." + </p> + <p> + "I believe I know you, dear Fleda, but I heard he had paid you a great + deal of attention last year; and you would not have been the first + unsuspecting nature that has been mistaken." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was silent, flushed and disturbed; and Mrs. Plumfield was silent and + meditating; when Hugh came in. He came to fetch Fleda home. Dr. Gregory + had arrived. In haste again Fleda sought her bonnet, and exchanging a more + than usually wistful and affectionate kiss and embrace with her aunt, set + off with Hugh down the hill. + </p> + <p> + Hugh had a great deal to say to her all the way home, of which Fleda's + ears alone took the benefit, for her understanding received none of it; + and when she at last came into the breakfast room where the doctor was + sitting, the fact of his being there was the only one which had entered + her mind. + </p> + <p> + "Here she is!--I declare!" said the doctor, holding her back to look at + her after the first greetings had passed,--"I'll be hanged if you ain't + handsome!--Now what's the use of pinking your cheeks any more at that, as + if you didn't know it before?--eh?" + </p> + <p> + "I will always do my best to deserve your good opinion, sir," said Fleda + laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Well sit down now," said he shaking his head, "and pour me out a cup of + tea--your mother can't make it right." + </p> + <p> + And sipping his tea, for some time the old doctor sat listening to Mrs. + Rossitur and eating bread and butter; saying little, but casting a very + frequent glance at the figure opposite him behind the tea-board. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid," said he after a while, "that your care for my good opinion + won't outlast an occasion. Is <i>that</i> the way you look for every day?" + </p> + <p> + The colour came with the smile; but the old doctor looked at her in a way + that made the tears come too. He turned his eyes to Mrs. Rossitur for an + explanation. + </p> + <p> + "She is well," said Mrs. Rossitur fondly,--"she has been very well--except + her old headaches now and then;--I think she has grown rather thin + lately." + </p> + <p> + "Thin!" said the old doctor,--"etherealized to a mere abstract of herself; + only that is a very bad figure, for an abstract should have all the bone + and muscle of the subject; and I should say you had little left but pure + spirit. You are the best proof I ever saw of the principle of the + homoeopaths--I see now that though a little corn may fatten a man, a great + deal may be the death of him." + </p> + <p> + "But I have tried it both ways, uncle Orrin," said Fleda laughing. "I + ought to be a happy medium between plethora and starvation. I am pretty + substantial, what there is of me." + </p> + <p> + "Substantial!" said the doctor; "you look as substantial a personage as + your old friend the 'faire Una,' just about. Well prepare yourself, gentle + Saxon, to ride home with me the day after to-morrow. I'll try a little + humanizing regimen with you." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think that is possible, uncle Orrin," said Fleda gently. + </p> + <p> + "We'll talk about the possibility afterwards--at present all you have to + do is to get ready. If you raise difficulties you will find me a very + Hercules to clear them away--I'm substantial enough I can tell you--so + it's just as well to spare yourself and me the trouble." + </p> + <p> + "There are no difficulties," Mrs. Rossitur and Hugh said both at once. + </p> + <p> + "I knew there weren't. Put a pair or two of clean stockings in your + trunk--that's all you want--Mrs. Pritchard and I will find the rest. + There's the people in Fourteenth street wants you the first of November + and I want you all the time till then, and longer too.--Stop--I've got a + missive of some sort here for you--" + </p> + <p> + He foisted out of his breast-pocket a little package of notes; one from + Mrs. Evelyn and one from Florence begging Fleda to come to them at the + time the doctor had named; the third from Constance. + </p> + <p> + "My darling little Fleda, + </p> + <p> + "I am dying to see you--so pack up and come down with Dr. Gregory if the + least spark of regard for me is slumbering in your breast--Mamma and + Florence are writing to beg you,--but though an insignificant member of + the family, considering that instead of being 'next to head' only little + Edith prevents my being at the less dignified end of this branch of the + social system,--I could not prevail upon myself to let the representations + of my respected elders go unsupported by mine--especially as I felt + persuaded of the superior efficacy of the motives I had it in my power to + present to your truly philanthropical mind. + </p> + <p> + "I am in a state of mind that baffles description--Mr. Carleton is going + home!!---- + </p> + <p> + "I have not worn earrings in my ears for a fortnight--my personal + appearance is become a matter of indifference to me--any description of + mental exertion is excruciating--I sit constantly listening for the + ringing of the door-bell, and when it sounds I rush frantically to the + head of the staircase and look over to see who it is--the mere sight of + pen and ink excites delirious ideas--judge what I suffer in writing to + you-- + </p> + <p> + "To make the matter worse (if it could be) I have been informed privately + that he is going home to crown at the altar of Hymen an old attachment to + one of the loveliest of all England's daughters. Conceive the complication + of my feelings!---- + </p> + <p> + "Nothing is left me but the resources of friendship--so come darling + Fleda, before a barrier of ice interposes itself between my chilled heart + and your sympathy. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn's state would move my pity if I were capable of being moved by + anything--by this you will comprehend he is returned. He has been informed + by somebody that there is a wolf in sheep's clothing prowling about + Queechy, and his head is filled with the idea that you have fallen a + victim, of which in my calmer moments I have in vain endeavoured to + dispossess him--Every morning we are wakened up at an unseasonable hour by + a furious ringing at the door-bell--Joe Manton pulls off his nightcap and + slowly descending the stairs opens the door and finds Mr. Thorn, who + enquires distractedly whether Miss Ringgan has arrived; and being answered + in the negative gloomily walks off towards the East river--The state of + anxiety in which his mother is thereby kept is rapidly depriving her of + all her flesh--but we have directed Joe lately to reply 'no sir, but she + is expected,'--upon which Mr. Thorn regularly smiles faintly and rewards + the 'fowling piece' with a quarter dollar-- + </p> + <p> + "So make haste, dear Fleda, or I shall feel that we are acting the part of + innocent swindlers. + </p> + <p> + "C.E." + </p> + <p> + There was but one voice at home on the point whether Fleda should go. So + she went. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="32"></a>Chapter XXXII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + <i>Host.</i> Now, my young guest! methinks you're allycholy; I pray you, + why is it? + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + <i>Jul</i>. Marry, mine host, because I cannot be merry. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Two Gentlemen of Verona. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Some nights after their arrival the doctor and Fleda were seated at tea in + the little snug old-fashioned back parlour, where the doctor's nicest of + housekeepers, Mrs. Pritchard, had made it ready for them. In general Mrs. + Pritchard herself poured it out for the doctor, but she descended most + cheerfully from her post of elevation whenever Fleda was there to fill it. + </p> + <p> + The doctor and Fleda sat cosily looking at each other across the toast and + chipped beef, their glances grazing the tea-urn which was just on one side + of their range of vision. A comfortable Liverpool-coal fire in a state of + repletion burned away indolently and gave everything else in the room + somewhat of its own look of sousy independence. Except perhaps the + delicate creature at whom the doctor between sips of his tea took rather + wistful observations. + </p> + <p> + "When are you going to Mrs. Evelyn?" he said breaking the silence. + </p> + <p> + "They say next week, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be glad of it!" said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "Glad of it?" said Fleda smiling. "Do you want to get rid of me, uncle + Orrin?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes!" said he. "This isn't the right place for you. You are too much + alone." + </p> + <p> + "No indeed, sir. I have been reading voraciously, and enjoying myself as + much as possible. I would quite as lieve be here as there, putting you out + of the question." + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't as lieve have you," said he shaking his head. "What were you + musing about before tea? your face gave me the heart-ache." + </p> + <p> + "My face!" said Fleda, smiling, while an instant flush of the eyes + answered him,--"what was the matter with my face?" + </p> + <p> + "That is the very thing I want to know." + </p> + <p> + "Before tea?--I was only thinking,--" said Fleda, her look going back to + the fire from association,--"thinking of different things--not + disagreeably--taking a kind of bird's-eye view of things, as one does + sometimes." + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe you ever take other than a bird's-eye view of anything," + said her uncle. "But what were you viewing just then, my little Saxon?" + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking of them at home," said Fleda smiling thoughtfully,--"and I + somehow had perched myself on a point of observation and was taking one of + those wider views which are always rather sobering." + </p> + <p> + "Views of what?" + </p> + <p> + "Of life, sir." + </p> + <p> + "As how?" said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "How near the end is to the beginning, and how short the space between, + and how little the ups and downs of it will matter if we take the right + road and get home." + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw!" said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + But Fleda knew him too well to take his interjection otherwise than most + kindly. And indeed though he whirled round and eat his toast at the fire + discontentedly, his look came back to her after a little with even more + than its usual gentle appreciation. + </p> + <p> + "What do you suppose you have come to New York for?" said he. + </p> + <p> + "To see you, sir, in the first place, and the Evelyns in the second." + </p> + <p> + "And who in the third?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid the third place is vacant," said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "You are, eh? Well--I don't know--but I know that I have been inquired of + by two several and distinct people as to your coming. Ah, you needn't open + your bright eyes at me, because I shall not tell you. Only let me + ask,--you have no notion of fencing off my Queechy rose with a hedge of + blackthorn,--or anything of that kind, have you?" + </p> + <p> + "I have no notion of any fences at all, except invisible ones, sir," said + Fleda, laughing and colouring very prettily. + </p> + <p> + "Well those are not American fences," said the doctor, "so I suppose I am + safe enough. Whom did I see you out riding with yesterday?" + </p> + <p> + "I was with Mrs. Evelyn," said Fleda,--"I didn't want to go, but I + couldn't very well help myself." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Evelyn.--Mrs. Evelyn wasn't driving, was she?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir; Mr. Thorn was driving." + </p> + <p> + "I thought so. Have you seen your old friend Mr. Carleton yet?" + </p> + <p> + "Do you know him uncle Orrin?" + </p> + <p> + "Why shouldn't I? What's the difficulty of knowing people? Have you seen + him?" + </p> + <p> + "But how did you know that he was an old friend of mine?" + </p> + <p> + "Question?--" said the doctor. "Hum--well, I won't tell you--so there's + the answer. Now will you answer me?" + </p> + <p> + "I have not seen him, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Haven't met him in all the times you have been to Mrs. Evelyn's?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir. I have been there but once in the evening, uncle Orrin. He is + just about sailing for England." + </p> + <p> + "Well, you're going there to-night, aren't you? Run and bundle yourself up + and I'll take you there before I begin my work." + </p> + <p> + There was a small party that evening at Mrs. Evelyn's. Fleda was very + early. She ran up to the first floor,--rooms lighted and open, but nobody + there. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda Ringgan," called out the voice of Constance from over the + stairs,--"is that you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well just wait till I come down to you.--My darling little Fleda, it's + delicious of you to come so early. Now just tell me,--am I captivating?" + </p> + <p> + "Well,--I retain self-possession," said Fleda. "I cannot tell about the + strength of head of other people." + </p> + <p> + "You wretched little creature!--Fleda, don't you admire my hair?--it's new + style, my dear,--just come out,--the Delancys brought it out with + them--Eloise Delancy taught it us--isn't it graceful? Nobody in New York + has it yet, except the Delancys and we." + </p> + <p> + "How do you know but they have taught somebody else?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I won't talk to you!--Don't you like it?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not sure that I do not like you in your ordinary way better." + </p> + <p> + Constance made a gesture of impatience, and then pulled Fleda after her + into the drawing-rooms. + </p> + <p> + "Come in here--I won't waste the elegancies of my toilet upon your dull + perceptions--come here and let me shew you some flowers--aren't those + lovely? This bunch came to-day, 'for Miss Evelyn,' so Florence will have + it it is hers, and it's very mean of her, for I am perfectly certain it is + mine--it's come from somebody who wasn't enlightened on the subject of my + family circle and has innocently imagined that <i>two</i> Miss Evelyns + could not belong to the same one! I know the floral representatives of all + Florence's dear friends and admirers, and this isn't from any of them--I + have been distractedly endeavouring all day to find who it came from, for + if I don't I can't take the least comfort in it." + </p> + <p> + "But you might enjoy the flowers for their own sake, I should think," said + Fleda, breathing the sweetness of myrtle and heliotrope. + </p> + <p> + "No I can't, for I have all the time the association of some horrid + creature they might have come from, you know; but it will do just as well + to humbug people--I shall make Cornelia Schenck believe that this came + from my dear Mr. Carleton!" + </p> + <p> + "No you won't, Constance," said Fleda gently. + </p> + <p> + "My dear little Fleda, I shock you, don't I? but I sha'n't tell any + lies--I shall merely expressively indicate a particular specimen and say, + 'My dear Cornelia, do you perceive that this is an English rose?'--and + then it's none of my business, you know, what she believes--and she will + be dying with curiosity and despair all the rest of the evening." + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't think there would be much pleasure in that, I confess," said + Fleda gravely. "How very ungracefully and stiffly those are made up!" + </p> + <p> + "My dear little Queechy rose?" said Constance impatiently, "you are, + pardon me, as fresh as possible. They can't cut the flowers with long + stems, you know,--the gardeners would be ruined. That is perfectly + elegant--it must have cost at least ten dollars. My dear little Fleda!" + said Constance capering off before the long pier-glass,--"I am afraid I am + not captivating!--Do you think it would be an improvement if I put drops + in my ears?--or one curl behind them? I don't know which Mr. Carleton + likes best!--" + </p> + <p> + And with her head first on one side and then on the other she stood before + the glass looking at herself and Fleda by turns with such a comic + expression of mock doubt and anxiety that no gravity but her own could + stand it. + </p> + <p> + "She is a silly girl, Fleda, isn't she?" said Mrs. Evelyn coming up behind + them. + </p> + <p> + "Mamma!--am I captivating?" cried Constance wheeling round. + </p> + <p> + The mother's smile said "Very!" + </p> + <p> + "Fleda is wishing she were out of the sphere of my influence, + mamma.--Wasn't Mr. Olmney afraid of my corrupting you?" she said with a + sudden pull-up in front of Fleda.--"My blessed stars!--there's somebody's + voice I know.--Well I believe it is true that a rose without thorns is a + desideratum.--Mamma, is Mrs. Thorn's turban to be an invariable <i>pendant</i> + to your coiffure all the while Miss Ringgan is here?" + </p> + <p> + "Hush!--" + </p> + <p> + With the entrance of company came Constance's return from extravaganzas to + a sufficiently graceful every-day manner, only enough touched with high + spirits and lawlessness to free it from the charge of commonplace. But the + contrast of these high spirits with her own rather made Fleda's mood more + quiet, and it needed no quieting. Of the sundry people that she knew among + those presently assembled there were none that she wanted to talk to; the + rooms were hot and she felt nervous and fluttered, partly from encounters + already sustained and partly from a little anxious expecting of Mr. + Carleton's appearance. The Evelyns had not said he was to be there but she + had rather gathered it; and the remembrance of old times was strong enough + to make her very earnestly wish to see him and dread to be disappointed. + She swung clear of Mr. Thorn, with some difficulty, and ensconced herself + under the shadow of a large cabinet, between that and a young lady who was + very good society for she wanted no help in carrying on the business of + it. All Fleda had to do was to sit still and listen, or not listen, which + she generally preferred. Miss Tomlinson discoursed upon varieties, with + great sociableness and satisfaction; while poor Fleda's mind, letting all + her sense and nonsense go, was again taking a somewhat bird's-eye view of + things, and from the little centre of her post in Mrs. Evelyn's + drawing-room casting curious glances over the panorama of her + life--England, France, New York, and Queechy!--half coming to the + conclusion that her place henceforth was only at the last and that the + world and she had nothing to do with each other. The tide of life and + gayety seemed to have thrown her on one side, as something that could not + swim with it; and to be rushing past too strongly and swiftly for her + slight bark ever to launch upon it again. Perhaps the shore might be the + safest and happiest place; but it was sober in the comparison; and as a + stranded bark might look upon the white sails flying by, Fleda saw the gay + faces and heard the light tones with which her own could so little keep + company. But as little they with her. Their enjoyment was not more foreign + to her than the causes which moved it were strange. Merry?--she might like + to be merry; but she could sooner laugh with the North wind than with one + of those vapid faces, or with any face that she could not trust. + Conversation might be pleasant,--but it must be something different from + the noisy cross-fire of nonsense that was going on in one quarter, or the + profitless barter of nothings that was kept up on the other side of her. + Rather Queechy and silence, by far, than New York and <i>this!</i> + </p> + <p> + And through it all Miss Tomlinson talked on and was happy. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda!--what are you back here for?" said Florence coming up to + her. + </p> + <p> + "I was glad to be at a safe distance from the fire." + </p> + <p> + "Take a screen--here! Miss Tomlinson, your conversation is too exciting + for Miss Ringgan--look at her cheeks--I must carry you off--I want to shew + you a delightful contrivance for transparencies, that I learned the other + day--" + </p> + <p> + The seat beside her was vacated, and not casting so much as a look towards + any quarter whence a possible successor to Miss Tomlinson might be + arriving, Fleda sprang up and took a place in the far corner of the room + by Mrs. Thorn, happily not another vacant chair in the neighbourhood. Mrs. + Thorn had shewn a very great fancy for her and was almost as good company + as Miss Tomlinson; not quite, for it was necessary sometimes to answer and + therefore necessary always to hear. But Fleda liked her; she was + thoroughly amiable, sensible, and good-hearted. And Mrs. Thorn, very much + gratified at Fleda's choice of a seat, talked to her with a benignity + which Fleda could not help answering with grateful pleasure. + </p> + <p> + "Little Queechy, what has driven you into the corner?" said Constance + pausing a moment before her. + </p> + <p> + "It must have been a retiring spirit," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Thorn, isn't she lovely?" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Thorn's smile at Fleda might almost have been called that, it was so + full of benevolent pleasure. But she spoiled it by her answer. + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe I am the first one to find it out." + </p> + <p> + "But what are you looking so sober for?" Constance went on, taking Fleda's + screen from her hand and fanning her diligently with it,--"you don't talk! + The gravity of Miss Ringgan's face casts a gloom over the brightness of + the evening. I couldn't conceive what made me feel chilly in the other + room, till I looked about and found that the shade came from this corner; + and Mr. Thorn's teeth, I saw, were chattering." + </p> + <p> + "Constance!" said Fleda laughing and vexed, and making the reproof more + strongly with her eyes,--"how can you talk so!" + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Thorn, isn't it true?" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Thorn's look at Fleda was the essence of good-humour. + </p> + <p> + "Will you let Lewis come and take you a good long ride to-morrow?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Mrs. Thorn, I believe not--I intend to stay perseveringly at home + to-morrow and see if it is possible to be quiet a day in New York." + </p> + <p> + "But you will go with me to the concert to-morrow night?--both of you--and + hear Truffi;--come to my house and take tea and go from there? will you, + Constance?" + </p> + <p> + "My dear Mrs. Thorn!" said Constance,--"I shall be in ecstacies, and Miss + Ringgan was privately imploring me last night to find some way of getting + her to it. We regard such material pleasures as tea and muffins with great + indifference, but when you look up after swallowing your last cup you will + see Miss Ringgan and Miss Evelyn, cloaked and hooded, anxiously awaiting + your next movement. My dear Fleda!--there is a ring!--" + </p> + <p> + And giving her the benefit of a most comic and expressive arching of her + eyebrows, Constance flung back the screen into Fleda's lap and skimmed + away. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was too vexed for a few minutes to understand more of Mrs. Thorn's + talk than that she was first enlarging upon the concert, and afterwards + detailing to her a long shopping expedition in search of something which + had been a morning's annoyance. She almost thought Constance was unkind, + because she wanted to go to the concert herself to lug her in so + unceremoniously; and wished herself back in her uncle's snug little quiet + parlour,--unless Mr. Carleton would come. + </p> + <p> + And there he is!--said a quick beat of her heart, as his entrance + explained Constance's "ring." + </p> + <p> + Such a rush of associations came over Fleda that she was in imminent + danger of losing Mrs. Thorn altogether. She managed however by some sort + of instinct to disprove the assertion that the mind cannot attend to two + things at once, and carried on a double conversation, with herself and + with Mrs. Thorn, for some time very vigorously. + </p> + <p> + "Just the same!--he has not altered a jot," she said to herself as he came + forward to Mrs. Evelyn;--"it is himself!--his very self--he doesn't look a + day older--I'm very glad!--(Yes, ma'am--it's extremely tiresome--) How + exactly as when he left me in Paris,--and how much pleasanter than anybody + else!--more pleasant than ever, it seems to me, but that is because I have + not seen him in so long; he only wanted one thing. That same grave eye-- + but quieter, isn't it,--than it used to be?--I think so--(It's the best + store in town, I think, Mrs. Thorn, by far,--yes, ma'am--) Those eyes are + certainly the finest I ever saw--How I have seen him stand and look just + so when he was talking to his workmen--without that air of consciousness + that all these people have, comparatively--what a difference! (I know very + little about it, ma'am;--I am not learned in laces--I never bought any--) + I wish he would look this way--I wonder if Mrs. Evelyn does not mean to + bring him to see me--she must remember;--now there is that curious old + smile and looking down! how much better I know what it means than Mrs. + Evelyn does--(Yes, ma'am, I understand--I mean!--it is very convenient--I + never go anywhere else to get anything,--at least I should not if I lived + here--) She does not know whom she is talking to.--She is going to walk + him off into the other room! How very much more gracefully he does + everything than anybody else--it comes from that entire high-mindedness + and frankness, I think,--not altogether, a fine person must aid the + effect, and that complete independence of other people.----I wonder if + Mrs. Evelyn has forgotten my existence!--he has not, I am sure--I think + she is a little odd--(Yes, ma'am, my face is flushed--the room is very + warm--)" + </p> + <p> + "But the fire has gone down--it will be cooler now," said Mrs. Thorn. + </p> + <p> + Which were the first words that fairly entered Fleda's understanding. She + was glad to use the screen to hide her face now, not the fire. + </p> + <p> + Apparently the gentleman and lady found nothing to detain them in the + other room, for after sauntering off to it they sauntered back again and + placed themselves to talk just opposite her. Fleda had an additional + screen now in the person of Miss Tomlinson, who had sought her corner and + was earnestly talking across her to Mrs. Thorn; so that she was sure even + if Mr. Carleton's eyes should chance to wander that way they would see + nothing but the unremarkable skirt of her green silk dress, most unlikely + to detain them. The trade in nothings going on over the said green silk + was very brisk indeed; but disregarding the buzz of tongues near at hand + Fleda's quick ears were able to free the barrier and catch every one of + the quiet tones beyond. + </p> + <p> + "And you leave us the day after to-morrow?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "No, Mrs. Evelyn,--I shall wait another steamer." + </p> + <p> + The lady's brow instantly revealed to Fleda a trap setting beneath to + catch his reason. + </p> + <p> + "I'm very glad!" exclaimed little Edith who in defiance of + conventionalities and proprieties made good her claim to be in the drawing + room on all occasions;--"then you will take me another ride, won't you, + Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "You do not flatter us with a very long stay," pursued Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Quite as long as I expected--longer than I meant it to be," he answered + rather thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said Constance sidling up in front of him,--"I have been + in distress to ask you a question, and I am afraid----" + </p> + <p> + "Of what are you afraid, Miss Constance?" + </p> + <p> + "That you would reward me with one of your severe looks,--which would + petrify me,--and then I am afraid I should feel uncomfortable--" + </p> + <p> + "I hope he will!" said Mrs. Evelyn, settling herself back in the corner of + the sofa, and with a look at her daughter which was complacency + itself,--"I hope Mr. Carleton will, if you are guilty of any + impertinence." + </p> + <p> + "What is the question, Miss Constance?" + </p> + <p> + "I want to know what brought you out here?" + </p> + <p> + "Fie, Constance!" said her mother. "I am ashamed of you. Do not answer + her, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton will answer me, mamma,--he looks benevolently upon my + faults, which are entirely those of education! What was it, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "I suppose," said he smiling, "it might be traced more or less remotely to + the restlessness incident to human nature." + </p> + <p> + "But <i>you</i> are not restless, Mr. Carleton," said Florence, with a + glance which might be taken as complimentary. + </p> + <p> + "And knowing that I am," said Constance in comic impatience,--"you are + maliciously prolonging my agonies. It is not what I expected of you, Mr. + Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "My dear," said her father, "Mr. Carleton, I am sure, will fulfil all + reasonable expectations. What is the matter?" + </p> + <p> + "I asked him where a certain tribe of Indians was to be found, papa, and + he told me they were supposed originally to have come across Behring's + Straits one cold winter!" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Evelyn looked a little doubtfully and Constance with so unhesitating + gravity that the gravity of nobody else was worth talking about. + </p> + <p> + "But it is so uncommon," said Mrs. Evelyn when they had done laughing, "to + see an Englishman of your class here at all, that when he comes a second + time we may be forgiven for wondering what has procured us such an + honour." + </p> + <p> + "Women may always be forgiven for wondering, my dear," said Mr. + Evelyn,--"or the rest of mankind must live at odds with them." + </p> + <p> + "Your principal object was to visit our western prairies, wasn't it, Mr. + Carleton?" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "No," he replied quietly,--"I cannot say that. I should choose to give a + less romantic explanation of my movements. From some knowledge growing out + of my former visit to this country I thought there were certain + negotiations I might enter into here with advantage; and it was for the + purpose of attending to these, Miss Constance, that I came." + </p> + <p> + "And have you succeeded?" said Mrs. Evelyn with an expression of + benevolent interest. + </p> + <p> + "No, ma'am--my information had not been sufficient." + </p> + <p> + "Very likely!" said Mr. Evelyn. "There isn't one man in a hundred whose + representations on such a matter are to be trusted at a distance." + </p> + <p> + "'On such a matter'!" repeated his wife funnily,--"you don't know what the + matter was, Mr. Evelyn--you don't know what you are talking about." + </p> + <p> + "Business, my dear,--business--I take only what Mr. Carleton said;--it + doesn't signify a straw what business. A man must always see with his own + eyes." + </p> + <p> + Whether Mr. Carleton had seen or had not seen, or whether even he had his + faculty of hearing in present exercise, a glance at his face was + incompetent to discover. + </p> + <p> + "I never should have imagined," said Constance eying him keenly, "that Mr. + Carleton's errand to this country was one of business and not of romance, + <i>I</i> believe it's a humbug!" + </p> + <p> + For an instant this was answered by one of those looks of absolute + composure in every muscle and feature which put an effectual bar to all + further attempts from without or revelations from within; a look Fleda + remembered well, and felt even in her corner. But it presently relaxed, + and he said with his usual manner, + </p> + <p> + "You cannot understand then, Miss Constance, that there should be any + romance about business?" + </p> + <p> + "I cannot understand," said Mrs. Evelyn, "why romance should not come + after business. Mr. Carleton, sir, you have seen American scenery this + summer--isn't American beauty worth staying a little while longer for?" + </p> + <p> + "My dear," said Mr. Evelyn, "Mr. Carleton is too much of a philosopher to + care about beauty--every man of sense is." + </p> + <p> + "I am sure he is not," said Mrs. Evelyn smoothly. "Mr. Carleton,--you are + an admirer of beauty, are you not, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "I hope so, Mrs. Evelyn," he said smiling,--"but perhaps I shall shock you + by adding,--not of <i>beauties</i>." + </p> + <p> + "That sounds very odd," said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "But let us understand," said Mrs. Evelyn with the air of a person solving + a problem,--"I suppose we are to infer that your taste in beauty is of a + peculiar kind?" + </p> + <p> + "That may be a fair inference," he said. + </p> + <p> + "What is it then?" said Constance eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--what is it you look for in a face?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Let us hear whether America has any chance," said Mr. Thorn, who had + joined the group and placed himself precisely so as to hinder Fleda's + view. + </p> + <p> + "My fancy has no stamp of nationality, in this, at least," he said + pleasantly. + </p> + <p> + "Now for instance, the Miss Delancys--don't you call them handsome, Mr. + Carleton?" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," he said, half smiling. + </p> + <p> + "But not beautiful?--Now what is it they want?" + </p> + <p> + "I do not wish, if I could, to make the want visible to other eyes than my + own." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Cornelia Schenck,--how do you like her face?" + </p> + <p> + "It is very pretty-featured." + </p> + <p> + "Pretty-featured!--Why she is called beautiful. She has a beautiful smile, + Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "She has only one." + </p> + <p> + "Only one! and how many smiles ought the same person to have?" cried + Florence impatiently. But that which instantly answered her said forcibly + that a plurality of them was possible. + </p> + <p> + "I have seen one face," he said gravely, and his eye seeking the + floor,--"that had I think a thousand." + </p> + <p> + "Different smiles?" said Mrs. Evelyn in a constrained voice. + </p> + <p> + "If they were not all absolutely that, they had so much of freshness and + variety that they all seemed new." + </p> + <p> + "Was the mouth so beautiful?" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps it would not have been remarked for beauty when it was perfectly + at rest; but it could not move with the least play of feeling, grave or + gay, that it did not become so in a very high degree. I think there was no + touch or shade of sentiment in the mind that the lips did not give with + singular nicety; and the mind was one of the most finely wrought I have + ever known." + </p> + <p> + "And what other features went with this mouth?" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "The usual complement, I suppose," said Thorn. "'Item, two lips + indifferent red; item, two grey eyes with lids to them; item, one neck, + one chin, and so forth.'" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton, sir," said Mrs. Evelyn blandly--"as Mr. Evelyn says women + may be forgiven for wondering, won't you answer Florence's question?" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn has done it, Mrs. Evelyn, for me." + </p> + <p> + "But I have great doubts of the correctness of Mr. Thorn's description, + sir--won't you indulge us with yours?" + </p> + <p> + "Word-painting is a difficult matter, Mrs. Evelyn, in some instances;--if + I must do it I will borrow my colours. In general, 'that which made her + fairness much the fairer was that it was but an ambassador of a most fair + mind.'" + </p> + <p> + "A most exquisite picture!" said Thorn, "and the original don't stand so + thick that one is in any danger of mistaking them. Is the painter + Shakspeare?--I don't recollect--" + </p> + <p> + "I think Sidney, sir--I am not sure." + </p> + <p> + "But still, Mr. Carleton," said Mrs Evelyn, "this is only in general--I + want very much to know the particulars;--what style of features belonged + to this face?" + </p> + <p> + "The fairest, I think, I have ever known," said Mr. Carleton. "You asked + me, Miss Evelyn, what was my notion of beauty;--this face was a good + illustration of it. Not perfection of outline, though it had that too in + very uncommon degree;--but the loveliness of mind and character to which + these features were only an index; the thoughts were invariably + telegraphed through eye and mouth more faithfully than words could give + them." + </p> + <p> + "What kind of eyes?" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + His own grew dark as he answered,-- + </p> + <p> + "Clear and pure as one might imagine an angel's--through which I am sure + my good angel many a time looked at me." + </p> + <p> + Good angels were at a premium among the eyes that were exchanging glances + just then. + </p> + <p> + "And Mr. Carleton," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"is it fair to ask--this + paragon--is she living still?" + </p> + <p> + "I hope so," he answered, with his old light smile, dismissing the + subject. + </p> + <p> + "You spoke so much in the past tense," said Mrs. Evelyn apologetically. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I have not seen it since it was a child's." + </p> + <p> + "A child's face!--Oh," said Florence, "I think you see a great many + children's faces with that kind of look." + </p> + <p> + "I never saw but the one," said Mr. Carleton dryly. + </p> + <p> + So far Fleda listened, with cheeks that would certainly have excited Mrs. + Thorn's alarm if she had not been happily engrossed with Miss Tomlinson's + affairs; though up to the last two minutes the idea of herself had not + entered Fleda's head in connection with the subject of conversation. But + then feeling it impossible to make her appearance in public that evening, + she quietly slipped out of the open window close by, which led into a + little greenhouse on the piazza, and by another door gained the hall and + the dressing-room. + </p> + <p> + When Dr. Gregory came to Mrs. Evelyn's an hour or two after, a figure all + cloaked and hooded ran down the stairs and met him in the hall. + </p> + <p> + "Ready!" said the doctor in surprise. + </p> + <p> + "I have been ready some time, sir," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said he, "then we'll go straight home, for I've not done my work + yet." + </p> + <p> + "Dear uncle Orrin!" said Fleda, "if I had known you had work to do I + wouldn't have come." + </p> + <p> + "Yes you would!" said he decidedly. + </p> + <p> + She clasped her uncle's arm and walked with him briskly home through the + frosty air, looking at the silent lights and shadows on the walls of the + street and feeling a great desire to cry. + </p> + <p> + "Did you have a pleasant evening?" said the doctor when they were about + half way. + </p> + <p> + "Not particularly, sir," said Fleda hesitating. + </p> + <p> + He said not another word till they got home and Fleda went up to her room. + But the habit of patience overcame the wish to cry; and though the outside + of her little gold-clasped Bible awoke it again, a few words of the inside + were enough to lay it quietly to sleep. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said the doctor as they sat at breakfast the next morning,--"where + are you going next?" + </p> + <p> + "To the concert, I must, to-night," said Fleda. "I couldn't help myself." + </p> + <p> + "Why should you want to help yourself?" said the doctor. "And to Mrs. + Thorn's to-morrow night?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir, I believe not." + </p> + <p> + "I believe you will," said he looking at her. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure I should enjoy myself more at home, uncle Orrin. There is very + little rational pleasure to be had in these assemblages." + </p> + <p> + "Rational pleasure!" said he. "Didn't you have any rational pleasure last + night?" + </p> + <p> + "I didn't hear a single word spoken, sir, that was worth listening to,--at + least that was spoken to me; and the hollow kind of rattle that one hears + from every tongue makes me more tired than anything else, I believe;--I am + out of tune with it, somehow." + </p> + <p> + "Out of tune!" said the old doctor, giving her a look made up of humourous + vexation and real sadness,--"I wish I knew the right tuning-key to take + hold of you!" + </p> + <p> + "I become harmonious rapidly, uncle Orrin, when I am in this pleasant + little room alone with you." + </p> + <p> + "That won't do!" said he, shaking his head at the smile with which this + was said,--"there is too much tension upon the strings. So that was the + reason you were all ready waiting for me last night?--Well, you must tune + up, my little piece of discordance, and go with me to Mrs. Thorn's + to-morrow night--I won't let you off." + </p> + <p> + "With you, sir!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," he said. "I'll go along and take care of you lest you get drawn + into something else you don't like." + </p> + <p> + "But, dear uncle Orrin, there is another difficulty--it is to be a large + party and I have not a dress exactly fit." + </p> + <p> + "What have you got?" said he with a comic kind of fierceness. + </p> + <p> + "I have silks, but they are none of them proper for this occasion--they + are ever so little old-fashioned." + </p> + <p> + "What do you want?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing, sir," said Fleda; "for I don't want to go." + </p> + <p> + "You mend a pair of stockings to put on," said he nodding at her, "and + I'll see to the rest." + </p> + <p> + "Apparently you place great importance in stockings," said Fleda laughing, + "for you always mention them first. But please don't get anything for me, + uncle Orrin--please don't! I have plenty for common occasions, and I don't + care to go to Mrs. Thorn's." + </p> + <p> + "I don't care either," said the doctor, working himself into his great + coat. "By the by, do you want to invoke the aid of St. Crispin?" + </p> + <p> + He went off, and Fleda did not know whether to cry or to laugh at the + vigorous way in which he trod through the hall and slammed the front door + after him. Her spirits just kept the medium and did neither. But they were + in the same doubtful mood still an hour after when he came back with a + paper parcel he had brought home under his arm, and unrolled a fine + embroidered muslin; her eyes were very unsteady in carrying their brief + messages of thankfulness, as if they feared saying too much. The doctor, + however, was in the mood for doing, not talking, by looks or otherwise. + Mrs. Pritchard was called into consultation, and with great pride and + delight engaged to have the dress and all things else in due order by the + following night; <i>her</i> eyes saying all manner of gratulatory things + as they went from the muslin to Fleda and from Fleda to Dr. Gregory. + </p> + <p> + The rest of the day was, not books, but needlefuls of thread; and from the + confusion of laces and draperies Fleda was almost glad to escape and go to + the concert,--but for one item; that spoiled it. + </p> + <p> + They were in their seats early. Fleda managed successfully to place the + two Evelyns between her and Mr. Thorn, and then prepared herself to wear + out the evening with patience. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda!" whispered Constance, after some time spent in restless + reconnoitring of everybody and everything,--"I don't see my English rose + anywhere!" + </p> + <p> + "Hush!" said Fleda smiling. "That happened not to be an English rose, + Constance." + </p> + <p> + "What was it?" + </p> + <p> + "American, unfortunately; it was a Noisette; the variety I think that they + call 'Conque de Venus.'" + </p> + <p> + "My dear little Fleda, you're too wise for anything!" said Constance with + a rather significant arching of her eyebrows. "You mustn't expect other + people to be as rural in their acquirements as yourself. I don't pretend + to know any rose by sight but the Queechy," she said, with a change of + expression meant to cover the former one. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's face, however, did not call for any apology. It was perfectly + quiet. + </p> + <p> + "But what has become of him?" said Constance with her comic + impatience.--"My dear Fleda! if my eyes cannot rest upon that development + of elegance the parterre is become a wilderness to me!" + </p> + <p> + "Hush, Constance!" Fleda whispered earnestly,--"you are not safe--he may + be near you." + </p> + <p> + "Safe!--" ejaculated Constance; but a half backward hasty glance of her + eye brought home so strong an impression that the person in question was + seated a little behind her that she dared not venture another look, and + became straightway extremely well-behaved. + </p> + <p> + He was there; and being presently convinced that he was in the + neighbourhood of his little friend of former days he resolved with his own + excellent eyes to test the truth of the opinion he had formed as to the + natural and inevitable effect of circumstances upon her character; whether + it could by possibility have retained its great delicacy and refinement + under the rough handling and unkindly bearing of things seemingly foreign + to both. He had thought not. + </p> + <p> + Truffi did not sing, and the entertainment was of a very secondary + quality. This seemed to give no uneasiness to the Miss Evelyns, for if + they pouted they laughed and talked in the same breath, and that + incessantly. It was nothing to Mr. Carleton, for his mind was bent on + something else. And with a little surprise he saw that it was nothing to + the subject of his thoughts,--either because her own were elsewhere too, + or because they were in league with a nice taste that permitted them to + take no interest in what was going on. Even her eyes, trained as they had + been to recluse habits, were far less busy than those of her companions; + indeed they were not busy at all; for the greater part of the time one + hand was upon the brow, shielding them from the glare of the gas-lights. + Ostensibly,--but the very quiet air of the face led him to guess that the + mind was glad of a shield too. It relaxed sometimes. Constance and + Florence and Mr. Thorn and Mr. Thorn's mother were every now and then + making demands upon her, and they were met always with an intelligent + well-bred eye, and often with a smile of equal gentleness and character; + but her observer noticed that though the smile came readily, it went as + readily, and the lines of the face quickly settled again into what seemed + to be an habitual composure. There were the same outlines, the same + characters, he remembered very well; yet there was a difference; not grief + had changed them, but life had. The brow had all its fine chiselling and + high purity of expression; but now there sat there a hopelessness, or + rather a want of hopefulness, that a child's face never knows. The mouth + was sweet and pliable as ever, but now often patience and endurance did + not quit their seat upon the lip even when it smiled. The eye with all its + old clearness and truthfulness had a shade upon it that nine years ago + only fell at the bidding of sorrow; and in every line of the face there + was a quiet gravity that went to the heart of the person who was studying + it. Whatever causes had been at work he was very sure had done no harm to + the character; its old simplicity had suffered no change, as every look + and movement proved; the very unstudied careless position of the fingers + over the eyes shewed that the thoughts had nothing to do there. + </p> + <p> + On one half of his doubt Mr. Carleton's mind was entirely made up;--but + education? the training and storing of the mind?--how had that fared? He + would know!-- + </p> + <p> + Perhaps he would have made some attempt that very evening towards + satisfying himself; but noticing that in coming out Thorn permitted the + Evelyns to pass him and attached himself determinately to Fleda, he drew + back, and resolved to make his observations indirectly and on more than + one point before he should seem to make them at all. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="33"></a>Chapter XXXIII + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Hark! I hear the sound of coaches,<br /> The hour of attack approaches. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Gay. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Mrs. Pritchard had arrayed Fleda in the white muslin, with an amount of + satisfaction and admiration that all the lines of her face were + insufficient to express. + </p> + <p> + "Now," she said, "you must just run down and let the doctor see you--afore + you take the shine off--or he won't be able to look at anything else when + you get to the place." + </p> + <p> + "That would be unfortunate!" said Fleda, and she ran down laughing into + the room where the doctor was waiting for her; but her astonished eyes + encountering the figure of Dr. Quackenboss she stopped short, with an air + that no woman of the world could have bettered. The physician of Queechy + on his part was at least equally taken aback. + </p> + <p> + "Dr. Quackenboss!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I--I was going to say, Miss Ringgan!" said the doctor with a most + unaffected obeisance,--"but--a--I am afraid, sir, it is a deceptive + influence!" + </p> + <p> + "I hope not," said Dr. Gregory smiling, one corner of his mouth for his + guest and the other for his niece. "Real enough to do real execution, or I + am mistaken, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Upon my word, sir," said Dr. Quackenboss bowing again,--"I hope--a--Miss + Ringgan!--will remember the acts of her executive power at home, and + return in time to prevent an unfortunate termination!" + </p> + <p> + Dr. Gregory laughed heartily now, while Fleda's cheeks relieved her dress + to admiration. + </p> + <p> + "Who will complain of her if she don't?" said the doctor. "Who will + complain of her if she don't?" + </p> + <p> + But Fleda put in her question. + </p> + <p> + "How are you all at home, Dr. Quackenboss?" + </p> + <p> + "All Queechy, sir," answered the doctor politely, on the principle of + 'first come, first served,'--"and individuals,--I shouldn't like to + specify--" + </p> + <p> + "How are you all in Queechy, Dr. Quackenboss!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I--have the pleasure to say--we are coming along as usual," replied the + doctor, who seemed to have lost his power of standing up straight;--"My + sister Flora enjoys but poor health lately,--they are all holding their + heads up at your house. Mr. Rossitur has come home." + </p> + <p> + "Uncle Rolf! Has he!" exclaimed Fleda, the colour of joy quite supplanting + the other. "O I'm very glad!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said the doctor,--"he's been home now,--I guess, going on four + days." + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad!" repeated Fleda. "But won't you come and see me another + time, Dr. Quackenboss?--I am obliged to go out." + </p> + <p> + The doctor professed his great willingness, adding that he had only come + down to the city to do two or three chores and thought she might perhaps + like to take the opportunity--which would afford him such very great + gratification. + </p> + <p> + "No indeed, faire Una," said Dr. Gregory, when they were on their way to + Mrs. Thorn's,--"they've got your uncle at home now and we've got you; and + I mean to keep you till I'm satisfied. So you may bring home that eye that + has been squinting at Queechy ever since you have been here and make up + your mind to enjoy yourself; I sha'n't let you go till you do." + </p> + <p> + "I ought to enjoy myself, uncle Orrin," said Fleda, squeezing his arm + gratefully. + </p> + <p> + "See you do," said he. + </p> + <p> + The pleasant news from home had given Fleda's spirits the needed spur + which the quick walk to Mrs. Thorn's did not take off. + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever see Fleda look so well, mamma?" said Florence, as the former + entered the drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + "That is the loveliest and best face in the room," said Mr. Evelyn; "and + she looks like herself to-night." + </p> + <p> + "There is a matchless simplicity about her," said a gentleman standing by. + </p> + <p> + "Her dress is becoming," said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Why where did you ever see her, Mr. Stackpole, except at our house?" said + Constance. + </p> + <p> + "At Mrs. Decatur's--I have had that pleasure--and once at her uncle's." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't know you ever noticed ladies' faces, Mr. Stackpole," said + Florence. + </p> + <p> + "How Mrs. Thorn does look at her!" said Constance, under her breath. "It + is too much!" + </p> + <p> + It was almost too much for Fleda's equanimity, for the colour began to + come. + </p> + <p> + "And there goes Mr. Carleton!" said Constance. "I expect momentarily to + hear the company strike up 'Sparkling and Bright.'" + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus18.jpg"><img src="images/illus18.jpg" height="250" + alt="'And there goes Mr. Carleton!' said Constance." + title="'And there goes Mr. Carleton!' said Constance." /><br /> "And there + goes Mr. Carleton!" said Constance.</a> + </p> + <p> + "They should have done that some time ago, Miss Constance," said the + gentleman. + </p> + <p> + Which compliment, however, Constance received with hardly disguised scorn, + and turned her attention again to Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "I trust I do not need presentation," said his voice and his smile at + once, as he presented himself to Fleda. + </p> + <p> + How little he needed it the flash of feeling which met his eyes said + sufficiently well. But apparently the feeling was a little too deep, for + the colour mounted and the eyes fell, and the smile suddenly died on the + lips. Mr. Thorn came up to them, and releasing her hand Mr. Carleton + stepped back and permitted him to lead her away. + </p> + <p> + "What do think of <i>that</i> face?" said Constance finding herself a few + minutes after at his side. + </p> + <p> + "'That' must define itself," said he, "or I can hardly give a safe + answer." + </p> + <p> + "What face? Why I mean of course the one Mr. Thorn carried off just now." + </p> + <p> + "You are her friend, Miss Constance," he said coolly. "May I ask for your + judgment upon it before I give mine?" + </p> + <p> + "Mine? why I expected every minute that Mr. Thorn would make the musicians + play 'Sparkling and Bright,' and tell Miss Ringgan that to save trouble he + had directed them to express what he was sure were the sentiments of the + whole company in one burst." + </p> + <p> + He smiled a little, but in a way that Constance could not understand and + did not like. + </p> + <p> + "Those are common epithets," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Must I use uncommon?" said Constance significantly. + </p> + <p> + "No--but these may say one thing or another." + </p> + <p> + "I have said one thing," said Constance; "and now you may say the other." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me--you have said nothing. These epithets are deserved by a great + many faces, but on very different grounds; and the praise is a different + thing accordingly." + </p> + <p> + "Well what is the difference?" said Constance. + </p> + <p> + "On what do you think this lady's title to it rests?" + </p> + <p> + "On what?--why on that bewitching little air of the eyes and mouth, I + suppose." + </p> + <p> + "Bewitching is a very vague term," said he smiling again more quietly. + "But you have had an opportunity of knowing it much better of late than + I--to which class of bright faces would you refer this one? Where does the + light come from?" + </p> + <p> + "I never studied faces in a class," said Constance a little scornfully. + "Come from?--a region of mist and clouds I should say, for it is sometimes + pretty well covered up." + </p> + <p> + "There are some eyes whose sparkling is nothing more than the play of + light upon a bright bead of glass." + </p> + <p> + "It is not that," said Constance, answering in spite of herself after + delaying as long as she dared. + </p> + <p> + "There is the brightness that is only the reflection of outward + circumstances, and passes away with them." + </p> + <p> + "It isn't that in Fleda Ringgan," said Constance, "for her outward + circumstances have no brightness, I should think, that reflection would + not utterly absorb." + </p> + <p> + She would fain have turned the conversation, but the questions were put so + lightly and quietly that it could not be gracefully done. She longed to + cut it short, but her hand was upon Mr. Carleton's arm and they were + slowly sauntering down the rooms,--too pleasant a state of things to be + relinquished for a trifle. + </p> + <p> + "There is the broad day-light of mere animal spirits," he went on, seeming + rather to be suggesting these things for her consideration than eager to + set forth any opinions of his own;--"there is the sparkling of mischief, + and the fire of hidden passions,--there is the passing brilliance of wit, + as satisfactory and resting as these gas-lights,--and there is now and + then the light of refined affections out of a heart unspotted from the + world, as pure and abiding as the stars, and like them throwing its soft + ray especially upon the shadows of life." + </p> + <p> + "I have always understood," said Constance, "that cats' eyes are brightest + in the dark." + </p> + <p> + "They do not love the light, I believe," said Mr. Carleton calmly. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Constance, not relishing the expression of her companion's + eye, which from glowing had suddenly become cool and bright,--"where would + you put me, Mr. Carleton, among all these illuminators of the social + system?" + </p> + <p> + "You may put yourself--where you please, Miss Constance," he said, again + turning upon her an eye so deep and full in its meaning that her own and + her humour fell before it; for a moment she looked most unlike the gay + scene around her. + </p> + <p> + "Is not that the best brightness," he said speaking low, "that will last + forever?--and is not that lightness of heart best worth having which does + not depend on circumstances, and will find its perfection just when all + other kinds of happiness fail utterly?" + </p> + <p> + "I can't conceive," said Constance presently, rallying or trying to rally + herself,--"what you and I have to do in a place where people are enjoying + themselves at this moment, Mr. Carleton!" + </p> + <p> + He smiled at that and led her out of it into the conservatory, close to + which they found themselves. It was a large and fine one, terminating the + suite of rooms in this direction. Few people were there; but at the far + end stood a group among whom Fleda and Mr. Thorn were conspicuous. He was + busying himself in putting together a quantity of flowers for her; and + Mrs. Evelyn and old Mr. Thorn stood looking on; with Mr. Stackpole. Mr. + Stackpole was an Englishman, of certainly not very prepossessing exterior + but somewhat noted as an author and a good deal sought after in + consequence. At present he was engaged by Mrs. Evelyn. Mr. Carleton and + Constance sauntered up towards them and paused at a little distance to + look at some curious plants. + </p> + <p> + "Don't try for that, Mr. Thorn," said Fleda, as the gentleman was making + rather ticklish efforts to reach a superb Fuchsia that hung high,--"You + are endangering sundry things besides yourself." + </p> + <p> + "I have learned, Miss Fleda," said Thorn as with much ado he grasped the + beautiful cluster,--"that what we take the most pains for is apt to be + reckoned the best prize,--a truth I should never think of putting into a + lady's head if I believed it possible that a single one of them was + ignorant of its practical value." + </p> + <p> + "I have this same rose in my garden at home," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "You are a great gardener, Miss Fleda, I hear," said the old gentleman. + "My son says you are an adept in it." + </p> + <p> + "I am very fond of it, sir," said Fleda, answering <i>him</i> with an + entirely different face. + </p> + <p> + "I thought the delicacy of American ladies was beyond such a masculine + employment as gardening," said Mr. Stackpole, edging away from Mrs. + Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "I guess this young lady is an exception to the rule," said old Mr. Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "I guess she is an exception to most rules that you have got in your + note-book, Mr. Stackpole," said the younger man. "But there is no guessing + about the garden, for I have with my own eyes seen these gentle hands at + one end of a spade and her foot at the other;--a sight that--I declare I + don't know whether I was most filled with astonishment or admiration!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda half laughing and colouring,--"and he ingenuously + confessed in his surprise that he didn't know whether politeness ought to + oblige him to stop and shake hands or to pass by without seeing me; + evidently shewing that he thought I was about something equivocal." + </p> + <p> + The laugh was now turned against Mr. Thorn, but he went on cutting his + geraniums with a grave face. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said he at length, "I think it <i>is</i> something of very + equivocal utility. Why should such gentle hands and feet spend their + strength in clod-breaking, when rough ones are at command?" + </p> + <p> + There was nothing equivocal about Fleda's merriment this time. + </p> + <p> + "I have learned, Mr. Thorn, by sad experience, that the rough hands break + more than the clods. One day I set Philetus to work among my flowers; and + the first thing I knew he had pulled up a fine passion-flower which didn't + make much shew above ground and was displaying it to me with the grave + commentary, 'Well! that root did grow to a great haigth!'" + </p> + <p> + "Some mental clod-breaking to be done up there, isn't there?" said Thorn + in a kind of aside. "I cannot express my admiration at the idea of your + dealing with those boors, as it has been described to me." + </p> + <p> + "They do not deserve the name, Mr. Thorn," said Fleda. "They are many of + them most sensible and excellent people, and friends that I value very + highly." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, your goodness would made friends of everything." + </p> + <p> + "Not of boors, I hope," said Fleda coolly. "Besides, what do you mean by + the name?" + </p> + <p> + "Anybody incapable of appreciating that of which you alone should be + unconscious," he said softly. + </p> + <p> + Fleda stood impatiently tapping her flowers against her left hand. + </p> + <p> + "I doubt their power of appreciation reaches a point that would surprise + you, sir." + </p> + <p> + "It does indeed--if I am mistaken in my supposition," he said with a + glance which Fleda refused to acknowledge. + </p> + <p> + "What proportion do you suppose," she went on, "of all these roomfuls of + people behind us,--without saying anything uncharitable,--what proportion + of them, if compelled to amuse themselves for two hours at a bookcase, + would pitch upon Macaulay's Essays, or anything like them, to spend the + time?" + </p> + <p> + "Hum--really, Miss Fleda," said Thorn, "I should want to brush up my + Algebra considerably before I could hope to find x, y, and z in such a + confusion of the alphabet." + </p> + <p> + "Or extract the small sensible root of such a quantity of light matter," + said Mr. Stackpole. + </p> + <p> + "Will you bear with my vindication of my country friends?--Hugh and I sent + for a carpenter to make some new arrangement of shelves in a cupboard + where we kept our books; he was one of these boors, Mr. Thorn, in no + respect above the rest. The right stuff for his work was wanting, and + while it was sent for he took up one of the volumes that were lying about + and read perseveringly until the messenger returned. It was a volume of + Macaulay's Miscellanies; and afterwards he borrowed the book of me." + </p> + <p> + "And you lent it to him?" said Constance. + </p> + <p> + "Most assuredly! and with a great deal of pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "And is this no more than a common instance, Miss Ringgan?" said Mr. + Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "No, I think not," said Fleda; the quick blood in her cheeks again + answering the familiar voice and old associations;--"I know several of the + farmers' daughters around us that have studied Latin and Greek; and + philosophy is a common thing; and I am sure there is more sense"-- + </p> + <p> + She suddenly checked herself, and her eye which had been sparkling grew + quiet. + </p> + <p> + "It is very absurd!" said Mr. Stackpole + </p> + <p> + "Why, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "O--these people have nothing to do with such things--do them nothing but + harm!" + </p> + <p> + "May I ask again, what harm?" said Fleda gently. + </p> + <p> + "Unfit them for the duties of their station and make them discontented + with it." + </p> + <p> + "By making it pleasanter?" + </p> + <p> + "No, no--not by making it pleasanter." + </p> + <p> + "By what then, Mr. Stackpole?" said Thorn, to draw him on and to draw her + out, Fleda was sure. + </p> + <p> + "By lifting them out of it." + </p> + <p> + "And what objection to lifting them out of it?" said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "You can't lift everybody out of it," said the gentleman with a little + irritation in his manner,--"that station must be filled--there must always + be poor people." + </p> + <p> + "And what degree of poverty ought to debar a man from the pleasures of + education and a cultivated taste? such as he can attain? + </p> + <p> + "No, no, not that," said Mr. Stackpole;--"but it all goes to fill them + with absurd notions about their place in society, inconsistent with proper + subordination." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked at him, but shook her head slightly and was silent. + </p> + <p> + "Things are in very different order on our side the water," said Mr. + Stackpole hugging himself. + </p> + <p> + "Are they?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--we understand how to keep things in their places a little better." + </p> + <p> + "I did not know," said Fleda quietly, "that it was by <i>design</i> of the + rulers of England that so many of her lower class are in the intellectual + condition of our slaves." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said Mrs. Evelyn laughing,--"what do you say to that, + sir?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's face turned suddenly to him with a quick look of apology, which + she immediately knew was not needed. + </p> + <p> + "But this kind of thing don't make the people any happier," pursued Mr. + Stackpole;--"only serves to give them uppish and dissatisfied longings + that cannot be gratified." + </p> + <p> + "Somebody says," observed Thorn, "that 'under a despotism all are + contented because none can get on, and in a republic none are contented + because all can get on.'" + </p> + <p> + "Precisely," said Mr. Stackpole. + </p> + <p> + "That might do very well if the world were in a state of perfection," said + Fleda. "As it is, commend me to discontent and getting on. And the + uppishness I am afraid is a national fault, sir; you know our state motto + is 'Excelsior.'" + </p> + <p> + "We are at liberty to suppose," said Thorn, "that Miss Ringgan has + followed the example of her friends the farmers' daughters?--or led them + in it?--" + </p> + <p> + "It is dangerous to make surmises," said Fleda colouring. + </p> + <p> + "It is a pleasant way of running into danger," said Mr. Thorn, who was + leisurely pruning the prickles from the stem of a rose. + </p> + <p> + "I was talking to a gentleman once," said Fleda, "about the birds and + flowers we find in our wilds; and he told me afterwards gravely that he + was afraid I was studying too many things at once!--when I was innocent of + all ornithology but what my eyes and ears had picked up in the woods; + except some childish reminiscences of Audubon." + </p> + <p> + "That is just the right sort of learning for a lady," said Mr. Stackpole, + smiling at her, however;--"women have nothing to do with books." + </p> + <p> + "What do you say to that, Miss Fleda?" said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing, sir; it is one of those positions that are unanswerable." + </p> + <p> + "But Mr. Stackpole," said Mrs. Evelyn, "I don't like that doctrine, sir. I + do not believe in it at all." + </p> + <p> + "That is unfortunate--for my doctrine," said the gentleman. + </p> + <p> + "But I do not believe it is yours. Why must women have nothing to do with + books? what harm do they do, Mr. Stackpole?" + </p> + <p> + "Not needed, ma'am,--a woman, as somebody says, knows intuitively all that + is really worth knowing." + </p> + <p> + "Of what use is a mine that is never worked?" said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "It <i>is</i> worked," said Mr. Stackpole. "Domestic life is the true + training for the female mind. One woman will learn more wisdom from the + child on her breast than another will learn from ten thousand volumes." + </p> + <p> + "It is very doubtful how much wisdom the child will ever learn from her," + said Mr. Carleton smiling. + </p> + <p> + "A woman who never saw a book," pursued Mr. Stackpole, unconsciously + quoting his author, "may be infinitely superior, even in all those matters + of which books treat, to the woman who has read, and read intelligently, a + whole library." + </p> + <p> + "Unquestionably--and it is likewise beyond question that a silver sixpence + may be worth more than a washed guinea." + </p> + <p> + "But a woman's true sphere is in her family--in her home duties, which + furnish the best and most appropriate training for her faculties--pointed + out by nature itself." + </p> + <p> + "Yes!" said Mr. Carleton,--"and for those duties, some of the very highest + and noblest that are entrusted to human agency, the fine machinery that is + to perform them should be wrought to its last point of perfectness. The + wealth of a woman's mind, instead of lying in the rough, should be richly + brought out and fashioned for its various ends, while yet those ends are + in the future, or it will never meet the demand. And for her own + happiness, all the more because her sphere is at home, her home stores + should be exhaustless--the stores she cannot go abroad to seek. I would + add to strength beauty, and to beauty grace, in the intellectual + proportions, so far as possible. It were ungenerous, in man to condemn the + <i>best</i> half of human intellect to insignificance merely because it is + not his own." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Evelyn wore a smile of admiration that nobody saw, but Fleda's face + was a study while Mr. Carleton was saying this. Her look was fixed upon + him with such intent satisfaction and eagerness that it was not till he + had finished that she became aware that those dark eyes were going very + deep into hers, and suddenly put a stop to the inquisition. + </p> + <p> + "Very pleasant doctrine to the ears that have an interest in it!" said Mr. + Stackpole rather discontentedly. + </p> + <p> + "The man knows little of his own interest," said Mr. Carleton, "who would + leave that ground waste, or would cultivate it only in the narrow spirit + of a utilitarian. He needs an influence in his family not more refreshing + than rectifying; and no man will seek that in one greatly his inferior. He + is to be pitied who cannot fall back upon his home with the assurance that + he has there something better than himself." + </p> + <p> + "Why, Mr. Carleton, sir--" said Mrs. Evelyn, with every line of her mouth + saying funny things,--"I am afraid you have sadly neglected your own + interest--have you anything at Carleton better than yourself?" + </p> + <p> + Suddenly cool again, he laughed and said, "You were there, Mrs. Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + "But Mr. Carleton,--" pursued the lady with a mixture of insinuation and + fun,--"why were you never married?" + </p> + <p> + "Circumstances have always forbade it," he answered with a smile which + Constance declared was the most fascinating thing she ever saw in her + life. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was arranging her flowers, with the help of some very unnecessary + suggestions from the donor. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Lewis," said Constance with a kind of insinuation very different from + her mother's, made up of fun and daring,--"Mr. Carleton has been giving me + a long lecture on botany; while my attention was distracted by listening + to your <i>spirituel</i> conversation." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Miss Constance?" + </p> + <p> + "And I am morally certain I sha'n't recollect a word of it if I don't + carry away some specimens to refresh my memory--and in that case he would + never give me another!" + </p> + <p> + It was impossible to help laughing at the distressful position of the + young lady's eyebrows, and with at least some measure of outward grace Mr. + Thorn set about complying with her request. Fleda again stood tapping her + left hand with her flowers, wondering a little that somebody else did not + come and speak to her; but he was talking to Mrs. Evelyn and Mr. + Stackpole. Fleda did not wish to join them, and nothing better occurred to + her than to arrange her flowers over again; so throwing them all down + before her on a marble slab, she began to pick them up one by one and put + them together, with it must be confessed a very indistinct realization of + the difference between myrtle and lemon blossoms, and as she seemed to be + laying acacia to rose, and disposing some sprigs of beautiful heath behind + them, in reality she was laying kindness alongside of kindness and looking + at the years beyond years where their place had been. It was with a little + start that she suddenly found the person of her thoughts standing at her + elbow and talking to her in bodily presence. But while he spoke with all + the ease and simplicity of old times, almost making Fleda think it was but + last week they had been strolling through the Place de la Concorde + together, there was a constraint upon her that she could not get rid of + and that bound eye and tongue. It might have worn off, but his attention + was presently claimed again by Mrs. Evelyn; and Fleda thought best while + yet Constance's bouquet was unfinished, to join another party and make her + escape into the drawing-rooms. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="34"></a>Chapter XXXIV. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Have you observed a sitting hare,<br /> List'ning, and fearful of the + storm<br /> Of horns and hounds, clap back her ear,<br /> Afraid to keep + or leave her form? + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Prior. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + By the Evelyns' own desire Fleda's going to them was delayed for a week, + because, they said, a furnace was to be brought into the house and they + would be all topsy-turvy till that fuss was over. Fleda kept herself very + quiet in the mean time, seeing almost nobody but the person whom it was + her especial object to shun. Do her best she could not quite escape him, + and was even drawn into two or three walks and rides; in spite of denying + herself utterly to gentlemen at home, and losing in consequence a visit + from her old friend. She was glad at last to go to the Evelyns and see + company again, hoping that Mr. Thorn would be merged in a crowd. + </p> + <p> + But she could not merge him; and sometimes was almost inclined to suspect + that his constant prominence in the picture must be owing to some + mysterious and wilful conjuration going on in the background. She was at a + loss to conceive how else it happened that despite her utmost endeavours + to the contrary she was so often thrown upon his care and obliged to take + up with his company. It was very disagreeable. Mr. Carleton she saw almost + as constantly, but though frequently near she had never much to do with + him. There seemed to be a dividing atmosphere always in the way; and + whenever he did speak to her she felt miserably constrained and unable to + appear like herself. Why was it?--she asked herself in a very vexed state + of mind. No doubt partly from the remembrance of that overheard + conversation which she could not help applying, but much more from an + indefinable sense that at these times there were always eyes upon her. She + tried to charge the feeling upon her consciousness of their having heard + that same talk, but it would not the more go off. And it had no chance to + wear off, for somehow the occasions never lasted long; something was sure + to break them up; while an unfortunate combination of circumstances, or of + connivers, seemed to give Mr. Thorn unlimited facilities in the same kind. + Fleda was quick witted and skilful enough to work herself out of them once + in a while; more often the combination was too much for her simplicity and + straight-forwardness. + </p> + <p> + She was a little disappointed and a little surprised at Mr. Carleton's + coolness. He was quite equal to withstand or out-general the schemes of + any set of manoeuvrers; therefore it was plain he did not care for the + society of his little friend and companion of old time. Fleda felt it, + especially as she now and then heard him in delightful talk with somebody + else; making himself so interesting that when Fleda could get a chance to + listen she was quite ready to forgive his not talking to her for the + pleasure of hearing him talk at all. But at other times she said + sorrowfully to herself, "He will be going home presently, and I shall not + have seen him!" + </p> + <p> + One day she had successfully defended herself against taking a drive which + Mr. Thorn came to propose, though the proposition had been laughingly + backed by Mrs. Evelyn. Raillery was much harder to withstand than + persuasion; but Fleda's quiet resolution had proved a match for both. The + better to cover her ground, she declined to go out at all, and remained at + home the only one of the family that fine day. + </p> + <p> + In the afternoon Mr. Carleton was there. Fleda sat a little apart from the + rest, industriously bending over a complicated piece of embroidery + belonging to Constance and in which that young lady had made a great + blunder which she declared her patience unequal to the task of rectifying. + The conversation went gayly forward among the others; Fleda taking no part + in it beyond an involuntary one. Mr. Carleton's part was rather reserved + and grave; according to his manner in ordinary society. + </p> + <p> + "What do you keep bothering yourself with that for?" said Edith coming to + Fleda's side. + </p> + <p> + "One must be doing something, you know," said Fleda lightly. + </p> + <p> + "No you mustn't--not when you're tired--and I know you are. I'd let + Constance pick out her own work." + </p> + <p> + "I promised her I would do it," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Well, you didn't promise her when. Come!--everybody's been out but you, + and you have sat here over this the whole day. Why don't you come over + there and talk with the rest?--I know you want to, for I've watched your + mouth going." + </p> + <p> + "Going!--how?" + </p> + <p> + "Going--off at the corners. I've seen it! Come." + </p> + <p> + But Fleda said she could listen and work at once, and would not budge. + Edith stood looking at her a little while in a kind of admiring sympathy, + and then went back to the group. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said the young lady, who was treading with laudable + success in the steps of her sister Constance,--"what has become of that + ride you promised to give me?" + </p> + <p> + "I do not know, Miss Edith," said Mr. Carleton smiling, "for my conscience + never had the keeping of it." + </p> + <p> + "Hush, Edith!" said her mother; "do you think Mr. Carleton has nothing to + do but to take you riding?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe he has much to do," said Edith securely. "But Mr. + Carleton, you did promise, for I asked you and you said nothing; and I + always have been told that silence gives consent; so what is to become of + it?" + </p> + <p> + "Will you go now, Miss Edith?" + </p> + <p> + "Now?--O yes! And will you go out to Manhattanville, Mr. Carleton!--along + by the river?" + </p> + <p> + "If you like. But Miss Edith, the carriage will hold another--cannot you + persuade one of these ladies to go with us?" + </p> + <p> + "Fleda!" said Edith, springing off to her with extravagant capers of + joy,--"Fleda, you shall go! you haven't been out to-day." + </p> + <p> + "And I cannot go out to-day," said Fleda gently. + </p> + <p> + "The air is very fine," said Mr. Carleton approaching her table, with no + want of alacrity in step or tone, her ears knew;--"and this weather makes + everything beautiful--has that piece of canvas any claims upon you that + cannot be put aside for a little?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir," said Fleda,--"but--I am sorry I have a stronger reason that must + keep me at home." + </p> + <p> + "She knows how the weather looks," said Edith,--"Mr. Thorn takes her out + every other day. It's no use to talk to her, Mr. Carleton,--when she says + she won't, she won't." + </p> + <p> + "Every other day!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "No, no," said Mrs. Evelyn coming up, and with that smile which Fleda had + never liked so little as at that minute,--"not <i>every other day</i>, + Edith, what are you talking of? Go and don't keep Mr. Carleton waiting." + </p> + <p> + Fleda worked on, feeling a little aggrieved. Mr. Carleton stood still by + her table, watching her, while his companions were getting themselves + ready; but he said no more, and Fleda did not raise her head till the + party were off. Florence had taken her resigned place. + </p> + <p> + "I dare say the weather will be quite as fine to-morrow, dear Fleda," said + Mrs. Evelyn softly. + </p> + <p> + "I hope it will," said Fleda in a tone of resolute simplicity. + </p> + <p> + "I only hope it will not bring too great a throng of carriages to the + door," Mrs. Evelyn went on in a tone of great internal amusement;--"I + never used to mind it, but I have lately a nervous fear of collisions." + </p> + <p> + "To-morrow is not your reception-day," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "No, not mine," said Mrs. Evelyn softly,--"but that doesn't signify--it + may be one of my neighbours'." + </p> + <p> + Fleda pulled away at her threads of worsted and wouldn't know anything + else. + </p> + <p> + "I have read of the servants of Lot and the servants of Abraham + quarrelling," Mrs. Evelyn went on in the same undertone of + delight,--"because the land was too strait for them--I should be very + sorry to have anything of the sort happen again, for I cannot imagine + where Lot would go to find a plain that would suit him." + </p> + <p> + "Lot and Abraham, mamma!" said Constance from the sofa,--"what on earth + are you talking about?" + </p> + <p> + "None of your business," said Mrs. Evelyn;--"I was talking of some country + friends of mine that you don't know." + </p> + <p> + Constance knew her mother's laugh very well; but Mrs. Evelyn was + impenetrable. + </p> + <p> + The next day Fleda ran away and spent a good part of the morning with her + uncle in the library, looking over new books; among which she found + herself quite a stranger, so many had made their appearance since the time + when she had much to do with libraries or bookstores. Living friends, male + and female, were happily forgotten in the delighted acquaintance-making + with those quiet companions which, whatever their deficiencies in other + respects, are at least never importunate nor unfaithful. Fleda had come + home rather late and was dressing for dinner with Constance's company and + help, when Mrs. Evelyn came into her room. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda," said the lady, her face and voice as full as possible of + fun,--"Mr. Carleton wants to know if you will ride with him this + afternoon.--I told him I believed you were in general shy of gentlemen + that drove their own horses--that I thought I had noticed you were,--but I + would come up and see." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Evelyn!--you did not tell him that?" + </p> + <p> + "He said he was sorry to see you looked pale yesterday when he was asking + you; and he was afraid that embroidery is not good for you. He thinks you + are a very charming girl!--" + </p> + <p> + And Mrs. Evelyn went off into little fits of laughter which unstrung all + Fleda's nerves. She stood absolutely trembling. + </p> + <p> + "Mamma!--don't plague her!" said Constance. "He didn't say so." + </p> + <p> + "He did!--upon my word!--" said Mrs. Evelyn, speaking with great + difficulty;--"he said she was very charming, and it might be dangerous to + see too much of her." + </p> + <p> + "You made him say that, Mrs. Evelyn!" said Fleda, reproachfully. + </p> + <p> + "Well I did ask him if you were not very charming, but he + answered--without hesitation--" said the lady,--"I am only so afraid that + Lot will make his appearance!--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda turned round to the glass, and went on arranging her hair, with a + quivering lip. + </p> + <p> + "Lot, mamma!" said Constance somewhat indignantly. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Mrs. Evelyn in ecstacies,--"because the land will not bear + both of them.--But Mr. Carleton is very much in earnest for his answer, + Fleda my dear--what shall I tell him?--You need be under no apprehensions + about going--he will perhaps tell you that you are charming, but I don't + think he will say anything more. You know he is a kind of patriarch!--And + when I asked him if he didn't think it might be dangerous to see too much + of you, he said he thought it might to some people--so you see you are + safe." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Evelyn, how could you use my name so!" said Fleda with a voice that + carried a good deal of reproach. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda, shall I tell him you will go?--You need not be afraid to + go riding, only you must not let yourself be seen walking with him." + </p> + <p> + "I shall not go, ma'am," said Fleda quietly. + </p> + <p> + "I wanted to send Edith with you, thinking it would be pleasanter; but I + knew Mr. Carleton's carriage would hold but two to-day. So what shall I + tell him?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not going, ma'am," repeated Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But what shall I tell him? I must give him some reason. Shall I say that + you think a sea-breeze is blowing, and you don't like it?--or shall I say + that prospects are a matter of indifference to you?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda was quite silent, and went on dressing herself with trembling + fingers. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda," said the lady bringing her face a little into + order,--"won't you go?--I am very sorry--" + </p> + <p> + "So am I sorry," said Fleda. "I can't go, Mrs. Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + "I will tell Mr. Carleton you are very sorry," said Mrs. Evelyn, every + line of her face drawing again,--"that will console him; and let him hope + that you will not mind sea-breezes by and by, after you have been a little + longer in the neighbourhood of them. I will tell him you are a good + republican, and have an objection at present to an English equipage, but I + have no doubt that it is a prejudice which will wear off." + </p> + <p> + She stopped to laugh, while Fleda had the greatest difficulty not to cry. + The lady did not seem to see her disturbed brow; but recovering herself + after a little, though not readily, she bent forward and touched her lips + to it in kind fashion. Fleda did not look up; and saying again, "I will + tell him, dear Fleda!"--Mrs. Evelyn left the room. + </p> + <p> + Constance after a little laughing and condoling, neither of which Fleda + attempted to answer, ran off too, to dress herself; and Fleda after + finishing her own toilette locked her door, sat down and cried heartily. + She thought Mrs. Evelyn had been, perhaps unconsciously, very unkind; and + to say that unkindness has not been meant is but to shift the charge from + one to another vital point in the character of a friend, and one perhaps + sometimes not less grave. A moment's passionate wrong may consist with the + endurance of a friendship worth having, better than the thoughtlessness of + obtuse wits that can never know how to be kind. Fleda's whole frame was + still in a tremor from disagreeable excitement; and she had serious causes + of sorrow to cry for. She was sorry she had lost what would have been a + great pleasure in the ride,--and her great pleasures were not often,--but + nothing would have been more impossible than for her to go after what Mrs. + Evelyn had said;--she was sorry Mr. Carleton should have asked her twice + in vain; what must he think?--she was exceeding sorry that a thought + should have been put into her head that never before had visited the most + distant dreams of her imagination,--so needlessly, so gratuitously;--she + was very sorry, for she could not be free of it again, and she felt it + would make her miserably hampered and constrained in mind and manner both, + in any future intercourse with the person in question. And then again what + would he think of that? Poor Fleda came to the conclusion that her best + place was at home; and made up her mind to take the first good opportunity + of getting there. + </p> + <p> + She went down to dinner with no traces of either tears or unkindness on + her sweet face, but her nerves were quivering all the afternoon; she could + not tell whether Mrs. Evelyn and her daughters found it out. And it was + impossible for her to get back even her old degree of freedom of manner + before either Mr. Carleton or Mr Thorn. All the more because Mrs. Evelyn + was every now and then bringing out some sly allusion which afforded + herself intense delight and wrought Fleda to the last degree of quietness. + Unkind.--Fleda thought now it was but half from ignorance of the mischief + she was doing, and the other half from the mere desire of selfish + gratification. The times and ways in which Lot and Abraham were walked + into the conversation were incalculable,--and unintelligible except to the + person who understood it only too well. On one occasion Mrs. Evelyn went + on with a long rigmarole to Mr. Thorn about sea-breezes, with a face of + most exquisite delight at his mystification and her own hidden fun; till + Fleda was absolutely trembling. Fleda shunned both the gentlemen at length + with a kind of nervous horror. + </p> + <p> + One steamer had left New York, and another, and still Mr. Carleton did not + leave it. Why he staid, Constance was as much in a puzzle as ever, for no + mortal could guess. Clearly, she said, he did not delight in New York + society, for he honoured it as slightly and partially as might be, and it + was equally clear if he had a particular reason for staying he didn't mean + anybody should know it. + </p> + <p> + "If he don't mean it, you won't find it out, Constance," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But it is that very consideration, you see, which inflames my impatience + to a most dreadful degree. I think our house is distinguished with his + regards, though I am sure I can't imagine why, for he never condescends to + anything beyond general benevolence when he is here, and not always to + that. He has no taste for embroidery, or Miss Ringgan's crewels would + receive more of his notice--he listens to my spirited conversation with a + self-possession which invariably deprives me of mine!--and his ear is + evidently dull to musical sensibilities, or Florence's harp would have + greater charms. I hope there is a web weaving somewhere that will catch + him--at present he stands in an attitude of provoking independence of all + the rest of the world. It is curious!" said Constance with an + indescribable face,--"I feel that the independence of another is rapidly + making a slave of me!--" + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean, Constance?" said Edith indignantly. But the others + could do nothing but laugh. + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not wonder that Mr. Carleton made no more efforts to get her to + ride, for the very next day after his last failure he had met her driving + with Mr. Thorn. Fleda had been asked by Mr. Thorn's mother in such a way + as made it impossible to get off; but it caused her to set a fresh seal of + unkindness to Mrs. Evelyn's behaviour. + </p> + <p> + One evening when there was no other company at Mrs. Evelyn's, Mr. + Stackpole was entertaining himself with a long dissertation upon the + affairs of America, past, present, and future. It was a favourite subject; + Mr. Stackpole always seemed to have more complacent enjoyment of his easy + chair when he could succeed in making every American in the room sit + uncomfortably. And this time, without any one to thwart him, he went on to + his heart's content, disposing of the subject as one would strip a rose of + its petals, with as much seeming nonchalance and ease, and with precisely + the same design, to make a rose no rose. Leaf after leaf fell under Mr. + Stackpole's touch, as if it had been a black frost. The American + government was a rickety experiment; go to pieces presently,--American + institutions an alternative between fallacy and absurdity, the fruit of + raw minds and precocious theories;--American liberty a contradiction;-- + American character a compound of quackery and pretension;--American + society (except at Mrs. Evelyn's) an anomaly;--American destiny the same + with that of a Cactus or a volcano; a period of rest followed by a period + of excitement; not however like the former making successive shoots + towards perfection, but like the latter grounding every new face of things + upon the demolition of that which went before. Smoothly and pleasantly Mr. + Stackpole went on compounding this cup of entertainment for himself and + his hearers, smacking his lips over it, and all the more, Fleda thought, + when they made wry faces; throwing in a little truth, a good deal of + fallacy, a great deal of perversion and misrepresentation; while Mrs. + Evelyn listened and smiled, and half parried and half assented to his + positions; and Fleda sat impatiently drumming upon her elbow with the + fingers of her other hand, in the sheer necessity of giving some + expression to her feelings. Mr. Stackpole at last got his finger upon the + sore spot of American slavery, and pressed it hard. + </p> + <p> + "This is the land of the stars and the stripes!" said the gentleman in a + little fit of virtuous indignation;--"This is the land where all are + brothers!--where 'All men are born free and equal.'" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Stackpole," said Fleda in a tone that called his attention,--"are you + well acquainted with the popular proverbs of your country?" + </p> + <p> + "Not particularly," he said,--"he had never made it a branch of study." + </p> + <p> + "I am a great admirer of them." + </p> + <p> + He bowed, and begged to be excused for remarking that he didn't see the + point yet. + </p> + <p> + "Do you remember this one, sir," said Fleda colouring a little,--"'Those + that live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones?'" + </p> + <p> + "I have heard it; but pardon me,--though your remark seems to imply the + contrary I am in the dark yet. What unfortunate points of vitrification + have I laid open to your fire?" + </p> + <p> + "I thought they were probably forgotten by you, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be exceedingly obliged to you if you will put me in condition to + defend myself." + </p> + <p> + "I think nothing could do that, Mr. Stackpole. Under whose auspices and + fostering care was this curse of slavery laid upon America?" + </p> + <p> + "Why--of course,--but you will observe, Miss Ringgan, that at that day the + world was unenlightened on a great many points;--since then <i>we</i> have + cast off the wrong which we then shared with the rest of mankind." + </p> + <p> + "Ay sir, but not until we had first repudiated it and Englishmen had + desired to force it back upon us at the point of the sword. Four times"-- + </p> + <p> + "But my dear Fleda," interrupted Mrs. Evelyn, "the English nation have no + slaves nor slave-trade--they have put an end to slavery entirely + everywhere under their flag." + </p> + <p> + "They were very slow about it," said Fleda. "Four times the government of + Massachusetts abolished the slave-trade under their control, and four + times the English government thrust it back upon them. Do you remember + what Burke says about that?--in his speech on Conciliation with America?" + </p> + <p> + "It don't signify what Burke says about it," said Mr. Stackpole rubbing + his chin,--"Burke is not the first authority--but Miss Ringgan, it is + undeniable that slavery and the slave-trade, too, does at this moment + exist in the interior of your own country." + </p> + <p> + "I will never excuse what is wrong, sir; but I think it becomes an + Englishman to be very moderate in putting forth that charge." + </p> + <p> + "Why?" said he hastily;--"we have done away with it entirely in our own + dominions;--wiped that stain clean off. Not a slave can touch British + ground but he breathes free air from that minute." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir, but candour will allow that we are not in a condition in this + country to decide the question by a <i>tour de force</i>." + </p> + <p> + "What is to decide it then?" said he a little arrogantly. + </p> + <p> + "The progress of truth in public opinion." + </p> + <p> + "And why not the government--as well as our government?" + </p> + <p> + "It has not the power, you know, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Not the power! well, that speaks for itself." + </p> + <p> + "Nothing against us, on a fair construction," said Fleda patiently. "It is + well known to those who understand the subject"-- + </p> + <p> + "Where did you learn so much about it, Fleda?" said Mrs. Evelyn + humourously. + </p> + <p> + "As the birds pick up their supplies, ma'am--here and there.--It is well + known, Mr. Stackpole, that our constitution never could have been agreed + upon if that question of slavery had not been by common consent left where + it was--with the separate state governments." + </p> + <p> + "The separate state governments--well, why do not <i>they</i> put an end + to it? The disgrace is only shifted." + </p> + <p> + "Of course they must first have the consent of the public mind of those + states." + </p> + <p> + "Ah!--their consent!--and why is their consent wanting?" + </p> + <p> + "We cannot defend ourselves there," said Mrs. Evelyn;--"I wish we could." + </p> + <p> + "The disgrace at least is shifted from the whole to a part. But will you + permit me," said Fleda, "to give another quotation from my despised + authority, and remind you of an Englishman's testimony, that beyond a + doubt that point of emancipation would never have been carried in + parliament had the interests of even a part of the electors been concerned + in it." + </p> + <p> + "It was done, however,--and done at the expense of twenty millions of + money." + </p> + <p> + "And I am sure that was very noble," said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "It was what no nation but the English would ever have done," said Mrs. + Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "I do not wish to dispute it," said Fleda; "but still it was doing what + did not touch the sensitive point of their own well-being." + </p> + <p> + "<i>We</i> think there is a little national honour concerned in it," said + Mr. Stackpole dryly, stroking his chin again. + </p> + <p> + "So does every right-minded person," said Mrs. Evelyn; "I am sure I do." + </p> + <p> + "And I am sure so do I," said Fleda; "but I think the honour of a piece of + generosity is considerably lessened by the fact that it is done at the + expense of another." + </p> + <p> + "Generosity!" said Mr. Stackpole,--"it was not generosity, it was + justice;--there was no generosity about it." + </p> + <p> + "Then it deserves no honour at all," said Fleda, "if it was merely + that--the tardy execution of justice is but the removal of a reproach." + </p> + <p> + "We Englishmen are of opinion, however," said Mr. Stackpole contentedly, + "that the removers of a reproach are entitled to some honour which those + who persist in retaining it cannot claim." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda, drawing rather a long breath,--"I acknowledge that; but + I think that while some of these same Englishmen have shewn themselves so + unwilling to have the condition of their own factory slaves ameliorated, + they should be very gentle in speaking of wrongs which we have far less + ability to rectify." + </p> + <p> + "Ah!--I like consistency," said Mr. Stackpole. "America shouldn't dress up + poles with liberty caps till all who walk under are free to wear them. She + cannot boast that the breath of her air and the breath of freedom are + one." + </p> + <p> + "Can England?" said Fleda gently,--"when her own citizens are not free + from the horrors of impressment?" + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw!" said Mr. Stackpole, half in a pet and half laughing,--"why, where + did you get such a fury against England?--you are the first <i>fair</i> + antagonist I have met on this side of the water." + </p> + <p> + "I wish I was a better one, sir," said Fleda laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Ringgan has been prejudiced by an acquaintance with one or two + unfortunate specimens," said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Ay!" said Mr. Stackpole a little bitterly,--"America is the natural + birthplace of prejudice,--always was." + </p> + <p> + "Displayed, first, in maintaining the rights against the swords of + Englishmen;--latterly, how, Mr. Stackpole?" + </p> + <p> + "It isn't necessary to enlighten <i>you</i> on any part of the subject," + said he a little pointedly. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda, my dear, you are answered!" said Mrs. Evelyn, apparently with + great internal amusement. + </p> + <p> + "Yet you will indulge me so far as to indicate what part of the subject + you are upon?" said Fleda quietly. + </p> + <p> + "You must grant so much as that to so gentle a requisition, Mr. + Stackpole," said the older lady. + </p> + <p> + "I venture to assume that you do not say that on your own account, Mrs. + Evelyn?" + </p> + <p> + "Not at all--I agree with you, that Americans are prejudiced; but I think + it will pass off, Mr. Stackpole, as they learn to know themselves and + other countries better." + </p> + <p> + "But how do they deserve such a charge and such a defence? or how have + they deserved it?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Tell her, Mr. Stackpole," said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Mr. Stackpole,--"in their absurd opposition to all the old and + tried forms of things, and rancorous dislike of those who uphold them; and + in their pertinacity on every point where they might be set right, and + impatience of hearing the truth." + </p> + <p> + "Are they singular in that last item?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Now," said Mr. Stackpole, not heeding her,--"there's your treatment of + the aborigines of this country--what do you call that, for a <i>free</i> + people?" + </p> + <p> + "A powder magazine, communicating with a great one of your own somewhere + else; so if you are a good subject, sir, you will not carry a lighted + candle into it." + </p> + <p> + "One of our own--where?" said he. + </p> + <p> + "In India," said Fleda with a glance,--"and there are I don't know how + many trains leading to it,--so better hands off, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Where did you pick up such a spite against us?" said Mr. Stackpole, + drawing a little back and eying her as one would a belligerent mouse or + cricket. "Will you tell me now that Americans are not prejudiced?" + </p> + <p> + "What do you call prejudice?" said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "O there is a great deal of it, no doubt, here, Mr. Stackpole," said Mrs. + Evelyn blandly;--"but we shall grow out of it in time;--it is only the + premature wisdom of a young people." + </p> + <p> + "And young people never like to hear their wisdom rebuked," said Mr + Stackpole bowing. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda, my dear, what for is that little significant shake of your head?" + said Mrs. Evelyn in her amused voice. + </p> + <p> + "A trifle, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Covers a hidden rebuke, Mrs. Evelyn, I have no doubt, for both our last + remarks. What is it, Miss Fleda?--I dare say we can bear it." + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking, sir, that none would trouble themselves much about our + foolscap if we had not once made them wear it." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Stackpole, you are worsted!--I only wish Mr. Carleton had been here!" + said Mrs. Evelyn, with a face of excessive delight. + </p> + <p> + "I wish he had," said Fleda, "for then I need not have spoken a word." + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Mr. Stackpole a little irritated, "you suppose he would have + fought for you against me?" + </p> + <p> + "I suppose he would have fought for truth against anybody, sir," said + Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Even against his own interests?" + </p> + <p> + "If I am not mistaken in him," said Fleda, "he reckons his own and those + of truth identical." + </p> + <p> + The shout that was raised at this by all the ladies of the family, made + her look up in wonderment. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton,"--said Mrs. Evelyn,--"what do you say to that, sir." + </p> + <p> + The direction of the lady's eye made Fleda spring up and face about. The + gentleman in question was standing quietly at the back of her chair, too + quietly, she saw, to leave any doubt of his having been there some time. + Mr. Stackpole uttered an ejaculation, but Fleda stood absolutely + motionless, and nothing could be prettier than her colour. + </p> + <p> + "What do you say to what you have heard, Mr. Carleton?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eyes were on the floor, but she thoroughly appreciated the tone of + the question. + </p> + <p> + "I hardly know whether I have listened with most pleasure or pain, Mrs. + Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + "Pleasure!" said Constance. + </p> + <p> + "Pain!" said Mr. Stackpole. + </p> + <p> + "I am certain Miss Ringgan was pure from any intention of giving pain," + said Mrs. Evelyn with her voice of contained fun. "She has no national + antipathies, I am sure,--unless in the case of the Jews,--she is too + charming a girl for that." + </p> + <p> + "Miss Ringgan cannot regret less than I a word that she has spoken," said + Mr. Carleton looking keenly at her as she drew back and took a seat a + little off from the rest. + </p> + <p> + "Then why was the pain?" said Mr. Stackpole. + </p> + <p> + "That there should have been any occasion for them, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Well I wasn't sensible of the occasion, so I didn't feel the pain," said + Mr. Stackpole dryly, for the other gentleman's tone was almost haughtily + significant. "But if I had, the pleasure of such sparkling eyes would have + made me forget it. Good-evening, Mrs. Evelyn--good-evening, my gentle + antagonist,--it seems to me you have learned, if it is permissible to + alter one of your favorite proverbs, that it is possible to <i>break two + windows</i> with one stone. However, I don't feel that I go away with any + of mine shattered."-- + </p> + <p> + "Fleda, my dear," said Mrs. Evelyn laughing,--"what do you say to that?" + </p> + <p> + "As he is not here I will say nothing to it, Mrs. Evelyn," said Fleda, + quietly drawing off to the table with her work, and again in a tremor from + head to foot. + </p> + <p> + "Why, didn't you see Mr. Carleton come in?" said Edith following her;--"I + did--he came in long before you had done talking, and mamma held up her + finger and made him stop; and he stood at the back of your chair the whole + time listening. Mr. Stackpole didn't know he was there, either. But what's + the matter with you?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing--" said Fleda,--but she made her escape out of the room the next + instant. + </p> + <p> + "Mamma," said Edith, "what ails Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, my love," said Mrs. Evelyn. "Nothing, I hope." + </p> + <p> + "There does, though," said Edith decidedly. + </p> + <p> + "Come here, Edith," said Constance, "and don't meddle with matters above + your comprehension. Miss Ringgan has probably hurt her hand with throwing + stones." + </p> + <p> + "Hurt her hand!" said Edith. But she was taken possession of by her eldest + sister. + </p> + <p> + "That is a lovely girl, Mr. Carleton," said Mrs. Evelyn with an + indescribable look--outwardly benign, but beneath that most keen in its + scrutiny. + </p> + <p> + He bowed rather abstractedly. + </p> + <p> + "She will make a charming little farmer's wife, don't you think so?" + </p> + <p> + "Is that her lot, Mrs. Evelyn?" he said with a somewhat incredulous smile. + </p> + <p> + "Why no--not precisely,--" said the lady,--"you know in the country, or + you do not know, the ministers are half farmers, but I suppose not more + than half; just such a mixture as will suit Fleda, I should think. She has + not told me in so many words, but it is easy to read so ingenuous a nature + as hers, and I have discovered that there is a most deserving young friend + of mine settled at Queechy that she is by no means indifferent to. I take + it for granted that will be the end of it," said Mrs. Evelyn, pinching her + sofa cushion in a great many successive places with a most composed and + satisfied air. + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Carleton did not seem at all interested in the subject, and + presently introduced another. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="35"></a>Chapter XXXV. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + It is a hard matter for friends to meet; but mountains may be removed + with earthquakes, and so encounter.--As You Like It. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + "What have we to do to-night?" said Florence at breakfast the next + morning. + </p> + <p> + "You have no engagement, have you?" said her mother. + </p> + <p> + "No mamma," said Constance arching her eyebrows,--"we are to taste the + sweets of domestic life--you as head of the family will go to sleep in the + dormeuse, and Florence and I shall take turns in yawning by your side." + </p> + <p> + "And what will Fleda do?" said Mrs. Evelyn laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda, mamma, will be wrapped in remorseful recollections of having + enacted a mob last evening and have enough occupation in considering how + she shall repair damages." + </p> + <p> + "Fleda, my dear, she is very saucy," said Mrs. Evelyn, sipping her tea + with great comfort. + </p> + <p> + "Why should we yawn to-night any more than last night?" said Fleda; a + question which Edith would certainly have asked if she had not been away + at school. The breakfast was too late for both her and her father. + </p> + <p> + "Last night, my dear, your fractious disposition kept us upon half breath; + there wasn't time to yawn. I meant to have eased my breast by laughing + afterwards, but that expectation was stifled." + </p> + <p> + "What stifled it?" + </p> + <p> + "I was afraid!--" said Constance with a little flutter of her person up + and down in her chair. + </p> + <p> + "Afraid of what?" + </p> + <p> + "And besides you know we can't have our drawing-rooms filled with + distinguished foreigners <i>every</i> evening we are not at home. I shall + direct the fowling-piece to be severe in his execution of orders to-night + and let nobody in. I forgot!"--exclaimed Constance with another + flutter,--"it is Mr. Thorn's night!--My dearest mamma, will you consent to + have the dormeuse wheeled round with its back to the fire?--and Florence + and I will take the opportunity to hear little Edith's lessons in the next + room--unless Mr Decatur comes. I must endeavour to make the Manton + comprehend what he has to do." + </p> + <p> + "But what is to become of Mr. Evelyn?" said Fleda; "you make Mrs. Evelyn + the head of the family very unceremoniously." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Evelyn, my dear," said Constance gravely,--"makes a futile attempt + semi-weekly to beat his brains out with a club; and every successive + failure encourages him to try again; the only effect being a temporary + decapitation of his family; and I believe this is the night on which he + periodically turns a frigid eye upon their destitution." + </p> + <p> + "You are too absurd!" said Florence, reaching over for a sausage. + </p> + <p> + "Dear Constance!" said Fleda, half laughing, "why do you talk so?" + </p> + <p> + "Constance, behave yourself," said her mother. + </p> + <p> + "Mamma!" said the young lady,--"I am actuated by a benevolent desire to + effect a diversion of Miss Ringgan's mind from its gloomy meditations, by + presenting to her some more real subjects of distress." + </p> + <p> + "I wonder if you ever looked at such a thing," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "What 'such a thing'?" + </p> + <p> + "As a real subject of distress." + </p> + <p> + "Yes--I have one incessantly before me in your serious countenance. Why in + the world, Fleda, don't you look like other people?" + </p> + <p> + "I suppose, because I don't feel like them." + </p> + <p> + "And why don't you? I am sure you ought to be as happy as most people." + </p> + <p> + "I think I am a great deal happier," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Than I am?" said the young lady, with arched eyebrows. But they went down + and her look softened in spite of herself at the eye and smile which + answered her. + </p> + <p> + "I should be very glad, dear Constance, to know you were as happy as I." + </p> + <p> + "Why do you think I am not?" said the young lady a little tartly. + </p> + <p> + "Because no happiness would satisfy me that cannot last" + </p> + <p> + "And why can't it last?" + </p> + <p> + "It is not built upon lasting things." + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw!" said Constance, "I wouldn't have such a dismal kind of happiness + as yours, Fleda, for anything." + </p> + <p> + "Dismal!" said Fleda smiling,--"because it can never disappoint me?--or + because it isn't noisy?" + </p> + <p> + "My dear little Fleda!" said Constance in her usual manner,--"you have + lived up there among the solitudes till you have got morbid ideas of + life--which it makes me melancholy to observe. I am very much afraid they + verge towards stagnation." + </p> + <p> + "No indeed!" said Fleda laughing; "but, if you please, with me the stream + of life has flowed so quietly that I have looked quite to the bottom, and + know how shallow it is, and growing shallower;--I could not venture my + bark of happiness there; but with you it is like a spring torrent,--the + foam and the roar hinder your looking deep into it." + </p> + <p> + Constance gave her a significant glance, a strong contrast to the earnest + simplicity of Fleda's face, and presently inquired if she ever wrote + poetry. + </p> + <p> + "Shall I have the pleasure some day of discovering your uncommon signature + in the secular corner of some religious newspaper?" + </p> + <p> + "I hope not," said Fleda quietly. + </p> + <p> + Joe Manton just then brought in a bouquet for Miss Evelyn, a very common + enlivener of the breakfast-table, all the more when, as in the present + case, the sisters could not divine where it came from. It moved Fleda's + wonder to see how very little the flowers were valued for their own sake; + the probable cost, the probable giver, the probable éclat, were + points enthusiastically discussed and thoroughly appreciated; but the + sweet messengers themselves were carelessly set by for other eyes and + seemed to have no attraction for those they were destined to. Fleda + enjoyed them at a distance and could not help thinking that "Heaven sends + almonds to those that have no teeth." + </p> + <p> + "This Camellia will just do for my hair to-morrow night!" said + Florence;--"just what I want with my white muslin." + </p> + <p> + "I think I will go with you to-morrow, Florence," said Fleda;--"Mrs. + Decatur has asked me so often." + </p> + <p> + "Well, my dear, I shall be made happy by your company," said Florence + abstractedly, examining her bouquet,--"I am afraid it hasn't stem enough, + Constance!--never mind--I'll fix it--where <i>is </i> the end of this + myrtle?--I shall be very glad, of course, Fleda my dear, but--" picking + her bouquet to pieces,--"I think it right to tell you, privately, I am + afraid you will find it very stupid--" + </p> + <p> + "O I dare say she will not," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"she can go and try at any + rate--she would find it very stupid with me here alone and Constance at + the concert--I dare say she will find some there whom she knows." + </p> + <p> + "But the thing is, mamma, you see, at these conversaziones they never talk + anything but French and German--I don't know--of <i>course</i> I should be + delighted to have Fleda with me, and I have no doubt Mrs. Decatur would be + very glad to have her--but I am afraid she won't enjoy herself." + </p> + <p> + "I do not want to go where I shall not enjoy myself," said Fleda + quietly;--"that is certain." + </p> + <p> + "Of course, you know, dear, I would a great deal rather have you than + not--I only speak for what I think would be for your pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "I would do just as I felt inclined, Fleda," said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "I shall let her encounter the dullness alone, ma'am," said Fleda lightly. + </p> + <p> + But it was not in a light mood that she put on her bonnet after dinner and + set out to pay a visit to her uncle at the library; she had resolved that + she would not be near the dormeuse in whatsoever relative position that + evening. Very, very quiet she was; her grave little face walked through + the crowd of busy, bustling, anxious people, as if she had nothing in + common with them; and Fleda felt that she had very little. Half + unconsciously as she passed along the streets her eye scanned the + countenances of that moving panorama; and the report it brought back made + her draw closer within herself. + </p> + <p> + She wondered that her feet had ever tripped lightly up those library + stairs. + </p> + <p> + "Ha! my fair Saxon," said the doctor;--"what has brought you down here + to-day?" + </p> + <p> + "I felt in want of something fresh, uncle Orrin, so I thought I would come + and see you." + </p> + <p> + "Fresh!" said he. "Ah you are pining for green fields, I know. But you + little piece of simplicity, there are no green fields now at Queechy--they + are two feet deep with snow by this time." + </p> + <p> + "Well I am sure <i>that</i> is fresh," said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + The doctor was turning over great volumes one after another in a + delightful confusion of business. + </p> + <p> + "When do you think you shall go north, uncle Orrin?" + </p> + <p> + "North?" said he--"what do you want to know about the north?" + </p> + <p> + "You said, you know, sir, that you would go a little out of your way to + leave me at home." + </p> + <p> + "I won't go out of my way for anybody. If I leave you there, it will be in + my way. Why you are not getting homesick?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir, not exactly,--but I think I will go with you when you go." + </p> + <p> + "That won't be yet awhile--I thought those people wanted you to stay till + January." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, but suppose I want to do something else?" + </p> + <p> + He looked at her with a comical kind of indecision, and said, + </p> + <p> + "You don't know what you want!--I thought when you came in you needn't go + further than the glass to see something fresh; but I believe the + sea-breezes haven't had enough of you yet. Which part of you wants + freshening?" he said in his mock-fierce way. + </p> + <p> + Fleda laughed and said she didn't know. + </p> + <p> + "Out of humour, I guess," said the doctor. "I'll talk to you!--Take this + and amuse yourself awhile, with something that <i>isn't</i> fresh, till I + get through, and then you shall go home with me." + </p> + <p> + Fleda carried the large volume into one of the reading rooms, where there + was nobody, and sat down at the baize-covered table. But the book was not + of the right kind--or her mood was notfor it failed to interest her. She + sat nonchalantly turning over the leaves; but mentally she was busy + turning over other leaves which had by far the most of her attention. The + pages that memory read--the record of the old times passed in that very + room, and the old childish light-hearted feelings that were, she thought, + as much beyond recall. Those pleasant times, when the world was all bright + and friends all fair, and the light heart had never been borne down by the + pressure of care, nor sobered by disappointment, nor chilled by + experience. The spirit will not spring elastic again from under that + weight; and the flower that has closed upon its own sweetness will not + open a second time to the world's breath. Thoughtfully, softly, she was + touching and feeling of the bands that years had fastened about her + heart--they would not be undone,--though so quietly and almost stealthily + they had been bound there. She was remembering the shadows that one after + another had been cast upon her life, till now one soft veil of a cloud + covered the whole; no storm cloud certainly, but also there was nothing + left of the glad sunlight that her young eyes rejoiced in. At Queechy the + first shadow had fallen;--it was a good while before the next one, but + then they came thick. There was the loss of some old comforts and + advantages,--that could have been borne;--then consequent upon that, the + annoyances and difficulties that had wrought such a change in her uncle, + till Fleda could hardly look back and believe that he was the same person. + Once manly, frank, busy, happy and making his family so;--now reserved, + gloomy, irritable, unfaithful to his duty and selfishly throwing down the + burden they must take up, but were far less able to bear. And so Hugh was + changed too; not in loveliness of character and demeanour, nor even much + in the always gentle and tender expression of countenance; but the animal + spirits and frame, that should have had all the strong cherishing and + bracing that affection and wisdom together could have applied, had been + left to wear themselves out under trials his father had shrunk from and + other trials his father had made. And Mrs. Rossitur,--it was hard for + Fleda to remember the face she wore at Paris,--the bright eye and joyous + corners of the mouth, that now were so utterly changed. All by his + fault--that made it so hard to bear. Fleda had thought all this a hundred + times; she went over it now as one looks at a thing one is well accustomed + to; not with new sorrow, only in a subdued mood of mind just fit to make + the most of it. The familiar place took her back to the time when it + became familiar; she compared herself sitting there and feeling the whole + world a blank, except for the two or three at home, with the child who had + sat there years before in that happy time "when the feelings were young + and the world was new." + </p> + <p> + Then the Evelyns--why should they trouble one so inoffensive and so easily + troubled as her poor little self? They did not know all they were + doing,--but if they had eyes they <i>must</i> see a little of it. Why + could she not have been allowed to keep her old free simple feeling with + everybody, instead of being hampered and constrained and miserable from + this pertinacious putting of thoughts in her head that ought not to be + there? It had made her unlike herself, she knew, in the company of several + people. And perhaps <i>they</i> might be sharp-sighted enough to read + it!--but even if not, how it had hindered her enjoyment. She had taken so + much pleasure in the Evelyns last year, and in her visit,--well, she would + go home and forget it, and maybe they would come to their right minds by + the next time she saw them. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus19.jpg"><img src="images/illus19.jpg" height="250" + alt="Fleda saw with a start that it was Mr. Carleton." + title="Fleda saw with a start that it was Mr. Carleton." /><br /> Fleda saw + with a start that it was Mr. Carleton.</a> + </p> + <p> + "What pleasant times we used to have here once, uncle Orrin!" she said + with half a sigh, the other half quite made up by the tone in which she + spoke. But it was not, as she thought, uncle Orrin that was standing by + her side, and looking up as she finished speaking Fleda saw with a start + that it was Mr. Carleton. There was such a degree of life and pleasantness + in his eyes that, in spite of the start, her own quite brightened. + </p> + <p> + "That is a pleasure one may always command," he said, answering part of + her speech. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, provided one has one's mind always under command," said Fleda. "It is + possible to sit down to a feast with a want of appetite." + </p> + <p> + "In such a case, what is the best tonic?" + </p> + <p> + His manner, even in those two minutes, had put Fleda perfectly at her + ease, ill-bred eyes and ears being absent. She looked up and answered, + with such entire trust in him as made her forget that she had ever had any + cause to distrust herself. + </p> + <p> + "For me," she said,--"as a general rule, nothing is better than to go out + of doors--into the woods or the garden--they are the best fresheners I + know of. I can do myself good there at times when books are a nuisance." + </p> + <p> + "You are not changed from your old self," he said. + </p> + <p> + The wish was strong upon Fleda to know whether <i>he</i> was, but it was + not till she saw the answer in his face that she knew how plainly hers had + asked the question. And then she was so confused that she did not know + what the answer had been. + </p> + <p> + "I find it so too," he said. "The influences of pure nature are the best + thing I know for some moods--after the company of a good horse." + </p> + <p> + "And you on his back, I suppose?" + </p> + <p> + "That was my meaning. What is the doubt thereupon?" said he laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Did I express any doubt?" + </p> + <p> + "Or my eyes were mistaken." + </p> + <p> + "I remember they never used to be that," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "What was it?" + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Fleda, thinking that Mr. Carleton had probably retained more + than one of his old habits, for she was answering with her old + obedience,--"I was doubting what the influence is in that case--worth + analyzing, I think. I am afraid the good horse's company has little to do + with it." + </p> + <p> + "What then do you suppose?" said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Fleda,--"it might be--but I beg your pardon, Mr. Carleton! I + am astonished at my own presumption." + </p> + <p> + "Go on, and let me know why?" he said, with that happiness of manner which + was never resisted. Fleda went on, reassuring her courage now and then + with a glance. + </p> + <p> + "The relief <i>might</i> spring, sir, from the gratification of a proud + feeling of independence,--or from a dignified sense of isolation,--or an + imaginary riding down of opposition--or the consciousness of being master + of what you have in hand." + </p> + <p> + She would have added to the general category, "the running away from + oneself;" but the eye and bearing of the person before her forbade even + such a thought as connected with him. He laughed, but shook his head. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps then," said Fleda, "it may be nothing worse than the working off + of a surplus of energy or impatience, that leaves behind no more than can + be managed." + </p> + <p> + "You have learned something of human nature since I had the pleasure of + knowing you," he said with a look at once amused and penetrating. + </p> + <p> + "I wish I hadn't," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + Her countenance absolutely fell. + </p> + <p> + "I sometimes think," said he turning over the leaves of her book, "that + these are the best companionship one can have--the world at large is very + unsatisfactory." + </p> + <p> + "O how much!" said Fleda with a long breath. "The only pleasant thing that + my eyes rested upon as I came through the streets this afternoon, was a + huge bunch of violets that somebody was carrying. I walked behind them as + long as I could." + </p> + <p> + "Is your old love for Queechy in full force?" said Mr. Carleton, still + turning over the leaves, and smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I believe so--I should be very sorry to live here long--at home I can + always go out and find society that refreshes me." + </p> + <p> + "You have set yourself a high standard," he said, with no displeased + expression of the lips. + </p> + <p> + "I have been charged with that," said Fleda;--"but is it possible to set + too high a standard, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "One may leave oneself almost alone in the world." + </p> + <p> + "Well, even then," said Fleda, "I would rather have only the image of + excellence than be contented with inferiority." + </p> + <p> + "Isn't it possible to do both?" said he, smiling again. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda,--"perhaps I am too easily dissatisfied--I + believe I have grown fastidious living alone--I have sometimes almost a + disgust at the world and everything in it." + </p> + <p> + "I have often felt so," he said;--"but I am not sure that it is a mood to + be indulged in--likely to further our own good or that of others." + </p> + <p> + "I am sure it is not," said Fleda;--"I often feel vexed with myself for + it; but what can one do, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Don't your friends the flowers help you in this?" + </p> + <p> + "Not a bit," said Fleda,--"they draw the other way; their society is so + very pure and satisfying that one is all the less inclined to take up with + the other." + </p> + <p> + She could not quite tell what to make of the smile with which he began to + speak; it half abashed her. + </p> + <p> + "When I spoke a little while ago," said he, "of the best cure for an ill + mood, I was speaking of secondary means simply--the only really + humanizing, rectifying, peace-giving thing I ever tried was looking at + time in the light of eternity, and shaming or melting my coldness away in + the rays of the Sun of righteousness." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eyes, which had fallen on her book, were raised again with such a + flash of feeling that it quite prevented her seeing what was in his. But + the feeling was a little too strong--the eyes went down, lower than ever, + and the features shewed that the utmost efforts of self-command were + needed to control them. + </p> + <p> + "There is no other cure," he went on in the same tone;--"but disgust and + weariness and selfishness shrink away and hide themselves before a word or + a look of the Redeemer of men. When we hear him say, 'I have bought + thee--thou art mine,' it is like one of those old words of healing, 'Thou + art loosed from thine infirmity,'--'Be thou clean,'--and the mind takes + sweetly the grace and the command together, 'That he who loveth God love + his brother also.'--Only the preparation of the gospel of peace can make + our feet go softly over the roughness of the way." + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not move, unless her twinkling eyelashes might seem to + contradict that. + </p> + <p> + "<i>I</i> need not tell you," Mr. Carleton went on a little lower, "where + this medicine is to be sought." + </p> + <p> + "It is strange," said Fleda presently, "how well one may know and how well + one may forget.--But I think the body has a great deal to do with it + sometimes--these states of feeling, I mean." + </p> + <p> + "No doubt it has; and in these cases the cure is a more complicated + matter. I should think the roses would be useful there?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's mind was crossed by an indistinct vision of peas, asparagus, and + sweet corn; she said nothing. + </p> + <p> + "An indirect remedy is sometimes the very best that can be employed. + However it is always true that the more our eyes are fixed upon the source + of light the less we notice the shadows that things we are passing fling + across our way." + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not know how to talk for a little while; she was too happy. + Whatever kept Mr. Carleton from talking, he was silent also. Perhaps it + was the understanding of her mood. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said Fleda after a little time, "did you ever carry out + that plan of a rose-garden that you were talking of a long while ago?" + </p> + <p> + "You remember it?" said he with a pleased look.--"Yes--that was one of the + first things I set about after I went home--but I did not follow the + regular fashion of arrangement that one of your friends is so fond of." + </p> + <p> + "I should not like that for anything," said Fleda,--"and least of all for + roses." + </p> + <p> + "Do you remember the little shrubbery path that opened just in front of + the library windows?--leading at the distance of half a mile to a long + narrow winding glen?" + </p> + <p> + "Perfectly well!" said Fleda,--"through the wood of evergreens--I remember + the glen very well." + </p> + <p> + "About half way from the house," said he smiling at her eyes, "a glade + opens which merges at last in the head of the glen--I planted my roses + there--the circumstances of the ground were very happy for disposing them + according to my wish." + </p> + <p> + "And how far?" + </p> + <p> + "The roses?--O all the way, and some distance down the glen. Not a + continuous thicket of them," he added smiling again,--"I wished each kind + to stand so that its peculiar beauty should be fully relieved and + appreciated; and that would have been lost in a crowd." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I know it," said Fleda;--"one's eye rests upon the chief objects of + attraction and the others are hardly seen,--they do not even serve as + foils. And they must shew beautifully against that dark background of firs + and larches!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--and the windings of the ground gave me every sort of situation and + exposure. I wanted room too for the different effects of masses of the + same kind growing together and of fine individuals or groups standing + alone where they could shew the full graceful development of their + nature." + </p> + <p> + "What a pleasure!--What a beauty it must be!" + </p> + <p> + "The ground is very happy--many varieties of soil and exposure were needed + for the plants of different habits, and I found or made them all. The + rocky beginnings of the glen even furnished me with south walls for the + little tea-roses, and the Macartneys and Musk roses,--the Banksias I kept + nearer home." + </p> + <p> + "Do you know them all, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Not quite," said he smiling at her. + </p> + <p> + "I have seen one Banksia--the Macartney is a name that tells me nothing." + </p> + <p> + "They are evergreens--with large white flowers--very abundant and late in + the season, but they need the shelter of a wall with us." + </p> + <p> + "I should think you would say 'with <i>me</i>'," said Fleda. "I cannot + conceive that the head-quarters of the Rose tribe should be anywhere + else." + </p> + <p> + "One of the queens of the tribe is there, in the neighbourhood of the + Macartneys--the difficult Rosa sulphurea--it finds itself so well + accommodated that it condescends to play its part to perfection. Do you + know that?" + </p> + <p> + "Not at all." + </p> + <p> + "It is one of the most beautiful of all, though not my favourite--it has + large double yellow flowers shaped like the Provence--very superb, but as + wilful as any queen of them all." + </p> + <p> + "Which is your favourite, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Not that which shews itself most splendid to the eye, but which offers + fairest indications to the fancy." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked a little wistfully, for there was a smile rather of the eye + than of the lips which said there was a hidden thought beneath. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you assign characters to your flowers?" said he gravely. + </p> + <p> + "Always!" + </p> + <p> + "That Rosa sulphurea is a haughty high-bred beauty that disdains even to + shew herself beautiful unless she is pleased;--I love better what comes + nearer home to the charities and wants of everyday life." + </p> + <p> + He had not answered her, Fleda knew; she thought of what he had said to + Mrs. Evelyn about liking beauty but not <i>beauties</i>. + </p> + <p> + "Then," said he smiling again in that hidden way, "the head of the glen + gave me the soil I needed for the Bourbons and French roses."-- + </p> + <p> + "Bourbons?"--said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Those are exceeding fine--a hybrid between the Chinese and the Rose-à-quatre-saisons--I + have not confined them all to the head of the glen; many of them are in + richer soil, grafted on standards." + </p> + <p> + "I like standard roses," said Fleda, "better than any." + </p> + <p> + "Not better than climbers?" + </p> + <p> + "Better than any climbers I ever saw--except the Banksia." + </p> + <p> + "There is hardly a more elegant variety than that, though it is not + strictly a climber; and indeed when I spoke I was thinking as much of the + training roses. Many of the Noisettes are very fine. But I have the + climbers all over--in some parts nothing else, where the wood closes in + upon the path--there the evergreen roses or the Ayrshire cover the ground + under the trees, or are trained up the trunks and allowed to find their + own way through the branches down again--the Multiflora in the same + manner. I have made the Boursault cover some unsightly rocks that were in + my way.--Then in wider parts of the glade nearer home are your favourite + standards--the Damask, and Provence, and Moss, which you know are + varieties of the Centifolia, and the Noisette standards, some of them are + very fine, and the Chinese roses, and countless hybrids and varieties of + all these, with many Bourbons;--and your beautiful American yellow rose, + and the Austrian briar and Eglantine, and the Scotch and white and Dog + roses in their innumerable varieties change admirably well with the + others, and relieve the eye very happily." + </p> + <p> + "Relieve the eye!" said Fleda,--"my imagination wants relieving! Isn't + there--I have a fancy that there is--a view of the sea from some parts of + that walk, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes,--you have a good memory," said he smiling. "On one side the wood is + rather dense, and in some parts of the other side; but elsewhere the trees + are thinned off towards the south-west, and in one or two points the + descent of the ground and some cutting have given free access to the air + and free range to the eye, bounded only by the sea line in the + distance--if indeed that can be said to bound anything." + </p> + <p> + "I haven't seen it since I was a child," said Fleda. "And for how long a + time in the year is this literally a garden of roses, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "The perpetual roses are in bloom for eight months,--the Damask and the + Chinese, and some of their varieties--the Provence roses are in blossom + all the summer." + </p> + <p> + "Ah we can do nothing like that in this country," said Fleda shaking her + head;--"our winters are unmanageable." + </p> + <p> + She was silent a minute, turning over the leaves of her book in an + abstracted manner. + </p> + <p> + "You have struck out upon a grave path of reflection," said Mr. Carleton + gently,--"and left me bewildered among the roses." + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking," said Fleda, looking up and laughing--"I was moralizing + to myself upon the curious equalization of happiness in the world--I just + sheered off from a feeling of envy, and comfortably reflected that one + measures happiness by what one knows--not by what one does not know; and + so that in all probability I have had near as much enjoyment in the little + number of plants that I have brought up and cherished and know intimately, + as you, sir, in your superb walk through fairyland." + </p> + <p> + "Do you suppose," said he laughing, "that I leave the whole care of + fairyland to my gardener? No, you are mistaken--when the roses are to act + as my correctors I find I must become theirs. I seldom go among them + without a pruning knife and never without wishing for one. And you are + certainly right so far,--that the plants on which I bestow most pains give + me the most pleasure. There are some that no hand but mine ever touches, + and those are by far the best loved of my eye." + </p> + <p> + A discussion followed, partly natural, partly moral,--on the manner of + pruning various roses, and on the curious connection between care and + complacency, and the philosophy of the same. + </p> + <p> + "The rules of the library are to shut up at sundown, sir," said one of the + bookmen who had come into the room. + </p> + <p> + "Sundown!" exclaimed Fleda jumping up;--"is my uncle not here, Mr. Frost?" + </p> + <p> + "He has been gone half an hour, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "And I was to have gone home with him--I have forgotten myself." + </p> + <p> + "If that is at all the fault of my roses,", said Mr. Carleton smiling, "I + will do my best to repair it." + </p> + <p> + "I am not disposed to call it a fault," said Fleda tying her + bonnet-strings,--"it is rather an agreeable thing once in a while. I shall + dream of those roses, Mr. Carleton!" + </p> + <p> + "That would be doing them too much honour." + </p> + <p> + Very happily she had forgotten herself; and during all the walk home her + mind was too full of one great piece of joy and indeed too much engaged + with conversation to take up her own subject again. Her only wish was that + they might not meet any of the Evelyns;--Mr. Thorn, whom they did meet, + was a matter of entire indifference. + </p> + <p> + The door was opened by Dr. Gregory himself. To Fleda's utter astonishment + Mr. Carleton accepted his invitation to come in. She went up stairs to + take off her things in a kind of maze. + </p> + <p> + "I thought he would go away without my seeing him, and now what a nice + time I have had!--in spite of Mrs. Evelyn--" + </p> + <p> + That thought slipped in without Fleda's knowledge, but she could not get + it out again. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know how much it has been her fault either, but one thing is + certain--I never could have had it at her house.--How very glad I am!--How + <i>very</i> glad I am!--that I have seen him and heard all this from his + own lips.--But how very funny that he will be here to tea--" + </p> + <p> + "Well!" said the doctor when she came down,--"you <i>do</i> look freshened + up, I declare. Here is this girl, sir, was coming to me a little while + ago, complaining that she wanted something <i>fresh</i>, and begging me to + take her back to Queechy, forsooth, to find it, with two feet of snow on + the ground. Who wants to see you at Queechy?" he said, facing round upon + her with a look half fierce, half quizzical. + </p> + <p> + Fleda laughed, but was vexed to feel that she could not help colouring and + colouring exceedingly; partly from the consciousness of his meaning, and + partly from a vague notion that somebody else was conscious of it too. Dr. + Gregory, however, dashed right off into the thick of conversation with his + guest, and kept him busily engaged till tea-time. Fleda sat still on the + sofa, looking and listening with simple pleasure; memory served her up a + rich entertainment enough. Yet she thought her uncle was the most heartily + interested of the two in the conversation; there was a shade more upon Mr. + Carleton, not than he often wore, but than he had worn a little while ago. + Dr. Gregory was a great bibliopole, and in the course of the hour hauled + out and made his guest overhaul no less than several musty old folios; and + Fleda could not help fancying that he did it with an access of gravity + greater even than the occasion called for. The grace of his manner, + however, was unaltered; and at tea she did not know whether she had been + right or not. Demurely as she sat there behind the tea-urn, for Dr. + Gregory still engrossed all the attention of his guest as far as talking + was concerned, Fleda was again inwardly smiling to herself at the oddity + and the pleasantness of the chance that had brought those three together + in such a quiet way, after all the weeks she had been seeing Mr. Carleton + at a distance. And she enjoyed the conversation too; for though Dr. + Gregory was a little fond of his hobby it was still conversation worthy + the name. + </p> + <p> + "I have been so unfortunate in the matter of the drives," Mr. Carleton + said, when he was about to take leave and standing before Fleda,--"that I + am half afraid to mention it again." + </p> + <p> + "I could not help it, both those time, Mr. Carleton," said Fleda + earnestly. + </p> + <p> + "Both the last?--or both the first?" said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "The last?--" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I have had the honour of making such an attempt twice within the last ten + days----to my disappointment." + </p> + <p> + "It was not by my fault then either, sir," Fleda said quietly. + </p> + <p> + But he knew very well from the expression of her face a moment before + where to put the emphasis her tongue would not make. + </p> + <p> + "Dare I ask you to go with me to-morrow?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda with the old childish sparkle of her eye,--"but + if you ask me, sir, I will go." + </p> + <p> + He sat down beside her immediately, and Fleda knew by his change of eye + that her former thought had been right. + </p> + <p> + "Shall I see you at Mrs. Decatur's to-morrow?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I thought I understood," said he in an explanatory tone, "from your + friends the Miss Evelyns, that they were going." + </p> + <p> + "I believe they are, and I did think of it; but I have changed my mind, + and shall stay at home with Mrs. Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + After some further conversation the hour for the drive was appointed, and + Mr. Carleton took leave. + </p> + <p> + "Come for me twice and Mrs. Evelyn refused without consulting me!" thought + Fleda. "What could make her do so?--How very rude he must have thought me! + And how glad I am I have had an opportunity of setting that right." + </p> + <p> + So quitting Mrs. Evelyn her thoughts went off upon a long train of + wandering over the afternoon's talk. + </p> + <p> + "Wake up!" said the doctor, laying his hand kindly upon her + shoulder,--"you'll want something fresh again presently. What mine of + profundity are you digging into now?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up and came back from her profundity with a glance and smile + as simple as a child's. + </p> + <p> + "Dear uncle Orrin, how came you to leave me alone in the library?" + </p> + <p> + "Was that what you were trying to discover?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh no, sir! But why did you, uncle Orrin? I might have been left utterly + alone." + </p> + <p> + "Why," said the doctor, "I was going out, and a friend that I thought I + could confide in promised to take care of you." + </p> + <p> + "A friend!--Nobody came near me," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Then I'll never trust anybody again," said the doctor. "But what were you + hammering at, mentally, just now?--come, you shall tell me." + </p> + <p> + "O nothing, uncle Orrin," said Fleda, looking grave again however;--"I was + thinking that I had been talking too much to-day." + </p> + <p> + "Talking too much?--why whom have you been talking to?" + </p> + <p> + "O, nobody but Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton! why you didn't say six and a quarter words while he was + here." + </p> + <p> + "No, but I mean in the library, and walking home." + </p> + <p> + "Talking too much! I guess you did," said the doctor;--"your tongue is + like + </p> + <p> + 'the music of the spheres, So loud it deafens human ears.' + </p> + <p> + How came you to talk too much? I thought you were too shy to talk at all + in company." + </p> + <p> + "No sir, I am not;--I am not at all shy unless people frighten me. It + takes almost nothing to do that; but I am very bold if I am not + frightened." + </p> + <p> + "Were you frightened this afternoon?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir." + </p> + <p> + "Well, if you weren't frightened, I guess nobody else was," said the + doctor. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="36"></a>Chapter XXXVI. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Whence came this?<br /> This is some token from a newer friend. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Shakspeare. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The snow-flakes were falling softly and thick when Fleda got up the next + morning. + </p> + <p> + "No ride for me to-day--but how very glad I am that I had a chance of + setting that matter right. What could Mrs. Evelyn have been thinking + of?--Very false kindness!--if I had disliked to go ever so much she ought + to have made me, for my own sake, rather than let me seem so rude--it is + true she didn't know <i>how</i> rude. O snow-flakes--how much purer and + prettier you are than most things in this place!" + </p> + <p> + No one was in the breakfast parlour when Fleda came down, so she took her + book and the dormeuse and had an hour of luxurious quiet before anybody + appeared. Not a foot-fall in the house; nor even one outside to be heard, + for the soft carpeting of snow which was laid over the streets. The gentle + breathing of the fire the only sound in the room; while the very light + came subdued through the falling snow and the thin muslin curtains, and + gave an air of softer luxury to the apartment. "Money is pleasant," + thought Fleda, as she took a little complacent review of all this before + opening her book.--"And yet how unspeakably happier one may be without it + than another with it. Happiness never was locked up in a purse yet. I am + sure Hugh and I,--They must want me at home!--" + </p> + <p> + There was a little sober consideration of the lumps of coal and the + contented looking blaze in the grate, a most essentially home-like + thing,--and then Fleda went to her book and for the space of an hour + turned over her pages without interruption. At the end of the hour "the + fowling piece," certainly the noiseliest of his kind, put his head in, but + seeing none of his ladies took it and himself away again and left Fleda in + peace for another half hour. Then appeared Mrs. Evelyn in her morning + wrapper, and only stopping at the bell-handle, came up to the dormeuse and + stooping down kissed Fleda's forehead, with so much tenderness that it won + a look of most affectionate gratitude in reply. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda my dear, we set you a sad example. But you won't copy it. Joe, + breakfast. Has Mr. Evelyn gone down town?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am, two hours ago." + </p> + <p> + "Did it ever occur to you, Fleda my dear," said Mrs. Evelyn, breaking the + lumps of coal with the poker in a very leisurely satisfied kind of a + way,--"Did it ever occur to you to rejoice that you were not born a + business man? What a life!--" + </p> + <p> + "I wonder how it compares with that of a business woman," said Fleda + laughing. "There is an uncompromising old proverb which says + </p> + <p> + 'Man's work is from sun to sun-- But a woman's work is never done.'" + </p> + <p> + A saying which she instantly reflected was entirely beyond the + comprehension of the person to whose consideration she had offered it. + </p> + <p> + And then came in Florence, rubbing her hands and knitting her eyebrows. + </p> + <p> + "Why don't you look as bright as the rest of the world, this morning," + said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "What a wretched storm!" + </p> + <p> + "Wretched! This beautiful snow! Here have I been enjoying it for this + hour." + </p> + <p> + But Florence rubbed her hands and looked as if Fleda were no rule for + other people. + </p> + <p> + "How horrid it will make the going out to-night, if it snows all day!" + </p> + <p> + "Then you can stay at home," said her mother composedly. + </p> + <p> + "Indeed I shall not, mamma!" + </p> + <p> + "Mamma!" said Constance now coming in with Edith,--"isn't breakfast ready? + It strikes me that the fowling-piece wants polishing up. I have an + indistinct impression that the sun would be upon the meridian if he was + anywhere." + </p> + <p> + "Not quite so bad as that," said Fleda smiling;--"it is only an hour and a + half since I came down stairs." + </p> + <p> + "You horrid little creature!--Mamma, I consider it an act of inhospitality + to permit studious habits on the part of your guests. And I am surprised + your ordinary sagacity has not discovered that it is the greatest impolicy + towards the objects of your maternal care. We are labouring under growing + disadvantages; for when we have brought the enemy to at long shot there is + a mean little craft that comes in and unmans him in a close fight before + we can get our speaking-trumpets up." + </p> + <p> + "Constance!--Do hush!" said her sister. "You are too absurd." + </p> + <p> + "Fact," said Constance gravely. "Capt. Lewiston was telling me the other + night how the thing is managed; and I recognized it immediately and told + him I had often seen it done!" + </p> + <p> + "Hold your tongue, Constance," said her mother smiling,--"and come to + breakfast." + </p> + <p> + Half and but half of the mandate the young lady had any idea of obeying. + </p> + <p> + "I can't imagine what you are talking about, Constance!" said Edith. + </p> + <p> + "And then being a friend, you see," pursued Constance, "we can do nothing + but fire a salute, instead of demolishing her." + </p> + <p> + "Can't you?" said Fleda. "I am sure many a time I have felt as if you had + left me nothing but my colours." + </p> + <p> + "Except your prizes, my dear. I am sure I don't know about your being a + friend either, for I have observed that you engage English and American + alike." + </p> + <p> + "She is getting up her colours now," said Mrs. Evelyn in mock + gravity,--"you can tell what she is." + </p> + <p> + "Blood-red!" said Constance. "A pirate!--I thought so,"--she exclaimed, + with an ecstatic gesture. "I shall make it my business to warn everybody!" + </p> + <p> + "Oh Constance!" said Fleda, burying her face in her hands. But they all + laughed. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda my dear, I would box her ears," said Mrs. Evelyn commanding + herself. "It is a mere envious insinuation,--I have always understood + those were the most successful colours carried." + </p> + <p> + "Dear Mrs. Evelyn!--" + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda, that is not a hot roll--you sha'n't eat it--Take this. + Florence give her a piece of the bacon--Fleda my dear, it is good for the + digestion--you must try it. Constance was quite mistaken in supposing + yours were those obnoxious colours--there is too much white with the + red--it is more like a very different flag." + </p> + <p> + "Like what then, mamma?" said Constance;--"a good American would have blue + in it." + </p> + <p> + "You may keep the American yourself," said her mother. + </p> + <p> + "Only," said Fleda trying to recover herself, "there is a slight + irregularity--with you the stars are blue and the ground white." + </p> + <p> + "My dear little Fleda!" exclaimed Constance jumping up and capering round + the table to kiss her, "you are too delicious for anything; and in future + I will be blind to your colours; which is a piece of self-denial I am sure + nobody else will practise." + </p> + <p> + "Mamma," said Edith, "what <i>are</i> you all talking about? Can't + Constance sit down and let Fleda eat her breakfast?" + </p> + <p> + "Sit down, Constance, and eat your breakfast!" + </p> + <p> + "I will do it, mamma, out of consideration for the bacon.--Nothing else + would move me." + </p> + <p> + "Are you going to Mrs. Decatur's to-night, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Edith, I believe not" + </p> + <p> + "I'm very glad; then there'll be somebody at home. But why don't you?" + </p> + <p> + "I think on the whole I had rather not." + </p> + <p> + "Mamma," said Constance, "you have done very wrong in permitting such a + thing. I know just how it will be. Mr. Thorn and Mr. Stackpole will make + indefinite voyages of discovery round Mrs. Decatur's rooms, and then + having a glimmering perception that the light of Miss Ringgan's eyes is in + another direction they will sheer off; and you will presently see them + come sailing blandly in, one after the other, and cast anchor for the + evening; when to your extreme delight Mr. Stackpole and Miss Ringgan will + immediately commence fighting. I shall stay at home to see!" exclaimed + Constance, with little bounds of delight up and down upon her chair which + this time afforded her the additional elasticity of springs,--"I will not + go. I am persuaded how it will be, and I would not miss it for anything." + </p> + <p> + "Dear Constance!" said Fleda, unable to help laughing through all her + vexation,--"please do not talk so! You know very well Mr. Stackpole only + comes to see your mother." + </p> + <p> + "He was here last night," said Constance in an extreme state of + delight,--"with all the rest of your admirers--ranged in the hall, with + their hats in a pile at the foot of the staircase as a token of their + determination not to go till you came home; and as they could not be + induced to come up to the drawing-room Mr. Evelyn was obliged to go down, + and with some difficulty persuaded them to disperse." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was by this time in a state of indecision betwixt crying and + laughing, assiduously attentive to her breakfast. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton asked me if you would go to ride with him again the other + day, Fleda," said Mrs. Evelyn, with her face of delighted mischief,--"and + I excused you; for I thought you would thank me for it." + </p> + <p> + "Mamma," said Constance, "the mention of that name rouses all the bitter + feelings I am capable of! My dear Fleda--we have been friends--but if I + see you abstracting my English rose"-- + </p> + <p> + "Look at those roses behind you!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + The young lady turned and sprang at the word, followed by both her + sisters; and for some moments nothing but a hubbub of exclamations filled + the air, + </p> + <p> + "Joe, you are enchanting!--But did you ever <i>see</i> such flowers?--Oh + those rose-buds!--" + </p> + <p> + "And these Camellias," said Edith,--"look, Florence, how they are + cut--with such splendid long stems." + </p> + <p> + "And the roses too--all of them--see mamma, just cut from the bushes with + the buds all left on, and immensely long stems--Mamma, these must have + cost an immensity!--" + </p> + <p> + "That is what I call a bouquet," said Fleda, fain to leave the table too + and draw near the tempting shew in Florence's hand. + </p> + <p> + "This is the handsomest you have had all winter, Florence," said Edith. + </p> + <p> + "Handsomest!--I never saw anything like it. I shall wear some of these + to-night, mamma." + </p> + <p> + "You are in a great hurry to appropriate it," said Constance,--"how do you + know but it is mine?" + </p> + <p> + "Which of us is it for, Joe?" + </p> + <p> + "Say it is mine, Joe, and I will vote you--the best article of your kind!" + said Constance, with an inexpressible glance at Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Who brought it, Joe?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Joe, who brought it? where did it come from, Joe?" + </p> + <p> + Joe had hardly a chance to answer. + </p> + <p> + "I really couldn't say, Miss Florence,--the man wasn't known to me." + </p> + <p> + "But did he say it was for Florence or for me?" + </p> + <p> + "No ma'am--he"-- + </p> + <p> + "<i>Which</i> did he say it was for?" + </p> + <p> + "He didn't say it was either for Miss Florence or for you, Miss Constance; + he--" + </p> + <p> + "But didn't he say who sent it?" + </p> + <p> + "No ma'am. It's"-- + </p> + <p> + "Mamma here is a white moss that is beyond everything! with two of the + most lovely buds--Oh!" said Constance clasping her hands and whirling + about the room in comic ecstasy--"I sha'n't survive if I cannot find out + where it is from!--" + </p> + <p> + "How delicious the scent of these tea-roses is!" said Fleda. "You ought + not to mind the snow storm to-day after this, Florence. I should think you + would be perfectly happy." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be, if I can contrive to keep them fresh to wear to-night. Mamma + how sweetly they would dress me." + </p> + <p> + "They're a great deal too good to be wasted so," said Mrs. Evelyn; "I + sha'n't let you do it." + </p> + <p> + "Mamma!--it wouldn't take any of them at all for my hair and the bouquet + de corsage too--there'd be thousands left--Well Joe,--what are you waiting + for?" + </p> + <p> + "I didn't say," said Joe, looking a good deal blank and a little + afraid,--"I should have said--that the bouquet--is--" + </p> + <p> + "What is it?" + </p> + <p> + "It is--I believe, ma'am,--the man said it was for Miss Ringgan." + </p> + <p> + "For me!" exclaimed Fleda, her cheeks forming instantly the most exquisite + commentary on the gift that the giver could have desired. She took in her + hand the superb bunch of flowers from which the fingers of Florence + unclosed as if it had been an icicle. + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you say so before?" she inquired sharply; but the + "fowling-piece" had wisely disappeared. + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad!" exclaimed Edith. "They have had plenty all winter, and + you haven't had one--I am very glad it is yours, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + But such a shadow had come upon every other face that Fleda's pleasure was + completely overclouded. She smelled at her roses, just ready to burst into + tears, and wishing sincerely that they had never come. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid, my dear Fleda," said Mrs. Evelyn quietly going on with her + breakfast,--"that there is a thorn somewhere among those flowers." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was too sure of it. But not by any means the one Mrs. Evelyn + intended. + </p> + <p> + "He never could have got half those from his own greenhouse, mamma," said + Florence,--"if he had cut every rose that was in it; and he isn't very + free with his knife either." + </p> + <p> + "I said nothing about anybody's greenhouse," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"though I + don't suppose there is more than one Lot in the city they could have come + from." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Constance settling herself back in her chair and closing her + eyes,--"I feel extinguished!----Mamma, do you suppose it possible that a + hot cup of tea might revive me? I am suffering from a universal sense of + unappreciated merit!--and nobody can tell what the pain is that hasn't + felt it." + </p> + <p> + "I think you are extremely foolish, Constance," said Edith. "Fleda hasn't + had a single flower sent her since she has been here and you have had them + every other day. I think Florence is the only one that has a right to be + disappointed." + </p> + <p> + "Dear Florence," said Fleda earnestly,--"you shall have as many of them as + you please to dress yourself,--and welcome!" + </p> + <p> + "Oh no--of course not!--" Florence said,--"it's of no sort of + consequence--I don't want them in the least, my dear. I wonder what + somebody would think to see his flowers in my head!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda secretly had mooted the same question and was very well pleased not + to have it put to the proof. She took the flowers up stairs after + breakfast, resolving that they should not be an eye-sore to her friends; + placed them in water and sat down to enjoy and muse over them in a very + sorrowful mood. She again thought she would take the first opportunity of + going home. How strange--out of their abundance of tributary flowers to + grudge her this one bunch! To be sure it was a magnificent one. The + flowers were mostly roses, of the rarer kinds, with a very few fine + Camellias; all of them cut with a freedom that evidently had known no + constraint but that of taste, and put together with an exquisite skill + that Fleda felt sure was never possessed by any gardener. She knew that + only one hand had had anything to do with them, and that the hand that had + bought, not the one that had sold; and "How very kind!"--presently quite + supplanted "How very strange!"--"How exactly like him,--and how singular + that Mrs. Evelyn and her daughters should have supposed they could have + come from Mr. Thorn." It was a moral impossibility that <i>he</i> should + have put such a bunch of flowers together; while to Fleda's eye they so + bore the impress of another person's character that she had absolutely + been glad to get them out of sight for fear they might betray him. She + hung over their varied loveliness, tasted and studied it, till the soft + breath of the roses had wafted away every cloud of disagreeable feeling + and she was drinking in pure and strong pleasure from each leaf and bud. + What a very apt emblem of kindness and friendship she thought them; when + their gentle preaching and silent sympathy could alone so nearly do + friendship's work; for to Fleda there was both counsel and consolation in + flowers. So she found it this morning. An hour's talk with them had done + her a great deal of good, and when she dressed herself and went down to + the drawing-room her grave little face was not less placid than the roses + she had left; she would not wear even one of them down to be a + disagreeable reminder. And she thought that still snowy day was one of the + very pleasantest she had had in New York. + </p> + <p> + Florence went to Mrs. Decatur's; but Constance according to her avowed + determination remained at home to see the fun. Fleda hoped most sincerely + there would be none for her to see. + </p> + <p> + But a good deal to her astonishment, early in the evening Mr. Carleton + walked in, followed very soon by Mr. Thorn. Constance and Mrs. Evelyn were + forthwith in a perfect effervescence of delight, which as they could not + very well give it full play promised to last the evening; and Fleda, all + her nervous trembling awakened again, took her work to the table and + endeavoured to bury herself in it. But ears could not be fastened as well + as eyes; and the mere sound of Mrs. Evelyn's voice sometimes sent a thrill + over her. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn," said the lady in her smoothest manner,--"are you a lover of + floriculture, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "Can't say that I am, Mrs. Evelyn,--except as practised by others." + </p> + <p> + "Then you are not a connoisseur in roses?--Miss Ringgan's happy lot--sent + her a most exquisite collection this morning, and she has been wanting to + apply to somebody who could tell her what they are--I thought you might + know.--O they are not here," said Mrs. Evelyn as she noticed the + gentleman's look round the room;--"Miss Ringgan judges them too precious + for any eyes but her own. Fleda, my dear, won't you bring down your roses + to let Mr. Thorn tell us their names?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sure Mr. Thorn will excuse me, Mrs. Evelyn--I believe he would find + it a puzzling task." + </p> + <p> + "The surest way, Mrs. Evelyn, would be to apply at the fountain head for + information," said Thorn dryly. + </p> + <p> + "If I could get at it," said Mrs. Evelyn, (Fleda knew with quivering + lips,)--"but it seems to me I might as well try to find the Dead Sea!" + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps Mr. Carleton might serve your purpose," said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + That gentleman was at the moment talking to Constance. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton--" said Mrs. Evelyn,--"are you a judge, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "Of what, Mrs. Evelyn?--I beg your pardon." + </p> + <p> + The lady's tone somewhat lowered. + </p> + <p> + "Are you a judge of roses, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "So far as to know a rose when I see it," he answered smiling, and with an + imperturbable coolness that it quieted Fleda to hear. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus20.jpg"><img src="images/illus20.jpg" height="250" + alt="'I am sure Mr. Thorn will excuse me.'" + title="'I am sure Mr. Thorn will excuse me.'" /><br /> "I am sure Mr. Thorn + will excuse me."</a> + </p> + <p> + "Ay, but the thing is," said Constance, "do you know twenty roses when you + see them?" + </p> + <p> + "Miss Ringgan, Mr. Carleton," said Mrs. Evelyn, "has received a most + beautiful supply this morning; but like a true woman she is not satisfied + to enjoy unless she can enjoy intelligently--they are strangers to us all, + and she would like to know what name to give them--Mr. Thorn suggested + that perhaps you might help us out of our difficulty." + </p> + <p> + "With great pleasure, so far as I am able,--if my judgment may be + exercised by daylight. I cannot answer for shades of green in the night + time." + </p> + <p> + But he spoke with an ease and simplicity that left no mortal able to guess + whether he had ever heard of a particular bunch of roses in his life + before. + </p> + <p> + "You give me more of Eve in my character, Mrs. Evelyn, than I think + belongs to me," said Fleda from her work at the far centre-table, which + certainly did not get its name from its place in the room. "My enjoyment + to-day has not been in the least troubled by curiosity." + </p> + <p> + Which none of the rest of the family could have affirmed. + </p> + <p> + "Do you mean to say, Mr. Carleton," said Constance, "that it is necessary + to distinguish between shades of green in judging of roses?" + </p> + <p> + "It is necessary to make shades of distinction in judging of almost + anything, Miss Constance. The difference between varieties of the same + flower is often extremely nice." + </p> + <p> + "I have read of magicians," said Thorn softly, bending down towards + Fleda's work,--"who did not need to see things to answer questions + respecting them." + </p> + <p> + Fleda thought that was a kind of magic remarkably common in the world; but + even her displeasure could not give her courage to speak. It gave her + courage to be silent, however; and Mr. Thorn's best efforts in a + conversation of some length could gain nothing but very uninterested + rejoinders. A sudden pinch from Constance then made her look up and almost + destroyed her self-possession as she saw Mr. Stackpole make his way into + the room. + </p> + <p> + "I hope I find my fair enemy in a mollified humour," he said approaching + them. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you have repaired damages, Mr. Stackpole," said + Constance,--"since you venture into the region of broken windows again." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Stackpole declared there were none to repair," said Mrs. Evelyn from + the sofa. + </p> + <p> + "More than I knew of," said the gentleman laughing--"there were more than + I knew of; but you see I court the danger, having rashly concluded that I + might as well know all my weak points at once." + </p> + <p> + "Miss Ringgan will break nothing to-night, Mr. Stackpole--she promised me + she would not." + </p> + <p> + "Not even her silence?" said the gentleman. + </p> + <p> + "Is she always so desperately industrious?" said Mr. Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Ringgan, Mr. Stackpole," said Constance, "is subject to occasional + fits of misanthropy, in which cases her retreating with her work to the + solitude of the centre-table is significant of her desire to avoid + conversation,--as Mr. Thorn has been experiencing." + </p> + <p> + "I am happy to see that the malady is not catching, Miss Constance." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Stackpole!" said Constance,--"I am in a morose state of mind!--Miss + Ringgan this morning received a magnificent bouquet of roses which in the + first place I rashly appropriated to myself; and ever since I discovered + my mistake I have been meditating the renouncing of society--it has + excited more bad feelings than I thought had existence in my nature." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Stackpole," said Mrs. Evelyn, "would you ever have supposed that + roses could be a cause of discord?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Stackpole looked as if he did not exactly know what the ladies were + driving at. + </p> + <p> + "There have five thousand emigrants arrived at this port within a week!" + said he, as if that were something worth talking about. + </p> + <p> + "Poor creatures! where will they all go?" said Mrs. Evelyn comfortably. + </p> + <p> + "Country's large enough," said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but such a stream of immigration will reach the Pacific and come + back again before long: and then there will be a meeting of the waters! + This tide of German and Irish will sweep over everything." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose if the land will not bear both, one party will have to seek + other quarters," said Mrs. Evelyn with an exquisite satisfaction which + Fleda could hear in her voice. "You remember the story of Lot and Abraham, + Mr. Stackpole,--when a quarrel arose between them?--not about roses." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Stackpole looked as if women were--to say the least--incomprehensible. + </p> + <p> + "Five thousand a week!" he repeated. + </p> + <p> + "I wish there was a Dead Sea for them all to sheer off into!" said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "If you had seen the look of grave rebuke that speech called forth, Mr. + Thorn," said Constance, "your feelings would have been penetrated--if you + have any." + </p> + <p> + "I had forgotten," he said, looking round with a bland change of + manner,--"what gentle charities were so near me." + </p> + <p> + "Mamma!" said Constance with a most comic shew of indignation,--"Mr. Thorn + thought that with Miss Ringgan he had forgotten all the gentle charities + in the room!--I am of no further use to society!--I will trouble you to + ring that bell, Mr. Thorn, if you please. I shall request candles and + retire to the privacy of my own apartment!" + </p> + <p> + "Not till you have permitted me to expiate my fault!" said Mr. Thorn + laughing. + </p> + <p> + "It cannot be expiated!--My worth will be known at some future day.--Mr. + Carleton, <i>will</i> you have the goodness to summon our domestic + attendant?" + </p> + <p> + "If you will permit me to give the order," he said smiling, with his hand + on the bell. "I am afraid you are hardly fit to be trusted alone." + </p> + <p> + "Why?" + </p> + <p> + "May I delay obeying you long enough to give my reasons?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Because," said he coming up to her, "when people turn away from the world + in disgust they generally find worse company in themselves." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton!--I would not sit still another minute, if curiosity didn't + keep me. I thought solitude was said to be such a corrector?" + </p> + <p> + "Like a clear atmosphere--an excellent medium if your object is to take an + observation of your position--worse than lost if you mean to shut up the + windows and burn sickly lights of your own." + </p> + <p> + "Then according to that one shouldn't seek solitude unless one doesn't + want it." + </p> + <p> + "No," said Mr. Carleton, with that eye of deep meaning to which Constance + always rendered involuntary homage,--"every one wants it;--if we do not + daily take an observation to find where we are, we are sailing about + wildly and do not know whither we are going." + </p> + <p> + "An observation?" said Constance, understanding part and impatient of not + catching the whole of his meaning. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," he said with a smile of singular fascination,--"I mean, consulting + the unerring guides of the way to know where we are and if we are sailing + safely and happily in the right direction--otherwise we are in danger of + striking upon some rock or of never making the harbour; and in either + case, all is lost." + </p> + <p> + The power of eye and smile was too much for Constance, as it had happened + more than once before; her own eyes fell and for a moment she wore a look + of unwonted sadness and sweetness, at what from any other person would + have roused her mockery. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said she, trying to rally herself but still not daring to + look up, knowing that would put it out of her power,--"I can't understand + how you ever came to be such a grave person." + </p> + <p> + "What is your idea of gravity?" said he smiling. "To have a mind so at + rest about the future as to be able to enjoy thoroughly all that is worth + enjoying in the present?" + </p> + <p> + "But I can't imagine how <i>you</i> ever came to take up such notions." + </p> + <p> + "May I ask again, why not I?" + </p> + <p> + "O you know--you have so much to make you otherwise." + </p> + <p> + "What degree of present contentment ought to make one satisfied to leave + that of the limitless future an uncertain thing?" + </p> + <p> + "Do you think it can be made certain?" + </p> + <p> + "Undoubtedly!--why not? the tickets are free--the only thing is to make + sure that ours has the true signature. Do you think the possession of that + ticket makes life a sadder thing? The very handwriting of it is more + precious to me, by far, Miss Constance, than everything else I have." + </p> + <p> + "But you are a very uncommon instance," said Constance, still unable to + look up, and speaking without any of her usual attempt at jocularity. + </p> + <p> + "No, I hope not," he said quietly. + </p> + <p> + "I mean," said Constance, "that it is very uncommon language to hear from + a person like you." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose I know your meaning," he said after a minute's pause;--"but, + Miss Constance, there is hardly a graver thought to me than that power and + responsibility go hand in hand." + </p> + <p> + "It don't generally work so," said Constance rather uneasily. + </p> + <p> + "What are you talking about, Constance?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton, mamma,--has been making me melancholy." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said Mrs. Evelyn, "I am going to petition that you will + turn your efforts in another direction--I have felt oppressed all the + afternoon from the effects of that funeral service I was attending--I am + only just getting over it. The preacher seemed to delight in putting + together all the gloomy thoughts he could think of." + </p> + <p> + "Yes!" said Mr. Stackpole, putting his hands in his pockets,--"it is the + particular enjoyment of some of them, I believe, to do their best to make + other people miserable." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Thorn said nothing, being warned by the impatient little hammering of + Fleda's worsted needle upon the marble, while her eye was no longer + considering her work, and her face rested anxiously upon her hand. + </p> + <p> + "There wasn't a thing," the lady went on,--"in anything he said, in his + prayer or his speech,--there wasn't a single cheering or elevating + consideration,--all he talked and prayed for was that the people there + might be filled with a sense of their wickedness--" + </p> + <p> + "It's their trade, ma'am," said Mr. Stackpole,--"it's their trade! I + wonder if it ever occurs to them to include themselves in that petition." + </p> + <p> + "There wasn't the slightest effort made in anything he said or prayed + for,--and one would have thought that would have been so natural!--there + was not the least endeavour to do away with that superstitious fear of + death which is so common--and one would think it was the very occasion to + do it;--he never once asked that we might be led to look upon it + rationally and calmly.--It's so unreasonable, Mr. Stackpole--it is so + dissonant with our views of a benevolent Supreme Being--as if it could be + according to <i>his</i> will that his creatures should live lives of + tormenting themselves--it so shews a want of trust in his goodness!" + </p> + <p> + "It's a relic of barbarism, ma'am," said Mr. Stackpole;--"it's a popular + delusion--and it is like to be, till you can get men to embrace wider and + more liberal views of things." + </p> + <p> + "What do you suppose it proceeds from?" said Mr. Carleton, as if the + question had just occurred to him. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose, from false notions received from education, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Hardly," said Mr. Carleton;--"it is too universal. You find it + everywhere; and to ascribe it everywhere to education would be but + shifting the question back one generation." + </p> + <p> + "It is a root of barbarous ages," said Mr. Stackpole,--"a piece of + superstition handed down from father to son--a set of false ideas which + men are bred up and almost born with, and that they can hardly get rid + of." + </p> + <p> + "How can that be a root of barbarism, which the utmost degree of + intelligence and cultivation has no power to do away, nor even to lessen, + however it may afford motive to control? Men may often put a brave face + upon it and shew none of their thoughts to the world; but I think no one + capable of reflection has not at times felt the influence of that dread." + </p> + <p> + "Men have often sought death, of purpose and choice," said Mr. Stackpole + dryly and rubbing his chin. + </p> + <p> + "Not from the absence of this feeling, but from the greater momentary + pressure of some other." + </p> + <p> + "Of course," said Mr. Stackpole, rubbing his chin still,--there is a + natural love of life--the world could not get on if there was not." + </p> + <p> + "If the love of life is natural, the fear of death must be so, by the same + reason." + </p> + <p> + "Undoubtedly," said Mrs. Evelyn, "it is natural--it is part of the + constitution of our nature." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Mr. Stackpole, settling himself again in his chair with his + hands in his pockets--"it is not unnatural, I suppose,--but then that is + the first view of the subject--it is the business of reason to correct + many impressions and prejudices that are, as we say, natural." + </p> + <p> + "And there was where my clergyman of to-day failed utterly," said Mrs. + Evelyn;--"he aimed at strengthening that feeling and driving it down as + hard as he could into everybody's mind--not a single lisp of anything to + do it away or lessen the gloom with which we are, naturally as you say, + disposed to invest the subject." + </p> + <p> + "I dare say he has held it up as a bugbear till it has become one to + himself," said Mr. Stackpole. + </p> + <p> + "It is nothing more than the mere natural dread of dissolution," said Mr. + Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "I think it is that," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"I think that is the principal + thing." + </p> + <p> + "Is there not besides an undefined fear of what lies beyond--an uneasy + misgiving that there may be issues which the spirit is not prepared to + meet?" + </p> + <p> + "I suppose there is," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"but sir--" + </p> + <p> + "Why that is the very thing," said Mr. Stackpole,--"that is the mischief + of education I was speaking of--men are brought up to it." + </p> + <p> + "You cannot dispose of it so, sir, for this feeling is quite as universal + as the other; and so strong that men have not only been willing to render + life miserable but even to endure death itself, with all the aggravation + of torture, to smooth their way in that unknown region beyond." + </p> + <p> + "It is one of the maladies of human nature," said Mr. Stackpole,--"that it + remains for the progress of enlightened reason to dispel." + </p> + <p> + "What is the cure for the malady?" said Mr. Carleton quietly. + </p> + <p> + "Why sir!--the looking upon death as a necessary step in the course of our + existence which simply introduces us from a lower to a higher + sphere,--from a comparatively narrow to a wider and nobler range of + feeling and intellect." + </p> + <p> + "Ay--but how shall we be sure that it is so?" + </p> + <p> + "Why Mr. Carleton, sir," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"do you doubt that? Do you + suppose it possible for a moment that a benevolent being would make + creatures to be anything but happy?" + </p> + <p> + "You believe the Bible, Mrs. Evelyn?" he said smiling slightly. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, sir; but Mr. Carleton, the Bible I am sure holds out the same + views of the goodness and glory of the Creator; you cannot open it but you + find them on every page. If I could take such views of things as some + people have," said Mrs. Evelyn, getting up to punch the fire in her + extremity,--"I don't know what I should do!--Mr. Carleton, I think I would + rather never have been born, sir!" + </p> + <p> + "Every one runs to the Bible!" said Mr. Stackpole. "It is the general + armoury, and all parties draw from it to fight each other." + </p> + <p> + "True," said Mr. Carleton,--"but only while they draw partially. No man + can fight the battle of truth but in the whole panoply; and no man so + armed can fight any other." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "I mean that the Bible is not a riddle, neither inconsistent with itself; + but if you take off one leg of a pair of compasses the measuring power is + gone." + </p> + <p> + "But Mr. Carleton, sir," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"do you think that reading the + Bible is calculated to give one gloomy ideas of the future?" + </p> + <p> + "By no means," he said with one of those meaning-fraught smiles,--"but is + it safe, Mrs. Evelyn, in such a matter, to venture a single grasp of hope + without the direct warrant of God's word?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, ma'am,--that says, 'the soul that sinneth, it shall die.'" + </p> + <p> + "That disposes of the whole matter comfortably at once," said Mr. + Stackpole. + </p> + <p> + "But, sir," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"that doesn't stand alone--the Bible + everywhere speaks of the fulness and freeness of Christ's salvation?" + </p> + <p> + "Full and free as it can possibly be," he answered with something of a sad + expression of countenance;--"but, Mrs. Evelyn, <i>never offered but with + conditions</i>." + </p> + <p> + "What conditions?" said Mr. Stackpole hastily. + </p> + <p> + "I recommend you to look for them, sir," answered Mr. Carleton, + gravely;--"they should not be unknown to a wise man." + </p> + <p> + "Then you would leave mankind ridden by this nightmare of fear?--or what + is your remedy?" + </p> + <p> + "There is a remedy, sir," said Mr. Carleton, with that dilating and + darkening eye which shewed him deeply engaged in what he was thinking + about;--"it is not mine. When men feel themselves lost and are willing to + be saved in God's way, then the breach is made up--then hope can look + across the gap and see its best home and its best friend on the other + side--then faith lays hold on forgiveness and trembling is done--then, sin + being pardoned, the sting of death is taken away and the fear of death is + no more, for it is swallowed up in victory. But men will not apply to a + physician while they think themselves well; and people will not seek the + sweet way of safety by Christ till they know there is no other; and so, do + you see, Mrs. Evelyn, that when the gentleman you were speaking of sought + to-day to persuade his hearers that they were poorer than they thought + they were, he was but taking the surest way to bring them to be made + richer than they ever dreamed." + </p> + <p> + There was a power of gentle earnestness in his eye that Mrs Evelyn could + not answer; her look fell as that of Constance had done, and there was a + moment's silence. + </p> + <p> + Thorn had kept quiet, for two reasons--that he might not displease Fleda, + and that he might watch her. She had left her work, and turning half round + from the table had listened intently to the conversation, towards the last + very forgetful that there might be anybody to observe her,--with eyes + fixed, and cheeks flushing, and the corners of the mouth just indicating + delight,--till the silence fell; and then she turned round to the table + and took up her worsted-work. But the lips were quite grave now, and + Thorn's keen eyes discerned that upon one or two of the artificial roses + there lay two or three very natural drops. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said Edith, "what makes you talk such sober things?--you + have set Miss Ringgan to crying." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton could not be better pleased than at such a tribute to his + eloquence," said Mr. Thorn with a saturnine expression. + </p> + <p> + "Smiles are common things," said Mr. Stackpole a little maliciously; "but + any man may be flattered to find his words drop diamonds." + </p> + <p> + "Fleda my dear," said Mrs. Evelyn, with that trembling tone of concealed + ecstasy which always set every one of Fleda's nerves a jarring,--"you may + tell the gentlemen that they do not always know when they are making an + unfelicitous compliment--I never read what poets say about 'briny drops' + and 'salt tears' without imagining the heroine immediately to be something + like Lot's wife." + </p> + <p> + "Nobody said anything about briny drops, mamma," said Edith. "Why there's + Florence!--" + </p> + <p> + Her entrance made a little bustle, which Fleda was very glad of. + Unkind!--She was trembling again in every finger. She bent down over her + canvas and worked away as hard as she could. That did not hinder her + becoming aware presently that Mr. Carleton was standing close beside her. + </p> + <p> + "Are you not trying your eyes?" said he. + </p> + <p> + The words were nothing, but the tone was a great deal, there was a kind of + quiet intelligence in it. Fleda looked up, and something in the clear + steady self-reliant eye she met wrought an instant change in her feeling. + She met it a moment and then looked at her work again with nerves quieted. + </p> + <p> + "Cannot I persuade them to be of my mind?" said Mr. Carleton, bending down + a little nearer to their sphere of action. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton is unreasonable, to require more testimony of that this + evening," said Mr. Thorn;--"his own must have been ill employed." + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not look up, but the absolute quietness of Mr. Carleton's manner + could be felt; she felt it, almost with sympathetic pain. Thorn + immediately left them and took leave. + </p> + <p> + "What are you searching for in the papers, Mr. Carleton?" said Mrs. Evelyn + presently coming up to them. + </p> + <p> + "I was looking for the steamers, Mrs. Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + "How soon do you think of bidding us good-bye?" + </p> + <p> + "I do not know, ma'am," he answered coolly--"I expect my mother." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Evelyn walked back to her sofa. + </p> + <p> + But in the space of two minutes she came over to the centre-table again, + with an open magazine in her hand. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said the lady, "you must read this for me and tell me what + you think of it, will you sir? I have been shewing it to Mr. Stackpole and + he can't see any beauty in it, and I tell him it is his fault and there is + some serious want in his composition. Now I want to know what you will say + to it." + </p> + <p> + "An arbiter, Mrs. Evelyn, should be chosen by both parties." + </p> + <p> + "Read it and tell me what you think!" repeated the lady, walking away to + leave him opportunity. Mr. Carleton looked it over. + </p> + <p> + "That is something pretty," he said putting it before Fleda. Mrs. Evelyn + was still at a distance. + </p> + <p> + "What do you think of that print for trying the eyes?" said Fleda laughing + as she took it. But he noticed that her colour rose a little. + </p> + <p> + "How do you like it?" + </p> + <p> + "I like it,--pretty well," said Fleda rather hesitatingly. + </p> + <p> + "You have seen it before?" + </p> + <p> + "Why?" Fleda said, with a look up at him at once a little startled and a + little curious;--"what makes you say so?" + </p> + <p> + "Because--pardon me--you did not read it." + </p> + <p> + "Oh," said Fleda laughing, but colouring at the same time very frankly, "I + can tell how I like some things without reading them very carefully." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton looked at her, and then took the magazine again. + </p> + <p> + "What have you there, Mr. Carleton?" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "A piece of English on which I was asking this lady's opinion, Miss + Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + "Now, Mr. Carleton!" exclaimed Constance jumping up,--"I am going to ask + you to decide a quarrel between Fleda and me about a point of English"-- + </p> + <p> + "Hush, Constance!" said her mother,--"I want to speak to Mr. Carleton--Mr. + Carleton, how do you like it?" + </p> + <p> + "Like what, mamma?" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "A piece I gave Mr. Carleton to read. Mr. Carleton, tell how you like it, + sir." + </p> + <p> + "But what is it, mamma?" + </p> + <p> + "A piece of poetry in an old Excelsior--'The Spirit of the Fireside.' Mr. + Carleton, won't you read it aloud, and let us all hear--but tell me first + what you think of it." + </p> + <p> + "It has pleased me particularly, Mrs. Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Stackpole says he does not understand it, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Fanciful," said Mr. Stackpole,--"it's a little fanciful--and I can't + quite make out what the fancy is." + </p> + <p> + "It has been the misfortune of many good things before not to be prized, + Mr. Stackpole," said the lady funnily. + </p> + <p> + "True, ma'am," said that gentleman rubbing his chin--"and the converse is + also true unfortunately,--and with a much wider application." + </p> + <p> + "There is a peculiarity of mental development or training," said Mr. + Carleton, "which must fail of pleasing many minds because of their wanting + the corresponding key of nature or experience. Some literature has a + hidden freemasonry of its own." + </p> + <p> + "Very hidden indeed!" said Mr. Stackpole;--"the cloud is so thick that I + can't see the electricity!" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said Mrs. Evelyn laughing, "I take that remark as a + compliment, sir. I have always appreciated that writer's pieces--I enjoy + them very much." + </p> + <p> + "Well, won't you please read it, Mr. Carleton?" said Florence, "and let us + know what we are talking about." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton obeyed, standing where he was by the centre-table. + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "By the old hearthstone a Spirit dwells,<br /> The child of bygone + years,--<br /> He lieth hid the stones amid,<br /> And liveth on smiles + and tears. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "But when the night is drawing on,<br /> And the fire burns clear and + bright,<br /> He Cometh out and walketh about,<br /> In the pleasant grave + twilight. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "He goeth round on tiptoe soft,<br /> And scanneth close each face;<br /> + If one in the room be sunk in gloom,<br /> By him he taketh his place. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "And then with fingers cool and soft,<br /> (Their touch who does not + know)<br /> With water brought from the well of Thought,<br /> That was + dug long years ago, + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "He layeth his hand on the weary eyes--<br /> They are closed and quiet + now;--<br /> And he wipeth away the dust of the day<br /> Which had + settled on the brow. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "And gently then he walketh away<br /> And sits in the corner chair;<br /> + And the closed eyes swim--it seemeth to <i>him</i><br /> The form that + once sat there. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "And whispered words of comfort and love<br /> Fall sweet on the ear of + sorrow;--<br /> 'Why weepest thou?--thou art troubled now,<br /> But there + cometh a bright to-morrow. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'We too have passed over life's wild stream<br /> In a frail and + shattered boat,<br /> But the pilot was sure--and we sailed secure<br /> + When we seemed but scarce afloat. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "'Though tossed by the rage of waves and wind,<br /> The bark held + together still,--<br /> One arm was strong--it bore us along,<br /> And + has saved from every ill.' + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "The Spirit returns to his hiding-place,<br /> But his words have been + like balm.<br /> The big tears start--but the fluttering heart<br /> Is + soothed and softened and calm." + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + "I remember that," said Florence;--"it is beautiful." + </p> + <p> + "Who's the writer?" said Mr. Stackpole. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"it is signed 'Hugh'--there have been a + good many of his pieces in the Excelsior for a year past--and all of them + pretty." + </p> + <p> + "Hugh!" exclaimed Edith springing forward,--"that's the one that wrote the + Chestnuts!--Fleda, won't you read Mr. Carleton the Chestnuts?" + </p> + <p> + "Why no, Edith, I think not." + </p> + <p> + "Ah do! I like it so much, and I want him to hear it,--and you know mamma + says they're all pretty. Won't you?" + </p> + <p> + "My dear Edith, you have heard it once already to day." + </p> + <p> + "But I want you to read it for me again." + </p> + <p> + "Let me have it, Miss Edith," said Mr. Carleton smiling,--"I will read it + for you." + </p> + <p> + "Ah but it would be twice as good if you could hear her read it," said + Edith, fluttering over the leaves of the magazine,--"she reads it so well. + It's so funny--about the coffee and buckwheat cakes." + </p> + <p> + "What is that, Edith?" said her mother. + </p> + <p> + "Something Mr. Carleton is going to read for me, mamma." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you trouble Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "It won't trouble him, mamma--he promised of his own accord." + </p> + <p> + "Let us all have the benefit of it, Mr. Carleton," said the lady. + </p> + <p> + It is worthy of remark that Fleda's politeness utterly deserted her during + the reading of both this piece and the last. She as near as possible + turned her back upon the reader. + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Merrily sang the crickets forth<br /> One fair October night;--<br /> And + the stars looked down, and the northern crown<br /> Gave its strange + fantastic light. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "A nipping frost was in the air,<br /> On flowers and grass it fell;<br /> + And the leaves were still on the eastern hill<br /> As if touched by a + fairy spell. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "To the very top of the tall nut-trees<br /> The frost-king seemed to + ride;<br /> With his wand he stirs the chestnut burs,<br /> And straight + they are opened wide. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "And squirrels and children together dream<br /> Of the coming winter's + hoard;<br /> And many, I ween, are the chestnuts seen<br /> In hole or in + garret stored. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "The children are sleeping in feather-beds--<br /> Poor Bun in his mossy + nest,--<br /> <i>He</i> courts repose with his tail on his nose.<br /> On + the others warm blankets rest. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Late in the morning the sun gets up<br /> From behind the village spire;<br /> + And the children dream, that the first red gleam<br /> Is the chestnut + trees on fire! + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "The squirrel had on when he first awoke<br /> All the clothing he could + command;<br /> And his breakfast was light--he just took a bite<br /> Of + an acorn that lay at hand; + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "And then he was off to the trees to work;--<br /> While the children + some time it takes<br /> To dress and to eat what <i>they</i> think meet<br /> + Of coffee and buckwheat cakes. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "The sparkling frost when they first go out,<br /> Lies thick upon all + around;<br /> And earth and grass, as they onward pass,<br /> Give a + pleasant crackling sound. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "O there is a heap of chestnuts, see!'<br /> Cried the youngest of the + train;<br /> For they came to a stone where the squirrel had thrown<br /> + What he meant to pick up again. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "And two bright eyes from the tree o'erhead,<br /> Looked down at the + open bag<br /> Where the nuts went in--and so to begin,<br /> Almost made + his courage flag. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Away on the hill, outside the wood,<br /> Three giant trees there stand;<br /> + And the chestnuts bright that hang in sight,<br /> Are eyed by the + youthful band. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "And one of their number climbs the tree,<br /> And passes from bough to + bough,--<br /> And the children run--for with pelting fun<br /> The nuts + fall thickly now. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Some of the burs are still shut tight,--<br /> Some open with chestnuts + three,--<br /> And some nuts fall with no burs at all--<br /> Smooth, + shiny, as nuts should be. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "O who can tell what fun it was<br /> To see the prickly shower!<br /> To + feel what a whack on head or back.<br /> Was within a chestnut's power!-- + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "To run beneath the shaking tree,<br /> And then to scamper away;<br /> + And with laughing shout to dance about<br /> The grass where the + chestnuts lay. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "With flowing dresses, and blowing hair,<br /> And eyes that no shadow + knew,--<br /> Like the growing light of a morning bright---<br /> The dawn + of the summer blue! + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "The work was ended--the trees were stripped--<br /> The children were + 'tired of play.'<br /> And they forgot (but the squirrel did not)<br /> + The wrong they had done that day." + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Whether it was from the reader's enjoyment or good giving of these lines, + or from Edith's delight in them, he was frequently interrupted with bursts + of laughter. + </p> + <p> + "I can understand <i>that</i>" said Mr. Stackpole, "without any + difficulty." + </p> + <p> + "You are not lost in the mysteries of chestnuting in open daylight," said + Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said Edith, "wouldn't you have taken the squirrel's + chestnuts?" + </p> + <p> + "I believe I should, Miss Edith,--if I had not been hindered." + </p> + <p> + "But what would have hindered you? don't you think it was right?" + </p> + <p> + "Ask your friend Miss Ringgan what she thinks of it," said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Now Mr. Carleton," said Constance as he threw down the magazine, "will + you decide that point of English between Miss Ringgan and me?" + </p> + <p> + "I should like to hear the pleadings on both sides, Miss Constance." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Fleda, will you agree to submit it to Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "I must know by what standards Mr. Carleton will be guided before I agree + to any such thing," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Standards! but aren't you going to trust anybody in anything without + knowing what standards they go by?" + </p> + <p> + "Would that be a safe rule to follow in general?" said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "You won't be a true woman if you don't follow it, sooner or later, my + dear Fleda," said Mrs. Evelyn. "Every woman must." + </p> + <p> + "The later the better, ma'am, I cannot help thinking." + </p> + <p> + "You will change your mind," said Mrs. Evelyn complacently. + </p> + <p> + "Mamma's notions, Mr. Stackpole, would satisfy any man's pride, when she + is expatiating upon the subject of woman's dependence," said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "The dependence of affection," said Mrs. Evelyn. "Of course! It's their + lot. Affection always leads a true woman to merge her separate judgment, + on anything, in the judgment of the beloved object." + </p> + <p> + "Ay," said Fleda laughing,--"suppose her affection is wasted on an object + that has none?" + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda!" said Mrs. Evelyn with a funny expression,--"that can + never be, you know--don't you remember what your favourite Longfellow + says--'affection never is wasted'?--Florence, my love, just hand me + 'Evangeline' there--I want you to listen to it, Mr. Stackpole--here it + is-- + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + 'Talk not of wasted affection; affection never was wasted;<br /> If it + enrich not the heart of another, its waters returning<br /> Back to their + springs shall fill them full of refreshment.<br /> That which the + fountain sends forth returns again to the fountain.'" + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + "How very plain it is that was written by a man!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Why?" said Mr. Carleton laughing. + </p> + <p> + "I always thought it was so exquisite!" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "<i>I</i> was so struck with it," said Constance, "that I have been + looking ever since for an object to waste <i>my</i> affections upon." + </p> + <p> + "Hush, Constance!" said her mother. "Don't you like it, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "I should like to hear Miss Ringgan's commentary," said Mr. Stackpole;--" + I can't anticipate it. I should have said the sentiment was quite soft and + tender enough for a woman." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you agree with it, Mr. Carleton," repeated Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "I beg leave to second Mr. Stackpole's motion," he said smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda my dear, you must explain yourself,--the gentlemen are at a stand." + </p> + <p> + "I believe, Mrs. Evelyn," said Fleda smiling and blushing,--I am of the + mind of the old woman who couldn't bear to see anything wasted." + </p> + <p> + "But the assertion is that it <i>isn't</i> wasted," said Mr. Stackpole. + </p> + <p> + "'That which the fountain sends forth returns again to the fountain,'" + said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, to flood and lay waste the fair growth of nature," said Fleda with a + little energy, though her colour rose and rose higher. + </p> + <p> + "Did it never occur to you, Mrs. Evelyn, that the streams which fertilize + as they flow do but desolate if their course be checked?" + </p> + <p> + "But your objection lies only against the author's figure," said Mr. + Stackpole;--"come to the fact." + </p> + <p> + "I was speaking as he did, sir, of the fact under the figure--I did not + mean to separate them." + </p> + <p> + Both the gentlemen were smiling, though with very different expression. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps," said Mr. Carleton, "the writer was thinking of a gentler and + more diffusive flow of kind feeling, which however it may meet with barren + ground and raise no fruit there, is sure in due time to come back, + heaven-refined, to refresh and replenish its source." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps so," said Fleda with a very pleased answering look,--"I do not + recollect how it is brought in--I may have answered rather Mrs. Evelyn + than Mr. Longfellow." + </p> + <p> + "But granting that it is an error," said Mr. Stackpole, "as you understood + it,--what shews it to have been made by a man?" + </p> + <p> + "Its utter ignorance of the subject, sir." + </p> + <p> + "You think <i>they</i> never waste their affections?" said he. + </p> + <p> + "By no means! but I think they rarely waste so much in any one direction + as to leave them quite impoverished." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton, how do you bear that, sir?" said Mrs. Evelyn. "Will you let + such an assertion pass unchecked?" + </p> + <p> + "I would not if I could help it, Mrs. Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + "That isn't saying much for yourself," said Constance;--"but Fleda my + dear, where did you get such an experience of waste and desolation?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, 'man is a microcosm,' you know," said Fleda lightly. + </p> + <p> + "But you make it out that only one-half of mankind can appropriate that + axiom," said Mr. Stackpole. "How can a woman know <i>men's</i> hearts so + well?" + </p> + <p> + "On the principle that the whole is greater than a part?" said Mr. + Carleton smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I'll sleep upon that before I give my opinion," said Mr. Stackpole. "Mrs. + Evelyn, good-evening!--" + </p> + <p> + "Well Mr. Carleton!" said Constance, "you have said a great deal for + women's minds." + </p> + <p> + "Some women's minds," he said with a smile. + </p> + <p> + "And some men's minds," said Fleda. "I was speaking only in the general." + </p> + <p> + Her eye half unconsciously reiterated her meaning as she shook hands with + Mr. Carleton. And without speaking a word for other people to hear, his + look and smile in return were more than an answer. Fleda sat for some time + after he was gone trying to think what it was in eye and lip which had + given her so much pleasure. She could not make out anything but + approbation,--the look of loving approbation that one gives to a good + child; but she thought it had also something of that quiet intelligence--a + silent communication of sympathy which the others in company could not + share. + </p> + <p> + She was roused from her reverie by Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda my dear, I am writing to your aunt Lucy--have you any message to + send?" + </p> + <p> + "No Mrs. Evelyn--I wrote myself to-day." + </p> + <p> + And she went back to her musings. + </p> + <p> + "I am writing about you, Fleda," said Mrs. Evelyn, again in a few minutes. + </p> + <p> + "Giving a good account, I hope, ma'am," said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I shall tell her I think sea-breezes have an unfavourable effect upon + you," said Mrs. Evelyn;--"that I am afraid you are growing pale; and that + you have clearly expressed yourself in favour of a garden at Queechy + rather than any lot in the city--or anywhere else;--so she had better send + for you home immediately." + </p> + <p> + Fleda tried to find out what the lady really meant; but Mrs. Evelyn's + delighted amusement did not consist with making the matter very plain. + Fleda's questions did nothing but aggravate the cause of them, to her own + annoyance; so she was fain at last to take her light and go to her own + room. + </p> + <p> + She looked at her flowers again with a renewal of the first pleasure and + of the quieting influence the giver of them had exercised over her that + evening; thought again how very kind it was of him to send them, and to + choose them so; how strikingly he differed from other people; how glad she + was to have seen him again, and how more than glad that he was so happily + changed from his old self. And then from that change and the cause of it, + to those higher, more tranquilizing, and sweetening influences that own no + kindred with earth's dust and descend like the dew of heaven to lay and + fertilize it. And when she laid herself down to sleep it was with a spirit + grave but simply happy; every annoyance and unkindness as unfelt now as + ever the parching heat of a few hours before when the stars are abroad. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="37"></a>Chapter XXXVII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + A snake bedded himself under the threshold of a country house. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + L'Estrange. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + To Fleda's very great satisfaction Mr. Thorn was not seen again for + several days. It would have been to her very great comfort too if he could + have been permitted to die out of mind as well as out of sight; but he was + brought up before her "lots of times," till poor Fleda almost felt as if + she was really in the moral neighbourhood of the Dead Sea, every natural + growth of pleasure was so withered under the barren spirit of raillery. + Sea-breezes were never so disagreeable since winds blew; and nervous and + fidgety again whenever Mr. Carleton was present, Fleda retreated to her + work and the table and withdrew herself as much as she could from notice + and conversation; feeling humbled,--feeling sorry and vexed and ashamed, + that such ideas should have been put into her head, the absurdity of + which, she thought, was only equalled by their needlessness. "As much as + she could" she withdrew; but that was not entirely; now and then interest + made her forget herself, and quitting her needle she would give eyes and + attention to the principal speaker as frankly as he could have desired. + Bad weather and bad roads for those days put riding out of the question. + </p> + <p> + One morning she was called down to see a gentleman, and came eschewing in + advance the expected image of Mr. Thorn. It was a very different person. + </p> + <p> + "Charlton Rossitur! My dear Charlton, how do you do? Where did you come + from?" + </p> + <p> + "You had better ask me what I have come for," he said laughing as he shook + hands with her. + </p> + <p> + "What have you come for?" + </p> + <p> + "To carry you home." + </p> + <p> + "Home!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I am going up there for a day or two, and mamma wrote me I had better act + as your escort, which of course I am most willing to do. See what mamma + says to you." + </p> + <p> + "When are you going, Charlton?" said Fleda as she broke the seal of the + note he gave her. + </p> + <p> + "To-morrow morning." + </p> + <p> + "That is too sudden a notice, Capt. Rossitur," said Mrs. Evelyn. "Fleda + will hurry herself out of her colour, and then your mother will say there + is something in sea-breezes that isn't good for her; and then she will + never trust her within reach of them again,--which I am sure Miss Ringgan + would be sorry for." + </p> + <p> + Fleda took her note to the window, half angry with herself that a kind of + banter in which certainly there was very little wit should have power + enough to disturb her. But though the shaft might be a slight one it was + winged with a will; the intensity of Mrs. Evelyn's enjoyment in her own + mischief gave it all the force that was wanting. Fleda's head was in + confusion; she read her aunt's note three times over before she had made + up her mind on any point respecting it. + </p> + <p> + "My Dearest Fleda, + </p> + <p> + Charlton is coming home for a day or two--hadn't you better take the + opportunity to return with him? I feel as if you had been long away, my + dear child--don't you feel so too? Your uncle is very desirous of seeing + you; and as for Hugh and me we are but half ourselves. I would not still + say a word about your coming home if it were for your good to stay; but I + fancy from something in Mrs. Evelyn's letter that Queechy air will by this + time do you good again; and opportunities of making the journey are very + uncertain. My heart has grown lighter since I gave it leave to expect you. + Yours, my darling, + </p> + <p> + L. R. + </p> + <p> + "P.S. I will write to Mrs. E. soon." + </p> + <p> + "What string has pulled these wires that are twitching me home?" thought + Fleda, as her eyes went over and over the words which the feeling of the + lines of her face would alone have told her were unwelcome. And why + unwelcome?--"One likes to be moved by fair means and not by foul," was the + immediate answer. "And besides, it is very disagreeable to be taken by + surprise. Whenever, in any matter of my staying or going, did aunt Lucy + have any wish but my pleasure?" Fleda mused a little while; and then with + a perfect understanding of the machinery that had been at work, though an + extremely vague and repulsed notion of the spring that had moved it, she + came quietly out from her window and told Charlton she would go with him. + </p> + <p> + "But not to-morrow?" said Mrs. Evelyn composedly. "You will not hurry her + off so soon as that, Capt. Rossitur?" + </p> + <p> + "Furloughs are the stubbornest things in the world, Mrs. Evelyn; there is + no spirit of accommodation about them. Mine lies between to-morrow morning + and one other morning some two days thereafter; and you might as soon + persuade Atlas to change his place. Will you be ready, coz?" + </p> + <p> + "I will be ready," said Fleda; and her cousin departed. + </p> + <p> + "Now my dear Fleda" said Mrs. Evelyn, but it was with that funny face, as + she saw Fleda standing thoughtfully before the fire,--you must be very + careful in getting your things together--" + </p> + <p> + "Why, Mrs. Evelyn?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid you will leave something behind you, my love." + </p> + <p> + "I will take care of that, ma'am, and that I may I will go and see about + it at once." + </p> + <p> + Very busy till dinner-time; she would not let herself stop to think about + anything. At dinner Mr. Evelyn openly expressed his regrets for her going + and his earnest wishes that she would at least stay till the holidays were + over. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you know Fleda better, papa," said Florence, "than to try to make + her alter her mind? When she says a thing is determined upon, I know there + is nothing to do but to submit, with as good a grace as you can." + </p> + <p> + "I tried to make Capt. Rossitur leave her a little longer," said Mrs. + Evelyn; "but he says furloughs are immovable, and his begins to-morrow + morning--so he was immovable too. I should keep her notwithstanding, + though, if her aunt Lucy hadn't sent for her." + </p> + <p> + "Well see what she wants, and come back again," said Mr. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir," said Fleda smiling gratefully,--"I think not this + winter." + </p> + <p> + "There are two or three of my friends that will be confoundedly taken + aback," said Mr. Evelyn, carefully helping himself to gravy. + </p> + <p> + "I expect that an immediate depopulation of New York will commence," said + Constance,--"and go on till the heights about Queechy are all thickly + settled with elegant country-seats,--which is the conventional term for a + species of mouse trap!" + </p> + <p> + "Hush, you baggage!" said her father. "Fleda, I wish you could spare her a + little of your common-sense, to go through the world with." + </p> + <p> + "Papa thinks, you see, my dear, that you have <i>more than enough</i>--which + is not perhaps precisely the compliment he intended." + </p> + <p> + "I take the full benefit of his and yours," said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + After dinner she had just time to run down to the library to bid Dr. + Gregory good-bye; her last walk in the city. It wasn't a walk she enjoyed + much. + </p> + <p> + "Going to-morrow," said he. "Why I am going to Boston in a week--you had + better stay and go with me." + </p> + <p> + "I can't now, uncle Orrin--I am dislodged--and you know there is nothing + to do then but to go." + </p> + <p> + "Come and stay with me till next week." + </p> + <p> + But Fleda said it was best not, and went home to finish her preparations. + </p> + <p> + She had no chance till late, for several gentlemen spent the evening with + them. Mr. Carleton was there part of the time, but he was one of the first + to go; and Fleda could not find an opportunity to say that she should not + see him again. Her timidity would not allow her to make one. But it + grieved her. + </p> + <p> + At last she escaped to her own room, where most of her packing was still + to do. By the time half the floor and all the bed was strewn with + neat-looking piles of things, the varieties of her modest wardrobe, + Florence and Constance came in to see and talk with her, and sat down on + the floor too; partly perhaps because the chairs were all bespoken in the + service of boxes and baskets, and partly to follow what seemed to be the + prevailing style of things. + </p> + <p> + "What do you suppose has become of Mr. Thorn?" said Constance. "I have a + presentiment that you will find him cracking nuts sociably with Mr. + Rossitur or drinking one of aunt Lucy's excellent cups of coffee--in + comfortable expectation of your return." + </p> + <p> + "If I thought that I should stay here," said Fleda. "My dear, those were + <i>my</i> cups of coffee!" + </p> + <p> + "I wish I could make you think it then," said Constance. + </p> + <p> + "But you are glad to go home, aren't you, Fleda?" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "She isn't!" said her sister. "She knows mamma contemplates making a grand + entertainment of all the Jews as soon as she is gone. What <i>does</i> + mamma mean by that, Fleda?--I observe you comprehend her with most + invariable quickness." + </p> + <p> + "I should be puzzled to explain all that your mother means," said Fleda + gently, as she went on bestowing her things in the trunk. "No--I am not + particularly glad to go home--but I fancy it is time. I am afraid I have + grown too accustomed to your luxury of life, and want knocking about to + harden me a little." + </p> + <p> + "Harden you!" said Constance. "My dear Fleda, you are under a delusion. + Why should any one go through an indurating process?--will you inform me?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't say that every one should," said Fleda,--"but isn't it well for + those whose lot does not lie among soft things?" + </p> + <p> + There was extreme sweetness and a touching insinuation in her manner, and + both the young ladies were silent for sometime thereafter watching + somewhat wistfully the gentle hands and face that were so quietly busy; + till the room was cleared again and looked remarkably empty with Fleda's + trunk standing in the middle of it. And then reminding them that she + wanted some sleep to fit her for the hardening process and must therefore + send them away, she was left alone. + </p> + <p> + One thing Fleda had put off till then--the care of her bunch of flowers. + They were beautiful still. They had given her a very great deal of + pleasure; and she was determined they should be left to no servant's hands + to be flung into the street. If it had been summer she was sure she could + have got buds from them; as it was, perhaps she might strike some + cuttings; at all events they should go home with her. So carefully taking + them out of the water and wrapping the ends in some fresh earth she had + got that very afternoon from her uncle's garden, Fleda bestowed them in + the corner of her trunk that she had left for them, and went to bed, + feeling weary in body, and in mind to the last degree quiet. + </p> + <p> + In the same mind and mood she reached Queechy the next afternoon. It was a + little before January--just the same time that she had come home last + year. As then, it was a bright day, and the country was again covered + thick with the unspotted snow; but Fleda forgot to think how bright and + fresh it was. Somehow she did not feel this time quite so glad to find + herself there. It had never occurred to her so strongly before that + Queechy could want anything. + </p> + <p> + This feeling flew away before the first glimpse of her aunt's smile, and + for half an hour after Fleda would have certified that Queechy wanted + nothing. At the end of that time came in Mr. Rossitur. His greeting of + Charlton was sufficiently unmarked; but eye and lip wakened when he turned + to Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "My dear child," he said, holding her face in both his hands,--how lovely + you have grown!" + </p> + <p> + "That's only because you have forgotten her, father," said Hugh laughing. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus21.jpg"><img src="images/illus21.jpg" height="250" + alt="'My dear child,' he said, holding her face in both his hands." + title="'My dear child,' he said, holding her face in both his hands." /><br /> + "My dear child," he said, holding her face in both his hands.</a> + </p> + <p> + It was a very lovely face just then. Mr. Rossitur gazed into it a moment + and again kissed first one cheek and then the other, and then suddenly + withdrew his hands and turned away, with an air--Fleda could not tell what + to make of it--an air that struck her with an immediate feeling of pain; + somewhat as if for some cause or other he had nothing to do with her or + her loveliness. And she needed not to see him walk the room for three + minutes to know that Michigan agencies had done nothing to lighten his + brow or uncloud his character. If this had wanted confirmation Fleda would + have found it in her aunt's face. She soon discovered, even in the course + of the pleasant talkative hours before supper, that it was not brightened + as she had expected to find it by her uncle's coming home; and her ears + now caught painfully the occasional long breath, but half smothered, which + told of a burden upon the heart but half concealed. Fleda supposed that + Mr. Rossitur's business affairs at the West must have disappointed him; + and resolved not to remember that Michigan was in the map of North + America. + </p> + <p> + Still they talked on, through the afternoon and evening, all of them + except him; he was moody and silent. Fleda felt the cloud overshadow sadly + her own gayety; but Mrs. Rossitur and Hugh were accustomed to it, and + Charlton was much too tall a light to come under any external obscuration + whatever. He was descanting brilliantly upon the doings and prospects at + Fort Hamilton where he was stationed, much to the entertainment of his + mother and brother. Fleda could not listen to him while his father was + sitting lost in something not half so pleasant as sleep in the corner of + the sofa. Her eyes watched him stealthily till she could not bear it any + longer. She resolved to bring the power of her sunbeam to bear, and going + round seated herself on the sofa close by him and laid her hand on his + arm. He felt it immediately. The arm was instantly drawn away to be put + around her and Fleda was pressed nearer to his side, while the other hand + took hers; and his lips were again on her forehead. + </p> + <p> + "And how do you like me for a farmer, uncle Rolf?" she said looking up at + him laughingly, and then fearing immediately that she had chosen her + subject ill. Not from any change in his countenance however,--that + decidedly brightened up. He did not answer at once. + </p> + <p> + "My child--you make me ashamed of mankind!" + </p> + <p> + "Of the dominant half of them, sir, do you mean?" said Charlton,--"or is + your observation a sweeping one?" + </p> + <p> + "It would sweep the greatest part of the world into the background, sir," + answered his father dryly, "if its sense were the general rule." + </p> + <p> + "And what has Fleda done to be such a besom of desolation?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's laugh set everybody else a going, and there was immediately more + life and common feeling in the society than had been all day. They all + seemed willing to shake off a weight, and even Fleda, in the endeavour to + chase the gloom that hung over others, as it had often happened, lost half + of her own. + </p> + <p> + "But still I am not answered," said Charlton when they were grave again. + "What has Fleda done to put such a libel upon mankind?" + </p> + <p> + "You should call it a <i>label</i>, as Dr. Quackenboss does," said Fleda + in a fresh burst,--"he says he never would stand being labelled!"-- + </p> + <p> + "But come back to the point," said Charlton,--"I want to know what is the + <i>label</i> in this case, that Fleda's doings put upon those of other + people?" + </p> + <p> + "Insignificance," said his father dryly. + </p> + <p> + "I should like to know how bestowed," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Don't enlighten him, uncle Rolf," said Fleda laughing,--"let my doings + remain in safe obscurity,--please!" + </p> + <p> + "I stand as a representative of mankind," said Charlton, "and I demand an + explanation." + </p> + <p> + "Look at what this slight frame and delicate nerves have been found equal + to, and then tell me if the broad shoulders of all your mess would have + borne half the burden or their united heads accomplished a quarter the + results." + </p> + <p> + He spoke with sufficient depth of meaning, though now with no unpleasant + expression. But Charlton notwithstanding rather gathered himself up. + </p> + <p> + "O uncle Rolf," said Fleda gently,--"nerves and muscles haven't much to do + with it--after all you know I have just served the place of a mouth-piece. + Seth was the head, and good Earl Douglass the hand." + </p> + <p> + "I am ashamed of myself and of mankind," Mr. Rossitur repeated, "when I + see what mere weakness can do, and how proudly valueless strength is + contended to be. You are looking, Capt. Rossitur,--but after all a cap and + plume really makes a man taller only to the eye." + </p> + <p> + "When I have flung my plume in anybody's face, sir," said Charlton rather + hotly, "it will be time enough to throw it back again." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur put her hand on his arm and looked her remonstrance. + </p> + <p> + "Are you glad to be home again, dear Fleda?" she said turning to her. + </p> + <p> + But Fleda was making some smiling communications to her uncle and did not + seem to hear. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda does it seem pleasant to be here again?" + </p> + <p> + "Very pleasant, dear aunt Lucy--though I have had a very pleasant visit + too." + </p> + <p> + "On the whole you do not wish you were at this moment driving out of town + in Mr. Thorn's cabriolet?" said her cousin. + </p> + <p> + "Not in the least," said Fleda coolly. "How did you know I ever did such a + thing?" + </p> + <p> + "I wonder what should bring Mr. Thorn to Queechy at this time of year," + said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + Fleda started at this confirmation of Constance's words; and what was very + odd, she could not get rid of the impression that Mr. Rossitur had started + too. Perhaps it was only her own nerves, but he had certainly taken away + the arm that was round her. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose he has followed Miss Ringgan," said Charlton gravely. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Hugh, "he has been here some little time." + </p> + <p> + "Then he preceded her, I suppose, to see and get the sleighs in order." + </p> + <p> + "He did not know I was coming," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Didn't!" + </p> + <p> + "No--I have not seen him for several days." + </p> + <p> + "My dear little cousin," said Charlton laughing,--"you are not a witch in + your own affairs, whatever you may be in those of other people." + </p> + <p> + "Why, Charlton?" + </p> + <p> + "You are no adept in the art of concealment." + </p> + <p> + "I have nothing to conceal," said Fleda. "How do you know he is here, + Hugh?" + </p> + <p> + "I was anxiously asked the other day," said Hugh with a slight smile, + "whether you had come home; and then told that Mr. Thorn was in Queechy. + There is no mistake about it, for my imformant had actually seen him, and + given him the direction to Mr. Plumfield's, for which he was inquiring." + </p> + <p> + "The direction to Mr. Plumfield's!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "What's your old friend Mr. Carleton doing in New York?" said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Is he there still?" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "As large as life," answered her son. + </p> + <p> + "Which, though you might not suppose it, aunt Lucy, is about the height of + Capt. Rossitur, with--I should judge--a trifle less weight." + </p> + <p> + "Your eyes are observant!" said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Of a good many things," said Fleda lightly. + </p> + <p> + "He is <i>not</i> my height by half an inch," said Charlton;--"I am just + six feet without my boots." + </p> + <p> + "An excellent height!" said Fleda,--"'your six feet was ever the only + height.'" + </p> + <p> + "Who said that?" said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Isn't it enough that I say it?" + </p> + <p> + "What's he staying here for?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know really," said Fleda. "It's very difficult to tell what + people do things for." + </p> + <p> + "Have you seen much of him?" said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Yes ma'am--a good deal--he was often at Mrs. Evelyn's." + </p> + <p> + "Is he going to marry one of her daughters?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh no!" said Fleda smiling,--"he isn't thinking of such a thing;--not in + America--I don't know what he may do in England." + </p> + <p> + "No!" said Charlton.--"I suppose he would think himself contaminated by + matching with any blood in this hemisphere." + </p> + <p> + "You do him injustice," said Fleda, colouring;--"you do not know him, + Charlton." + </p> + <p> + "You do?" + </p> + <p> + "Much better than that." + </p> + <p> + "And he is not one of the most touch-me-not pieces of English birth and + wealth that ever stood upon their own dignity?" + </p> + <p> + "Not at all!" said Fleda;--"how people may be misunderstood!--he is one of + the most gentle and kind persons I ever saw." + </p> + <p> + "To you!" + </p> + <p> + "To everybody that deserves it." + </p> + <p> + "Humph!--And not proud?" + </p> + <p> + "No, not as you understand it,"--and she felt it was very difficult to + make him understand it, as the discovery involved a very offensive + implication;--"he is too fine a character to be proud." + </p> + <p> + "That <i>is</i> arguing in a circle with a vengeance!" said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "I know what you are thinking of," said Fleda, "and I suppose it passes + for pride with a great many people who cannot comprehend it--he has a + singular power of quietly rebuking wrong, and keeping impertinence at a + distance--where Capt. Rossitur, for instance, I suppose, would throw his + cap in a man's face, Mr. Carleton's mere silence would make the offender + doff his and ask pardon." + </p> + <p> + The manner in which this was said precluded all taking offence. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Charlton shrugging his shoulders,--"then I don't know what + pride is--that's all!" + </p> + <p> + "Take care, Capt. Rossitur," said Fleda laughing,--"I have heard of such a + thing as American pride before now." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly!" said Charlton, "and I'm quite willing--but it never reaches + quite such a towering height on our side the water." + </p> + <p> + "I am sure I don't know how that may be," said Fleda, "but I know I have + heard a lady, an enlightened, gentle-tempered American lady, so called,--I + have heard her talk to a poor Irish woman with whom she had nothing in the + world to do, in a style that moved my indignation--it stirred my + blood!--and there was nothing whatever to call it out. 'All the blood of + all the Howards,' I hope would not have disgraced itself so." + </p> + <p> + "What business have you to 'hope' anything about it?" + </p> + <p> + "None--except from the natural desire to find what one has a right to look + for. But indeed I wouldn't take the blood of all the Howards for any + security--pride as well as high-breeding is a thing of natural not + adventitious growth--it belongs to character, not circumstance." + </p> + <p> + "Do you know that your favourite Mr. Carleton is nearly connected with + those same Howards, and quarters their arms with his own?" + </p> + <p> + "I have a very vague idea of the dignity implied in that expression of + 'quartering arms,' which comes so roundly out of your mouth, Charlton," + said Fleda laughing. "No, I didn't know it. But in general I am apt to + think that pride is a thing which reverses the usual rules of + architecture, and builds highest on the narrowest foundations." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "Never mind," said Fleda,--"if a meaning isn't plain it isn't worth + looking after. But it will not do to measure pride by its supposed + materials. It does not depend on them but on the individual. You + everywhere see people assert that most of which they feel least sure, and + then it is easy for them to conclude that where there is so much more of + the reality there must be proportionably more of the assertion. I wish + some of our gentlemen, and ladies, who talk of pride where they see and + can see nothing but the habit of wealth--I wish they could see the + universal politeness with which Mr. Carleton returns the salutes of his + inferiors. Not more respectfully they lift their hats to him than he lifts + his to them--unless when he speaks." + </p> + <p> + "You have seen it?" + </p> + <p> + "Often." + </p> + <p> + "Where?" + </p> + <p> + "In England--at his own place--among his own servants and dependents. I + remember very well--it struck even my childish eyes." + </p> + <p> + "Well, after all, that is nothing still but a refined kind of + haughtiness." + </p> + <p> + "It is a kind that I wish some of our Americans would copy," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "But dear Fleda," said Mrs. Rossitur, "all Americans are not like that + lady you were talking of--it would be very unfair to make her a sample. I + don't think I ever heard any one speak so in my life--you never heard me + speak so." + </p> + <p> + "Dear aunt Lucy!--no,--I was only giving instance for instance. I have no + idea that Mr. Carleton is a type of Englishmen in general--I wish he were. + But I think it is the very people that cry out against superiority, who + are the most happy to assert their own where they can; the same jealous + feeling that repines on the one hand, revenges itself on the other." + </p> + <p> + "Superiority of what kind?" said Charlton stiffly. + </p> + <p> + "Of any kind--superiority of wealth, or refinement, or name, or standing. + Now it does not follow that an Englishman is proud because he keeps + liveried servants, and it by no means follows that an American lacks the + essence of haughtiness because he finds fault with him for doing so." + </p> + <p> + "I dare say some of our neighbours think we are proud," said Hugh, + "Because we use silver forks instead of steel." + </p> + <p> + "Because we're <i>too good for steel forks</i>, you ought to say," said + Fleda. "I am sure they think so. I have been given to understand as much. + Barby, I believe, has a good opinion of us and charitably concludes that + we mean right; but some other of our country friends would think I was far + gone in uppishness if they knew that I never touch fish with a steel + knife; and it wouldn't mend the matter much to tell them that the + combination of flavours is disagreeable to me--it hardly suits the + doctrine of liberty and equality that my palate should be so much nicer + than theirs." + </p> + <p> + "Absurd!" said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "Very," said Fleda; "but on which side, in all probability, is the pride?" + </p> + <p> + "It wasn't for liveried servants that I charged Mr. Carleton," said her + cousin. "How do the Evelyns like this paragon of yours?" + </p> + <p> + "O everybody likes him," said Fleda smiling,--"except you and your friend + Mr. Thorn." + </p> + <p> + "Thorn don't like him, eh?" + </p> + <p> + "I think not." + </p> + <p> + "What do you suppose is the reason?" said Charlton gravely. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think Mr. Thorn is particularly apt to like anybody," said Fleda, + who knew very well the original cause of both exceptions but did not like + to advert to it. + </p> + <p> + "Apparently you don't like Mr. Thorn?" said Mr. Rossitur, speaking for the + first time. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know who does, sir, much,--except his mother." + </p> + <p> + "What is he?" + </p> + <p> + "A man not wanting in parts, sir, and with considerable force of + character,--but I am afraid more for ill than for good. I should be very + sorry to trust him with anything dear to me." + </p> + <p> + "How long were you in forming that opinion?" said Charlton looking at her + curiously. + </p> + <p> + "It was formed, substantially, the first evening I saw him, and I hare + never seen cause to alter it since." + </p> + <p> + The several members of the family therewith fell into a general muse, with + the single exception of Hugh, whose eyes and thoughts seemed to be + occupied with Fleda's living presence. Mr. Rossitur then requested that + breakfast might be ready very early--at six o'clock. + </p> + <p> + "Six o'clock!" exclaimed Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "I have to take a long ride, on business, which must be done early in the + day." + </p> + <p> + "When will you be back?" + </p> + <p> + "Not before night-fall." + </p> + <p> + "But going on <i>another</i> business journey!" said Mrs. Rossitur. "You + have but just these few hours come home from one." + </p> + <p> + "Cannot breakfast be ready?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, uncle Rolf," said Fleda bringing her bright face before him,--"ready + at half-past five if you like--now that <i>I</i> am to the fore, you + know." + </p> + <p> + He clasped her to his breast and kissed her again; but with a face so very + grave that Fleda was glad nobody else saw it. + </p> + <p> + Then Charlton went, averring that he wanted at least a night and a half of + sleep between two such journeys as the one of that day and the one before + him on the next,--especially as he must resign himself to going without + anything to eat. Him also Fleda laughingly promised that precisely half an + hour before the stage time a cup of coffee and a roll should be smoking on + the table, with whatever substantial appendages might be within the bounds + of possibility, or the house. + </p> + <p> + "I will pay you for that beforehand with a kiss," said he. + </p> + <p> + "You will do nothing of the kind," said Fleda stepping back;--"a kiss is a + favour taken, not given; and I am entirely ignorant what you have done to + deserve it." + </p> + <p> + "You make a curious difference between me and Hugh," said Charlton, half + in jest, half in earnest. + </p> + <p> + "Hugh is my brother, Capt. Rossitur," said Fleda smiling,--and that is an + honour you never made any pretensions to." + </p> + <p> + "Come, you shall not say that any more," said he, taking the kiss that + Fleda had no mind to give him. + </p> + <p> + Half laughing, but with eyes that were all too ready for something else, + she turned again to Hugh when his brother had left the room and looked + wistfully in his face, stroking back the hair from his temples with a + caressing hand. + </p> + <p> + "You are just as you were when I left you!--" she said, with lips that + seemed too unsteady to say more, and remained parted. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid so are you," he replied;--"not a bit fatter. I hoped you + would be." + </p> + <p> + "What have you been smiling at so this evening?" + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking how well you talked." + </p> + <p> + "Why Hugh!--You should have helped me--I talked too much." + </p> + <p> + "I would much rather listen," said Hugh. "Dear Fleda, what a different + thing the house is with you in it!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda said nothing, except an inexplicable little shake of her head which + said a great many things; and then she and her aunt were left alone. Mrs. + Rossitur drew her to her bosom with a look so exceeding fond that its + sadness was hardly discernible. It was mingled however with an expression + of some doubt. + </p> + <p> + "What has made you keep so thin?" + </p> + <p> + "I have been very well, aunt Lucy,--thinness agrees with me." + </p> + <p> + "Are you glad to be home again, dear Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad to be with you, dear aunt Lucy!" + </p> + <p> + "But not glad to be home?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes I am," said Fleda,--"but somehow--I don't know--I believe I have got + a little spoiled--it is time I was at home I am sure.--I shall be quite + glad after a day or two, when I have got into the works again. I am glad + now, aunt Lucy." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur seemed unsatisfied, and stroked the hair from Fleda's + forehead with an absent look. + </p> + <p> + "What was there in New York that you were so sorry to leave?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing ma'am, in particular,"--said Fleda brightly,--"and I am not + sorry, aunt Lucy--I tell you I am a little spoiled with company and easy + living--I am glad to be with you again." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur was silent. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you get up to uncle Rolf's breakfast to-morrow, aunt Lucy." + </p> + <p> + "Nor you." + </p> + <p> + "I sha'n't unless I want to--but there'll be nothing for you to do, and + you must just lie still. We will all have our breakfast together when + Charlton has his." + </p> + <p> + "You are the veriest sunbeam that ever came into a house," said her aunt + kissing her. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="38"></a>Chapter XXXVIII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + My flagging soul flies under her own pitch. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Dryden. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Fleda mused as she went up stairs whether the sun were a luminous body to + himself or no, feeling herself at that moment dull enough. Bright, was + she, to others? nothing seemed bright to her. Every old shadow was darker + than ever. Her uncle's unchanged gloom,--her aunt's unrested face,--Hugh's + unaltered delicate sweet look, which always to her fancy seemed to write + upon his face, "Passing away!"--and the thickening prospects whence sprang + the miasm that infected the whole moral atmosphere--alas, yes!--"Money is + a good thing," thought Fleda;--"and poverty need not be a bad thing, if + people can take it right;--but if they take it wrong!--" + </p> + <p> + With a very drooping heart indeed she went to the window. Her old childish + habit had never been forgotten; whenever the moon or the stars were abroad + Fleda rarely failed to have a talk with them from her window. She stood + there now, looking out into the cold still night, with eyes just dimmed + with tears--not that she lacked sadness enough, but she did lack spirit + enough to cry. It was very still;--after the rattle and confusion of the + city streets, that extent of snow-covered country where the very shadows + were motionless--the entire absence of soil and of disturbance--the rest + of nature--the breathlessness of the very wind--all preached a quaint kind + of sermon to Fleda. By the force of contrast they told her what should + be;--and there was more yet,--she thought that by the force of example + they shewed what might be. Her eyes had not long travelled over the + familiar old fields and fences before she came to the conclusion that she + was home in good time,--she thought she had been growing selfish, or in + danger of it; and she made up her mind she was glad to be back again among + the rough things of life, where she could do so much to smooth them for + others and her own spirit might grow to a polish it would never gain in + the regions of ease and pleasure. "To do life's work!"--thought Fleda + clasping her hands,--"no matter where--and mine is here. I am glad I am in + my place again--I was forgetting I had one." + </p> + <p> + It was a face of strange purity and gravity that the moon shone upon, with + no power to brighten as in past days; the shadows of life were upon the + child's brow. But nothing to brighten it from within? One sweet strong ray + of other light suddenly found its way through the shadows and entered her + heart. "The Lord reigneth! let the earth be glad!"--and then the moonbeams + pouring down with equal ray upon all the unevennesses of this little world + seemed to say the same thing over and over. Even so! Not less equally his + providence touches all,--not less impartially his faithfulness guides. + "The Lord reigneth! let the earth be glad!" There was brightness in the + moonbeams now that Fleda could read this in them; she went to sleep, a + very child again, with these words for her pillow. + </p> + <p> + It was not six, and darkness yet filled the world, when Mr. Rossitur came + down stairs and softly opened the sitting-room door. But the home fairy + had been at work; he was greeted with such a blaze of cheerfulness as + seemed to say what a dark place the world was everywhere but at home; his + breakfast-table was standing ready, well set and well supplied; and even + as he entered by one door Fleda pushed open the other and came in from the + kitchen, looking as if she had some strange spirit-like kindred with the + cheery hearty glow which filled both rooms. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda!--you up at this hour!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, uncle Rolf," she said coming forward to put her hands upon + his,--"you are not sorry to see me, I hope." + </p> + <p> + But he did not say he was glad; and he did not speak at all; he busied + himself gravely with some little matters of preparation for his journey. + Evidently the gloom of last night was upon him yet. But Fleda had not + wrought for praise, and could work without encouragement; neither step nor + hand slackened, till all she and Barby had made ready was in nice order on + the table and she was pouring out a cup of smoking coffee. + </p> + <p> + "You are not fit to be up," said Mr. Rossitur, looking at her,---"you are + pale now, Put yourself in that arm chair, Fleda, and go to sleep--I will + do this for myself." + </p> + <p> + "No indeed, uncle Rolf," she answered brightly,--"I have enjoyed getting + breakfast very much at this out-of-the-way hour, and now I am going to + have the pleasure of seeing you eat it. Suppose you were to take a cup of + coffee instead of my shoulder." + </p> + <p> + He took it and sat down, but Fleda found that the pleasure of seeing him + was to be a very qualified thing. He ate like a business man, in unbroken + silence and gravity; and her cheerful words and looks got no return. It + became an effort at length to keep either bright. Mr. Rossitur's sole + remarks during breakfast were to ask if Charlton was going back that day, + and if Philetus was getting the horse ready. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Skillcorn had been called in good time by Barby at Fleda's suggestion, + and coming down stairs had opined discontentedly that "a man hadn't no + right to be took out of bed in the morning afore he could see himself." + But this, and Barby's spirited reply, that "there was no chance of his + doing <i>that</i> at any time of day, so it was no use to wait,"--Fleda + did not repeat. Her uncle was in no humour to be amused. + </p> + <p> + She expected almost that he would go off without speaking to her. But he + came up kindly to where she stood watching him. + </p> + <p> + "You must bid me good-bye for all the family, uncle Rolf, as I am the only + one here," she said laughing. + </p> + <p> + But she was sure that the embrace and kiss which followed were very + exclusively for her. They made her face almost as sober as his own. + </p> + <p> + "There will be a blessing for you," said he,--"if there is a blessing + anywhere!" + </p> + <p> + "If, uncle Rolf?" said Fleda, her heart swelling to her eyes. + </p> + <p> + He turned away without answering her. + </p> + <p> + Fleda sat down in the easy chair then and cried. But that lasted very few + minutes; she soon left crying for herself to pray for him, that he might + have the blessing he did not know. That did not stop tears. She remembered + the poor man sick of the palsy who was brought in by friends to be healed, + and that "Jesus seeing <i>their</i> faith, said unto the sick of the + palsy, 'Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.'" It was a handle that faith took + hold of and held fast while love made its petition. It was all she could + do, she thought; <i>she</i> never could venture to speak to her uncle on + the subject. + </p> + <p> + Weary and tired, tears and longing at length lost themselves in sleep. + When she awaked she found the daylight broadly come, little King in her + lap, the fire, instead of being burnt out, in perfect preservation, and + Barby standing before it and looking at her. + </p> + <p> + "You ha'n't got one speck o' good by <i>this</i> journey to New York," was + Miss Elster's vexed salutation. + </p> + <p> + "Do you think so?" said Fleda rousing herself. "<i>I</i> wouldn't venture + to say as much as that, Barby." + </p> + <p> + "If you have, 'tain't in your cheeks," said Barby decidedly. "You look + just as if you was made of anything that wouldn't stand wear, and that + isn't the way you used to look." + </p> + <p> + "I have been up a good while without breakfast--my cheeks will be a better + colour when I have had that, Barby--they feel pale." + </p> + <p> + The second breakfast was a cheerfuller thing. But when the second + traveller was despatched, and the rest fell back upon their old numbers, + Fleda was very quiet again. It vexed her to be so, but she could not + change her mood. She felt as if she had been whirled along in a dream and + was now just opening her eyes to daylight and reality. And reality--she + could not help it--looked rather dull after dreamland. She thought it was + very well she was waked up; but it cost her some effort to appear so. And + then she charged herself with ingratitude, her aunt and Hugh were so + exceedingly happy in her company. + </p> + <p> + "Earl Douglass is quite delighted with the clover hay, Fleda," said Hugh, + as the three sat at an early dinner. + </p> + <p> + "Is he?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Yes,--you know he was very unwilling to cure it in your way--and he + thinks there never was anything like it now." + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever see finer ham, Fleda?" inquired her aunt. "Mr. Plumfield + says it could not be better." + </p> + <p> + "Very good!" said Fleda, whose thoughts had somehow got upon Mr. + Carleton's notions about female education and were very busy with them. + </p> + <p> + "I expected you would have remarked upon our potatoes, before now," said + Hugh. "These are the Elephants--have you seen anything like them in New + York?" + </p> + <p> + "There cannot be more beautiful potatoes," said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "We had not tried any of them before you went away, Fleda, had we?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, aunt Lucy!--no, I think not." + </p> + <p> + "You needn't talk to Fleda, mother," said Hugh laughing,--"she is quite + beyond attending to all such ordinary matters--her thoughts have learned + to take a higher flight since she has been in New York." + </p> + <p> + "It is time they were brought down then," said Fleda smiling; "but they + have not learned to fly out of sight of home, Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "Where were they, dear Fleda?" said her aunt. + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking a minute ago of something I heard talked about in New + York, aunt Lucy; and afterwards I was trying to find out by what possible + or imaginable road I had got round to it." + </p> + <p> + "Could you tell?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda said no, and tried to bear her part in the conversation. But she did + not know whether to blame the subjects which had been brought forward, or + herself, for her utter want of interest in them. She went into the kitchen + feeling dissatisfied with both. + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever see potatoes that would beat them Elephants?" said Barby. + </p> + <p> + "Never, certainly," said Fleda with a most involuntary smile. + </p> + <p> + "I never did," said Barby. "They beat all, for bigness and goodness both. + I can't keep 'em together. There's thousands of 'em, and I mean to make + Philetus eat 'em for supper--such potatoes and milk is good enough for + him, or anybody. The cow has gained on her milk wonderful, Fleda, since + she begun to have them roots fed out to her." + </p> + <p> + "Which cow?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Which cow?--why--the blue cow--there ain't none of the others that's + giving any, to speak of," said Barby looking at her. "Don't you know,--the + cow you said them carrots should be kept for?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda half laughed, as there began to rise up before her the various + magazines of vegetables, grain, hay, and fodder, that for many weeks had + been deliciously distant from her imagination. + </p> + <p> + "I made butter for four weeks, I guess, after you went away," Barby went + on;--"just come in here and see--and the carrots makes it as yellow and + sweet as June--I churned as long as I had anything to churn, and longer; + and now we live on cream--you can make some cheesecakes just as soon as + you're a mind to,--see! ain't that doing pretty well?--and fine it + is,--put your nose down to it--" + </p> + <p> + "Bravely, Barby--and it is very sweet." + </p> + <p> + "You ha'n't left nothing behind you in New York, have you?" said Barby + when they returned to the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + "Left anything! no,--what do you think I have left?" + </p> + <p> + "I didn't know but you might have forgotten to pack up your memory," said + Barby dryly. + </p> + <p> + Fleda laughed; and then in walked Mr. Douglass. + </p> + <p> + "How d'ye do?" said he. "Got back again. I heerd you was hum, and so I + thought I'd just step up and see. Been getting along pretty well?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda answered, smiling internally at the wide distance between her + "getting along" and his idea of it. + </p> + <p> + "Well the hay's first-rate!" said Earl, taking off his hat and sitting + down in the nearest chair;--"I've been feedin' it out, now, for a good + spell, and I know what to think about it. We've been feedin' it out ever + since some time this side o' the middle o' November;--I never see nothin' + sweeter, and I don't want to see nothin' sweeter than it is! and the + cattle eats it like May roses--they don't know how to thank you enough for + it." + </p> + <p> + "To thank <i>you</i>, Mr. Douglass," said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "No," said he in a decided manner,--"I don't want no thanks for it, and I + don't deserve none! 'Twa'n't thanks to none of <i>my</i> fore-sightedness + that the clover wa'n't served the old way. I didn't like new notions--and + I never did like new notions! and I never see much good of 'em;--but I + suppose there's some on 'em that ain't moon-shine--my woman says there is, + and I suppose there is, and after this clover hay I'm willin' to allow + that there is! It's as sweet as a posie if you smell to it,--and all of + it's cured alike; and I think, Fleda, there's a quarter more weight of it. + I ha'n't proved it nor weighed it, but I've an eye and a hand as good as + most folks', and I'll qualify to there being a fourth part more weight of + it;--and it's a beautiful colour. The critters is as fond of it as you and + I be of strawberries." + </p> + <p> + "Well that is satisfactory, Mr. Douglass," said Fleda. "How is Mrs. + Douglass? and Catherine?" + </p> + <p> + "I ha'n't heerd 'em sayin' nothin' about it," he said,--"and if there was + anythin' the matter I suppose they'd let me know. There don't much go + wrong in a man's house without his hearin' tell of it. So I think. Maybe + 'tain't the same in other men's houses. That's the way it is in mine." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Douglass would not thank you," said Fleda, wholly unable to keep + from laughing. Earl's mouth gave way a very little, and then he went on. + </p> + <p> + "How be you?" he said. "You ha'n't gained much, as I see. I don't see but + you're as poor as when you went away." + </p> + <p> + "I am very well, Mr. Douglass." + </p> + <p> + "I guess New York ain't the place to grow fat. Well, Fleda, there ha'n't + been seen in the whole country, or by any man in it, the like of the crop + of corn we took off that 'ere twenty-acre lot--they're all beat to hear + tell of it--they won't believe me--Seth Plumfield ha'n't shewed as much + himself--he says you're the best farmer in the state." + </p> + <p> + "I hope he gives you part of the credit, Mr. Douglass;--how much was + there? + </p> + <p> + "I'll take my share of credit whenever I can get it," said Earl, "and I + think it's right to take it, as long as you ha'n't nothing to be ashamed + of; but I won't take no more than my share; and I will say I thought we + was a goin' to choke the corn to death when we seeded the field in that + way.--Well, there's better than two thousand bushel--more or less--and as + handsome corn as I want to see;--there never was handsomer corn. Would you + let it go for five shillings?--there's a man I've heerd of wants the hull + of it." + </p> + <p> + "Is that a good price, Mr. Douglass? Why don't you ask Mr. Rossitur?" + </p> + <p> + "Do you s'pose Mr. Rossitur knows much about it?" inquired Earl with a + curious turn of feature, between sly and contemptuous. "The less he has to + do with that heap of corn the bigger it'll be--that's my idee, <i>I</i> + ain't agoin' to ask him nothin'--you may ask him what you like to ask + him--but I don't think he'll tell you much that'll make you and me wiser + in the matter o' farmin'." + </p> + <p> + "But now that he is at home, Mr. Douglass, I certainly cannot decide + without speaking to him." + </p> + <p> + "Very good!" said Earl uneasily,--"'tain't no affair of mine--as you like + to have it so you'll have it--just as you please!--But now, Fleda, there's + another thing I want to speak to you about--I want you to let me take hold + of that 'ere piece of swamp land and bring it in. I knew a man that fixed + a piece of land like that and cleared nigh a thousand dollars off it the + first year." + </p> + <p> + "Which piece?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Why you know which 'tis--just the other side of the trees over + there--between them two little hills. There's six or seven acres of + it--nothin' in the world but mud and briars--will you let me take hold of + it? I'll do the hull job if you'll give me half the profits for one + year.--Come over and look at it, and I'll tell you--come! the walk won't + hurt you, and it ain't fur." + </p> + <p> + All Fleda's inclinations said no, but she thought it was not best to + indulge them. She put on her hood and went off with him; and was treated + to a long and most implicated detail of ways and means, from which she at + length disentangled the rationale of the matter and gave Mr. Douglass the + consent he asked for, promising to gain that of her uncle. + </p> + <p> + The day was fair and mild, and in spite of weariness of body a certain + weariness of mind prompted Fleda when she had got rid of Earl Douglass, to + go and see her aunt Miriam. She went questioning with herself all the way + for her want of good-will to these matters. True, they were not pleasant + mind-work; but she tried to school herself into taking them patiently as + good life-work. She had had too much pleasant company and enjoyed too much + conversation, she said. It had unfitted her for home duties. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Plumfield, she knew, was no better. But her eye found no change for + the worse. The old lady was very glad to see her, and very cheerful and + kind as usual. + </p> + <p> + "Well are you glad to be home again?" said aunt Miriam after a pause in + the conversation. + </p> + <p> + "Everybody asks me that question," said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps for the same reason I did--because they thought you didn't look + very glad." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad--" said Fleda,--"but I believe not so glad as I was last year." + </p> + <p> + "Why not + </p> + <p> + "I suppose I had a pleasanter time, I have got a little spoiled, I + believe, aunt Miriam," Fleda said with glistening eyes and an altering + voice,--"I don't take up my old cares and duties kindly at first--I shall + be myself again in a few days." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Miriam looked at her with that fond, wistful, benevolent look which + made Fleda turn away. + </p> + <p> + "What has spoiled you, love?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh!--easy living and pleasure, I suppose--" Fleda said, but said with + difficulty. + </p> + <p> + "Pleasure?"--said aunt Miriam, putting one arm gently round her. Fleda + struggled with herself. + </p> + <p> + "It is so pleasant, aunt Miriam, to forget these money cares!--to lift + one's eyes from the ground and feel free to stretch out one's hand--not to + be obliged to think about spending sixpences, and to have one's mind at + liberty for a great many things that I haven't time for here. And + Hugh--and aunt Lucy--somehow things seem sad to me--" + </p> + <p> + Nothing could be more sympathizingly kind than the way in which aunt + Miriam brought Fleda closer to her side and wrapped her in her arms. + </p> + <p> + "I am very foolish--" Fleda whispered,--"I am very wrong--I shall get over + it--" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid, dear Fleda," Mrs. Plumfield said after a pause,--"it isn't + best for us always to be without sad things--though I cannot bear to see + your dear little face look sad--but it wouldn't fit us for the work we + have to do--it wouldn't fit us to stand where I stand now and look forward + happily." + </p> + <p> + "Where you stand?" said Fleda raising her head. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and I would not be without a sorrow I have ever known. They are + bitter now, when they are present,--but the sweet fruit comes after." + </p> + <p> + "But what do you mean by 'where you stand'?" + </p> + <p> + "On the edge of life." + </p> + <p> + "You do not think so, aunt Miriam!" Fleda said with a terrified look. "You + are not worse?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't expect ever to be better," said Mrs. Plumfield with a smile. + "Nay, my love," she said, as Fleda's head went down on her bosom + again,--"not so! I do not wish it either, Fleda. I do not expect to leave + you soon, but I would not prolong the time by a day. I would not have + spoken of it now if I had recollected myself,--but I am so accustomed to + think and speak of it that it came out before I knew it.--My darling + child, it is nothing to cry for." + </p> + <p> + "I know it, aunt Miriam." + </p> + <p> + "Then don't cry," whispered aunt Miriam, when she had stroked Fleda's head + for five minutes. + </p> + <p> + "I am crying for myself, aunt Miriam," said Fleda. "I shall be left + alone." + </p> + <p> + "Alone, my dear child?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--there is nobody but you that I feel I can talk to." She would have + added that she dared not say a word to Hugh for fear of troubling him. But + that pain at her heart stopped her, and pressing her hands together she + burst into bitter weeping. + </p> + <p> + "Nobody to talk to but me?" said Mrs. Plumfield after again soothing her + for some time,--"what do you mean, dear?" + </p> + <p> + "O--I can't say anything to them at home," said Fleda with a forced effort + after voice;--"and you are the only one I can look to for help--Hugh never + says anything--almost never--anything of that kind;--he would rather + others should counsel him--" + </p> + <p> + "There is one friend to whom you may always tell everything, with no fear + of wearying him,--of whom you may at all times ask counsel without any + danger of being denied,--more dear, more precious, more rejoiced in, the + more he is sought unto. Thou mayest lose friend after friend, and gain + more than thou losest,--in that one." + </p> + <p> + "I know it," said Fleda;--"but dear aunt Miriam, don't you think human + nature longs for some human sympathy and help too?" + </p> + <p> + "My sweet blossom!--yes--" said Mrs. Plumfield caressingly stroking her + bowed head,--"but let him do what he will;--he hath said, 'I will never + leave thee nor forsake thee.'" + </p> + <p> + "I know that too," said Fleda weeping. "How do people bear life that do + not know it!" + </p> + <p> + "Or that cannot take the comfort of it. Thou art not poor nor alone while + thou hast him to go to, little Fleda.--And you are not losing me yet, my + child; you will have time, I think, to grow as well satisfied as I with + the prospect." + </p> + <p> + "Is that possible,--for <i>others</i>?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + The mother sighed, as her son entered the room. + </p> + <p> + He looked uncommonly grave, Fleda thought. That did not surprise her, but + it seemed that it did his mother, for she asked an explanation. Which + however he did not give. + </p> + <p> + "So you've got back from New York," said he. + </p> + <p> + "Just got back, yesterday," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you stay longer?" + </p> + <p> + "I thought my friends at home would be glad to see me," said Fleda. "Was I + mistaken?" + </p> + <p> + He made no answer for a minute, and then said, + </p> + <p> + "Is your uncle at home?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, "he went away this morning on business, and we do not + expect him home before night-fall. Do you want to see him?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Seth very decidedly. "I wish he had staid in Michigan, or gone + further west,--anywhere that Queechy'd never have heard of him." + </p> + <p> + "Why what has he done?" said Fleda, looking up half laughing and half + amazed at her cousin. But his face was disagreeably dark, though she could + not make out that the expression was one of displeasure. It did not + encourage her to talk. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know a man in New York of the name of Thorn?" he said after + standing still a minute or two. + </p> + <p> + "I know two men of that name," said Fleda, colouring and wondering. + </p> + <p> + "Is either on 'em a friend of your'n?" + </p> + <p> + "No." + </p> + <p> + "He ain't?" said Mr. Plumfield, giving the forestick on the fire an + energetic kick which Fleda could not help thinking was mentally aimed at + the said New Yorker. + </p> + <p> + "No certainly. What makes you ask?" + </p> + <p> + "O," said Seth dryly, "folks' tongues will find work to do;--I heerd say + something like that--I thought you must take to him more than I do." + </p> + <p> + "Why what do you know of him?" + </p> + <p> + "He's been here a spell lately," said Seth,--"poking round; more for ill + than for good, I reckon." + </p> + <p> + He turned and quitted the room abruptly; and Fleda bethought her that she + must go home while she had light enough. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="39"></a>Chapter XXXIX. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Nothing could be more obliging and respectful than the lion's letter + was, in appearance; but there was death in the true intent.--L'Estrange. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The landscape had grown more dark since Fleda came up the hill,--or else + the eyes that looked at it. Both probably. It was just after sundown, and + that is a very sober time of day in winter, especially in some states of + the weather. The sun had left no largesses behind him; the scenery was + deserted to all the coming poverty of night and looked grim and threadbare + already. Not one of the colours of prosperity left. The land was in + mourning dress; all the ground and even the ice on the little mill-ponds a + uniform spread of white, while the hills were draperied with black stems, + here just veiling the snow, and there on a side view making a thick fold + of black. Every little unpainted workshop or mill shewed uncompromisingly + all its forbidding sharpness of angle and outline darkening against the + twilight. In better days perhaps some friendly tree had hung over it, + shielding part of its faults and redeeming the rest. Now nothing but the + gaunt skeleton of a friend stood there,--doubtless to bud forth again as + fairly as ever should the season smile. Still and quiet all was, as + Fleda's spirit, and in too good harmony with it; she resolved to choose + the morning to go out in future. There was as little of the light of + spring or summer in her own mind as on the hills, and it was desirable to + catch at least a cheering reflection. She could rouse herself to no bright + thoughts, try as she would; the happy voices of nature that used to speak + to her were all hushed,--or her ear was deaf; and her eye met nothing that + did not immediately fall in with the train of sad images that were passing + through her mind and swell the procession. She was fain to fall back and + stay herself upon these words, the only stand-by she could lay hold of;-- + </p> + <p> + "To them who by patient continuance in well-doing seek for glory, and + honour, and immortality, eternal life!"-- + </p> + <p> + They toned with the scene and with her spirit exactly; they suited the + darkening sky and the coming night; for "glory, honour, and immortality" + are not now. They filled Fleda's mind, after they had once entered, and + then nature's sympathy was again as readily given; each barren + stern-looking hill in its guise of present desolation and calm expectancy + seemed to echo softly, "patient continuance in well-doing." And the tears + trembled then in Fleda's eyes; she had set her face, as the old Scotchman + says, "in the right airth. [Footnote: quarter, direction]" "How sweet is + the wind that bloweth out of the airth where Christ is!" + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Hugh, who entered the kitchen with her, "you have been late + enough. Did you have a pleasant walk? You are pale, Fleda!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it was pleasant," said Fleda with one of her winning smiles,--"a + kind of pleasant. But have you looked at the hills? They are exactly as if + they had put on mourning--nothing but white and black--a crape-like + dressing of black tree-stems upon the snowy face of the ground, and on + every slope and edge of the hills the crape lies in folds. Do look at it + when you go out! It has a most curious effect." + </p> + <p> + "Not pleasant, I should think," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "You'll see it is just as I have described it. No--not pleasant + exactly--the landscape wants the sun to light it up just now--it is cold + and wilderness looking. I think I'll take the morning in future. Whither + are you bound?" + </p> + <p> + "I must go over to Queechy Run for a minute, on business--I'll be home + before supper--I should have been back by this time but Philetus has gone + to bed with a headache and I had to take care of the cows." + </p> + <p> + "Three times and out," said Barby. "I won't try again. I didn't know as + anything would be too powerful for his head; but I find as sure as he has + apple dumplin' for dinner he goes to bed for his supper and leaves the + cows without none. And then Hugh has to take it. It has saved so many + Elephants--that's one thing." + </p> + <p> + Hugh went out by one door and Fleda by another entered the breakfast-room; + the one generally used in winter for all purposes. Mrs. Rossitur sat there + alone in an easy-chair; and Fleda no sooner caught the outline of her + figure than her heart sank at once to an unknown depth,--unknown before + and unfathomable now. She was <i>cowering</i> over the fire,--her head + sunk in her hands, so crouching, that the line of neck and shoulders + instantly conveyed to Fleda the idea of fancied or felt degradation--there + was no escaping it--how, whence, what, was all wild confusion. But the + language of mere attitude was so unmistakable,--the expression of crushing + pain was so strong, that after Fleda had fearfully made her way up beside + her she could do no more. She stood there tongue-tied, spell-bound, + present to nothing but a nameless chill of fear and heart-sinking. She was + afraid to speak--afraid to touch her aunt, and abode motionless in the + grasp of that dread for minutes. But Mrs. Rossitur did not stir a hair, + and the terror of that stillness grew to be less endurable than any other. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus22.jpg"><img src="images/illus22.jpg" height="250" + alt="Mrs. Rossitur sat there alone." title="Mrs. Rossitur sat there alone." /><br /> + Mrs. Rossitur sat there alone.</a> + </p> + <p> + Fleda spoke to her,--it did not win the shadow of a reply,--again and + again. She laid her hand then upon Mrs. Rossitur's shoulder, but the very + significant answer to that was a shrinking gesture of the shoulder and + neck, away from the hand. Fleda growing desperate then implored an answer + in words--prayed for an explanation--with an intensity of distress in + voice and manner, that no one whose ears were not stopped with a stronger + feeling could have been deaf to; but Mrs. Rossitur would not raise her + head, nor slacken in the least the clasp of the fingers that supported it, + that of themselves in their relentless tension spoke what no words could. + Fleda's trembling prayers were in vain, in vain. Poor nature at last + sought a woman's relief in tears--but they were heart-breaking, not + heart-relieving tears--racking both mind and body more than they ought to + bear, but bringing no cure. Mrs. Rossitur seemed as unconscious of her + niece's mute agony as she had been of her agony of words; and it was from + Fleda's own self-recollection alone that she fought off pain and roused + herself above weakness to do what the time called for. + </p> + <p> + "Aunt Lucy," she said laying her hand upon her shoulder, and this time the + voice was steady and the hand would not be shaken off,--"Aunt Lucy,--Hugh + will be in presently--hadn't you better rouse yourself and go up + stairs--for awhile?--till you are better?--and not let him see you so?--" + </p> + <p> + How the voice was broken and quivering before it got through! + </p> + <p> + The answer this time was a low long-drawn moan, so exceeding plaintive and + full of pain that it made Fleda shake like an aspen. But after a moment + she spoke again, bearing more heavily with her hand to mark her words. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid he will be in presently--he ought not to see you now--Aunt + Lucy, I am afraid it might do him an injury he might not get over--" + </p> + <p> + She spoke with the strength of desperation; her nerves were unstrung by + fear, and every joint weakened so that she could hardly support herself. + She had not however spoken in vain; one or two convulsive shudders passed + over her aunt, and then Mrs. Rossitur suddenly rose turning her face from + Fleda; neither would she permit her to follow her. But Fleda thought she + had seen that one or two unfolded letters or papers of some kind, they + looked like letters, were in her lap when she raised her head. + </p> + <p> + Left alone, Fleda sat down on the floor by the easy-chair and rested her + head there; waiting,--she could do nothing else,--till her extreme + excitement of body and mind should have quieted itself. She had a kind of + vague hope that time would do something for her before Hugh came in. + Perhaps it did; for though she lay in a kind of stupor, and was conscious + of no change whatever, she was able when she heard him coming to get up + and sit in the chair in an ordinary attitude. But she looked like the + wraith of herself an hour ago. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda!" Hugh exclaimed as soon as he looked from the fire to her + face,--"what is the matter?--what is the matter with you?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not very well--I don't feel very well," said Fleda speaking almost + mechanically,--"I shall have a headache to-morrow--" + </p> + <p> + "Headache! But you look shockingly! what has happened to you? what is the + matter, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not ill--I shall be better by and by. There is nothing the matter + with me that need trouble you, dear Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "Nothing the matter with you!" said he,--and Fleda might see how she + looked in the reflection of his face,--"where's mother?" + </p> + <p> + "She is up-stairs--you mustn't go to her, Hugh!" said Fleda laying a + detaining hand upon him with more strength than she thought she had,--"I + don't want anything." + </p> + <p> + "Why mustn't I go to her?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't think she wants to be disturbed--" + </p> + <p> + "I must disturb her--" + </p> + <p> + "You musn't!--I know she don't--she isn't well--something has happened to + trouble her--" + </p> + <p> + "What?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know." + </p> + <p> + "And is that what has troubled you too?" said Hugh, his countenance + changing as he gained more light on the subject;--"what is it, dear + Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," repeated Fleda, bursting into tears. Hugh was quiet enough + now, and sat down beside her, subdued and still, without even desiring to + ask a question. Fleda's tears flowed violently, for a minute,--then she + checked them, for his sake; and they sat motionless, without speaking to + one another, looking into the fire and letting it die out before them into + embers and ashes, neither stirring to put a hand to it. As the fire died + the moonlight streamed in,--how very dismal the room looked! + </p> + <p> + "What do you think about having tea?" said Barby opening the door of the + kitchen. + </p> + <p> + Neither felt it possible to answer her. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Rossitur ain't come home, is he?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda shuddering. + </p> + <p> + "So I thought, and so I told Seth Plumfield just now--he was asking for + him--My stars! ha'n't you no fire here? what did you let it go out for?" + </p> + <p> + Barby came in and began to build it up. + </p> + <p> + "It's growing cold I can tell you, so you may as well have something in + the chimney to look at. You'll want it shortly if you don't now." + </p> + <p> + "Was Mr. Plumfield here, did you say, Barby?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't he come in?" + </p> + <p> + "I s'pose he hadn't a mind to," said Barby. "Twa'n't for want of being + asked. I did the civil thing by him if he didn't by me;--but he said he + didn't want to see anybody but Mr. Rossitur." + </p> + <p> + Did not wank to see anybody but Mr. Rossitur, when he had distinctly said + he did not wish to see him? Fleda felt sick, merely from the mysterious + dread which could fasten upon nothing and therefore took in everything. + </p> + <p> + "Well what about tea?" concluded Barby, when the fire was going according + to her wishes. "Will you have it, or will you wait longer?" + </p> + <p> + "No--we won't wait--we will have it now, Barby," said Fleda, forcing + herself to make the exertion; and she went to the window to put down the + hangings. + </p> + <p> + The moonlight was very bright, and Fleda's eye was caught in the very act + of letting down the curtain, by a figure in the road slowly passing before + the courtyard fence. It paused a moment by the horse-gate, and turning + paced slowly back till it was hid behind the rose acacias. There was a + clump of shrubbery in that corner thick enough even in winter to serve for + a screen. Fleda stood with the curtain in her hand, half let down, unable + to move, and feeling almost as if the very currents of life within her + were standing still too. She thought, she was almost sure, she knew the + figure; it was on her tongue to ask Hugh to come and look, but she checked + that. The form appeared again from behind the acacias, moving with the + same leisurely pace the other way towards the horse-gate. Fleda let down + the curtain, then the other two quietly, and then left the room and stole + noiselessly out at the front door, leaving it open that the sound of it + might not warn Hugh what she was about, and stepping like a cat down the + steps ran breathlessly over the snow to the courtyard gate. There waited, + shivering in the cold but not feeling it for the cold within,--while the + person she was watching stood still a lew moments by the horse-gate and + came again with leisurely steps towards her. + </p> + <p> + "Seth Plumfield!"--said Fleda, almost as much frightened at the sound of + her own voice as he was. He stopped immediately, with a start, and came up + to the little gate behind which she was standing. But said nothing. + </p> + <p> + "What are you doing here?" + </p> + <p> + "You oughtn't to be out without anything on," said he,--"you're fixing to + take your death." + </p> + <p> + He had good reason to say so. But she gave him no more heed than the wind. + </p> + <p> + "What are you waiting here for? What do you want?" + </p> + <p> + "I have nothing better to do with my time," said he;--"I thought I'd walk + up and down here a little. You go in!" + </p> + <p> + "Are you waiting to see uncle Rolf?" she said, with teeth chattering. + </p> + <p> + "You mustn't stay out here," said he earnestly--"you're like nothing but a + spook this minute--I'd rather see one, or a hull army of 'em. Go in, go + in!" + </p> + <p> + "Tell me if you want to see him, Seth." + </p> + <p> + "No I don't--I told you I didn't." + </p> + <p> + "Then why are you waiting for him?" + </p> + <p> + "I thought I'd see if he was coming home to-night--I had a word to say if + I could catch him before he got into the house." + </p> + <p> + "<i>Is</i> he coming home to-night?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know!" said he looking at her. "Do you?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda burst open the gate between them and putting her hands on his + implored him to tell her what was the matter. He looked singularly + disturbed; his fine eye twinkled with compassion; but his face, never a + weak one, shewed no signs of yielding now. + </p> + <p> + "The matter is," said he pressing hard both her hands, "that you are + fixing to be down sick in your bed by to-morrow. You mustn't stay another + second." + </p> + <p> + "Come in then." + </p> + <p> + "No--not to-night." + </p> + <p> + "You won't tell me!--" + </p> + <p> + "There is nothing I can tell you--Maybe there'll be nothing to tell--Run + in, run in, and keep quiet." + </p> + <p> + Fleda hurried back to the house, feeling that she had gone to the limit of + risk already. Not daring to show herself to Hugh in her chilled state of + body and mind she went into the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + "Why what on earth's come over you?" was Barby's terrified ejaculation + when she saw her. + </p> + <p> + "I have been out and got myself cold--" + </p> + <p> + "Cold!" said Barby,--"you're looking dreadful! What on earth ails you, + Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Don't ask me, Barby," said Fleda hiding her face in her hands and + shivering,--"I made myself very cold just now--Aunt Lucy doesn't feel very + well and I got frightened," she added presently. + </p> + <p> + "What's the matter with her?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--if you'll make me a cup of tea I'll take it up to her, + Barby." + </p> + <p> + "You put yourself down there," said Barby placing her with gentle force in + a chair,--"you'll do no such a thing till I see you look as if there was + some blood in you. I'll take it up myself." + </p> + <p> + But Fleda held her, though with a hand much too feeble indeed for any but + moral suasion. It was enough. Barby stood silently and very anxiously + watching her, till the fire had removed the outward chill at least. But + even that took long to do, and before it was well done Fleda again asked + for the cup of tea. Barby made it without a word, and Fleda went to her + aunt with it, taking her strength from the sheer emergency. Her knees + trembled under her as she mounted the stairs, and once a glimpse of those + words flitted across her mind,--"patient continuance in well-doing." It + was like a lightning flash in a dark night shewing the way one must go. + She could lay hold of no other stay. Her mind was full of one intense + purpose--to end the suspense. + </p> + <p> + She gently tried the door of her aunt's room; it was unfastened, and she + went in. Mrs. Rossitur was lying on the bed; but her first mood had + changed, for at Fleda's soft word and touch she half rose up and putting + both arms round her waist laid her face against her. There were no tears + still, only a succession of low moans, so inexpressibly weak and plaintive + that Fleda's nature could hardly bear them without giving way. A more + fragile support was never clung to. Yet her trembling fingers, in their + agony moved caressingly among her aunt's hair and over her brow as she + begged her--when she could, she was not able at first--to let her know the + cause that was grieving her. The straightened clasp of Mrs. Rossitur's + arms and her increased moaning gave only an answer of pain. But Fleda + repeated the question. Mrs. Rossitur still neglecting it, then made her + sit down upon the bed, so that she could lay her head higher, on Fleda's + bosom; where she hid it, with a mingling of fondness given and asked, a + poor seeking for comfort and rest, that wrung her niece's heart. + </p> + <p> + They sat so for a little time; Fleda hoping that her aunt would by degrees + come to the point herself. The tea stood cooling on the table, not even + offered; not wanted there. + </p> + <p> + "Wouldn't you feel better if you told me, dear aunt Lucy?" said Fleda, + when they had been for a little while perfectly still. Even the moaning + had ceased. + </p> + <p> + "Is your uncle come home?" whispered Mrs. Rossitur, but so low that Fleda + could but half catch the words. + </p> + <p> + "Not yet." + </p> + <p> + "What o'clock is it?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--not early--it must be near eight.--Why?" + </p> + <p> + "You have not heard anything of him?" + </p> + <p> + "No--nothing." + </p> + <p> + There was silence again for a little, and then Mrs. Rossitur said in a low + fearful whisper, + </p> + <p> + "Have you seen anybody round the house?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's thoughts flew to Seth, with that nameless fear to which she could + give neither shape nor direction, and after a moment's hesitation she + said, + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "Have you?" said Mrs. Rossitur with more energy. + </p> + <p> + "Seth Plumfield was here a little while ago." + </p> + <p> + Her aunt had the clew that she had not, for with a half scream, half + exclamation, she quitted Fleda's arms and fell back upon the pillows, + turning from her and hiding her face there. Fleda prayed again for her + confidence, as well as the weakness and the strength of fear could do; and + Mrs. Rossitur presently grasping a paper that lay on the bed held it out + to her, saying only as Fleda was about quitting the room, "Bring me a + light." + </p> + <p> + Fleda left the letter there and went down to fetch one. She commanded + herself under the excitement and necessity of the moment,--all but her + face; that terrified Barby exceedingly. But she spoke with a strange + degree of calmness; told her Mrs. Rossitur was not alarmingly ill; that + she did not need Barby's services and wished to see nobody but herself and + didn't want a fire. As she was passing through the hall again Hugh came + out of the sitting-room to ask after his mother. Fleda kept the light from + her face. + </p> + <p> + "She does not want to be disturbed--I hope she will be better to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "What is the matter, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know yet." + </p> + <p> + "And you are ill yourself, Fleda!--you are ill!--" + </p> + <p> + "No--I shall do very well--never mind me. Hugh, take some tea--I will be + down by and by." + </p> + <p> + He went back, and Fieda went up stairs. Mrs. Rossitur had not moved. Fleda + set down the light and herself beside it, with the paper her aunt had + given her. It was a letter. + </p> + <p> + "Queechy, <i>Thursday</i>-- + </p> + <p> + "It gives me great concern, my dear madam, to be the means of bringing to + you a piece of painful information--but it cannot be long kept from your + knowledge and you may perhaps learn it better from me than by any other + channel. May I entreat you not to be too much alarmed, since I am + confident the cause will be of short duration. + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me for what I am about to say. + </p> + <p> + "There are proceedings entered into against Mr. Rossitur--there are writs + out against him--on the charge of having, some years ago, endorsed my + father's name upon a note of his own giving.--Why it has lain so long I + cannot explain. There is unhappily no doubt of the fact. + </p> + <p> + "I was in Queechy some days ago, on business of my own, when I became + aware that this was going on--my father had made no mention of it to me. I + immediately took strict measures--I am happy to say I believe with + complete success,--to have the matter kept a profound secret. I then made + my way as fast as possible to New York to confer on the subject with the + original mover of it--unfortunately I was disappointed. My father had left + for a neighbouring city, to be absent several days. Finding myself too + late to prevent, as I had hoped to do, any open steps from being taken at + Queechy, I returned hither immediately to enforce secrecy of proceedings + and to assure you, madam, that my utmost exertions shall not be wanting to + bring the whole matter to a speedy and satisfactory termination. I + entertain no doubt of being able to succeed entirely--even to the point of + having the whole transaction remain unknown and unsuspected by the world. + It is so entirely as yet, with the exception of one or two law-officers + whose silence I have means of procuring. + </p> + <p> + "May I confess that I am not entirely disinterested? May the selfishness + of human nature ask its reward, and own its moving spring? May I own that + my zeal in this cause is quickened by the unspeakable excellencies of Mr. + Rossitur's lovely niece--which I have learned to appreciate with my whole + <i>heart</i>--and be forgiven?--And may I hope for the kind offices and + intercession of the lady I have the honour of addressing, with her niece + Miss Ringgan, that my reward,--the single word of encouragement I ask + for,--may be given me?--Having that, I will promise anything--I will + guaranty the success of any enterprise, however difficult, to which she + may impel me,--and I will undertake that the matter which furnishes the + painful theme of this letter shall never more be spoken or thought of, by + the world, or my father, or by Mrs. Rossitur's + </p> + <p> + obliged, grateful, and faithful servant, Lewis Thorn." + </p> + <p> + Fleda felt as she read as if icicles were gathering about her heart. The + whirlwind of fear and distress of a little while ago which could take no + definite direction, seemed to have died away and given place to a dead + frost--the steady bearing down of disgrace and misery, inevitable, + unmitigable, unchangeable; no lessening, no softening of that blasting + power, no, nor ever any rising up from under it; the landscape could never + be made to smile again. It was the fall of a bright star from their home + constellation; but alas! the star was fallen long ago, and the failure of + light which they had deplored was all too easily accounted for; yet now + they knew that no restoration was to be hoped. And the mother and + son--what would become of them? And the father--what would become of him? + what further distress was in store?--<i>Public</i> disgrace?--and Fleda + bowed her head forward on her clasped hands with the mechanical, vain + endeavour to seek rest or shelter from thought. She made nothing of Mr. + Thorn's professions; she took only the facts of his letter; the rest her + eye had glanced over as if she had no concern with it, and it hardly + occurred to her that she had any. But the sense of his words she had taken + in, and knew, better perhaps than her aunt, that there was nothing to look + for from his kind offices. The weight on her heart was too great just then + for her to suspect as she did afterwards that he was the sole mover of the + whole affair. + </p> + <p> + As the first confusion of thought cleared away, two images of distress + loomed up and filled the view,--her aunt, broken under the news, and Hugh + still unknowing to them; her own separate existence Fleda was hardly + conscious of. Hugh especially,--how was he to be told, and how could he + bear to hear? with his most sensitive conformation of both physical and + moral nature. And if an arrest should take place there that night!--Fleda + shuddered, and unable to go on thinking rose up and went to her aunt's + bedside. It had not entered her mind till the moment she read Mr. Thorn's + letter that Seth Plumfield was sheriff for the county. She was shaking + again from head to foot with fear. She could not say anything--the touch + of her lips to the throbbing temples, soft and tender as sympathy itself, + was all she ventured. + </p> + <p> + "Have you heard anything of him?" Mrs. Rossitur whispered. + </p> + <p> + "No--I doubt if we do at all to-night." + </p> + <p> + There was a half breathed "Oh!--" of indescribable pain and longing; and + with a restless change of position Mrs. Rossitur gathered herself up on + the bed and sat with her head leaning on her knees. Fleda brought a large + cloak and put it round her. + </p> + <p> + "I am in no danger," she said,--"I wish I were!" + </p> + <p> + Again Fleda's lips softly, tremblingly, touched her cheek. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur put her arm round her and drew her down to her side, upon + the bed; and wrapped half of the big cloak about her; and they sat there + still in each other's arms, without speaking or weeping, while quarter + after quarter of an hour passed away,--nobody knew how many. And the cold + bright moonlight streamed in on the floor, mocking them. + </p> + <p> + "Go!" whispered Mrs. Rossitur at last,--"go down stairs and take care of + yourself--and Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "Won't you come?" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur shook her head. + </p> + <p> + "Mayn't I bring you something?--do let me!" + </p> + <p> + But Mrs. Rossitur's shake of the head was decisive. Fleda crawled off the + bed, feeling as if a month's illness had been making its ravages upon her + frame and strength. She stood a moment to collect her thoughts; but alas, + thinking was impossible; there was a palsy upon her mind. She went into + her own room and for a minute kneeled down,--not to form a petition in + words, she was as much beyond that; it was only the mute attitude of + appeal, the pitiful outward token of the mind's bearing, that could not be + forborne, a silent uttering of the plea she had made her own in happy + days. There was something of comfort in the mere feeling of doing it; and + there was more in one or two words that even in that blank came to her + mind;--"<i>Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them + that fear him</i>;" and she again recollected that "Providence runneth not + upon broken wheels." Nothing could be darker than the prospect before her, + and these things did not bring light; but they gave her a sure stay to + hold on by and keep her feet; a bit of strength to preserve from utterly + fainting. Ah! the storehouse must be filled and the mind well familiarized + with what is stored in it while yet the days are bright, or it will never + be able to find what it wants in the dark. + </p> + <p> + Fleda first went into the kitchen to tell Barby to fasten the doors and + not sit up. + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe uncle Rolf will be home to-night; but if he comes I will + let him in." + </p> + <p> + Barby looked at her with absolutely a face of distress; but not daring to + ask and not knowing how to propose anything, she looked in silence. + </p> + <p> + "It must be nine o'clock now," Fleda went on. + </p> + <p> + "And how long be you going to sit up?" said Barby. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--a while yet." + </p> + <p> + "You look proper for it!" said Barby half sorrowfully and half + indignantly;--"you look as if a straw would knock you down this minute. + There's sense into everything. You catch me a going to bed and leaving you + up! It won't do me no hurt to sit here the hull night; and I'm the only + one in the house that's fit for it, with the exception of Philetus, and + the little wit he has by day seems to forsake him at night. All the light + that ever gets into his head, <i>I</i> believe, comes from the outside; as + soon as ever that's gone he shuts up his shutters. He's been snoozing + a'ready now this hour and a half. Go yourself off to bed, Fleda," she + added with a mixture of reproach and kindness, "and leave me alone to take + care of myself and the house too." + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not remonstrate, for Barby was as determined in her way as it + was possible for anything to be. She went into the other room without a + particle of notion what she should say or do. + </p> + <p> + Hugh was walking up and down the floor--a most unusual sign of + perturbation with him. He met and stopped her as she came in. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda, I cannot bear it. What is the matter?--Do you know?'" he said as + her eyes fell. + </p> + <p> + "Yes.----" + </p> + <p> + "What is it?" + </p> + <p> + She was silent and tried to pass on to the fire. But he stayed her. + </p> + <p> + "What is it?" he repeated. + </p> + <p> + "Oh I wish I could keep it from you!" said Fleda bursting into tears. + </p> + <p> + He was still a moment, and then bringing her to the arm-chair made her sit + down, and stood himself before her, silently waiting, perhaps because he + could not speak, perhaps from the accustomed gentle endurance of his + nature. But Fleda was speechless too. + </p> + <p> + "You are keeping me in distress," he said at length. + </p> + <p> + "I cannot end the distress, dear Hugh," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + She saw him change colour and he stood motionless still. + </p> + <p> + "Do you remember," said Fleda, trembling even to her voice,--"what + Rutherford says about Providence 'not running on broken wheels'?" + </p> + <p> + He gave her no answer but the intent look of expectation. Its intentness + paralyzed Fleda. She did not know how to go on. She rose from her chair + and hung upon his shoulder. + </p> + <p> + "Believe it now, if you can--for oh, dear Hugh!--we have something to try + it." + </p> + <p> + "It is strange my father don't come home," said he, supporting her with + tenderness which had very little strength to help it,--"we want him very + much." + </p> + <p> + Whether or not any unacknowledged feeling prompted this remark, some + slight involuntary movement of Fleda's made him ask suddenly, + </p> + <p> + "Is it about him?" + </p> + <p> + He had grown deadly pale and Fleda answered eagerly, + </p> + <p> + "Nothing that has happened to-day--it is not anything that has happened + to-day--he is perfectly well, I trust and believe." + </p> + <p> + "But it is about him?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's head sank, and she burst into such an agony of tears that Hugh's + distress was for a time divided. + </p> + <p> + "When did it happen, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Years ago." + </p> + <p> + "And what?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda hesitated still, and then said, + </p> + <p> + "It was something he did, Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "What?" + </p> + <p> + "He put another person's name on the back of a note he gave." + </p> + <p> + She did not look up, and Hugh was silent for a moment. + </p> + <p> + "How do you know?" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn wrote it to aunt Lucy--it was Mr. Thorn's father." + </p> + <p> + Hugh sat down and leaned his head on the table. A long, long, time + passed,--unmeasured by the wild coursing of thought to and fro. Then Fleda + came and knelt down at the table beside him, and put her arm round his + neck. + </p> + <p> + "Dear Hugh," she said--and if ever love and tenderness and sympathy could + be distilled in tones, such drops were those that fell upon the mind's + ear,--"can't you look up at me?" + </p> + <p> + He did then, but he did not give her a chance to look at him. He locked + his arms about her, bringing her close to his breast; and for a few + minutes, in utter silence, they knew what strange sweetness pure affection + can mingle even in the communion of sorrow. There were tears shed in those + minutes that, bitter as they seemed at the time, Memory knew had been + largely qualified with another admixture. + </p> + <p> + "Dear Hugh," said Fleda,--"let us keep what we can--won't you go to bed + and rest?" + </p> + <p> + He looked dreadfully as if he needed it. But the usual calmness and + sweetness of his face was not altered;--it was only deepened to very great + sadness. Mentally, Fleda thought, he had borne the shock better than his + mother; for the bodily frame she trembled. He had not answered and she + spoke again. + </p> + <p> + "You need it worse than I, poor Fleda" + </p> + <p> + "I will go too presently--I do not think anybody will be here tonight." + </p> + <p> + "Is--Are there--Is this what has taken him away?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + Her silence and her look told him, and then laying her cheek again + alongside of his she whispered, how unsteadily, "We have only one help, + dear Hugh." + </p> + <p> + They were still and quiet again for minutes, counting the pulses of pain; + till Fleda came back to her poor wish "to keep what they could." She mixed + a restorative of wine and water, which however little desired, she felt + was necessary for both of them, and Hugh went up stairs. She staid a few + minutes to prepare another glass with particular care for her aunt. It was + just finished, and taking her candle she had bid Barby good-night, when + there came a loud rap at the front door. Fleda set down candle and glass, + from the quick inability to hold them as well as for other reasons; and + she and Barby stood and looked at each other, in such a confusion of doubt + and dread that some little time had passed before either stirred even her + eyes. Barby then threw down the tongs with which she had begun to make + preparations for covering up the fire and set off to the front. + </p> + <p> + "You mustn't open the door, Barby," cried Fleda, following her. "Come in + here and let us look out of one of the windows." + </p> + <p> + Before this could be reached however, there was another prolonged + repetition of the first thundering burst. It went through Fleda's heart, + because of the two up stairs who must hear it. + </p> + <p> + Barby threw up the sash. + </p> + <p> + "Who's there?" + </p> + <p> + "Is this Mr. Rossitur's place?" enquired a gruff voice. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it is." + </p> + <p> + "Well will you come round and open the door?" + </p> + <p> + "Who wants it open?" + </p> + <p> + "A lady wants it open?" + </p> + <p> + "A lady!--what lady?" + </p> + <p> + "Down yonder in the carriage." + </p> + <p> + "What lady? who is she?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know who she is--she wanted to come to Mr. Rossitur's place--will + you open the door for her?" + </p> + <p> + Barby and Fleda both now saw a carriage standing in the road. + </p> + <p> + "We must see who it is first," whispered Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "When the lady comes I'll open the door," was Barby's ultimatum. + </p> + <p> + The man withdrew to the carriage; and after a few moments of intense + watching Fleda and Barby certainly saw something in female apparel enter + the little gate of the court-yard and come up over the bright moonlit snow + towards the house, accompanied by a child; while the man with whom they + had had the interview came behind transformed into an unmistakeable + baggage-carrier. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="40"></a>Chapter XL. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Zeal was the spring whence flowed her hardiment. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Fairfax. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Barby undid bolt and lock and Fleda met the traveller in the hall. She was + a lady; her air and dress shewed that, though the latter was very plain. + </p> + <p> + "Does Mr. Rossitur live here?" was her first word. + </p> + <p> + Fleda answered it, and brought her visitor into the sitting room. But the + light falling upon a form and face that had seen more wear and tear than + time, gave her no clue as to the who or what of the person before her. The + stranger's hurried look round the room seemed to expect something. + </p> + <p> + "Are they all gone to bed?" + </p> + <p> + "All but me," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "We have been delayed--we took a wrong road--we've been riding for hours + to find the place--hadn't the right direction."--Then looking keenly at + Fleda, from whose vision an electric spark of intelligence had scattered + the clouds, she said; + </p> + <p> + "I am Marion Rossitur." + </p> + <p> + "I knew it!" said Fleda, with lips and eyes that gave her already a + sister's welcome; and they were folded in each other's arms almost as + tenderly and affectionately, on the part of one at least, as if there had + really been the relationship between them. But more than surprise and + affection struck Fleda's heart. + </p> + <p> + "And where are they all, Fleda? Can't I see them?" + </p> + <p> + "You must wait till I have prepared them--Hugh and aunt Lucy are not very + well. I don't know that it will do for you to see them at all to-night, + Marion." + </p> + <p> + "Not to-night! They are not ill?" + </p> + <p> + "No--only enough to be taken care of--not ill. But it would be better to + wait" + </p> + <p> + "And my father?" + </p> + <p> + "He is not at home." + </p> + <p> + Marion exclaimed in sorrow, and Fleda to hide the look that she felt was + on her face stooped down to kiss the child. He was a remarkably + fine-looking manly boy. + </p> + <p> + "That is your cousin Fleda," said his mother. + </p> + <p> + "No--<i>aunt</i> Fleda," said the person thus introduced--"don't put me + off into cousindom, Marion. I am uncle Hugh's sister--and so I am your + aunt Fleda. Who are you?" + </p> + <p> + "Rolf Rossitur Schwiden." + </p> + <p> + Alas how wide are the ramifications of evil! How was what might have been + very pure pleasure utterly poisoned and turned into bitterness. It went + through Fleda's heart with a keen pang when she heard that name and looked + on the very fair brow that owned it, and thought of the ineffaceable stain + that had come upon both. She dared look at nobody but the child. He + already understood the melting eyes that were making acquaintance with + his, and half felt the pain that gave so much tenderness to her kiss, and + looked at her with a grave face of awakening wonder and sympathy. Fleda + was glad to have business to call her into the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + "Who is it?" was Barby's immediate question. + </p> + <p> + "Aunt Lucy's daughter." + </p> + <p> + "She don't look much like her!" said Barby intelligently. + </p> + <p> + "They will want something to eat, Barby." + </p> + <p> + "I'll put the kettle on. It'll boil directly. I'll go in there and fix up + the fire." + </p> + <p> + A word or two more, and then Fleda ran up to speak to her aunt and Hugh. + </p> + <p> + Her aunt she found in a state of agitation that was frightful. Even + Fleda's assurances, with all the soothing arts she could bring to bear + were some minutes before they could in any measure tranquillize her. + Fleda's own nerves were in no condition to stand another shock when she + left her and went to Hugh's door. But she could get no answer from him + though she spoke repeatedly. + </p> + <p> + She did not return to her aunt's room. She went down stairs and brought up + Barby and a light from thence. + </p> + <p> + Hugh was lying senseless and white; not whiter than his adopted sister as + she stood by his side. Her eye went to her companion. + </p> + <p> + "Not a bit of it!" said Barby--"he's in nothing but a faint--just run down + stairs and get the vinegar bottle, Fleda--the pepper vinegar.--Is there + any water here?--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda obeyed; and watched, she could do little more, the efforts of Barby, + who indeed needed no help, with the cold water, the vinegar, and rubbing + of the limbs. They were for sometime unsuccessful; the fit was a severe + one; and Fleda was exceedingly terrified before any signs of returning + life came to reassure her. + </p> + <p> + "Now you go down stairs and keep quiet!" said Barby, when Hugh was fairly + restored and had smiled a faint answer to Fleda's kiss and + explanations,--"Go, Fleda! you ain't fit to stand. Go and sit down some + place, and I'll be along directly and see how the fire burns. Don't you + s'pose Mis' Rossitur could come in and sit in this easy-chair a spell + without hurting herself?" + </p> + <p> + It occurred to Fleda immediately that it might do more good than harm to + her aunt if her attention were diverted even by another cause of anxiety. + She gently summoned her, telling her no more than was necessary to fit her + for being Hugh's nurse; and in a very few minutes she and Barby were at + liberty to attend to other claims upon them. But it sank into her heart, + "Hugh will not get over this!"--and when she entered the sitting-room, + what Mr. Carleton years before had said of the wood-flower was come true + in its fullest extent--"a storm-wind had beaten it to the ground." + </p> + <p> + She was able literally to do no more than Barby had said, sit down and + keep herself quiet. Miss Elster was in her briskest mood; flew in and out; + made up the fire in the sitting-room and put on the kettle in the kitchen, + which she had been just about doing when called to see Hugh. The + much-needed supper of the travellers must be still waited for; but the + fire was burning now, the room was cosily warm and bright, and Marion drew + up her chair with a look of thoughtful contentment. Fleda felt as if some + conjuror had been at work here for the last few hours--the room looked so + like and felt so unlike itself. + </p> + <p> + "Are you going to be ill too, Fleda?" said Marion suddenly. "You are + looking--very far from well!" + </p> + <p> + "I shall have a headache to-morrow," said Fleda quietly. "I generally know + the day beforehand." + </p> + <p> + "Does it always make you look so?" + </p> + <p> + "Not always--I am somewhat tired." + </p> + <p> + "Where is my father gone?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know.--Rolf, dear," said Fleda bending forward to the little + fellow who was giving expression to some very fidgety impatience,--"what + is the matter? what do you want?" + </p> + <p> + The child's voice fell a little from its querulousness towards the sweet + key in which the questions had been put, but he gave utterance to a very + decided wish for "bread and butter." + </p> + <p> + "Come here," said Fleda, reaching out a hand and drawing him, certainly + with no force but that of attraction, towards her easy-chair,--"come here + and rest yourself in this nice place by me--see, there is plenty of room + for you;--and you shall have bread and butter and tea, and something else + too, I guess, just as soon as Barby can get it ready." + </p> + <p> + "Who is Barby?" was the next question, in a most uncompromising tone of + voice. + </p> + <p> + "You saw the woman that came in to put wood on the fire--that was + Barby--she is very good and kind and will do anything for you if you + behave yourself." + </p> + <p> + The child muttered, but so low as to shew some unwillingness that his + words should reach the ears that were nearest him, that "he wasn't going + to behave himself." + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not choose to hear; and went on with composing observations till + the fair little face she had drawn to her side was as bright as the sun + and returned her smile with interest. + </p> + <p> + "You have an admirable talent at moral suasion, Fleda," said the mother + half smiling;--"I wish I had it." + </p> + <p> + "You don't need it so much here." + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" + </p> + <p> + "It may do very well for me, but I think not so well for you." + </p> + <p> + "Why?--what do you mean? I think it is the only way in the world to bring + up children--the only way fit for rational beings to be guided." + </p> + <p> + Fleda smiled, though the faintest indication that lips could give, and + shook her head,--ever so little. + </p> + <p> + "Why do you do that?--tell me." + </p> + <p> + "Because in my limited experience," said Fleda as she passed her fingers + through the boy's dark locks of hair,--"in every household where 'moral + suasion' has been the law, the children have been the administrators of + it. Where is your husband?" + </p> + <p> + "I have lost him--years ago--" said Marion with a quick expressive glance + towards the child. "I never lost what I at first thought I had, for I + never had it. Do you understand?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eyes gave a sufficient answer. + </p> + <p> + "I am a widow--these five years--in all but what the law would require," + Marion went on. "I have been alone since then--except my child. He was two + years old then; and since then I have lived such a life, Fleda!--" + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you come home?" + </p> + <p> + "Couldn't--the most absolute reason in the world. Think of it!--Come home! + It was as much as I could do to stay there!" + </p> + <p> + Those sympathizing eyes were enough to make her go on. + </p> + <p> + "I have wanted everything--except trouble. I have done everything--except + ask alms. I have learned, Fleda, that death is not the worst form in which + distress can come." + </p> + <p> + Fleda felt stung, and bent down her head to touch her lips to the brow of + little Rolf. + </p> + <p> + "Death would have been a trifle!" said Marion. "I mean,--not that <i>I</i> + should have wished to leave Rolf alone in the world; but if I had been + left--I mean I would rather wear outside than inside mourning." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up again, and at her. + </p> + <p> + "O I was so mistaken, Fleda!" she said clasping her hands,--"so + mistaken!--in everything;--so disappointed,--in all my hopes. And the loss + of my fortune was the cause of it all." + </p> + <p> + Nay verily! thought Fleda; but she said nothing; she hung her head again; + and Marion after a pause went on to question her about an endless string + of matters concerning themselves and other people, past doings and present + prospects, till little Rolf soothed by the uninteresting soft murmur of + voices fairly forgot bread and butter and himself in a sound sleep, his + head resting upon Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Here is one comfort for you, Marion," she said looking down at the dark + eyelashes which lay on a cheek rosy and healthy as ever seven years old + knew;--"he is a beautiful child, and I am sure, a fine one." + </p> + <p> + "It is thanks to his beauty that I have ever seen home again," said his + mother. + </p> + <p> + Fleda had no heart this evening to speak words that were not necessary; + her eyes asked Marion to explain herself. + </p> + <p> + "He was in Hyde Park one day--I had a miserable lodging not far from it, + and I used to let him go in there, because he must go somewhere, you + know,--I couldn't go with him--" + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" + </p> + <p> + "Couldn't!--Oh Fleda!--I have seen changes!--He was there one afternoon, + alone, and had got into difficulty with some bigger boys--a little fellow, + you know,--he stood his ground man-fully, but his strength wasn't equal to + his spirit, and they were tyrannizing over him after the fashion of boys, + who are I do think the ugliest creatures in creation!" said Mme. Schwiden, + not apparently reckoning her own to be of the same gender,--"and a + gentleman who was riding by stopped and interfered and took him out of + their hands, and then asked him his name,--struck I suppose with his + appearance. Very kind, wasn't it? men so seldom bother themselves about + what becomes of children, I suppose there were thousands of others riding + by at the same time." + </p> + <p> + "Very kind," Fleda said. + </p> + <p> + "When he heard what his name was he gave his horse to his servant and + walked home with Rolf; and the next day he sent me a note, speaking of + having known my father and mother and asking permission to call upon + me.--I never was so mortified, I think, in my life," said Marion after a + moment's hesitation. + </p> + <p> + "Why?" said Fleda, not a little at a loss to follow out the chain of her + cousin's reasoning. + </p> + <p> + "Why I was in such a sort of a place--you don't know, Fleda; I was working + then for a fancy store-keeper, to support myself--living in a miserable + little two rooms.--If it had been a stranger I wouldn't have cared so + much, but somebody that had known us in different times--I hadn't a thing + in the world to answer the note upon but a half sheet of letter paper." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's lips sought Rolf's forehead again, with a curious rush of tears + and smiles at once. Perhaps Marion had caught the expression of her + countenance, for she added with a little energy, + </p> + <p> + "It is nothing to be surprised at--you would have felt just the same; for + I knew by his note, the whole style of it, what sort of a person it must + be." + </p> + <p> + "My pride has been a good deal chastened," Fleda said gently. + </p> + <p> + "I never want <i>mine</i> to be, beyond minding everything," said Marion; + "and I don't believe yours is. I don't know why in the world I did not + refuse to see him--I had fifty minds to--but he had won Rolf's heart, and + I was a little curious, and it was something strange to see the face of a + friend, any better one than my old landlady, so I let him come." + </p> + <p> + "Was <i>she</i> a friend?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "If she hadn't been I should not have lived to be here--the best soul that + ever was; but still, you know, she could do nothing for me but be as kind + as she could live;--this was something different. So I let him come, and + he came the next day." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was silent, a little wondering that Marion should be so frank with + her, beyond what she had ever been in former years; but as she guessed, + Mme. Schwiden's heart was a little opened by the joy of finding herself at + home and the absolute necessity of talking to somebody; and there was a + further reason which Fleda could not judge of, in her own face and manner. + Marion needed no questions and went on again after stopping a moment. + </p> + <p> + "I was so glad in five minutes,--I can't tell you, Fleda,--that I had let + him come. I forget entirely about how I looked and the wretched place I + was in. He was all that I had supposed, and a great deal more, but somehow + he hadn't been in the room three minutes before I didn't care at all for + all the things I had thought would trouble me. Isn't it strange what a + witchery some people have to make you forget everything but themselves!" + </p> + <p> + "The reason is, I think, because that is the only thing they forget," said + Fleda, whose imagination however was entirely busy with the <i>singular</i> + number. + </p> + <p> + "I shall never forget him," said Marion. "He was very kind to me--I cannot + tell how kind--though I never realized it till afterwards; at the time it + always seemed only a sort of elegant politeness which he could not help. I + never saw so elegant a person. He came two or three times to see me and he + took Rolf out with him I don't know how often, to drive; and he sent me + fruit--such fruit!--and game, and flowers; and I had not had anything of + the kind, not even seen it, for so long--I can't tell you what it was to + me. He said he had known my father and mother well when they were abroad." + </p> + <p> + "What, was his name?" said Fleda quickly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--he never told me--and I never could ask him. Don't you know + there are some people you can't do anything with but just what they + please? There wasn't the least thing like stiffness--you never saw anybody + less stiff,--but I never dreamed of asking him questions except when he + was out of sight. Why, do you know him?" she said suddenly. + </p> + <p> + "When you tell me who he was I'll tell you," said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Have you ever heard this story before?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly not!" + </p> + <p> + "He is somebody that knows us very well," said Marion, "for he asked after + every one of the family in particular." + </p> + <p> + "But what had all this to do with your getting home?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't wonder you ask. The day after his last visit came a note saying + that he owed a debt in my family which it had never been in his power to + repay; that he could not give the enclosure to my father, who would not + recognize the obligation; and that if I would permit him to place it in my + hands I should confer a singular favour upon him." + </p> + <p> + "And what was the enclosure?" + </p> + <p> + "Five hundred pounds." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's head went down again and tears dropped fast upon little Rolf's + shoulder. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose my pride has been a little broken too," Marion went on, "or I + shouldn't have kept it. But then if you saw the person, and the whole + manner of it--I don't know how I could ever have sent it back. Literally I + couldn't, though, for I hadn't the least clue. I never saw or heard from + him afterwards." + </p> + <p> + "When was this, Marion?" + </p> + <p> + "Last spring." + </p> + <p> + "Last spring!--then what kept you so long?" + </p> + <p> + "Because of the arrival of eyes that I was afraid of. I dared not make the + least move that would show I could move. I came off the very first packet + after I was free." + </p> + <p> + "How glad you must be!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Glad!--" + </p> + <p> + "Glad of what, mamma?" said Rolf, whose dreams the entrance of Barby had + probably disturbed. + </p> + <p> + "Glad of bread and butter," said his mother; "wake up--here it is." + </p> + <p> + The young gentleman declared, rubbing his eyes, that he did not want it + now; but however Fleda contrived to dispel that illusion, and bread and + butter was found to have the same dulcifying properties at Queechy that it + owns in all the rest of the world. Little Rolf was completely mollified + after a hearty meal and was put with his mother to enjoy most unbroken + slumbers in Fleda's room. Fleda herself, after a look at Hugh, crept to + her aunt's bed; whither Barby very soon despatched Mrs. Rossitur, taking + in her place the arm-chair and the watch with most invincible good-will + and determination; and sleep at last took the joys and sorrows of that + disturbed household into its kind custody. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was the first one awake, and was thinking how she should break the + last news to her aunt, when Mrs. Rossitur put her arms round her and after + a most affectionate look and kiss, spoke to what she supposed had been her + niece's purpose. + </p> + <p> + "You want taking care of more than I do, poor Fleda!" + </p> + <p> + "It was not for that I came," said Fleda;--"I had to give up my room to + the travellers." + </p> + <p> + "Travellers!--" + </p> + <p> + A very few words more brought out the whole, and Mrs. Rossitur sprang out + of bed and rushed to her daughter's room. + </p> + <p> + Fleda hid her face in the bed to cry--for a moment's passionate indulgence + in weeping while no one could see. But a moment was all. There was work to + do and she must not disable herself. She slowly got up, feeling thankful + that her headache did not announce itself with the dawn, and that she + would be able to attend to the morning affairs and the breakfast, which + was something more of a circumstance now with the new additions to the + family. More than that she knew from sure signs she would not be able to + accomplish. + </p> + <p> + It was all done and done well, though with what secret flagging of mind + and body nobody knew or suspected. The business of the day was arranged, + Barby's course made clear, Hugh visited and smiled upon; and then Fleda + set herself down in the breakfast-room to wear out the rest of the day in + patient suffering. Her little spaniel, who seemed to understand her + languid step and faint tones and know what was coming, crept into her lap + and looked up at her with a face of equal truth and affection; and after a + few gentle acknowledging touches from the loved hand, laid his head on her + knees, and silently avowed his determination of abiding her fortunes for + the remainder of the day. + </p> + <p> + They had been there for some hours. Mrs. Rossitur and her daughter were + gathered in Hugh's room; whither Rolf also after sundry expressions of + sympathy for Fleda's headache, finding it a dull companion, had departed. + Pain of body rising above pain of mind had obliged as far as possible even + thought to be still; when a loud rap at the front door brought the blood + in a sudden flush of pain to Fleda's face. She knew instinctively what it + meant. + </p> + <p> + She heard Barby's distinct accents saying that somebody was "not well." + The other voice was more smothered. But in a moment the door of the + breakfast-room opened and Mr. Thorn walked in. + </p> + <p> + The intensity of the pain she was suffering effectually precluded Fleda + from discovering emotion of any kind. She could not move. Only King lifted + up his head and looked at the intruder, who seemed shocked, and well he + might. Fleda was in her old headache position; bolt upright on the sofa, + her feet on the rung of a chair while her hands supported her by their + grasp upon the back of it. The flush had passed away leaving the deadly + paleness of pain, which the dark rings under her eyes shewed to be well + seated. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Ringgan!" said the gentleman, coming up softly as to something that + frightened him,--"my dear Miss Fleda!--I am distressed!--You are very + ill--can nothing be done to relieve you?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's lips rather than her voice said, "Nothing." + </p> + <p> + "I would not have come in on any account to disturb you if I had known--I + did not understand you were more than a trifle ill--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda wished he would mend his mistake, as his understanding certainly by + this time was mended. But that did not seem to be his conclusion of the + best thing to do. + </p> + <p> + "Since I am here,--can you bear to hear me say three words? without too + much pain?--I do not ask you to speak"-- + </p> + <p> + A faint whispered "yes" gave him leave to go on. She had never looked at + him. She sat like a statue; to answer by a motion of her head was more + than could be risked. + </p> + <p> + He drew up a chair and sat down, while King looked at him with eyes of + suspicious indignation. + </p> + <p> + "I am not surprised," he said gently, "to find you suffering. I knew how + your sensibilities must feel the shock of yesterday--I would fain have + spared it you--I will spare you all further pain on the same score if + possible--Dear Miss Ringgan, since I am here and time is precious may I + say one word before I cease troubling you--take it for granted that you + were made acquainted with the contents of my letter to Mrs. + Rossitur?--with <i>all</i> the contents?--were you?" + </p> + <p> + Again Fleda's lips almost voicelessly gave the answer. + </p> + <p> + "Will you give me what I ventured to ask for?" said he gently,--"the + permission to work <i>for you?</i> Do not trouble those precious lips to + speak--the answer of these fingers will be as sure a warrant to me as all + words that could be spoken that you do not deny my request." + </p> + <p> + He had taken one of her hands in his own. But the fingers lay with + unanswering coldness and lifelessness for a second in his clasp and then + were drawn away and took determinate hold of the chair-back. Again the + flush came to Fleda's cheeks, brought by a sharp pain,--oh, bodily and + mental too!--and after a moment's pause, with a distinctness of utterance + that let him know every word, she said, + </p> + <p> + "A generous man would not ask it, sir." + </p> + <p> + Thorn sprang up, and several times paced the length of the room, up and + down, before he said anything more. He looked at Fleda, but the flush was + gone again, and nothing could seem less conscious of his presence. Pain + and patience were in every line of her face, but he could read nothing + more, except a calmness as unmistakably written. Thorn gave that face + repeated glances as he walked, then stood still and read it at leisure. + Then he came to her side again and spoke in a different voice. + </p> + <p> + "You are so unlike anybody else," he said, "that you shall make me unlike + myself. I will do freely what I hoped to do with the light of your smile + before me. You shall hear no more of this affair, neither you nor the + world--I have the matter perfectly in my own hands--it shall never raise a + whisper again. I will move heaven and earth rather than fail--but there is + no danger of my failing. I will try to prove myself worthy of your esteem + even where a man is most excusable for being selfish." + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus23.jpg"><img src="images/illus23.jpg" height="250" + alt="Barby's energies and fainting remedies were again put in use." + title="Barby's energies and fainting remedies were again put in use." /><br /> + Barby's energies and fainting remedies were again put in use.</a> + </p> + <p> + He took one of her cold hands again,--Fleda could not help it without more + force than she cared to use, and indeed pain would by this time almost + have swallowed up other sensation if every word and touch had not sent it + in a stronger throb to her very finger ends. Thorn bent his lips to her + hand, twice kissed it fervently, and then left her; much to King's + satisfaction, who thereupon resigned himself to quiet slumbers. + </p> + <p> + His mistress knew no such relief. Excitement had dreadfully aggravated her + disorder, at a time when it was needful to banish even thought as far as + possible. Pain effectually banished it now, and Barby coming in a little + after Mr. Thorn had gone found her quite unable to speak and scarce able + to breathe, from agony. Barby's energies and fainting remedies were again + put in use; but pain reigned triumphant for hours, and when its hard rule + was at last abated Fleda was able to do nothing but sleep like a child for + hours more. + </p> + <p> + Towards a late tea-time she was at last awake, and carrying on a very + one-sided conversation with Rolf, her own lips being called upon for + little more than a smile now and then. King, not able to be in her lap, + had curled himself up upon a piece of his mistress's dress and as close + within the circle of her arms as possible, where Fleda's hand and his head + were on terms of mutual satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + "I thought you wouldn't permit a dog to lie in your lap," said Marion. + </p> + <p> + "Do you remember that?" said Fleda with a smile. "Ah I have grown + tender-hearted, Marion, since I have known what it was to want comfort + myself. I have come to the conclusion that it is best to let everything + have all the enjoyment it can in the circumstances. King crawled into my + lap one day when I had not spirits enough to turn him out, and he has kept + the place ever since.--Little King!"--In answer to which word of + intelligence King looked in her face and wagged his tail, and then + earnestly endeavoured to lick all her fingers. Which however was a piece + of comfort she would not give him. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda," said Barby putting her head in, "I wish you'd just step out here + and tell me which cheese you'd like to have cut." + </p> + <p> + "What a fool!" said Marion. "Let her cut them all if she likes." + </p> + <p> + "She is no fool," said Fleda. She thought Barby's punctiliousness however + a little ill-timed, as she rose from her sofa and went into the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + "Well you <i>do</i> look as if you wa'n't good for nothing but to be taken + care of!" said Barby. "I wouldn't have riz you up if it hadn't been just + tea-time, and I knowed you couldn't stay quiet much longer;"--and with a + look which explained her tactics she put into Fleda's hand a letter + directed to her aunt. + </p> + <p> + "Philetus gave it to me," she said, without a glance at Fleda's face,--"he + said it was give to him by a spry little shaver who wa'n't a mind to tell + nothin' about himself." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Barby!" was Fleda's most grateful return; and summoning her + aunt up-stairs she took her into her own room and locked the door before + she gave her the letter which Barby's shrewdness and delicacy had taken + such care should not reach its owner in a wrong way. Fleda watched her as + her eye ran over the paper and caught it as it fell from her fingers. + </p> + <p> + "My Dear Wife, + </p> + <p> + "That villain Thorn has got a handle of me which he will not fail to + use--you know it all I suppose, by this time--It is true that in an evil + hour, long ago, when greatly pressed, I did what I thought I should surely + undo in a few days--The time never came--I don't know why he has let it + lie so long, but he has taken it up now, and he will push it to the + extreme--There is but one thing left for me--I shall not see you again. + The rascal would never let me rest, I know, in any spot that calls itself + American ground. + </p> + <p> + "You will do better without me than with me. + </p> + <p> + "R. R." + </p> + <p> + Fleda mused over the letter for several minutes, and then touched her aunt + who had fallen on a chair with her head sunk in her hands. + </p> + <p> + "What does he mean?" said Mrs. Rossitur, looking up with a perfectly + colourless face. + </p> + <p> + "To leave the country." + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure? is that it?" said Mrs. Rossitur, rising and looking over + the words again;--"He would do anything, Fleda--" + </p> + <p> + "That is what he means, aunt Lucy;--don't you see he says he could not be + safe anywhere in America?" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur stood eying with intense eagerness for a minute or two the + note in her niece's hand. + </p> + <p> + "Then he is gone! now that it is all settled!--And we don't know + where--and we can't get word to him--" + </p> + <p> + Her cheek which had a little brightened became perfectly white again. + </p> + <p> + "He isn't gone yet--he can't be--he cannot have left Queechy till + to-day--he will be in New York for several days yet probably." + </p> + <p> + "New York!--it may be Boston?" + </p> + <p> + "No, he would be more likely to go to New York--I am sure he would--he is + accustomed to it." + </p> + <p> + "We might write to both places," said poor Mrs. Rossitur. "I will do it + and send them off at once." + </p> + <p> + "But he might not get the letters," said Fleda thoughtfully,--"he might + not dare to ask at the post-office." + </p> + <p> + His wife looked at that possibility, and then wrung her hands. + </p> + <p> + "Oh why didn't he give us a clew!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda put an arm round her affectionately and stood thinking; stood + trembling might as well be said, for she was too weak to be standing at + all. + </p> + <p> + "What can we do, dear Fleda?" said Mrs. Rossitur in great distress. "Once + out of New York and we can get nothing to him! If he only knew that there + is no need, and that it is all over!--" + </p> + <p> + "We must do everything, aunt Lucy," said Fleda thoughtfully, "and I hope + we shall succeed yet. We will write, but I think the most hopeful other + thing we could do would be to put advertisements in the newspapers--he + would be very likely to see them." + </p> + <p> + "Advertisements!--But you couldn't--what would you put in?" + </p> + <p> + "Something that would catch his eye and nobody's else--<i>that</i> is + easy, aunt Lucy." + </p> + <p> + "But there is nobody to put them in, Fleda,--you said uncle Orrin was + going to Boston--" + </p> + <p> + "He wasn't going there till next week, but he was to be in Philadelphia a + few days before that--the letter might miss him." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Plumfield!--Couldn't he?" + </p> + <p> + But Fleda shook her head. + </p> + <p> + "Wouldn't do, aunt Lucy--he would do all he could, but he don't know New + York nor the papers--he wouldn't know how to manage it--he don't know + uncle Rolf--shouldn't like to trust it to him." + </p> + <p> + "Who then?--there isn't a creature we could ask--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda laid her cheek to her poor aunt's and said, + </p> + <p> + "I'll do it." + </p> + <p> + "But you must be in New York to do it, dear Fleda,--you can't do it here." + </p> + <p> + "I will go to New York." + </p> + <p> + "When?" + </p> + <p> + "To-morrow morning." + </p> + <p> + "But dear Fleda, you can't go alone! I can't let you, and you're not fit + to go at all, my poor child!--" and between conflicting feelings Mrs. + Rossitur sat down and wept without measure. + </p> + <p> + "Listen, aunt Lucy," said Fleda, pressing a hand on her + shoulder,--"listen, and don't cry so!--I'll go and make all right, if + efforts can do it. I am not going alone--I'll get Seth to go with me; and + I can sleep in the cars and rest nicely in the steamboat--I shall feel + happy and well when I know that I am leaving you easier and doing all that + can be done to bring uncle Rolf home. Leave me to manage, and don't say + anything to Marion,--it is one blessed thing that she need not know + anything about all this. I shall feel better than if I were at home and + had trusted this business to any other hands." + </p> + <p> + "<i>You</i> are the blessing of my life," said Mrs. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Cheer up, and come down and let us have some tea," said Fleda, kissing + her; "I feel as if that would make me up a little; and then I'll write the + letters. I sha'n't want but very little baggage; there'll be nothing to + pack up." + </p> + <p> + Philetus was sent up the hill with a note to Seth Plumfield, and brought + home a favorable answer. Fleda thought as she went to rest that it was + well the mind's strength could sometimes act independently of its servant + the body, hers felt so very shattered and unsubstantial. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="41"></a>Chapter XLI. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + I thank you for your company; but good faith, I had as lief have been + myself alone.--As You Like It. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The first thing next morning Seth Plumfield came down to say that he had + seen Dr. Quackenboss the night before and had chanced to find out that he + was going to New York too, this very day; and knowing that the doctor + would be just as safe an escort as himself, Seth had made over the charge + of his cousin to him; "calculating," he said, "that it would make no + difference to Fleda and that he had better stay at home with his mother." + </p> + <p> + Fleda said nothing and looked as little as possible of her disappointment, + and her cousin went away wholly unsuspecting of it. + </p> + <p> + "Seth Plumfield ha'n't done a smarter thing than that in a good while," + Barby remarked satirically as he was shutting the door. "I should think + he'd ha' hurt himself." + </p> + <p> + "I dare say the doctor will take good care of me," said Fleda;--"as good + as he knows how." + </p> + <p> + "Men beat all!" said Barby impatiently.--"The little sense there is into + them!--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's sinking heart was almost ready to echo the sentiment; but nobody + knew it. + </p> + <p> + Coffee was swallowed, her little travelling bag and bonnet on the sofa; + all ready. Then came the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Miss Ringgan!--I am most happy of this delightful opportunity--I + had supposed you were located at home for the winter. This is a sudden + start." + </p> + <p> + "Is it sudden to you, Dr. Quackenboss?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Why--a--not disagreeably so," said the doctor smiling;--"nothing could be + that in the present circumstances,--but I--a--I hadn't calculated upon it + for much of a spell beforehand." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was vexed, and looked,--only unconversable. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose," said the doctor after a pause,--"that we have not much time + to waste--a--in idle moments. Which route do you intend to travel?" + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking to go by the North River, sir." + </p> + <p> + "But the ice has collected,--I am afraid,--" + </p> + <p> + "At Albany, I know; but when I came up there was a boat every other day, + and we could get there in time by the stage--this is her day." + </p> + <p> + "But we have had some pretty tight weather since, if you remember," said + the doctor; "and the boats have ceased to connect with the stage. We shall + have to go to Greenfield to take the Housatonic which will land us at + Bridgeport on the Sound" + </p> + <p> + "Have we time to reach Greenfield this morning?" + </p> + <p> + "Oceans of time?" said the doctor delightedly; "I've got my team here and + they're jumping out of their skins with having nothing to do and the + weather--they'll carry us there as spry as grasshoppers--now, if you're + ready, my dear Miss Ringgan!" + </p> + <p> + There was nothing more but to give and receive those speechless + lip-messages that are out of the reach of words, and Mrs. Rossitur's + half-spoken last charge, to take care of <i>herself</i>; and with these + seals upon her mission Fleda set forth and joined the doctor; thankful for + one foil to curiosity in the shape of a veil and only wishing that there + were any invented screen that she could place between her and hearing. + </p> + <p> + "I hope your attire is of a very warm description," said the doctor as he + helped her into the wagon;--"it friz pretty hard last night and I don't + think it has got out of the notion yet. If I had been consulted in any + other--a--form, than that of a friend, I should have disapprobated, if + you'll excuse me, Miss Ringgan's travelling again before her 'Rose of + Cassius' there was in blow. I hope you have heard no evil tidings? + Dr.--a--Gregory, I hope, is not taken ill?" + </p> + <p> + "I hope not, sir," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "He didn't look like it. A very hearty old gentleman. Not very old either, + I should judge. Was he the brother of your mother or your father?" + </p> + <p> + "Neither, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Ah!--I misunderstood--I thought, but of course I was mistaken,--I thought + I heard you speak to him under the title of uncle. But that is a title we + sometimes give to elderly people as a term of familiarity--there is an old + fellow that works for me,--he has been a long time in our family, and we + always call him 'uncle Jenk.'" + </p> + <p> + Fleda was ready to laugh, cry, and be angry, in a breath. She looked + straight before her and was mum. + </p> + <p> + "That 'Rose of Cassius' is a most exquisite thing!" said the doctor, + recurring to the cluster of bare bushy stems in the corner of the garden. + "Did Mr. Rossitur bring it with him when he came to his present + residence?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes sir." + </p> + <p> + "Where is Mr. Rossitur now?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda replied, with a jump of her heart, that business affairs had obliged + him to be away for a few days. + </p> + <p> + "And when does he expect to return?" said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "I hope he will be home as soon as I am," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Then you do not expect to remain long in the city this time?" + </p> + <p> + "I shall not have much of a winter at home if I do," said Fleda. "We are + almost at January." + </p> + <p> + "Because," said the doctor, "in that case I should have no higher + gratification than in attending upon your motions. I--a--beg you to + believe, my dear Miss Ringgan, that it would afford me the--a--most + particular--it would be most particularly grateful to me to wait upon you + to--a--the confines of the world." + </p> + <p> + Fleda hastened to assure her officious friend that the time of her return + was altogether uncertain; resolving rather to abide a guest with Mrs. + Pritchard than to have Dr. Quackenboss hanging upon her motions every day + of her being there. But in the mean time the doctor got upon Capt. + Rossitur's subject; then came to Mr. Thorn; and then wanted to know the + exact nature of Mr. Rossitur's business affairs in Michigan; through all + which matters poor Fleda had to run the gauntlet of questions, + interspersed with gracious speeches which she could bear even less well. + She was extremely glad to reach the cars and take refuge in seeming sleep + from the mongrel attentions, which if for the most part prompted by + admiration owned so large a share of curiosity. Her weary head and heart + would fain have courted the reality of sleep, as a refuge from more + painful thoughts and a feeling of exhaustion that could scarcely support + itself; but the restless roar and jumble of the rail-cars put it beyond + her power. How long the hours were--how hard to wear out, with no + possibility of a change of position that would give rest; Fleda would not + even raise her head when they stopped, for fear of being talked to; how + trying that endless noise to her racked nerves. It came to an end at last, + though Fleda would not move for fear they might be only taking in wood and + water. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Ringgan!" said the doctor in her ear,--"my dear Miss Ringgan!--we + are here!--" + </p> + <p> + "Are we?" said Fleda, looking up;--"what other name has the place, + doctor?" + </p> + <p> + "Why Bridgeport," said the doctor,--"we're at Bridgeport--now we have + leave to exchange conveyances. A man feels constrained after a prolonged + length of time in a place. How have you enjoyed the ride?" + </p> + <p> + "Not very well--it has seemed long. I am glad we are at the end of it!" + </p> + <p> + But as she rose and threw back her veil the doctor looked startled. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Miss Ringgan!--are you faint?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir." + </p> + <p> + "You are not well, indeed!--I am very sorry--the ride has been--Take my + arm!--Ma'am," said the doctor touching a black satin cloak which filled + the passage-way,--"will you have the goodness to give this lady a + passport?" + </p> + <p> + But the black satin cloak preferred a straightforward manner of doing + this, so their egress was somewhat delayed. Happily faintness was not the + matter. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Miss Ringgan!" said the doctor as they reached the ground and the + outer air,--"what was it?--the stove too powerful? You are looking--you + are of a dreadfully delicate appearance!" + </p> + <p> + "I had a headache yesterday," said Fleda; "it always leaves me with a + disagreeable reminder the next day. I am not ill." + </p> + <p> + But he looked frightened, and hurried her, as fast as he dared, to the + steamboat; and there proposed half a dozen restoratives; the simplest of + which Fleda took, and then sought delicious rest from him and from herself + on the cushions of a settee. Delicious!--though she was alone, in the + cabin of a steamboat, with strange forms and noisy tongues around her, the + closed eyelids shut it out all; and she had time but for one resting + thought of "patient continuance in well-doing," and one happy heart-look + up to him who has said that he cares for his children, a look that laid + her anxieties down there,--when past misery and future difficulty faded + away before a sleep that lasted till the vessel reached her moorings and + was made fast. + </p> + <p> + She was too weary and faint even to think during the long drive up to + Bleecker-st. She was fain to let it all go--the work she had to do and the + way she must set about it, and rest in the assurance that nothing could be + done that night. She did not so much as hear Dr. Quackenboss's + observations, though she answered a few of them, till, at the door, she + was conscious of his promising to see her to-morrow and of her instant + conclusion to take measures to see nobody. + </p> + <p> + How strange everything seemed. She walked through the familiar hall, + feeling as if her acquaintance with every old thing was broken. There was + no light in the back parlour, but a comfortable fire. + </p> + <p> + "Is my--is Dr. Gregory at home?" she asked of the girl who had let her in. + </p> + <p> + "No ma'am; he hasn't got back from Philadelphia." + </p> + <p> + "Tell Mrs. Pritchard a lady wants to see her." + </p> + <p> + Good Mrs. Pritchard was much more frightened than Dr. Quackenboss had been + when she came into the back parlour to see "a lady" and found Fleda in the + great arm-chair taking off her things. She poured out questions, + wonderings and lamentings, not "in a breath" but in a great many; quite + forgot to be glad to see her, she looked so dreadfully; and "what <i>had</i> + been the matter?" Fleda answered her,--told of yesterday's illness and + to-day's journey; and met all her shocked enquiries with so composed a + face and such a calm smile and bearing, that Mrs. Pritchard was almost + persuaded not to believe her eyes. + </p> + <p> + "My uncle is not at home?" + </p> + <p> + "O no, Miss Fleda! I suppose he's in Philadelphy--but his motions is so + little to be depended on that I never know when I have him; maybe he'll + stop going through to Boston, and maybe no, and I don't know when; so + anyhow I had to have a fire made and this room all ready; and ain't it + lucky it was ready for you to-night!--and now he ain't here you can have + the great chair all to yourself and make yourself comfortable--we can keep + warmer here, I guess, than you can in the country," said the good + housekeeper, giving some skilful admonishing touches to the fire;--"and + you must just sit there and read and rest, and see if you can't get back + your old looks again. If I thought it was <i>that</i> you came for I'd be + happy. I never <i>did</i> see such a change in any one in five days!--" + </p> + <p> + She stood looking down at her guest with a face of very serious concern, + evidently thinking much more than she chose to give utterance to. + </p> + <p> + "I am tired, Mrs. Pritchard," said Fleda, smiling up at her. + </p> + <p> + "I wish you had somebody to take care of you, Miss Fleda, that wouldn't + let you tire yourself. It's a sin to throw your strength away so--and you + don't care for looks nor nothing else when it's for other people. You're + looking just as handsome, too, for all," she said, her mouth giving way a + little, as she stooped down to take off Fleda's overshoes, "but that's + only because you can't help it. Now what is there you'd like to have for + supper!--just say and you shall have it--whatever would seem best--because + I mightn't hit the right thing?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda declared her indifference to everything but a cup of tea, and her + hostess bustled away to get that and tax her own ingenuity and kindness + for the rest. And leaning her weary head back in the lounge Fleda tried to + think,--but it was not time yet; she could only feel; feel what a sad + change had come over her since she had sat there last; shut her eyes and + wish she could sleep again. + </p> + <p> + But Mrs. Pritchard's hospitality must be gone through with first. + </p> + <p> + The nicest of suppers was served in the bright little parlour and her + hostess was a compound of care and good will; nothing was wanting to the + feast but a merry heart. Fleda could not bring that, so her performance + was unsatisfactory and Mrs. Pritchard was distressed. Fleda went to her + own room promising better doings to-morrow. + </p> + <p> + She awoke in the morning to the full burden of care and sorrow which sheer + weakness and weariness the day before had in part laid down; to a quicker + sense of the state of things than she had had yet. The blasting evil that + had fallen upon them,--Fleda writhed on her bed when she thought of it. + The sternest, cruellest, most inflexible, grasp of distress. Poverty may + be borne, death may be sweetened, even to the survivors; but <i>disgrace</i>--Fleda + hid her head, as if she would shut the idea out with the light. And the + ruin it had wrought. Affection killed at the root,--her aunt's happiness + withered, for this world,--Hugh's life threatened,--the fair name of his + family gone,--the wear and weariness of her own spirit,--but that had + hardly a thought. Himself?--oh no one could tell what a possible wreck, + now that self-respect and the esteem of others, those two safe-guards of + character, were lost to him. "So much security has any woman in a man + without religion;" she remembered those words of her aunt Miriam now; and + she thought if Mr. Thorn had sought an ill wind to blow upon his + pretensions he could not have pitched them better. What fairer promise, + without religion, could be than her uncle had given? Reproach had never + breathed against his name, and no one less than those who knew him best + could fancy that he had ever given it occasion. And who could have more at + stake?--and the stake was lost--that was the summing up thought. + </p> + <p> + No, it was not,--for Fleda's mind presently sprang beyond,--to the remedy; + and after a little swift and earnest flitting about of thought over + feasibilities and contingencies, she jumped up and dressed herself with a + prompt energy which shewed a mind made up to its course. And yet when she + came down to the parlour, though bending herself with nervous intentness + to the work she had to do, her fingers and her heart were only stayed in + their trembling by some of the happy assurances she had been fleeing to;-- + </p> + <p> + "Commit thy works unto the Lord, and all thy thoughts shall be + established."-- + </p> + <p> + "In all thy ways acknowledge Him: He shall direct they paths."-- + </p> + <p> + --Assurances, not indeed that her plans should meet with success, but that + they should have the issue best for them. + </p> + <p> + She was early, but the room was warm and in order and the servant had left + it. Fleda sought out paper and pencil and sat down to fashion the form of + an advertisement,--the first thing to be done. She had no notion how + difficult a thing till she came to do it. + </p> + <p> + "<i>R. R. is entreated to communicate with his niece at the old place in + Bleecker-street, on business of the greatest importance</i>." + </p> + <p> + "It will not do," said Fleda to herself as she sat and looked at + it,--"there is not enough to catch his eye; and there is <i>too much</i> + if it caught anybody else's eye;--'R. R.', and 'his niece,' and + 'Bleecker-street,'--that would tell plain enough." + </p> + <p> + "<i>Dear uncle, F. has followed you here on business of the greatest + importance. Pray let her see you--she is at the old place</i>." + </p> + <p> + "It will not do," thought Fleda again,--"there is still less to catch his + eye--I cannot trust it. And if I were to put 'Queechy' over it, that would + give the clue to the Evelyns and everybody. But I had better risk anything + rather than his seeing it--" + </p> + <p> + The miserable needlessness of the whole thing, the pitiful weighing of + sorrow against sorrow, and shame against shame overcame her for a little; + and then dashing away the tears she had no time for and locking up the + strong box of her heart, she took her pencil again. + </p> + <p> + "<i>Queechy</i>. + </p> + <p> + "<i>Let me see you at the old place. I have come here on urgent business</i> + for you. <i>Do not deny me, for H---'s sake</i>!" + </p> + <p> + With a trifle of alteration she thought this would do; and went on to make + a number of fair copies of it for so many papers, This was done and all + traces of it out of the way before Mrs. Pritchard came in and the + breakfast; and after bracing herself with coffee, though the good + housekeeper was still sadly dissatisfied with her indifference to some + more substantial brace in the shape of chickens and ham, Fleda prepared + herself inwardly and outwardly to brave the wind and the newspaper + offices, and set forth. It was a bright keen day; she was sorry; she would + it had been cloudy. It seemed as if she could not hope to escape some eyes + in such an atmosphere. + </p> + <p> + She went to the library first, and there requested the librarian, whom she + knew, to bring her from the reading-room the files of morning and evening + papers. They were many more than she had supposed; she had not near + advertisements enough. Paper and ink were at hand however, and making + carefully her list of the various offices, morning and evening separate, + she wrote out a copy of the notice for each of them. + </p> + <p> + The morning was well on by the time she could leave the library. It was + yet far from the fashionable hour, however, and sedulously shunning the + recognition of anybody, in hopes that it would be one step towards her + escaping theirs, she made her way down the bright thoroughfare as far as + the City Hall, and then crossed over the Park and plunged into a region + where it was very little likely she would see a face that she knew. She + saw nothing else either that she knew; in spite of having studied the map + of the city in the library she was forced several times to ask her way, as + she visited office after office, of the evening papers first, till she had + placed her notice with each one of them. Her courage almost failed her, + her heart did quite, after two or three. It was a trial from which her + whole nature shrank, to go among the people, to face the eyes, to exchange + talk with the lips, that were at home in those purlieus; look at them she + did not. Making her slow way through the choked narrow streets, where the + mere confusion of business was bewildering,--very, to any one come from + Queechy; among crowds, of what mixed and doubtful character, hurrying + along and brushing with little ceremony past her; edging by loitering + groups that filled the whole sidewalk, or perhaps edging through them, + groups whose general type of character was sufficiently plain and unmixed; + entering into parley with clerk after clerk who looked at such a visiter + as an anomaly,--poor Fleda almost thought so too, and shrank within + herself; venturing hardly her eyes beyond her thick veil, and shutting her + ears resolutely as far as possible to all the dissonant rough voices that + helped to assure her she was where she ought not to be. Sometimes she felt + that it was <i>impossible</i> to go on and finish her task; but a thought + or two nerved her again to plunge into another untried quarter or make + good her entrance to some new office through a host of loungers and + waiting news-boys collected round the door. Sometimes in utter + discouragement she went on and walked to a distance and came back, in the + hope of a better opportunity. It was a long business; and she often had to + wait. The end of her list was reached at last, and the paper was thrown + away; but she did not draw free breath till she had got to the west side + of Broadway again, and turned her back upon them all. + </p> + <p> + It was late then, and the street was thinned of a part of its gay throng. + Completely worn, in body as well as mind, with slow faltering steps, Fleda + moved on among those still left; looking upon them with a curious eye as + if they and she belonged to different classes of beings; so very far her + sobered and saddened spirit seemed to herself from their stir of business + and gayety; if they had been a train of lady-flies or black ants Fleda + would hardly have felt that she had less in common with them. It was a + weary long way up to Bleecker-street, as she was forced to travel it. + </p> + <p> + The relief was unspeakable to find herself within her uncle's door with + the sense that her dreaded duty was done, and well and thoroughly. Now her + part was to be still and wait. But with the relief came also a reaction + from the strain of the morning. Before her weary feet had well mounted the + stairs her heart gave up its control; and she locked herself in her room + to yield to a helpless outpouring of tears which she was utterly unable to + restrain, though conscious that long time could not pass before she would + be called to dinner. Dinner had to wait. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Fleda," said the housekeeper in a vexed tone when the meal was half + over,--"I didn't know you ever did any thing wrong." + </p> + <p> + "You are sadly mistaken, Mrs. Pritchard," said Fleda half lightly, half + sadly. + </p> + <p> + "You're looking not a bit better than last night, and if anything rather + worse," Mrs. Pritchard went on. "It isn't right, Miss Fleda. You oughtn't + to ha' set the first step out of doors, I know you oughtn't, this blessed + day; and you've been on your feet these seven hours,--and you shew it! + You're just ready to drop." + </p> + <p> + "I will rest to-morrow," said Fleda,--"or try to." + </p> + <p> + "You are fit for nothing but bed," said the housekeeper,--"and you've been + using yourself, Miss Fleda, as if you had the strength of an elephant. Now + do you think you've been doing right?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda would have made some cheerful answer, but she was not equal to it; + she had lost all command of herself, and she dropped knife and fork to + burst into a flood of exceeding tears. Mrs. Pritchard equally astonished + and mystified, hurried questions, apologies, and consolations, one upon + another; and made up her mind that there was something mysterious on foot + about which she had better ask no questions. Neither did she, from that + time. She sealed up her mouth, and contented herself with taking the best + care of her guest that she possibly could. Needed enough, but all of + little avail. + </p> + <p> + The reaction did not cease with that day. The next, Sunday, was spent on + the sofa, in a state of utter prostration. With the necessity for exertion + the power had died. Fleda could only lie upon the cushions, and sleep + helplessly, while Mrs. Pritchard sat by, anxiously watching her; curiosity + really swallowed up in kind feeling. Monday was little better, but towards + the after part of the day the stimulant of anxiety began to work again, + and Fleda sat up to watch for a word from her uncle, But none came, and + Tuesday morning distressed Mrs. Pritchard with its want of amendment. It + was not to be hoped for, Fleda knew, while this fearful watching lasted. + Her uncle might not have seen the advertisement--he might not have got her + letter--he might be even then setting sail to quit home forever. And she + could do nothing but wait. Her nerves were alive to every stir; every + touch of the bell made her tremble; it was impossible to read, to lie + down, to be quiet or still anywhere. She had set the glass of expectancy + for one thing in the distance; and all things else were a blur or a blank. + </p> + <p> + They had sat down to dinner that Tuesday, when a ring at the door which + had made her heart jump was followed--yes, it was,--by the entrance of the + maid-servant holding a folded bit of paper in her hand. Fleda did not wait + to ask whose it was; she seized it and saw; and sprang away up stairs. It + was a sealed scrap of paper, that had been the back of a letter, + containing two lines without signature. + </p> + <p> + "I will meet you <i>at Dinah's</i>--if you come there alone about + sundown." + </p> + <p> + Enough! Dinah was an old black woman who once had been a very attached + servant in Mr. Rossitur's family, and having married and become a widow + years ago, had set up for herself in the trade of a washerwoman, occupying + an obscure little tenement out towards Chelsea. Fleda had rather a shadowy + idea of the locality, though remembering very well sundry journeys of + kindness she and Hugh had made to it in days gone by. But she recollected + it was in Sloman-street and she knew she could find it; and dropping upon + her knees poured out thanks too deep to be uttered and too strong to be + even thought without a convulsion of tears. Her dinner after that was but + a mental thanksgiving; she was hardly conscious of anything beside; and a + thankful rejoicing for all her weary labours. Their weariness was sweet to + her now. Let her but see him;--the rest was sure. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="42"></a>Chapter XLII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + How well appaid she was her bird to find. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Sidney. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Fleda counted the minutes till it wanted an hour of sundown; and then + avoiding Mrs. Pritchard made her escape out of the house. A long walk was + before her and the latter part of it through a region which she wished to + pass while the light was good. And she was utterly unable to travel at any + but a very gentle rate. So she gave herself plenty of time. + </p> + <p> + It was a very bright afternoon and all the world was astir. Fleda shielded + herself with a thick veil and went up one of the narrow streets, not + daring to venture into Broadway; and passing Waverly Place which was + almost as bright, turned down Eighth-street. A few blocks now and she + would be out of all danger of meeting any one that knew her. She drew her + veil close and hurried on. But the proverb saith "a miss is as good as a + mile," and with reason; for if fate wills the chances make nothing. As + Fleda set her foot down to cross Fifth Avenue she saw Mr. Carleton on the + other side coming up from Waverly Place. She went as slowly as she dared, + hoping that he would pass without looking her way, or be unable to + recognize her through her thick wrapper. In vain,--she soon saw that she + was known; he was waiting for her, and she must put up her veil and speak + to him. + </p> + <p> + "Why I thought you had left New York," said he;--"I was told so." + </p> + <p> + "I had left it--I have left it, sir," said Fleda;--"I have only come back + for a day or two--" + </p> + <p> + "Have you been ill?" he said with a sudden change of tone, the light in + his eye and smile giving place to a very marked gravity. + </p> + <p> + Fleda would have answered with a half smile, but such a sickness of heart + came over her that speech failed and she was very near bursting into + tears. Mr. Carleton looked at her earnestly a moment, and then put the + hand which Fleda had forgotten he still held, upon his arm and began to + walk forward gently with her. Something in the grave tenderness with which + this was done reminded Fleda irresistibly of the times when she had been a + child under his care; and somehow her thoughts went off on a tangent back + to the further days of her mother and father and grandfather, the other + friends from whom she had had the same gentle protection, which now there + was no one in the world to give her. And their images did never seem more + winning fair than just then,--when their place was left most especially + empty. Her uncle she had never looked up to in the same way, and whatever + stay he had been was cut down. Her aunt leaned upon <i>her</i>; and Hugh + had always been more of a younger than an elder brother. The quick + contrast of those old happy childish days was too strong; the glance back + at what she had had, made her feel the want. Fleda blamed herself, + reasoned and fought with herself;--but she was weak in mind and body, her + nerves were unsteady yet, her spirits unprepared for any encounter or + reminder of pleasure; and though vexed and ashamed she <i>could</i> not + hold her head up, and she could not prevent tear after tear from falling + as they went along; she could only hope that nobody saw them. + </p> + <p> + Nobody spoke of them. But then nobody said anything; and the silence at + last frightened her into rousing herself She checked her tears and raised + her head; she ventured no more; she dared not turn her face towards her + companion. He looked at her once or twice, as if in doubt whether to speak + or not. + </p> + <p> + "Are you not going beyond your strength?" he said at length gently. + </p> + <p> + Fleda said no, although in a tone that half confessed his suspicion. He + was silent again, however, and she cast about in vain for something to + speak of; it seemed to her that all subjects of conversation in general + had been packed up for exportation, neither eye nor memory could light + upon a single one. Block after block was passed, the pace at which he + walked, and the manner of his care for her, alone shewing that he knew + what a very light hand was resting upon his arm. + </p> + <p> + "How pretty the curl of blue smoke is from that chimney," he said. + </p> + <p> + It was said with a tone so carelessly easy that Fleda's heart jumped for + one instant in the persuasion that he had seen and noticed nothing + peculiar about her. + </p> + <p> + "I know it," she said eagerly,--"I have often thought of it--especially + here in the city--" + </p> + <p> + "Why is it? what is it?--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eye gave one of its exploratory looks at his, such as he + remembered from years ago, before she spoke. + </p> + <p> + "Isn't it contrast?--or at least I think that helps the effect here." + </p> + <p> + "What do you make the contrast?" he said quietly. + </p> + <p> + "Isn't it," said Fleda with another glance, "the contrast of something + pure and free and upward-tending, with what is below it. I did not mean + the mere painter's contrast. In the country smoke is more picturesque, but + in the city I think it has more character." + </p> + <p> + "To how many people do you suppose it ever occurred that smoke had a + character?" said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "You are laughing at me, Mr. Carleton? perhaps I deserve it." + </p> + <p> + "You do not think that," said he with a look that forbade her to think it. + "But I see you are of Lavater's mind, that everything has a physiognomy?" + </p> + <p> + "I think he was perfectly right," said Fleda. "Don't you, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "To some people, yes!--But the expression is so subtle that only very nice + sensibilities, with fine training, can hope to catch it; therefore to the + mass of the world Lavater would talk nonsense." + </p> + <p> + "That is a gentle hint to me. But if I talk nonsense I wish you would set + me right, Mr. Carleton;--I am very apt to amuse myself with tracing out + fancied analogies in almost everything, and I may carry it too far--too + far--to be spoken of wisely. I think it enlarges one's field of pleasure + very much. Where one eye is stopped, another is but invited on." + </p> + <p> + "So," said Mr. Carleton, "while that puff of smoke would lead one person's + imagination only down the chimney to the kitchen fire, it would take + another's----where did yours go?" said he suddenly turning round upon her. + </p> + <p> + Fleda met his eye again, without speaking; but her look had perhaps more + than half revealed her thought, for she was answered with a smile so + intelligent and sympathetic that she was abashed. + </p> + <p> + "How very much religion heightens the enjoyments of life," Mr. Carleton + said after a while. + </p> + <p> + Fieda's heart throbbed an answer; she did not speak. + </p> + <p> + "Both in its direct and indirect action. The mind is set free from + influences that narrowed its range and dimmed its vision; and refined to a + keener sensibility, a juster perception, a higher power of appreciation, + by far, than it had before. And then, to say nothing of religion's own + peculiar sphere of enjoyment, technically religious,--what a field of + pleasure it opens to its possessor in the world of moral beauty, most + partially known to any other,--and the fine but exquisite analogies of + things material with things spiritual,--those <i>harmonies of Nature</i>, + to which, talk as they will, all other ears are deaf!" + </p> + <p> + "You know," said Fleda with full eyes that she dared not shew, "how Henry + Martyn said that he found he enjoyed painting and music so much more after + he became a Christian." + </p> + <p> + "I remember. It is the substituting a just medium for a false one--it is + putting nature within and nature without in tune with each other, so that + the chords are perfect now which were jarring before." + </p> + <p> + "And yet how far people would be from believing you, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "Yes--they are possessed with the contrary notion. But in all the creation + nothing has a one-sided usefulness;--what a reflection it would be upon + the wisdom of its author if godliness alone were the exception--if it were + not 'profitable for the life that now is, as well as for that which is to + come'!" + </p> + <p> + "They make that work the other way, don't they?" said Fleda.--"Not being + able to see how thorough religion should be for anybody's happiness, they + make use of your argument to conclude that it is not what the Bible + requires. How I have heard that urged--that God intended his creatures to + be happy--as a reason why they should disobey him. They lay hold on the + wrong end of the argument and work backwards." + </p> + <p> + "Precisely. + </p> + <p> + "'God intended his creatures to be happy. + </p> + <p> + "'Strict obedience would make them unhappy. + </p> + <p> + "'Therefore, he does not intend them to obey.'" + </p> + <p> + "They never put it before them quite so clearly," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "They would startle at it a little. But so they would at the right stating + of the case." + </p> + <p> + "And how would that be, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "It might be somewhat after this fashion-- + </p> + <p> + "'God requires nothing that is not for the happiness of his people-- + </p> + <p> + "'He requires perfect obedience-- + </p> + <p> + "'Therefore perfect obedience is for their happiness' + </p> + <p> + "But unbelief will not understand that. Did it ever strike you how much + there is in those words 'Come and see'?--All that argument can do, after + all, is but to persuade to that. Only faith will submit to terms and enter + the narrrow gate; and only obedience knows what the prospect is on the + other side." + </p> + <p> + "But isn't it true, Mr. Carleton, that the world have some cause for their + opinion?--judging as they do by the outside? The peculiar pleasures of + religion, as you say, are out of sight, and they do not always find in + religious people that enlargement and refinement of which you were + speaking." + </p> + <p> + "Because they make unequal comparisons. Recollect that, as God has + declared, the ranks of religion are not for the most part filled from the + wise and the great. In making your estimate you must measure things equal + in other respects. Compare the same man with himself before he was a + Christian or with his unchristianized fellows--and you will find + invariably the refining, dignifying, ennobling, influence of true + religion; the enlarged intelligence and the greater power of enjoyment." + </p> + <p> + "And besides those causes of pleasure-giving that you mentioned," said + Fleda,--"there is a mind at ease; and how much that is alone. If I may + judge others by myself,--the mere fact of being unpoised--unresting-- + disables the mind from a thousand things that are joyfully relished by one + entirely at ease." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said he,--"do you remember that word--'The stones of the field + shall be at peace with thee'?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid people would understand you as little as they would me, Mr. + Carleton," said Fleda laughing. + </p> + <p> + He smiled, rather a prolonged smile, the expression of which Fleda could + not make out; she felt that <i>she</i> did not quite understand him. + </p> + <p> + "I have thought," said he after a pause, "that much of the beauty we find + in many things is owing to a hidden analogy--the harmony they make with + some unknown string of the mind's harp which they have set a vibrating. + But the music of that is so low and soft that one must listen very closely + to find out what it is." + </p> + <p> + "Why that is the very theory of which I gave you a smoky illustration a + little while ago," said Fleda. "I thought I was on safe ground, after what + you said about the characters of flowers, for that was a little--" + </p> + <p> + "Fanciful?" said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "What you please," said Fleda colouring a little,--"I am sure it is true. + The theory, I mean. I have many a time felt it, though I never put it in + words. I shall think of that." + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever happen to see the very early dawn of a winter's morning?" + said he. + </p> + <p> + But he laughed the next instant at the comical expression of Fleda's face + as it was turned to him. + </p> + <p> + "Forgive me for supposing you as ignorant as myself. I have seen + it--once." + </p> + <p> + "Appreciated it, I hope, that time?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I shall never forget it." + </p> + <p> + "And it never wrought in you a desire to see it again?" + </p> + <p> + "I might see many a dawn," said he smiling, "without what I saw then. It + was very early--and a cloudy morning, so that night had still almost + undisturbed possession of earth and sky; but in the south-eastern quarter, + between two clouds, there was a space of fair white promise, hardly making + any impression upon the darkness but only set off by it. And upon this one + bright spot in earth or heaven, rode the planet of the morning--the sun's + forerunner--bright upon the brightness. All else was dusky--except where + overhead the clouds had parted again and shewed a faint old moon, + glimmering down upon the night it could no longer be said to 'rule'." + </p> + <p> + "Beautiful!" said Fleda. "There is hardly any time I like so well as the + dawn of a winter morning with an old moon in the sky. Summer weather has + no beauty like it--in some things." + </p> + <p> + "Once," continued Mr, Carleton, "I should have seen no more than I have + told you--the beauty that every cultivated eye must take in. But now, + methought I saw the dayspring that has come upon a longer night--and from + out of the midst of it there was the fair face of the morning star looking + at me with its sweet reminder and invitation--looking over the world with + its aspect of triumphant expectancy;--there was its calm assurance of the + coming day,--its promise that the star of hope which now there were only a + few watching eyes to see, should presently be followed by the full beams + of the Sun of righteousness making the kingdoms of the world his + own.--Your memory may bring to you the words that came to mine,--the + promise 'to him that overcometh', and the beauty of the lips that made + it--the encouragement to 'patient continuance in well-doing', 'till the + day break and the shadows flee away.'--And there on the other hand was the + substituted light of earth's wisdom and inventions, dominant yet, but + waning and soon to be put out for ever." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was crying again, and perhaps that was the reason why Mr. Carleton + was silent for some time. She was very sorry to shew herself so weak, but + she could not help it; part of his words had come too close. And when she + had recovered again she was absolutely silent too, for they were nearing + Sloman-street and she could not take him there with her. She did not know + what to say, nor what he would think; and she said not another word till + they came to the corner. There she must stop and speak. + </p> + <p> + "I am very much obliged to you, Mr. Carleton," she said drawing her hand + from his arm, "for taking care of me all this disagreeable way--I will not + give you any more trouble." + </p> + <p> + "You are not going to dismiss me?" said he looking at her with a + countenance of serious anxiety. + </p> + <p> + "I must," said Fleda ingenuously,--"I have business to attend to here--" + </p> + <p> + "But you will let me have the pleasure of waiting for you?" + </p> + <p> + "O no," said Fleda hesitating and flushing,--"thank you, Mr. + Carleton,--but pray do not--I don't know at all how long I may be + detained." + </p> + <p> + He bowed, she thought gravely, and turned away, and she entered the little + wretched street; with a strange feeling of pain that she could not + analyze. She did not know where it came from, but she thought if there + only had been a hiding-place for her she could have sat down and wept a + whole heartful. The feeling must be kept back now, and it was soon + forgotten in the throbbing of her heart at another thought which took + entire possession. + </p> + <p> + The sun was not down, there was time enough, but it was with a step and + eye of hurried anxiety that Fleda passed along the little street, for fear + of missing her quest or lest Dinah should have changed her domicil. Yet + would her uncle have named it for their meeting if he had not been sure of + it? It was very odd he should have appointed that place at all, and Fleda + was inclined to think he must have seen Dinah by some chance, or it never + would have come into his head. Still her eye passed unheeding over all the + varieties of dinginess and misery in her way, intent only upon finding + that particular dingy cellar-way which used to admit her to Dinah's + premises. It was found at last, and she went in. + </p> + <p> + The old woman, herself most unchanged, did not know the young lady, but + well remembered the little girl whom Fleda brought to her mind. And then + she was overjoyed to see her, and asked a multitude of questions, and told + a long story of her having met Mr. Rossitur in the street the other day + "in the last place where she'd have looked to see him;" and how old he had + grown, and how surprised she had been to see the grey hairs in his head. + Fleda at last gave her to understand that she expected him to meet her + there and would like to see him alone; and the good woman immediately took + her work into another apartment, made up the fire and set up the chairs, + and leaving her assured Fleda she would lock up the doors "and not let no + one come through." + </p> + <p> + It was sundown, and later, Fleda thought, and she felt as if every pulse + was doing double duty. No matter--if she were shattered and the work done. + But what work!--Oh the needlessness, the cruelty, the folly of it! And how + much of the ill consequences she might be unable after all to ward off. + She took off her hat, to relieve a nervous smothered feeling; and walked, + and sat down; and then sat still, from trembling inability to do anything + else. Dinah's poor little room, clean though it was, looked to her the + most dismal place in the world from its association with her errand; she + hid her face on her knees that she might have no disagreeableness to + contend with but that which could not be shut out. + </p> + <p> + It had lain there some time, till a sudden felling of terror at the + growing lateness made her raise it to look at the window. Mr. Rossitur was + standing still before her, he must have come in very softly,--and + looking,--oh Fleda had not imagined him looking so changed. All was + forgotten,--the wrong, and the needlessness, and the indignation with + which she had sometimes thought of it; Fleda remembered nothing but love + and pity, and threw herself upon his neck with such tears of tenderness + and sympathy, such kisses of forgiveness and comfort-speaking, as might + have broken a stouter heart than Mr. Rossitur's. He held her in his arms + for a few minutes, passively suffering her caresses, and then gently + unloosing her hold placed her on a seat; sat down a little way off, + covered his face and groaned aloud. + </p> + <p> + Fleda could not recover herself at once. Then shaking off her agitation + she came and knelt down by his side and putting one arm over his shoulder + laid her cheek against his forehead. Words were beyond reach, but his + forehead was wet with her tears; and kisses, of soft entreaty, of winning + assurance, said all she could say. + </p> + <p> + "What did you come here for, Fleda?" said Mr. Rossitur at length, without + changing his position. + </p> + <p> + "To bring you home, uncle Rolf." + </p> + <p> + "Home!" said he, with an accent between bitterness and despair. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, for it's all over, it's all forgotten--there is no more to be said + about it at all," said Fleda, getting her words out she didn't know how. + </p> + <p> + "What is forgotten?" said he harshly. + </p> + <p> + "All that you would wish, sir," replied Fleda softly and gently;--"there + is no more to be done about it; and I came to tell you if possible before + it was too late. Oh I'm so glad!--" and her arms and her cheek pressed + closer as fresh tears stopped her voice. + </p> + <p> + "How do you know, Fleda?" said Mr. Rossitur raising his head and bringing + hers to his shoulder, while his arms in turn enclosed her. + </p> + <p> + Fleda whispered, "He told me so himself." + </p> + <p> + "Who?" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn." + </p> + <p> + The words were but just spoken above her breath. Mr. Rossitur was silent + for some time. + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure you understood him?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir; it could not have been spoken plainer." + </p> + <p> + "Are you quite sure he meant what he said, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Perfectly sure, uncle Rolf! I know he did." + </p> + <p> + "What stipulation did he make beforehand?" + </p> + <p> + "He did it without any stipulation, sir." + </p> + <p> + "What was his inducement then? If I know him he is not a man to act + without any." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's cheek was dyed, but except that she gave no other answer. + </p> + <p> + "Why has it been left so long?" said her uncle presently. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, sir--he said nothing about that. He promised that neither + we nor the world should hear anything more of it." + </p> + <p> + "The world?" said Mr. Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "No sir, he said that only one or two persons had any notion of it and + that their secrecy he had the means of securing." + </p> + <p> + "Did he tell you anything more?" + </p> + <p> + "Only that he had the matter entirely under his control and that never a + whisper of it should be heard again, No promise could be given more fully + and absolutely." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur drew a long breath, speaking to Fleda's ear very great + relief, and was silent. + </p> + <p> + "And what reward is he to have for this, Fleda?" he said after some + musing. + </p> + <p> + "All that my hearty thanks and gratitude can give, as far as I am + concerned, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Is that what he expects, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I cannot help what he expects," said Fleda, in some distress. + </p> + <p> + "What have you engaged yourself to, my child?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing in the world, uncle Rolf!" said Fleda earnestly--"nothing in the + world. I haven't engaged myself to anything. The promise was made freely, + without any sort of stipulation." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur looked thoughtful and disquieted. Fleda's tears were pouring + again. + </p> + <p> + "I will not trust him," he said,--"I will not stay in the country!" + </p> + <p> + "But you will come home, uncle?" said Fleda, terrified. + </p> + <p> + "Yes my dear child--yes my dear child!" he said tenderly, putting his arms + round Fleda again and kissing, with an earnestness of acknowledgment that + went to her heart, her lips and brow,--"you shall do what you will with + me; and when I go, we will all go together." + </p> + <p> + From Queechy! From America!--But she had no time for that thought now. + </p> + <p> + "You said 'for Hugh's sake,'" Mr. Rossitur observed after a pause, and + with some apparent difficulty;--"what of him?" + </p> + <p> + "He is not well, uncle Rolf," said Fleda,--"and I think the best medicine + will be the sight of you again." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur looked pale and was silent a moment. + </p> + <p> + "And my wife?" he said. + </p> + <p> + His face, and the thought of those faces at home, were too much for Fleda; + she could not help it; "Oh, uncle Rolf," she said, hiding her face, "they + only want to see you again now!" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur leaned his head in his hands and groaned; and Fleda could but + cry; she felt there was nothing to say. + </p> + <p> + "It was for Marion," he said at length;--"it was when I was hard pressed + and I was fearful if it were known that it might ruin her prospects.--I + wanted that miserable sum--only four thousand dollars--that fellow + Schwiden asked to borrow it of me for a few days, and to refuse would have + been to confess all. I dared not try my credit, and I just madly took that + step that proved irretrievable--I counted at the moment upon funds that + were coming to me only the next week, sure, I thought, as possible,--but + the man cheated me, and our embarrassments thickened from that time; that + thing has been a weight--oh a weight of deadening power!--round my neck + ever since. I have died a living death these six years!--" + </p> + <p> + "I know it, dear uncle--I know it all!" said Fleda, bringing the + sympathizing touch of her cheek to his again. + </p> + <p> + "The good that it did has been unspeakably overbalanced by the evil--even + long ago I knew that." + </p> + <p> + "The good that it did"! It was no time <i>then</i> to moralize, but he + must know that Marion was at home, or he might incautiously reveal to her + what happily there was no necessity for her ever knowing. And the story + must give him great and fresh pain---- + </p> + <p> + "Dear uncle Rolf!" said Fleda pressing closer to him, "we may be happier + than we have been in a long time, if you will only take it so. The cloud + upon you has been a cloud upon us." + </p> + <p> + "I know it!" he exclaimed,--"a cloud that served to shew me that my jewels + were diamonds!" + </p> + <p> + "You have an accession to your jewels, uncle Rolf." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I mean," said Fleda trembling, "that there are two more at home." + </p> + <p> + He held her back to look at her. + </p> + <p> + "Can't you guess who?" + </p> + <p> + "No!" said he. "What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I must tell you, because they know nothing, and needn't know, of all this + matter." + </p> + <p> + "What are you talking about?" + </p> + <p> + "Marion is there----" + </p> + <p> + "Marion!" exclaimed Mr. Rossitur, with quick changes of expression,--" + Marion!--At Queechy!--and her husband?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir,--a dear little child." + </p> + <p> + "Marion!--and her husband--where is he?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda hesitated. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--I don't know whether she knows--" + </p> + <p> + "Is he dead?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir--" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur put her away and got up and walked, or strode, up and down, + up and down, the little apartment. Fleda dared not look at him, even by + the faint glimmer that came from the chimney. + </p> + <p> + But abroad it was perfectly dark--the stars were shining, the only lamps + that illumined the poor little street, and for a long time there had been + no light in the room but that of the tiny wood fire. Dinah never could be + persuaded of the superior cheapness of coal. Fleda came at last to her + uncle's side and putting her arm within his said, + </p> + <p> + "How soon will you set off for home, uncle Rolf?" + </p> + <p> + "To-morrow morning." + </p> + <p> + "You must take the boat to Bridgeport now--you know the river is fast." + </p> + <p> + "Yes I know----" + </p> + <p> + "Then I will meet you at the wharf, uncle Rolf,--at what o'clock?" + </p> + <p> + "My dear child," said he, stopping and passing his hand tenderly over her + cheek, "are you fit for it to-morrow? You had better stay where you are + quietly for a few days--you want rest." + </p> + <p> + "No, I will go home with you," said Fleda, "and rest there. But hadn't we + better let Dinah in and bid her good bye? for I ought to be somewhere else + to get ready." + </p> + <p> + Dinah was called, and a few kind words spoken, and with a more substantial + remembrance, or reward, from Fleda's hand, they left her. + </p> + <p> + Fleda had the support of her uncle's arm till they came within sight of + the house, and then he stood and watched her while she went the rest of + the way alone. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus24.jpg"><img src="images/illus24.jpg" height="250" + alt="Then he stood and watched her." title="Then he stood and watched her." /><br /> + Then he stood and watched her.</a> + </p> + <p> + Anything more white and spirit-looking, and more spirit-like in its purity + and peacefulness, surely did not walk that night. There was music in her + ear, and abroad in the star-light, more ethereal than Ariel's, but she + knew where it came from; it was the chimes of her heart that were ringing; + and never a happier peal, nor never had the mental atmosphere been more + clear for their sounding. Thankfulness,--that was the oftenest + note,--swelling thankfulness for her success,--joy for herself and for the + dear ones at home,--generous delight at having been the instrument of + their relief,--the harmonies of pure affections, without any grating + now,--the hope well grounded she thought, of improvement in her uncle and + better times for them all,--a childlike peace that was at rest with itself + and the world,--these were mingling and interchanging their music, and + again and again in the midst of it all, faith rang the last chime in + heaven. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="43"></a>Chapter XLIII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + As some lone bird at day's departing hour<br /> Sings in the sunbeam of + the transient shower,<br /> Forgetful though its wings are wet the while. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Bowles. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Happily possessed with the notion that there was some hidden mystery in + Fleda's movements, Mrs. Pritchard said not a word about her having gone + out, and only spoke in looks her pain at the imprudence of which she had + been guilty. But when Fleda asked to have a carriage ordered to take her + to the boat in the morning, the good housekeeper could not hold any + longer. + </p> + <p> + "Miss Fleda," said she with a look of very serious remonstrance,--"I don't + know what you're thinking of, but <i>I</i> know you're fixing to kill + yourself. You are no more fit to go to Queechy to-morrow than you were to + be out till seven o'clock this evening; and if you saw yourself you + wouldn't want me to say any more. There is not the least morsel of colour + in your face, and you look as if you had a mind to get rid of your body + altogether as fast as you can! You want to be in bed for two days running, + now this minute." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, dear Mrs. Pritchard," said Fleda smiling; "you are very + careful of me; but I must go home to-morrow, and go to bed afterwards." + </p> + <p> + The housekeeper looked at her a minute in silence, and then said, "Don't, + dear Miss Fleda!"--with an energy of entreaty which brought the tears into + Fleda's eyes. But she persisted in desiring the carriage; and Mrs. + Pritchard was silenced, observing however that she shouldn't wonder if she + wasn't able to go after all. Fleda herself was not without a doubt on the + subject before the evening was over. The reaction, complete now, began to + make itself felt; and morning settled the question. She was not able even + to rise from her bed. + </p> + <p> + The housekeeper was, in a sort, delighted; and Fleda was in too passive a + mood of body and mind to have any care on the subject. The agitation of + the past days had given way to an absolute quiet that seemed as if nothing + could ever ruffle it again, and this feeling was seconded by the extreme + prostration of body. She was a mere child in the hands of her nurse, and + had, Mrs. Pritchard said, "if she wouldn't mind her telling,--the sweetest + baby-face that ever had so much sense belonging to it." + </p> + <p> + The morning was half spent in dozing slumbers, when Fleda heard a rush of + footsteps, much lighter and sprightlier than good Mrs. Pritchard's, coming + up the stairs and pattering along the entry to her room; and with little + ceremony in rushed Florence and Constance Evelyn. They almost smothered + Fleda with their delighted caresses, and ran so hard their questions about + her looks and her illness, that she was well nigh spared the trouble of + answering. + </p> + <p> + "You horrid little creature!" said Constance,--"why didn't you come + straight to our house? just think of the injurious suspicions you have + exposed us to!--to say nothing of the extent of fiction we have found + ourselves obliged to execute. I didn't expect it of you, little Queechy." + </p> + <p> + Fleda kept her pale face quiet on the pillow, and only smiled her + incredulous curiosity. + </p> + <p> + "But when did you come back, Fleda?" said Miss Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "We should never have known a breath about your being here," Constance + went on. "We were sitting last night in peaceful unconsciousness of there + being any neglected calls upon our friendship in the vicinity, when Mr. + Carleton came in and asked for you. Imagine our horror!--we said you had + gone out early in the afternoon and had not returned." + </p> + <p> + "You didn't say that!" said Fleda colouring. + </p> + <p> + "And he remarked at some length," said Constance, "upon the importance of + young ladies having some attendance when they are out late in the evening, + and that you in particular were one of those persons--he didn't say, but + he intimated, of a slightly volatile disposition,--whom their friends + ought not to lose sight of." + </p> + <p> + "But what brought you to town again, Fleda?" said the elder sister. + </p> + <p> + "What makes you talk so, Constance?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I haven't told you the half!" said Constance demurely. "And then mamma + excused herself as well as she could, and Mr. Carleton said very seriously + that he knew there was a great element of head-strongness in your + character--he had remarked it, he said, when you were arguing with Mr. + Stackpole." + </p> + <p> + "Constance, be quiet!" said her sister. "<i>Will</i> you tell me, Fleda, + what you have come to town for? I am dying with curiosity." + </p> + <p> + "Then it's inordinate curiosity, and ought to be checked, my dear," said + Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Tell me!" + </p> + <p> + "I came to take care of some business that could not very well be attended + to at a distance." + </p> + <p> + "Who did you come with?" + </p> + <p> + "One of our Queechy neighbours that I heard was coming to New York." + </p> + <p> + "Wasn't your uncle at home?" + </p> + <p> + "Of course not. If he had been, there would have been no need of my + stirring." + </p> + <p> + "But was there nobody else to do it but you?" + </p> + <p> + "Uncle Orrin away, you know; and Charlton down at his post--Fort Hamilton, + is it?--I forget which fort--he is fast there." + </p> + <p> + "He is not so very fast," said Constance, "for I see him every now and + then in Broadway shouldering Mr. Thorn instead of a musket; and he has + taken up the distressing idea that it is part of his duty to oversee the + progress of Florence's worsted-work--(I've made over that horrid thing to + her, Fleda)--or else his precision has been struck with the anomaly of + blue stars on a white ground, and he is studying that,--I don't know + which,--and so every few nights he rushes over from Governor's Island, or + somewhere, to prosecute enquiries. Mamma is quite concerned about him--she + says he is wearing himself out." + </p> + <p> + The mixture of amusement, admiration, and affection, with which the other + sister looked at her and laughed with her was a pretty thing to see. + </p> + <p> + "But where is your other cousin,--Hugh?" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "He was not well." + </p> + <p> + "Where is your uncle?" + </p> + <p> + "He will be at home to-day I expect; and so should I have been--I meant to + be there as soon as he was,--but I found this morning that I was not well + enough,--to my sorrow." + </p> + <p> + "You were not going alone!" + </p> + <p> + "O no--a friend of ours was going to-day." + </p> + <p> + "I never saw anybody with so many friends!" said Florence. "But you are + coming to us now, Fleda. How soon are you going to get up?" + </p> + <p> + "O by to-morrow," said Fleda smiling;--"but I had better stay where I am + the little while I shall be here--I must go home the first minute I can + find an opportunity." + </p> + <p> + "But you sha'n't find an opportunity till we've had you," said Constance. + "I'm going to bring a carriage for you this afternoon. I could bear the + loss of your friendship, my dear, but not the peril of my own reputation. + Mr. Carleton is under the impression that you are suffering from a + momentary succession of fainting fits, and if we were to leave you here in + an empty house to come out of them at your leisure, what would he think of + us?" + </p> + <p> + What would he think!--Oh world! Is this it? + </p> + <p> + But Fleda was not able to be moved in the afternoon; and it soon appeared + that nature would take more revenge than a day's sleep for the rough + handling she had had the past week. Fleda could not rise from her bed the + next morning; and instead of that a kind of nondescript nervous fever set + in; nowise dangerous, but very wearying. She was nevertheless extremely + glad of it, for it would serve to explain to all her friends the change of + look which had astonished them. They would make it now the token of + coming, not of past, evil. The rest she took with her accustomed patience + and quietness, thankful for everything after the anxiety and the relief + she had just before known. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Gregory came home from Philadelphia in the height of her attack, and + aggravated it for a day or two with the fear of his questioning. But Fleda + was surprised at his want of curiosity. He asked her indeed what she had + come to town for, but her whispered answer of "Business," seemed to + satisfy him, for he did not inquire what the business was. He did ask her + furthermore what had made her get sick; but this time he was satisfied + more easily still, with a very curious sweet smile which was the utmost + reply Fleda's wits at the moment could frame. "Well, get well," said he + kissing her heartily once or twice, "and I won't quarrel with you about + it." + </p> + <p> + The getting well however promised to be a leisurely affair. Dr. Gregory + staid two or three days, and then went on to Boston, leaving Fleda in no + want of him. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Pritchard was the tenderest and carefullest of nurres. The Evelyns + did everything <i>but</i> nurse her. They sat by her, talked to her, made + her laugh, and not seldom made her look sober too, with their wild tales + of the world and the world's doings. But they were indeed very + affectionate and kind, and Fleda loved them for it. If they wearied her + sometimes with their talk, it was a change from the weariness of fever and + silence that on the whole was useful. + </p> + <p> + She was quieting herself one morning, as well as she could, in the midst + of both, lying with shut eyes against her pillow, and trying to fix her + mind on pleasant things, when she heard Mrs. Pritchard open the door and + come in. She knew it was Mrs. Pritchard, so she didn't move nor look. But + in a moment, the knowledge that Mrs. Pritchard's feet had stopped just by + the bed, and a strange sensation of something delicious saluting her made + her open her eyes; when they lighted upon a huge bunch of violets, just + before them and in most friendly neighbourhood to her nose. Fleda started + up, and her "Oh!" fairly made the housekeeper laugh; it was the very + quintessence of gratification. + </p> + <p> + "Where did you get them?" + </p> + <p> + "I didn't get them indeed, Miss Fleda," said the housekeeper gravely, with + an immense amount of delighted satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + "Delicious!--Where did they come from?" + </p> + <p> + "Well they must have come from a greenhouse, or hot-house, or something of + that kind, Miss Fleda,--these things don't grow nowhere out o' doors at + this time." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Pritchard guessed Fleda had got the clue, from her quick change of + colour and falling eye. There was a quick little smile too; and "How + kind!" was upon the end of Fleda's tongue, but it never got any further. + Her energies, so far as expression was concerned, seemed to be + concentrated in the act of smelling. Mrs. Pritchard stood by. + </p> + <p> + "They must be put in water," said Fleda,--"I must have a dish for + them--Dear Mrs. Pritchard, will you get me one?" + </p> + <p> + The housekeeper went smiling to herself. The dish was brought, the violets + placed in it, and a little table at Fleda's request was set by the side of + the bed close to her pillow, for them to stand upon. And Fleda lay on her + pillow and looked at them. + </p> + <p> + There never were purer-breathed flowers than those. All the pleasant + associations of Fleda's life seemed to hang about them, from the time when + her childish eyes had first made acquaintance with violets, to the + conversation in the library a few days ago; and painful things stood + aloof; they had no part. The freshness of youth, and the sweetness of + spring-time, and all the kindly influences which had ever joined with both + to bless her, came back with their blessing in the violets' reminding + breath. Fleda shut her eyes and she felt it; she opened her eyes, and the + little double blue things smiled at her good humouredly and said, "Here we + are--you may shut them again." And it was curious how often Fleda gave + them a smile back as she did so. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Pritchard thought Fleda lived upon the violets that day rather than + upon food and medicine; or at least, she said, they agreed remarkably well + together. And the next day it was much the same. + </p> + <p> + "What will you do when they are withered?" she said that evening. "I shall + have to see and get some more for you." + </p> + <p> + "Oh they will last a great while," said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + But the next morning Mrs. Pritchard came into her room with a great bunch + of roses, the very like of the one Fleda had had at the Evelyns'. She + delivered them with a sort of silent triumph, and then as before stood by + to enjoy Fleda and the flowers together. But the degree of Fleda's + wonderment, pleasure, and gratitude, made her reception of them, outwardly + at least, this time rather grave. + </p> + <p> + "You may throw the others away now, Miss Fleda," said the housekeeper + smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Indeed I shall not!--" + </p> + <p> + "The violets, I suppose, is all gone," Mrs. Pritchard went on;--but I + never <i>did</i> see such a bunch of roses as that since I lived + anywhere.--They have made a rose of you, Miss Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "How beautiful!--" was Fleda's answer. + </p> + <p> + "Somebody--he didn't say who--desired to know particularly how Miss + Ringgan was to-day." + </p> + <p> + "Somebody is <i>very</i> kind!" said Fleda from the bottom of her heart. + "But dear Mrs. Pritchard, I shall want another dish." + </p> + <p> + Somebody was kind, she thought more and more; for there came every day or + two the most delicious bouquets, every day different. They were <i>at + least</i> equal in their soothing and refreshing influences to all the + efforts of all the Evelyns and Mrs. Pritchard put together. There never + came any name with them, and there never was any need. Those bunches of + flowers certainly had a physiognomy; and to Fleda were (not the flowers + but the choosing, cutting, and putting of them together) the embodiment of + an amount of grace, refined feeling, generosity, and kindness, that her + imagination never thought of in connection with but one person. And his + kindness was answered, perhaps Mrs. Pritchard better than Fleda guessed + how well, from the delighted colour and sparkle of the eye with which + every fresh arrival was greeted as it walked into her room. By Fleda's + order the bouquets were invariably put out of sight before the Evelyns + made their first visit in the morning, and not brought out again till all + danger of seeing them any more for the day was past. The regular coming of + these floral messengers confirmed Mrs. Pritchard in her mysterious + surmises about Fleda, which were still further strengthened by this + incomprehensible order; and at last she got so into the spirit of the + thing that if she heard an untimely ring at the door she would catch up a + glass of flowers and run as if they had been contraband, without a word + from anybody. + </p> + <p> + The Evelyns wrote to Mrs. Rossitur, by Fleda's desire, so as not to alarm + her; merely saying that Fleda was not quite well, and that they meant to + keep her a little while to recruit herself; and that Mrs. Rossitur must + send her some clothes. This last clause was tha particular addition of + Constance. + </p> + <p> + The fever lasted a fortnight, and then went off by degrees, leaving her + with a very small portion of her ordinary strength. Fleda was to go to the + Evelyns as soon as she could bear it; at present she was only able to come + down to the little back parlour and sit in the doctor's arm chair, and eat + jelly, and sleep, and look at Constance, and when Constance was not there + look at her flowers. She could hardly bear a book as yet. She hadn't a bit + of colour in her face, Mrs. Pritchard said, but she looked better than + when she came to town; and to herself the good housekeeper added, that she + looked happier too. No doubt that was true. Fleda's principal feeling, + ever since she lay down in her bed, had been thankfulness; and now that + the ease of returning health was joined to this feeling, her face with all + its subdued gravity was as untroubled in its expression as the faces of + her flowers. + </p> + <p> + She was disagreeably surprised one day, after she had been two or three + days down stairs, by a visit from Mrs. Thorn. In her well-grounded dread + of seeing one person Fleda had given strict orders that no <i>gentleman</i> + should be admitted; she had not counted upon this invasion. Mrs. Thorn had + always been extremely kind to her, but though Fleda gave her credit for + thorough good-heartedness, and a true liking for herself, she could not + disconnect her attentions from another thought, and therefore always + wished them away; and never had her kind face been more thoroughly + disagreeable to Fleda than when it made its appearance in the doctor's + little back parlour on this occasion. With even more than her usual + fondness, or Pleda's excited imagination fancied so, Mrs. Thorn lavished + caresses upon her, and finally besought her to go out and take the air in + her carriage. Fleda tried most earnestly to get rid of this invitation, + and was gently unpersuadable, till the lady at last was brought to promise + that she should see no creature during the drive but herself. An ominous + promise! but Fleda did not know any longer how, to refuse without hurting + a person for whom she had really a grateful regard. So she went. And + doubted afterwards exceedingly whether she had done well. + </p> + <p> + She took special good care to see nobody again till she went to the + Evelyns. But then precautions were at an end. It was no longer possible to + keep herself shut up. She had cause, poor child, the very first night of + her coming, to wish herself back again. + </p> + <p> + This first evening she would fain have pleaded weakness as her excuse and + gone to her room, but Constance laid violent hands on her and insisted + that she should stay at least a little while with them. And she seemed + fated to see all her friends in a bevy. First came Charlton; then followed + the Decaturs, whom she knew and liked very well, and engrossed her, + happily before her cousin had time to make any enquiries; then came Mr. + Carleton; then Mr. Stackpole. Then Mr. Thorn, in expectation of whom + Fleda's breath had been coming and going painfully all the evening. She + could not meet him without a strange mixture of embarrassment and + confusion with the gratitude she wished to express, an embarrassment not + at all lessened by the air of happy confidence with which he came forward + to her. It carried an intimation that almost took away the little strength + she had. And if anything could have made his presence more intolerable, it + was the feeling she could not get rid of that it was the cause why Mr. + Carleton did not come near her again; though she prolonged her stay in the + drawing-room in the hope that he would. It proved to be for Mr. Thorn's + benefit alone. + </p> + <p> + "Well you staid all the evening after all," said Constance as they were + going up stairs. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--I wish I hadn't," said Fleda. "I wonder when I shall be likely to + find a chance of getting back to Queechy." + </p> + <p> + "You're not fit yet, so you needn't trouble yourself about it," said + Constance. "We'll find you plenty of chances." + </p> + <p> + Fleda could not think of Mr. Thorn without trembling. His manner meant--so + much more than it had any right, or than she had counted upon. He + seemed--she pressed her hands upon her face to get rid of the + impression--he seemed to take for granted precisely that which she had + refused to admit; he seemed to reckon as paid for that which she had + declined to set a price upon. Her uncle's words and manner came up in her + memory. She could see nothing best to do but to get home as fast as + possible. She had no one here to fall back upon. Again that vision of + father and mother and grandfather flitted across her fancy; and though + Fleda's heart ended by resting down on that foundation to which it always + recurred, it rested with a great many tears. + </p> + <p> + For several days she denied herself absolutely to morning visitors of + every kind. But she could not entirely absent herself from the + drawing-room in the evening; and whenever the family were at home there + was a regular levee. Mr. Thorn could not be avoided then. He was always + there, and always with that same look and manner of satisfied confidence. + Fleda was as grave, as silent, as reserved, as she could possibly be and + not be rude; but he seemed to take it in excellent good part, as being + half indisposition and half timidity. Fleda set her face earnestly towards + home, and pressed Mrs. Evelyn to find her an opportunity, weak or strong, + of going there; but for those days as yet none presented itself. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was at the house almost as often as Mr. Thorn, seldom staying + so long however, and never having any more to do with Fleda than he had + that first evening. Whenever he did come in contact with her, he was, she + thought, as grave as he was graceful. That was to be sure his common + manner in company, yet she could not help thinking there was some + difference since the walk they had taken together, and it grieved her. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="44"></a>Chapter XLIV. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + The beat-laid schemes o' mice and men<br /> Gang aft agley. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Burns. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + After a few days Charlton verified what Constance had said about his not + being very <i>fast</i> at Fort Hamilton, by coming again to see them one + morning. Fleda asked him if he could not get another furlough to go with + her home, but he declared he was just spending one which was near out; and + he could not hope for a third in some time; he must be back at his post by + the day after to-morrow. + </p> + <p> + "When do you want to go, coz?" + </p> + <p> + "I would to-morrow, if I had anybody to go with me," said Fleda sighing. + </p> + <p> + "No you wouldn't," said Constance,--"you are well enough to go out now, + and you forget we are all to make Mrs. Thorn happy to-morrow night." + </p> + <p> + "I am not," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Not? you can't help yourself; you must; you said you would." + </p> + <p> + "I did not indeed." + </p> + <p> + "Well then I said it for you, and that will do just as well. Why my dear, + if you don't--just think!--the Thorns will be in a state--I should prefer + to go through a hedge of any description rather than meet the trying + demonstrations which will encounter me on every side." + </p> + <p> + "I am going to Mrs. Decatur's," said Fleda;--"she invited me first, and I + owe it to her, she has asked me so often and so kindly." + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't think you'd enjoy yourself there," said Florence; "they don't + talk a bit of English these nights. If I was going, my dear, I would act + as your interpreter, but my destiny lies in another direction." + </p> + <p> + "If I cannot make anybody understand my French I will get somebody to + condescend to my English," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Why do you talk French?" was the instant question from both mouths. + </p> + <p> + "Unless she has forgotten herself strangely," said Charlton. "Talk! she + will talk to anybody's satisfaction--that happens to differ from her; and + I think her tongue cares very little which language it wags in. There is + no danger about Fleda's enjoying herself, where people are talking." + </p> + <p> + Fleda laughed at him, and the Evelyns rather stared at them both. + </p> + <p> + "But we are all going to Mrs. Thorn's? you can't go alone?" + </p> + <p> + "I will make Charlton take me," said Fleda,--"or rather I will take him, + if he will let me. Will you, Charlton? will you take care of me to Mrs. + Decatur's to-morrow night?" + </p> + <p> + "With the greatest pleasure, my dear coz, but I have another engagement in + the course of the evening." + </p> + <p> + "Oh that is nothing," said Fleda;--"if you will only go with me, that is + all I care for. You needn't stay but ten minutes. And you can call for + me," she added, turning to the Evelyns,--"as you come back from Mrs. + Thorn's." + </p> + <p> + To this no objection could be made, and the ensuing raillery Fleda bore + with steadiness at least if not with coolness; for Charlton heard it, and + she was distressed. + </p> + <p> + She went to Mrs. Decatur's the next evening in greater elation of spirits + than she had known since she left her uncle's; delighted to be missing + from the party at Mrs. Thorn's, and hoping that Mr. Lewis would be + satisfied with this very plain hint of her mind. A little pleased too to + feel quite free, alone from too friendly eyes, and ears that had too + lively a concern in her sayings and doings. She did not in the least care + about going to Mrs. Decatur's; her joy was that she was not at the other + place. But there never was elation so outwardly quiet. Nobody would have + suspected its existence. + </p> + <p> + The evening was near half over when Mr. Carleton came in. Fleda had half + hoped he would be there, and now immediately hoped she might have a chance + to see him alone and to thank him for his flowers; she had not been able + to do that yet. He presently came up to speak to her just as Charlton, who + had found attraction enough to keep him so long, came to tell he was + going. + </p> + <p> + "You are looking better," said the former, as gravely as ever, but with an + eye of serious interest that made the word something. + </p> + <p> + "I am better," said Fleda gratefully. + </p> + <p> + "So much better that she is in a hurry to make herself worse," said her + cousin. "Mr. Carleton, you are a professor of medicine, I believe,--I have + an indistinct impression of your having once prescribed a ride on + horseback for somebody;--wouldn't you recommend some measure of prudence + to her consideration?" + </p> + <p> + "In general," Mr. Carleton answered gravely; "but in the present case I + could not venture upon any special prescription, Capt. Rossitur." + </p> + <p> + "As for instance, that she should remain in New York till she is fit to + leave it?--By the way, what brought you here again in such a hurry, Fleda? + I haven't heard that yet." + </p> + <p> + The question was rather sudden. Fleda was a little taken by surprise; her + face shewed some pain and confusion both. Mr. Carleton prevented her + answer, she could not tell whether with design. + </p> + <p> + "What imprudence do you charge your cousin with, Capt. Rossitur?" + </p> + <p> + "Why she is in a great hurry to get back to Queechy, before she is able to + go anywhere--begging me to find an escort for her. It is lucky I can't. I + didn't know I ever should be glad to be 'posted up' in this fashion, but I + am." + </p> + <p> + "You have not sought very far, Capt. Rossitur," said the voice of Thorn + behind him. "Here is one that will be very happy to attend Miss Fleda, + whenever she pleases." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's shocked start and change of countenance was seen by more eyes than + one pair. Thorn's fell, and a shade crossed his countenance too, for an + instant, that Fleda's vision was too dazzled to see. Mr. Carleton moved + away. + </p> + <p> + "Why are <i>you</i> going to Queechy?" said Charlton astonished. + </p> + <p> + His friend was silent a moment, perhaps for want of power to speak. Fleda + dared not look at him. + </p> + <p> + "It is not impossible,--unless this lady forbid me. I am not a fixture." + </p> + <p> + "But what brought you here, man, to offer your services?" said + Charlton;--"most ungallantly leaving so many pairs of bright eyes to shine + upon your absence." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn will not find himself in darkness here, Capt. Rossitur," said + Mrs. Decatur. + </p> + <p> + "It's my opinion he ought, ma'am," said Charlton. + </p> + <p> + "It is my opinion every man ought, who makes his dependance on gleams of + sunshine," said Mr. Thorn rather cynically. "I cannot say I was thinking + of brightness before or behind me." + </p> + <p> + "I should think not," said Charlton;--"you don't look as if you had seen + any in a good while." + </p> + <p> + "A light goes out every now and then," said Thorn, "and it takes one's + eyes some time to get accustomed to it. What a singular world we live in, + Mrs. Decatur!" + </p> + <p> + "That is so new an idea," said the lady laughing, "that I must request an + explanation." + </p> + <p> + "What new experience of its singularity has your wisdom made?" sid his + friend. "I thought you and the world knew each other's faces pretty well + before." + </p> + <p> + "Then you have not heard the news?" + </p> + <p> + "What news?" + </p> + <p> + "Hum--I suppose it is not about yet," said Thorn composedly. "No--you + haven't heard it." + </p> + <p> + "But what, man?" said Charlton,--"let's hear your news, for I must be + off." + </p> + <p> + "Why--but it is no more than rumour yet--but it is said that strange + things are coming to light about a name that used to be held in very high + respect." + </p> + <p> + "In this city?" + </p> + <p> + "In this city?--yes--it is said proceedings are afoot against one of our + oldest citizens, on charge of a very grave offence." + </p> + <p> + "Who?--and what offence? what do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "Is it a secret, Mr. Thorn?" said Mrs. Decatur. + </p> + <p> + "If you have not heard, perhaps it is as well not to mention names too + soon;--if it comes out it will be all over directly; possibly the family + may hush it up, and in that case the less said the better; but those have + it in hand that will not let it slip through their fingers." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Decatur turned away, saying "how shocking such things were;" and + Thorn, with a smile which did not however light up his face, said, + </p> + <p> + "You may be off, Charlton, with no concern for the bright eyes you leave + behind you--I will endeavour to atone for my negligence elsewhere, by my + mindfulness of them." + </p> + <p> + "Don't excuse you," said Charlton;--but his eye catching at the moment + another attraction opposite in the form of man or woman, instead of + quitting the room he leisurely crossed it to speak to the new-comer; and + Thorn with an entire change of look and manner pressed forward and offered + his arm to Fleda, who was looking perfectly white. If his words had needed + any commentary it was given by his eye as it met hers in speaking the last + sentence to Mrs. Decatur. No one was near whom she knew and Mr. Thorn led + her out to a little back room where the gentlemen had thrown off their + cloaks, where the air was fresher, and placing her on a seat stood waiting + before her till she could speak to him. + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean, Mr. Thorn?" Fleda looked as much as said, when she + could meet his face. + </p> + <p> + "I may rather ask you what <i>you</i> mean, Miss Fleda," he answered + gravely. + </p> + <p> + Fleda drew breath painfully. + </p> + <p> + "I mean nothing," she said lowering her head again,--"I have done + nothing--" + </p> + <p> + "Did you think I meant nothing when I agreed to do all you wished?" + </p> + <p> + "I thought you said you would do it freely," she said, with a tone of + voice that might have touched anybody, there was such a sinking of heart + in it. + </p> + <p> + "Didn't you understand me?" + </p> + <p> + "And is it all over now?" said Fleda after a pause. + </p> + <p> + "Not yet--but it soon may be. A weak hand may stop it now,--it will soon + be beyond the power of the strongest." + </p> + <p> + "And what becomes of your promise that it should no more be heard of?" + said Fleda, looking up at him with a colourless face but eyes that put the + question forcibly nevertheless. + </p> + <p> + "Is any promise bound to stand without its conditions?" + </p> + <p> + "I made no conditions," said Fleda quickly. + </p> + <p> + "Forgive me,--but did you not permit me to understand them?" + </p> + <p> + "No!--or if I did I could not help it." + </p> + <p> + "Did you say that you wished to help it?" said he gently. + </p> + <p> + "I must say so now, then, Mr. Thorn," said Fleda withdrawing the hand he + had taken;--"I did not mean or wish you to think so, but I was too ill to + speak--almost to know what I did--It was not my fault--" + </p> + <p> + "You do not make it mine, that I chose such a time, selfishly, I grant, to + draw from your lips the words that are more to me than life?" + </p> + <p> + "Cannot you be generous?"--<i>for once</i>, she was very near saying. + </p> + <p> + "Where you are concerned, I do not know how." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was silent a moment, and then bowed her face in her hands. + </p> + <p> + "May I not ask that question of you?" said he, bending down and + endeavouring to remove them;--"will you not say--or look--that word that + will make others happy beside me?" + </p> + <p> + "I cannot, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Not for their sakes?" he said calmly. + </p> + <p> + "Can you ask me to do for theirs what I would not for my own?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--for mine," he said, with a meaning deliberateness. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was silent, with a face of white determination. + </p> + <p> + "It will be beyond <i>eluding</i>, as beyond recall, the second time. I + may seem selfish--I am selfish--but dear Miss Ringgan you do not see + all,--you who make me so can make me anything else with a touch of your + hand--it is selfishness that would be bound to your happiness, if you did + but entrust it to me." + </p> + <p> + Fleda neither spoke nor looked at him and rose up from her chair. + </p> + <p> + "Is this <i>your</i> generosity?" he said, pointedly though gently. + </p> + <p> + "That is not the question now, sir," said Fleda, who was trembling + painfully. "I cannot do evil that good may come." + </p> + <p> + "But <i>evil</i>?" said he detaining her,--"what evil do I ask of you?--to + <i>remove</i> evil, I do." + </p> + <p> + Fleda clasped her hands, but answered calmly, + </p> + <p> + "I cannot make any pretences, sir;--I cannot promise to give what is not + in my power." + </p> + <p> + "In whose power then?" said he quickly. + </p> + <p> + A feeling of indignation came to Fleda's aid, and she turned away. But he + stopped her still. + </p> + <p> + "Do you think I do not understand?" he said with a covert sneer that had + the keenness and hardness, and the brightness, of steel. + </p> + <p> + "<i>I</i> do not, sir," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Do you think I do not know whom you came here to meet?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's glance of reproach was a most innocent one, but it did not check + him. + </p> + <p> + "Has that fellow renewed his old admiration of you?" he went on in the + same tone. + </p> + <p> + "Do not make me desire his old protection," said Fleda, her gentle face + roused to a flush of displeasure. + </p> + <p> + "Protection!" said Charlton coming in,--"who wants protection? here it + is--protection from what? my old friend Lewis? what the deuce does this + lady want of protection, Mr. Thorn?" + </p> + <p> + It was plain enough that Fleda wanted it, from the way she was drooping + upon his arm. + </p> + <p> + "You may ask the lady herself," said Thorn, in the same tone he had before + used,--"I have not the honour to be her spokesman." + </p> + <p> + "She don't need one," said Charlton,--"I addressed myself to you--speak + for yourself, man." + </p> + <p> + "I am not sure that it would be her pleasure I should," said Thorn. "Shall + I tell this gentleman, Miss Ringgan, who needs protection, and from + what?--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda raised her head, and putting her hand on his arm looked a + concentration of entreaty--lips were sealed. + </p> + <p> + "Will you give me," said he gently taking the hand in his own, "your sign + manual for Capt. Rossitur's security? It is not too late.--Ask it of her, + sir!" + </p> + <p> + "What does this mean?" said Charlton looking from his cousin to his + friend. + </p> + <p> + "You shall have the pleasure of knowing, sir, just so soon as I find it + convenient." + </p> + <p> + "I will have a few words with you on this subject, my fine fellow," said + Capt. Rossitur, as the other was preparing to leave the room. + </p> + <p> + "You had better speak to somebody else," said Thorn. "But I am ready." + </p> + <p> + Charlton muttered an imprecation upon his absurdity, and turned his + attention to Fleda, who needed it. And yet desired anything else. For a + moment she had an excuse for not answering his questions in her inability; + and then opportunely Mrs. Decatur came in to look after her; and she was + followed by her daughter. Fleda roused all her powers to conceal and + command her feelings; rallied herself; said she had been a little weak and + faint; drank water, and declared herself able to go back into the + drawing-room. To go home would have been her utmost desire, but at the + instant her energies were all bent to the one point of putting back + thought and keeping off suspicion. And in the first hurry and bewilderment + of distress the dread of finding herself alone with Charlton till she had + had time to collect her thoughts would of itself have been enough to + prevent her accepting the proposal. + </p> + <p> + She entered the drawing-room again on Mrs. Decatur's arm, and had stood a + few minutes talking or listening, with that same concentration of all her + faculties upon the effort to bear up outwardly, when Charlton came up to + ask if he should leave her. Fleda made no objection, and he was out of her + sight, far enough to be beyond reach or recall, when it suddenly struck + her that she ought not to have let him go without speaking to + him,--without entreating him to see her in the morning before he saw + Thorn. The sickness of this new apprehension was too much for poor Fleda's + power of keeping up. She quietly drew her arm from Mrs. Decatur's, saying + that she would sit down; and sought out a place for herself apart from the + rest by an engraving stand; where for a little while, not to seem + unoccupied, she turned over print after print that she did not see. Even + that effort failed at last; and she sat gazing at one of Sir Thomas + Lawrence's bright-faced children, and feeling as if in herself the tides + of life were setting back upon their fountain preparatory to being still + forever. She became sensible that some one was standing beside the + engravings, and looked up at Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Are you ill?" he said, very gently and tenderly. + </p> + <p> + The answer was a quick motion of Fleda's hand to her head, speaking sudden + pain, and perhaps sudden difficulty of self-command. She did not speak. + </p> + <p> + "Will you have anything?" + </p> + <p> + A whispered "no." + </p> + <p> + "Would you like to return to Mrs. Evelyn's?--I have a carriage here." + </p> + <p> + With a look of relief that seemed to welcome him as her good angel, Pleda + instantly rose up, and took the arm he offered her. She would have + hastened from the room then, but he gently checked her pace; and Fleda was + immediately grateful for the quiet and perfect shielding from observation + that his manner secured her. He went with her up the stairs, and to the + very door of the dressing-room. There Fleda hurried on her shoes and + mufflers in trembling fear that some one might come and find her, gained + Mr. Carleton's arm again, and was placed in the carriage. + </p> + <p> + The drive was in perfect silence, and Fleda's agony deepened and + strengthened with every minute. She had freedom to think, and thought did + but carry a torch into chamber after chamber of misery. There seemed + nothing to be done. She could not get hold of Charlton; and if she + could?--Nothing could be less amenable than his passions to her gentle + restraints. Mr. Thorn was still less approachable or manageable, except in + one way, that she did not even think of. His insinuations about Mr. + Carleton did not leave even a tinge of embarrassment upon her mind; they + were cast from her as insulting absurdities, which she could not think of + a second time without shame. + </p> + <p> + The carriage rolled on with them a long time without a word being said. + Mr. Carleton knew that she was not weeping nor faint. But as the light of + the lamps was now and then cast within the carriage he saw that her face + looked ghastly; and he saw too that its expression was not of a quiet + sinking under sorrow, nor of an endeavour to bear up against it, but a + wild searching gaze into the darkness of <i>possibilities</i>. They had + near reached Mrs. Evelyn's. + </p> + <p> + "I cannot see you so," he said, gently touching the hand which lay + listlessly beside him. "You are ill!" + </p> + <p> + Again the same motion of the other hand to her face, the quick token of + great pain suddenly stirred. + </p> + <p> + "For the sake of old times, let me ask," said he, "can nothing be done?" + </p> + <p> + Those very gentle and delicate tones of sympathy and kindness Were too + much to bear. The hand was snatched away to be pressed to her face. Oh + that those old times were back again, and she a child that could ask his + protection!--No one to give it now. + </p> + <p> + He was silent a moment. Fleda's head bowed beneath the mental pressure. + </p> + <p> + "Has Dr. Gregory returned?" + </p> + <p> + The negative answer was followed by a half-uttered exclamation of + longing,--checked midway, but sufficiently expressive of her want. + </p> + <p> + "Do you trust me?" he said after another second of pausing. + </p> + <p> + "Perfectly!" said Fleda amidst her tears, too much excited to know what + she was saying, and in her simplicity half forgetting that she was not a + child still;--"more than any one in the world!" + </p> + <p> + The few words he had spoken, and the manner of them, had curiously borne + her back years in a minute; she seemed to be under his care more than for + the drive home. He did not speak again for a minute; when he did his tone + was very quiet and lower than before. + </p> + <p> + "Give me what a friend <i>can</i> have in charge to do for you, and it + shall be done." + </p> + <p> + Fleda raised her head and looked out of the window in a silence of doubt. + The carriage stopped at Mrs. Evelyn's. + </p> + <p> + "Not now," said Mr. Carleton, as the servant was about to open the + door;--"drive round the square--till I speak to you." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was motionless and almost breathless with uncertainty. If Charlton + could be hindered from meeting Mr. Thorn--But how, could Mr. Carleton + effect it?--But there was that in him or in his manner which invariably + created confidence in his ability, or fear of it, even in strangers; and + how much more in her who had a childish but very clear recollection of + several points in his character which confirmed the feeling. And might not + something be done, through his means, to facilitate her uncle's escape? of + whom she seemed to herself now the betrayer.--But to tell him the story + I--a person of his high nice notions of character--what a distance it + would put even between his friendship and her,--but that thought was + banished instantly, with one glance at Mr. Thorn's imputation of + ungenerousness. To sacrifice herself to <i>him</i> would not have been + generosity,--to lower herself in the esteem of a different character, she + felt, called for it. There was time even then too for one swift thought of + the needlessness and bitter fruits of wrong-doing. But here they + were;--should she make them known?--and trouble Mr. Carleton, friend + though he were, with these miserable matters in which he had no + concern?--She sat with a beating heart and a very troubled brow, but a + brow as easy to read as a child's. It was the trouble of anxious + questioning. Mr. Carleton watched it for a little while,--undecided as + ever, and more pained. + </p> + <p> + "You said you trusted me," he said quietly, taking her hand again. + </p> + <p> + "But--I don't know what you could do, Mr. Carleton," Fleda said with a + trembling voice. + </p> + <p> + "Will you let me be the judge of that?" + </p> + <p> + "I cannot bear to trouble you with these miserable things--" + </p> + <p> + "You cannot," said he with that same quiet tone, "but by thinking and + saying so. I can have no greater pleasure than to take pains for you." + </p> + <p> + Fleda heard these words precisely and with the same simplicity as a child + would have heard them, and answered with a very frank burst of + tears,--soon, as soon as possible, according to her custom, driven back; + though even in the act of quieting herself they broke forth again as + uncontrollably as at first. But Mr. Carleton had not long to wait. She + raised her head again after a short struggle, with the wonted look of + patience sitting upon her brow, and wiping away her tears paused merely + for breath and voice. He was perfectly silent. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton, I will tell you," she began;--"I hardly know whether I + ought or ought not,--" and her hand went to her forehead for a + moment,--"but I cannot think to-night--and I have not a friend to apply + to--" + </p> + <p> + She hesitated; and then went on, with a voice that trembled and quavered + sadly. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn has a secret--of my uncle's--in his power--which he + promised--without conditions--to keep faithfully; and now insists that he + will not--but upon conditions--" + </p> + <p> + "And cannot the conditions be met?" + </p> + <p> + "No--and--O I may as well tell you at once?" said Fleda in bitter + sorrow,--"it is a crime that he committed--" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Thorn?" + </p> + <p> + "No--oh no!" said Fleda weeping bitterly,--"not he--" + </p> + <p> + Her agitation was excessive for a moment; then she threw it off, and spoke + more collectedly, though with exceeding depression of manner. + </p> + <p> + "It was long ago--when he was in trouble--he put Mr. Thorn's name to a + note, and never was able to take it up;--and nothing was ever heard about + it till lately; and last week he was going to leave the country, and Mr. + Thorn promised that the proceedings should be entirely given up; and that + was why I came to town, to find uncle Rolf and bring him home; and I did, + and he is gone; and now Mr. Thorn says it is all going on again and that + he will not escape this time;--and I have done it!--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda writhed again in distress. + </p> + <p> + "Thorn promised without conditions?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly--he promised freely--and now he insists upon them; and you see + uncle Rolf would have been safe out of the country now, if it hadn't been + for me--" + </p> + <p> + "I think I can undo this snarl," said Mr. Carleton calmly. + </p> + <p> + "But that is not all," said Fleda, a little quieted;--"Charlton came in + this evening when we were talking, and he was surprised to find me so, and + Mr. Thorn was in a very ill humour, and some words passed between them; + and Charlton threatened to see him again; and Oh if he does!" said poor + Fleda,--"that will finish our difficulties!--for Charlton is very hot, and + I know how it will end--how it must end--" + </p> + <p> + "Where is your cousin to be found?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know where he lodges when he is in town." + </p> + <p> + "You did not leave him at Mrs. Decatur's. Do you know where he is this + evening?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes!" said Fleda, wondering that she should have heard and + remembered,--"he said he was going to meet a party of his brother officers + at Mme. Fouché's--a sister-in-law of his Colonel, I believe." + </p> + <p> + "I know her. This note--was it the name of the young Mr. Thorn, or of his + father that was used?" + </p> + <p> + "Of his father!--" + </p> + <p> + "Has <i>he</i> appeared at all in this business?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, feeling for the first time that there was something + notable about it. + </p> + <p> + "What sort of person do you take him to be?" + </p> + <p> + "Very kind--very pleasant, always, he has been to me, and I should think + to everybody,--very unlike the son" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton had ordered the coachman back to Mrs. Evelyn's. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know the amount of the note? It may be desirable that I should not + appear uninformed." + </p> + <p> + "It was for four thousand dollars" Fleda said in the low voice of shame. + </p> + <p> + "And when given?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know exactly--but six years ago--some time in the winter of '43, + it must have been." + </p> + <p> + He said no more till the carriage stopped; and then before handing her out + of it, lifted her hand to his lips. That carried all the promise Fleda + wanted from him. How oddly, how curiously, her hand kept the feeling of + that kiss upon it all night. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="45"></a>Chapter XLV. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Heat not a furnace for your friend so hot<br /> That it may singe + yourself. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Shakspeare. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Mr. Carleton went to Mme. Fouché's, who received most graciously, + as any lady would, his apology for introducing himself unlooked-for, and + begged that he would commit the same fault often. As soon as practicable + he made his way to Charlton, and invited him to breakfast with him the + next morning. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton always said it never was known that Guy was refused anything + he had a mind to ask. Charlton, though taken by surprise, and certainly + not too much prepossessed in his favour, was won by an influence that + where its owner chose to exert it was generally found irresistible; and + not only accepted the invitation, but was conscious to himself of doing it + with a good deal of pleasure. Even when Mr. Carleton made the further + request that Capt. Rossitur would in the mean time see no one on business, + of any kind, intimating that the reason would then be given, Charlton + though startling a little at this restraint upon his freedom of motion + could do no other than give the desired promise, and with the utmost + readiness. + </p> + <p> + Guy then went to Mr. Thorn's.--It was by this time not early. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Lewis Thorn--is he at home?" + </p> + <p> + "He is, sir," said the servant admitting him rather hesitatingly. + </p> + <p> + "I wish to see him a few moments on business." + </p> + <p> + "It is no hour for business," said the voice of Mr. Lewis from over the + balusters;--"I can't see anybody to-night." + </p> + <p> + "I ask but a few minutes," said Mr. Carleton. "It is important." + </p> + <p> + "It may be any thing!" said Thorn. "I won't do business after twelve + o'clock." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton desired the servant to carry his card, with the same request, + to Mr, Thorn the elder. + </p> + <p> + "What's that?" said Thorn as the man came up stairs,--"my father?--Pshaw! + <i>he</i> can't attend to it--Well, walk up, sir, if you please!--may as + well have it over and done with it." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton mounted the stairs and followed the young gentleman into an + apartment to which he rapidly led the way. + </p> + <p> + "You've no objections to this, <i>I</i> suppose?" Thorn remarked as he + locked the door behind them. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly not," said Mr. Carleton coolly, taking out the key and putting + it in his pocket;--"my business is private--it needs no witnesses." + </p> + <p> + "Especially as it so nearly concerns yourself," said Thorn sneeringly. + </p> + <p> + "Which part of it, sir?" said Mr. Carleton with admirable breeding. It + vexed at the same time that it constrained Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "I'll let you know presently!" he said, hurriedly proceeding to the lower + end of the room where some cabinets stood, and unlocking door after door + in mad haste. + </p> + <p> + The place had somewhat the air of a study, perhaps Thorn's private room. A + long table stood in the middle of the floor, with materials for writing, + and a good many books were about the room, in cases and on the tables, + with maps and engravings and portfolios, and a nameless collection of + articles, the miscellaneous gathering of a man of leisure and some + literary taste. + </p> + <p> + Their owner presently came back from the cabinets with tokens of a very + different kind about him. + </p> + <p> + "There, sir!" he said, offering to his guest a brace of most + inhospitable-looking pistols,--"take one and take your stand, as soon as + you please--nothing like coming to the point at once!" + </p> + <p> + He was heated and excited even more than his manner indicated. Mr. + Carleton glanced at him and stood quietly examining the pistol he had + taken. It was all ready loaded. + </p> + <p> + "This is a business that comes upon me by surprise," he said calmly,--"I + don't know what I have to do with this, Mr. Thorn." + </p> + <p> + "Well I do," said Thorn, "and that's enough. Take your place, sir! You + escaped me once, but"--and he gave his words dreadful emphasis,--"you + won't do it the second time!" + </p> + <p> + "You do not mean," said the other, "that your recollection of such an + offence has lived out so many years?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir! no sir!" said Thorn,--"it is not that. I despise it, as I do the + offender. You have touched me more nearly." + </p> + <p> + "Let me know in what," said Mr. Carleton turning his pistol's mouth down + upon the table and leaning on it. + </p> + <p> + "You know already,--what do you ask me for?" said Thorn who was + foaming,--"if you say you don't you lie heartily. I'll tell you nothing + but out of <i>this</i>--" + </p> + <p> + "I have not knowingly injured you, sir,--in a whit." + </p> + <p> + "Then a Carleton may be a liar," said Thorn, "and you are one--dare say + not the first. Put yourself there, sir, will you?" + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Guy carelessly,--"if it is decreed that I am to fight of + course there's no help for it; but as I have business on hand that might + not be so well done afterwards I must beg your attention to that in the + first place." + </p> + <p> + "No, sir," said Thorn,--"I'll attend to nothing--I'll hear nothing from + you. I know you!--I'll not hear a word. I'll see to the business!--Take + your stand." + </p> + <p> + "I will not have anything to do with pistols," said Mr. Carleton coolly, + laying his out of his hand;--"they make too much noise." + </p> + <p> + "Who cares for the noise?" said Thorn. "It won't hurt you; and the door is + locked." + </p> + <p> + "But people's ears are not," said Guy. + </p> + <p> + Neither tone nor attitude nor look had changed in the least its calm + gracefulness. It began to act upon Thorn. + </p> + <p> + "Well, in the devil's name, have your own way," said he, throwing down his + pistol too, and going back to the cabinets at the lower end of the + room,--"there are rapiers here, if you like them better--<i>I</i> + don't,--the shortest the best for me,--but here they are--take your + choice." + </p> + <p> + Guy examined them carefully for a few minutes, and then laid them both, + with a firm hand upon them, on the table. + </p> + <p> + "I will choose neither, Mr. Thorn, till you have heard me. I came here to + see you on the part of others--I should be a recreant to my charge if I + allowed you or myself to draw me into anything that might prevent my + fulfilling it. That must be done first." + </p> + <p> + Thorn looked with a lowering brow on the indications of his opponent's eye + and attitude; they left him plainly but one course to take. + </p> + <p> + "Well speak and have done," he said as in spite of himself;--but I know it + already." + </p> + <p> + "I am here as a friend of Mr. Rossitur." + </p> + <p> + "Why don't you say a friend of somebody else, and come nearer the truth?" + said Thorn. + </p> + <p> + There was an intensity of expression in his sneer, but pain was there as + well as anger; and it was with even a feeling of pity that Mr. Carleton + answered, + </p> + <p> + "The truth will be best reached, sir, if I am allowed to choose my own + words." + </p> + <p> + There was no haughtiness in the steady gravity of this speech, whatever + there was in the quiet silence he permitted to follow. Thorn did not break + it. + </p> + <p> + "I am informed of the particulars concerning this prosecution of Mr. + Rossitur--I am come here to know if no terms can be obtained." + </p> + <p> + "No!" said Thorn,--"no terms--I won't speak of terms. The matter will be + followed up now till the fellow is lodged in jail, where he deserves to + be." + </p> + <p> + "Are you aware, sir, that this, if done, will be the cause of very great + distress to a family who have <i>not</i> deserved it?" + </p> + <p> + "That can't be helped," said Thorn. "Of course!--it must cause distress, + but you can't act upon that. Of course when a man turns rogue he ruins his + family--that's part of his punishment--and a just one." + </p> + <p> + "The law is just," said Mr. Carleton,--"but a friend may be merciful." + </p> + <p> + "I don't pretend to be a friend," said Thorn viciously,--"and I have no + cause to be merciful. I like to bring a man to public shame when he has + forfeited his title to anything else; and I intend that Mr. Rossitur shall + become intimately acquainted with the interior of the State's Prison." + </p> + <p> + "Did it ever occur to you that public shame <i>might</i> fall upon other + than Mr. Rossitur? and without the State Prison?" + </p> + <p> + Thorn fixed a somewhat startled look upon the steady powerful eye of his + opponent, and did not like its meaning. + </p> + <p> + "You must explain yourself, sir," he said haughtily. + </p> + <p> + "I am acquainted with <i>all</i> the particulars of this proceeding, Mr. + Thorn. If it goes abroad, so surely will they." + </p> + <p> + "She told you, did she?" said Thorn in a sudden flash of fury. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was silent, with his air of imperturbable reserve, telling + and expressing nothing but a cool independence that put the world at a + distance. + </p> + <p> + "Ha!" said Thorn,--"it is easy to see why our brave Englishman comes here + to solicit 'terms' for his honest friend Rossitur--he would not like the + scandal of franking letters to Sing Sing. Come, sir," he said snatching up + the pistol,--"our business is ended--come, I say! or I won't wait for + you." + </p> + <p> + But the pistol was struck from his baud. + </p> + <p> + "Not yet," said Mr. Carleton calmly,--"you shall have your turn at + these,--mind, I promise you;--but my business must be done first--till + then, let them alone!" + </p> + <p> + "Well what is it?" said Thorn impatiently. "Rossitur will be a convict, I + tell you; so you'll have to give up all thoughts of his niece, or pocket + her shame along with her. What more have you got to say? that's all your + business, I take it." + </p> + <p> + "You are mistaken, Mr. Thorn," said Mr. Carleton gravely. + </p> + <p> + "Am I? In what?" + </p> + <p> + "In every position of your last speech." + </p> + <p> + "It don't affect your plans and views, I suppose, personally, whether this + prosecution is continued or not?" + </p> + <p> + "It does not in the least." + </p> + <p> + "It is indifferent to you, I suppose, what sort of a Queen consort you + carry to your little throne of a provinciality down yonder?" + </p> + <p> + "I will reply to you, sir, when you come back to the subject," said Mr. + Carleton coldly. + </p> + <p> + "You mean to say that your pretensions have not been in the way of mine?" + </p> + <p> + "I have made none, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Doesn't she like you?" + </p> + <p> + "I have never asked her." + </p> + <p> + "Then what possessed her to tell you all this to-night?" + </p> + <p> + "Simply because I was an old friend and the only one at hand, I presume." + </p> + <p> + "And you do not look for any reward of your services, of course?" + </p> + <p> + "I wish for none, sir, but her relief." + </p> + <p> + "Well, it don't signify," said Thorn with a mixture of expressions in his + face,--"if I believed you, which I don't,--it don't signify a hair what + you do, when once this matter is known. I should never think of advancing + <i>my</i> pretensions into a felon's family." + </p> + <p> + "You know that the lady in whose welfare you take so much interest will in + that case suffer aggravated distress as having been the means of hindering + Mr. Rossitur's escape," + </p> + <p> + "Can't help it," said Thorn, beating the table with a ruler;--"so she has; + she must suffer for it. It isn't my fault." + </p> + <p> + "You are willing then to abide the consequences of a full disclosure of + all the circumstances?--for part will not come out without the whole?" + </p> + <p> + "There is happily nobody to tell them," said Thorn with a sneer. + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me--they will not only be told, but known thoroughly in all the + circles in this country that know Mr. Thorn's name." + </p> + <p> + "<i>The lady</i>" said Thorn in the same tone, "would hardly relish such a + publication of <i>her</i> name--<i>her welfare</i> would be scantily + advantaged by it." + </p> + <p> + "I will take the risk of that upon myself," said Mr. Carleton quietly; + "and the charge of the other." + </p> + <p> + "You dare not!" said Thorn. "You shall not go alive out of this room to do + it! Let me have it, sir! you said you would--" + </p> + <p> + His passion was at a fearful height, for the family pride which had been + appealed to felt a touch of fear, and his other thoughts were confirmed + again, besides the dim vision of a possible thwarting of all his plans. + Desire almost concentrated itself upon revenge against the object that + threatened them. He had thrown himself again towards the weapons which lay + beyond his reach, but was met and forcibly withheld from them. + </p> + <p> + "Stand back!" said Mr. Carleton. "I said I would, but I am not + ready;--finish this business first." + </p> + <p> + "What is there to finish?" said Thorn furiously;--"you will never live to + do anything out of these doors again--you are mocking yourself." + </p> + <p> + "My life is not in your hands, sir, and I will settle this matter before I + put it in peril. If not with you, with Mr. Thorn your father, to whom it + more properly belongs." + </p> + <p> + "You cannot leave the room to see him," said Thorn sneeringly. + </p> + <p> + "That is at my pleasure," said the other,--"unless hindered by means I do + not think you will use." + </p> + <p> + Thorn was silent. + </p> + <p> + "Will you yield anything of justice, once more, in favour of this + distressed family?" + </p> + <p> + "That is, yield the whole, and let the guilty go free." + </p> + <p> + "When the punishment of the offender would involve that of so many + unoffending, who in this case would feel it with peculiar severity." + </p> + <p> + "He deserves it, if it was only for the money he has kept me out of--he + ought to be made to refund what he has stolen, if it took the skin off his + back!" + </p> + <p> + "That part of his obligation," said Mr. Carleton, "I am authorized to + discharge, on condition of having the note given up. I have a cheque with + me which I am commissioned to fill up, from one of the best names here. I + need only the date of the note, which the giver of the cheque did not + know." + </p> + <p> + Thorn hesitated, again tapping the table with the ruler in a troubled + manner. He knew by the calm erect figure before him and the steady eye he + did not care to meet that the threat of disclosure would be kept. He was + not prepared to brave it,--in case his revenge should fail;--and if it did + not---- + </p> + <p> + "It is deuced folly," he said at length with a half laugh,--"for I shall + have it back again in five minutes, if my eye don't play me a + trick,--however, if you will have it so--I don't care. There are chances + in all things--" + </p> + <p> + He went again to the cabinets, and presently brought the endorsed note. + Mr. Carleton gave it a cool and careful examination, to satisfy himself of + its being the true one; and then delivered him the cheque; the blank duly + filled up. + </p> + <p> + "There are chances in nothing, sir," he said, as he proceeded to burn the + note effectually in the candle. + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I mean that there is a Supreme Disposer of all things, who among the rest + has our lives in his hand. And now, sir, I will give you that chance at my + life for which you have been so eagerly wishing." + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus25.jpg"><img src="images/illus25.jpg" height="250" + alt="'Well, take your place,' said Thorn." + title="'Well, take your place,' said Thorn." /><br /> "Well, take your + place," said Thorn.</a> + </p> + <p> + "Well take your place," said Thorn seizing his pistol,--"and take your + arms--put yourself at the end of the table----!" + </p> + <p> + "I shall stand here," said Mr. Carleton, quietly folding his arms;--"you + may take your place where you please." + </p> + <p> + "But you are not armed!" said Thorn impatiently,--"why don't you get + ready? what are you waiting for?" + </p> + <p> + "I have nothing to do with arms," said Mr. Carleton smiling; "I have no + wish to hurt you, Mr. Thorn; I bear you no ill-will. But you may do what + you please with me." + </p> + <p> + "But you promised!" said Thorn in desperation. + </p> + <p> + "I abide by my promise, sir." + </p> + <p> + Thorn's pistol hand fell; he looked <i>dreadfully</i>. There was a silence + of several minutes. + </p> + <p> + "Well?"--said Mr. Carleton looking up and smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I can do nothing unless you will," said Thorn hoarsely, and looking + hurriedly away. + </p> + <p> + "I am at your pleasure, sir! But on my own part I have none to gratify." + </p> + <p> + There was silence again, during which Thorn's face was pitiable in its + darkness. He did not stir. + </p> + <p> + "I did not come here in enmity, Mr. Thorn," said Guy after a little + approaching him;--"I have none now. If you believe me you will throw away + the remains of yours and take my hand in pledge of it." + </p> + <p> + Thorn was ashamed and confounded, in the midst of passions that made him + at the moment a mere wreck of himself. He inwardly drew back exceedingly + from the proposal. But the grace with which the words were said wrought + upon all the gentlemanly character that belonged to him, and made it + impossible not to comply. The pistol was exchanged for Mr. Carleton's + hand. + </p> + <p> + "I need not assure you," said the latter, "that nothing of what we have + talked of to-night shall ever be known or suspected, in any quarter, + unless by your means." + </p> + <p> + Thorn's answer was merely a bow, and Mr. Carleton withdrew, his quondam + antagonist lighting him ceremoniously to the door. + </p> + <p> + It was easy for Mr. Carleton the next morning to deal with his guest at + the break fast-table. + </p> + <p> + The appointments of the service were such as of themselves to put Charlton + in a good humour, if he had not come already provided with that happy + qualification; and the powers of manner and conversation which his + entertainer brought into play not only put them into the background of + Capt. Rossitur's perceptions but even made him merge certain other things + in fascination, and lose all thought of what probably had called him + there. Once before, he had known Mr. Carleton come out in a like manner, + but this time he forgot to be surprised. + </p> + <p> + The meal was two thirds over before the business that had drawn them + together was alluded to. + </p> + <p> + "I made an odd request of you last night, Capt. Rossitur," said his + host;--"you haven't asked for an explanation." + </p> + <p> + "I had forgotten all about it," said Rossitur candidly. "I am <i>inconséquent</i> + enough myself not to think everything odd that requires an explanation." + </p> + <p> + "Then I hope you will pardon me if mine seem to touch upon what is not my + concern. You had some cause to be displeased with Mr. Thorn's behaviour + last night?" + </p> + <p> + Who told you as much?--was in Rossitur's open eyes, and upon his tongue; + but few ever asked naughty questions of Mr Carleton. Charlton's eyes came + back, not indeed to their former dimensions, but to his plate, in silence. + </p> + <p> + "He was incomprehensible," he said after a minute,--"and didn't act like + himself--I don't know what was the matter. I shall call him to account for + it." + </p> + <p> + "Capt. Rossitur, I am going to ask you a favour." + </p> + <p> + "I will grant it with the greatest pleasure," said Charlton,--"if it lie + within my power." + </p> + <p> + "A wise man's addition," said Mr. Carleton,--"but I trust you will not + think me extravagant. I will hold myself much obliged to you if you will + let Mr. Thorn's folly, or impertinence, go this time without notice." + </p> + <p> + Charlton absolutely laid down his knife in astonishment; while at the same + moment this slight let to the assertion of his dignity roused it to + uncommon pugnaciousness. + </p> + <p> + "Sir--Mr. Carleton--" he stammered,--"I would be very happy to grant + anything in my power,--but this, sir,--really goes beyond it." + </p> + <p> + "Permit me to say," said Mr. Carleton, "that I have myself seen Thorn upon + the business that occasioned his discomposure, and that it has been + satisfactorily arranged; so that nothing more is to be gained or desired + from a second interview." + </p> + <p> + Who gave you authority to do any such thing?--was again in Charlton's + eyes, and an odd twinge crossed his mind; but as before his thoughts were + silent. + </p> + <p> + "<i>My</i> part of the business cannot have been arranged," he said,--"for + it lies in a question or two that I must put to the gentleman myself." + </p> + <p> + "What will that question or two probably end in?" said Mr. Carleton + significantly. + </p> + <p> + "I can't tell!" said Rossitur,--"depends on himself--it will end according + to his answers." + </p> + <p> + "Is his offence so great that it cannot be forgiven upon my entreaty?" + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton!" said Rossitur,--"I would gladly pleasure you, sir, but you + see, this is a thing a man owes to himself." + </p> + <p> + "What thing, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, not to suffer impertinence to be offered him with impunity." + </p> + <p> + "Even though the punishment extend to hearts at home that must feel it far + more heavily than the offender?" + </p> + <p> + "Would you suffer yourself to be insulted, Mr. Carleton?" said Rossitur, + by way of a mouth stopper. + </p> + <p> + "Not if I could help it," said Mr. Carleton smiling;--"but if such a + misfortune happened, I don't know how it would be repaired by being made a + matter of life and death." + </p> + <p> + "But honour might," said Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "Honour is not reached, Capt. Rossitur. Honour dwells in a strong citadel, + and a squib against the walls does in no wise affect their security." + </p> + <p> + "But also it is not consistent with honour to sit still and suffer it." + </p> + <p> + "Question. The firing of a cracker, I think, hardly warrants a sally." + </p> + <p> + "It calls for chastisement though," said Rossitur a little shortly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know that," said Mr. Carleton gravely. "We have it on the highest + authority that it is the glory of man to <i>pass by</i> a transgression." + </p> + <p> + "But you can't go by that," said Charlton a little fidgeted;--"the world + wouldn't get along so;--men must take care of themselves." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly. But what part of themselves is cared for in this resenting of + injuries?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, their good name!" + </p> + <p> + "As how affected?--pardon me." + </p> + <p> + "By the world's opinion," said Rossitur,--"which stamps every man with + something worse than infamy who cannot protect his own standing." + </p> + <p> + "That is to say," said Mr. Carleton seriously,--"that Capt. Rossitur will + punish a fool's words with death, or visit the last extremity of distress + upon those who are dearest to him, rather than leave the world in any + doubt of his prowess." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton!" said Rossitur colouring. "What do you mean by speaking so, + sir?" + </p> + <p> + "Not to displease you, Capt. Rossitur." + </p> + <p> + "Then you count the world's opinion for nothing?" + </p> + <p> + "For less than nothing--compared with the regards I have named." + </p> + <p> + "You would brave it without scruple?" + </p> + <p> + "I do not call him a brave man who would not, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I remember," said Charlton half laughing,--"you did it yourself once; and + I must confess I believe nobody thought you lost anything by it." + </p> + <p> + "But forgive me for asking," said Mr. Carleton,--"is this terrible world a + party to <i>this</i> matter? In the request which I made,--and which I + have not given up, sir,--do I presume upon any more than the sacrifice of + a little private feeling?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, yes,--" said Charlton looking somewhat puzzled, "for I promised the + fellow I would see to it, and I must keep my word." + </p> + <p> + "And you know how that will of necessity issue." + </p> + <p> + "I can't consider that, sir; that is a secondary matter. I must do what I + told him I would." + </p> + <p> + "At all hazards?" said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "What hazards?" + </p> + <p> + "Not hazard, but certainty,--of incurring a reckoning far less easy to + deal with." + </p> + <p> + "What, do you mean with yourself?" said Rossitur. + </p> + <p> + "No sir," said Mr. Carleton, a shade of even sorrowful expression crossing + his face;--"I mean with one whose displeasure is a more weighty + matter;--one who has declared very distinctly, 'Thou shalt not kill.'" + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry for it," said Rossitur after a disturbed pause of some + minutes,--"I wish you had asked me anything else; but we can't take this + thing in the light you do, sir. I wish Thorn had been in any spot of the + world but at Mrs. Decatur's last night, or that Fleda hadn't taken me + there; but since he was, there is no help for it,--I must make him account + for his behaviour, to her as well as to me. I really don't know how to + help it, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Let me beg you to reconsider that," Mr. Carleton said with a smile which + disarmed offence,--"for if you will not help it, I must." + </p> + <p> + Charlton looked in doubt for a moment and then asked "how he would help + it?" + </p> + <p> + "In that case, I shall think it my duty to have you bound over to keep the + peace." + </p> + <p> + He spoke gravely now, and with that quiet tone which always carries + conviction. Charlton stared unmistakably and in silence. + </p> + <p> + "You are not in earnest?" he then said. + </p> + <p> + "I trust you will permit me to leave you forever in doubt on that point," + said Mr. Carleton, with again a slight giving way of the muscles of his + face. + </p> + <p> + "I cannot indeed," said Rossitur. "Do you mean what you said just now?" + </p> + <p> + "Entirely." + </p> + <p> + "But Mr. Carleton," said Rossitur, flushing and not knowing exactly how to + take him up,--"is this the manner of one gentleman towards another?" + </p> + <p> + He had not chosen right, for he received no answer but an absolute + quietness which needed no interpretation. Charlton was vexed and confused, + but somehow it did not come into his head to pick a quarrel with his host, + in spite of his irritation. That was perhaps because he felt it to be + impossible. + </p> + <p> + "I beg your pardon," he said, most unconsciously verifying Fleda's words + in his own person,--"but Mr. Carleton, do me the favour to say that I have + misunderstood your words. They are incomprehensible to me, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I must abide by them nevertheless, Capt. Rossitur," Mr. Carleton answered + with a smile. "I will not permit this thing to be done, while, as I + believe, I have the power to prevent it. You see," he said, smiling + again,--"I put in practice my own theory." + </p> + <p> + Charlton looked exceedingly disturbed, and maintained a vexed and + irresolute silence for several minutes, realizing the extreme + disagreeableness of having more than his match to deal with. + </p> + <p> + "Come, Capt. Kossitur," said the other turning suddenly round upon + him,--"say that you forgive me what you know was meant in no disrespect to + you?" + </p> + <p> + "I certainly should not," said Rossitur, yielding however with a half + laugh, "if it were not for the truth of the proverb that it takes two to + make a quarrel." + </p> + <p> + "Give me your hand upon that. And now that the question of honour is taken + out of your hands, grant not to me but to those for whom I ask it, your + promise to forgive this man." + </p> + <p> + Charlton hesitated, but it was difficult to resist the request, backed as + it was with weight of character and grace of manner, along with its + intrinsic reasonableness; and he saw no other way so expedient of getting + out of his dilemma. + </p> + <p> + "I ought to be angry with somebody," he said, half laughing and a little + ashamed;--"if you will point out any substitute for Thorn I will let him + go--since I cannot help myself--with pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "I will bear it," said Mr. Carleton lightly. "Give me your promise for + Thorn and hold me your debtor in what amount you please." + </p> + <p> + "Very well--I forgive him," said Rossitur;--"and now Mr. Carleton I shall + have a reckoning with you some day for this." + </p> + <p> + "I will meet it. When you are next in England you shall come down to---- + shire, and I will give you any satisfaction you please." + </p> + <p> + They parted in high good-humour; but Charlton looked grave as he went down + the staircase; and very oddly all the way down to Whitehall his head was + running upon the various excellencies and perfections of his cousin Fleda. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="46"></a>Chapter XLVI + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + There + is a fortune coming<br /> Towards you, dainty, that will take thee thus,<br /> + And set thee aloft. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Ben Jonson. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + That day was spent by Fleda in the never-failing headache which was sure + to visit her after any extraordinary nervous agitation or too great mental + or bodily trial. It was severe this time, not only from the anxiety of the + preceding night but from the uncertainty that weighed upon her all day + long. The person who could have removed the uncertainty came indeed to the + house, but she was too ill to see anybody. + </p> + <p> + The extremity of pain wore itself off with the day, and at evening she was + able to leave her room and come down stairs. But she was ill yet, and + could do nothing but sit in the corner of the sofa, with her hair unbound, + and Florence gently bathing her head with cologne. + </p> + <p> + Anxiety as well as pain had in some measure given place to exhaustion, and + she looked a white embodiment of endurance which gave a shock to her + friends' sympathy. Visitors were denied,--and Constance and Edith devoted + their eyes and tongues at least to her service, if they could do no more. + </p> + <p> + It happened that Joe Manton was out of the way, holding an important + conference with a brother usher next door, a conference that he had no + notion would be so important when he began it; when a ring on his own + premises summoned one of the maid-servants to the door. She knew nothing + about "not at home," and unceremoniously desired the gentleman to "walk + up,"--"the ladies were in the drawing-room." + </p> + <p> + The door had been set wide open for the heat, and Fleda was close in the + corner behind it; gratefully permitting Florence's efforts with the + cologne, which yet she knew could avail nothing but the kind feelings of + the operator; for herself patiently waiting her enemy's time. Constance + was sitting on the floor looking at her. + </p> + <p> + "I can't conceive how you can bear so much," she said at length. + </p> + <p> + Fleda thought, how little she knew what was borne! + </p> + <p> + "Why you could bear it I suppose if you had to," said Edith + philosophically. + </p> + <p> + "She knows she looks most beautiful," said Florence, softly passing her + cologned hands down over the smooth hair;--"she knows + </p> + <p> + "'Il faut souffrir pour être belle.'" + </p> + <p> + "La migraine ne se guérit avec les douceurs," said Mr. Carleton + entering;--"try something sharp, Miss Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + "Where are we to get it?" said Constance springing up, and adding in a + most lack-a-daisical aside to her mother, "(Mamma!--the fowling + piece!)--Our last vinegar hardly comes under the appellation; and you + don't expect to find anything volatile in this house, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + He smiled. + </p> + <p> + "Have you none for grave occasions, Miss Constance?" + </p> + <p> + "I won't retort the question about 'something sharp,'" said Constance + arching her eyebrows, "because it is against my principles to make people + uncomfortable; but you have certainly brought in some medicine with you, + for Miss Ringgan's cheeks a little while ago were as pure as her + mind--from a tinge of any sort--and now, you see--" + </p> + <p> + "My dear Constance," said her mother, "Miss Ringgan's cheeks will stand a + much better chance if you come away and leave her in peace. How can she + get well with such a chatter in her ears." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton and I, mamma, are conferring upon measures of relief,--and + Miss Ringgan gives token of improvement already." + </p> + <p> + "For which I am very little to be thanked," said Mr. Carleton. "But I am + not a bringer of bad news, that she should look pale at the sight of me." + </p> + <p> + "Are you a bringer of any news?" said Constance, "O do let us have them, + Mr. Carleton!--I am dying for news--I haven't heard a bit to-day." + </p> + <p> + "What is the news, Mr. Carleton?" said her mother's voice, from the more + distant region of the fire. + </p> + <p> + "I believe there are no general news, Mrs. Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + "Are there any particular news?" said Constance.--"I like particular news + infinitely the best!" + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry, Miss Constance, I have none for you. But--will this headache + yield to nothing?" + </p> + <p> + "Fleda prophesied that it would to time," said Florence;--"she Would not + let us try much beside." + </p> + <p> + "And I must confess there has been no volatile agency employed at all," + said Constance;--"I never knew time have less of it; and Fleda seemed to + prefer him for her physician." + </p> + <p> + "He hasn't been a good one to-day," said Edith nestling affectionately to + her side. "Isn't it better, Fleda?"--for she had covered her eyes with her + hand. + </p> + <p> + "Not just now," said Fleda softly. + </p> + <p> + "It is fair to change physicians if the first fails," said Mr. Carleton. + "I have had a slight experience in headache-curing,--if you will permit + me, Miss Constance, I will supersede time and try a different + prescription." + </p> + <p> + He went out to seek it; and Fleda leaned her head in her hand and tried to + quiet the throbbing heart every pulsation of which was felt so keenly at + the seat of pain. She knew from Mr. Carleton's voice and manner,--she <i>thought</i> + she knew,--that he had exceeding good tidings for her; once assured of + that she would soon be better; but she was worse now. + </p> + <p> + "Where is Mr. Carleton gone?" said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "I haven't the least idea, mamma--he has ventured upon an extraordinary + undertaking and has gone off to qualify himself, I suppose. I can't + conceive why he didn't ask Miss Ringgan's permission to change her + physician, instead of mine." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose he knew there was no doubt about that." said Edith, hitting the + precise answer of Fleda's thoughts. + </p> + <p> + "And what should make him think there was any doubt about mine?" said + Constance tartly. + </p> + <p> + "O you know," said her sister, "you are so odd nobody can tell what you + will take a fancy to." + </p> + <p> + "You are--extremely liberal in your expressions, at least, Miss Evelyn,--I + must say," said Constance, with a glance of no doubtful + meaning.--"Joe--did you let Mr. Carleton in?" + </p> + <p> + "No, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Well let him in next time; and don't let in anybody else." + </p> + <p> + Whereafter the party relapsed into silent expectation. + </p> + <p> + It was not many minutes before Mr. Carleton returned. + </p> + <p> + "Tell your friend, Miss Constance," he said putting an exquisite little + vinaigrette into her hand,--"that I have nothing worse for her than that." + </p> + <p> + "Worse than this!" said Constance examining it. "Mr. Carleton--I doubt + exceedingly whether smelling this will afford Miss Ringgan any benefit." + </p> + <p> + "Why, Miss Constance?" + </p> + <p> + "Because--it has made me sick only to look at it!" + </p> + <p> + "There will be no danger for her," be said smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Won't there?--Well, Fleda my dear--here, take it," said the young + lady;--"I hope you are differently constituted from me, for I feel a + sudden pain since I saw it;--but as you keep your eyes shut and so escape + the sight of this lovely gold chasing, perhaps it will do you no + mischief." + </p> + <p> + "It will do her all the more good for that," said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + The only ears that took the benefit of this speech were Edith's and Mr. + Carleton's; Fleda's were deafened by the rush of feeling. She very little + knew what she was holding. Mr. Carleton stood with rather significant + gravity watching the effect of his prescription, while Edith beset her + mother to know why the outside of the vinaigrette being of gold should + make it do Fleda any more good; the disposing of which question + effectually occupied Mrs. Evelyn's attention for some time. + </p> + <p> + "And pray how long is it since you took up the trade of a physician, Mr. + Carleton?" said Constance. + </p> + <p> + "It is--just about nine years, Miss Constance," he answered gravely. + </p> + <p> + But that little reminder, slight as it was, overcame the small remnant of + Fleda's self-command; the vinaigrette fell from her hands and her face was + hid in them; whatever became of pain, tears must flow. + </p> + <p> + "Forgive me," said Mr. Carleton gently, bending down towards her, "for + speaking when I should have been silent.--Miss Evelyn, and Miss Constance, + will you permit me to order that my patient be left in quiet." + </p> + <p> + And he took them away to Mrs. Evelyn's quarter, and kept them all three + engaged in conversation, too busily to trouble Fleda with any attention; + till she had had ample time to try the effect of the quiet and of the + vinegar both. Then he went himself to look after her. + </p> + <p> + "Are you better?" said he, bending down and speaking low. + </p> + <p> + Fleda opened her eyes and gave him, what a look!--of grateful feeling. She + did not know the half that was in it; but he did. That she was better was + a very small item. + </p> + <p> + "Ready for the coffee?" said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "O no," whispered Fleda,--"it don't matter about that--never mind the + coffee!" + </p> + <p> + But he went back with his usual calmness to Mrs. Evelyn and begged that + she would have the goodness to order a cup of rather strong coffee to be + made. + </p> + <p> + "But Mr. Carleton, sir," said that lady,--"I am not at all sure that it + would be the best thing for Miss Ringgan--if she is better,--I think it + would do her far more good to go to rest and let sleep finish her cure, + before taking something that will make sleep impossible." + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever hear of a physician, Mrs. Evelyn," he said smiling, "that + allowed his prescriptions to be interfered with? I must beg you will do me + this favour." + </p> + <p> + "I doubt very much whether it will be a favour to Miss Ringgan," said Mrs. + Evelyn,--"however--" + </p> + <p> + And she rang the bell and gave the desired order, with a somewhat + disconcerted face. But Mr. Carleton again left Fleda to herself and + devoted his attention to the other ladies, with so much success, though + with his usual absence of effort, that good humour was served long before + the coffee. + </p> + <p> + Then indeed he played the physician's part again; made the coffee himself + and saw it taken, according to his own pleasure; skilfully however seeming + all the while, except to Fleda, to be occupied with everything else. The + group gathered round her anew; she was well enough to bear their talk by + this time; by the time the coffee was drunk quite well. + </p> + <p> + "Is it quite gone?" asked Edith. + </p> + <p> + "The headache?--yes." + </p> + <p> + "You will owe your physician a great many thanks, my dear Fleda," said + Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's only answer to this, however, was by a very slight smile; and she + presently left the room to go up stairs and arrange her yet disarranged + hair. + </p> + <p> + "That is a very fine girl," remarked Mrs. Evelyn, preparing half a cup of + coffee for herself in a kind of amused abstraction,--"my friend Mr. Thorn + will have an excellent wife of her." + </p> + <p> + "Provided she marries him," said Constance somewhat shortly. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure I hope she won't," said Edith,--"and I don't believe she will." + </p> + <p> + "What do you think of his chances of success, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Your manner of speech would seem to imply that they are very good, Mrs. + Evelyn," he answered coolly. + </p> + <p> + "Well don't you think so?" said Mrs. Evelyn, coming back to her seat with + her coffee-cup, and apparently dividing her attention between it and her + subject,--"It's a great chance for her--most girls in her circumstances + would not refuse it--<i>I</i> think he's pretty sure of his ground." + </p> + <p> + "So I think," said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "It don't prove anything, if he is," said Constance dryly. "I hate people + who are always sure of their ground!" + </p> + <p> + "What do you think, Mr. Carleton?" said Mrs. Evelyn, taking little + satisfied sips of her coffee. + </p> + <p> + "May I ask, first, what is meant by the 'chance' and what by the + 'circumstances.'" + </p> + <p> + "Why Mr. Thorn has a fine fortune, you know, and he is of an excellent + family--there is not a better family in the city--and very few young men + of such pretensions would think of a girl that has no name nor standing." + </p> + <p> + "Unless she had qualities that would command them," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "But Mr. Carleton, sir," said the lady,--"do you think that can be? do you + think a woman can fill gracefully a high place in society if she has had + disadvantages in early life to contend with that were calculated to unfit + her for it?" + </p> + <p> + "But mamma," said Constance,--"Fleda don't shew any such thing." + </p> + <p> + "No, she don't shew it," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"but I am not talking of + Fleda--I am talking of the effect of early disadvantages. What do you + think, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Disadvantages of what kind, Mrs. Evelyn?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, for instance--the strange habits of intercourse, on familiar terms, + with rough and uncultivated people,--such intercourse for years--in all + sorts of ways,--in the field and in the house,--mingling with them as one + of them--it seems to me it must leave its traces on the mind and on the + habits of acting and thinking?" + </p> + <p> + "There is no doubt it does," he answered with an extremely unconcerned + face. + </p> + <p> + "And then there's the actual want of cultivation," said Mrs. Evelyn, + warming;--"time taken up with other things, you know,--usefully and + properly, but still taken up,--so as to make much intellectual acquirement + and accomplishments impossible; it can't be otherwise, you know,--neither + opportunity nor instructors; and I don't think anything can supply the + want in after life--it isn't the mere things themselves which may be + acquired--the mind should grow up in the atmosphere of them--don't you + think so, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + He bowed. + </p> + <p> + "Music, for instance, and languages, and converse with society, and a + great many things, are put completely beyond reach;--Edith, my dear, you + are not to touch the coffee,--nor Constance either,--no I will not let + you,--And there could not be even much reading, for want of books if for + nothing else. Perhaps I am wrong, but I confess I don't see how it is + possible in such a case"-- + </p> + <p> + She checked herself suddenly, for Fleda with the slow noiseless step that + weakness imposed had come in again and stood by the centre-table. + </p> + <p> + "We are discussing a knotty question, Miss Ringgan," said Mr. Carleton + with a smile, as he brought a bergère for her; "I should like to + have your voice on it." + </p> + <p> + There was no seconding of his motion. He waited till she had seated + herself and then went on. + </p> + <p> + "What in your opinion is the best preparation for wearing prosperity + well?" + </p> + <p> + A glance at Mrs. Evelyn's face which was opposite her, and at one or two + others which had undeniably the air of being <i>arrested</i>, was enough + for Fleda's quick apprehension. She knew they had been talking of her. Her + eyes stopped short of Mr. Carleton's and she coloured and hesitated. No + one spoke. + </p> + <p> + "By prosperity you mean--?" + </p> + <p> + "Rank and fortune," said Florence, without looking up. + </p> + <p> + "Marrying a rich man, for instance," said Edith, "and having one's hands + full." + </p> + <p> + This peculiar statement of the case occasioned a laugh all round, but the + silence which followed seemed still to wait upon Fleda's reply. + </p> + <p> + "Am I expected to give a serious answer to that question?" she said a + little doubtfully. + </p> + <p> + "Expectations are not stringent things," said her first questioner + smiling. "That waits upon your choice." + </p> + <p> + "They are horridly stringent, <i>I</i> think," said Constance. "We shall + all be disappointed if you don't, Fleda my dear." + </p> + <p> + "By wearing it 'well' you mean, making a good use of it?" + </p> + <p> + "And gracefully," said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + "I think I should say then," said Fleda after some little hesitation and + speaking with evident difficulty,--"Such an experience as might teach one + both the worth and the worthlessness of money." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton's smile was a sufficiently satisfied one; but Mrs. Evelyn + retorted, + </p> + <p> + "The <i>worth</i> and the <i>worthlessness!</i>--Fleda my dear, I don't + understand--" + </p> + <p> + "And what experience teaches one the worth and what the worthlessness of + money?" said Constance;--"Mamma is morbidly persuaded that I do not + understand the first--of the second I have an indefinite idea from never + being able to do more than half that I want with it." + </p> + <p> + Fleda smiled and hesitated again, in a way that shewed she would willingly + be excused, but the silence left her no choice but to speak. + </p> + <p> + "I think," she said modestly, "that a person can hardly understand the + true worth of money,--the ends it can best subserve,--that has not been + taught it by his own experience of the want; and--" + </p> + <p> + "What follows?" said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "I was going to say, sir, that there is danger, especially when people + have not been accustomed to it, that they will greatly overvalue and + misplace the real worth of prosperity; unless the mind has been steadied + by another kind of experience, and has learnt to measure things by a + higher scale." + </p> + <p> + "And how when they <i>have</i> been accustomed to it?" said Florence. + </p> + <p> + "The same danger, without the 'especially'," said Fleda, with a look that + disclaimed any assuming. + </p> + <p> + "One thing is certain," said Constance,--"you hardly ever see <i>les + nouveaux riches</i> make a graceful use of anything.--Fleda my dear, I am + seconding all of your last speech that I understand. Mamma, I perceive, is + at work upon the rest." + </p> + <p> + "I think we ought all to be at work upon it," said Mrs. Evelyn, "for Miss + Ringgan has made it out that there is hardly anybody here that is + qualified to wear prosperity well." + </p> + <p> + "I was just thinking so," said Florence. + </p> + <p> + Fleda said nothing, and perhaps her colour rose a little. + </p> + <p> + "I will take lessons of her," said Constance, with eyebrows just raised + enough to neutralize the composed gravity of the other features,--"as soon + as I have an amount of prosperity that will make it worth while." + </p> + <p> + "But I don't think," said Florence, "that a graceful use of things is + consistent with such a careful valuation and considering of the exact + worth of everything--it's not my idea of grace." + </p> + <p> + "Yet <i>propriety</i> is an essential element of gracefulness, Miss + Evelyn." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Florence,--"certainly; but what then?" + </p> + <p> + "Is it attainable, in the use of means, without a nice knowledge of their + true value?" + </p> + <p> + "But, Mr. Carleton, I am sure I have seen improper things--things improper + in a way--gracefully done?" + </p> + <p> + "No doubt; but, Miss Evelyn," said he smiling "the impropriety did not in + those cases, I presume, attach itself to the other quality. The graceful + <i>manner</i> was strictly proper to its ends, was it not, however the + ends might be false?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Florence;--"you have gone too deep for me. But do you + think that close calculation, and all that sort of thing, is likely to + make people use money, or anything else, gracefully? I never thought it + did." + </p> + <p> + "Not close calculation alone," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "But do you think it is <i>consistent</i> with gracefulness?" + </p> + <p> + "The largest and grandest views of material things that man has ever + taken, Miss Evelyn, stand upon a basis of the closest calculation." + </p> + <p> + Florence worked at her worsted and looked very dissatisfied. + </p> + <p> + "O Mr. Carleton," said Constance as he was going,--"don't leave your + vinaigrette--there it is on the table." + </p> + <p> + He made no motion to take it up. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you know, Miss Constance, that physicians seldom like to have + anything to do with their own prescriptions?" + </p> + <p> + "It's very suspicious of them," said Constance;--"but you must take it, + Mr. Carleton, if you please, for I shouldn't like the responsibility of + its being left here; and I am afraid it would be dangerous to our peace of + mind, besides." + </p> + <p> + "I shall risk that," he said laughing. "Its work is not done." + </p> + <p> + "And then, Mr. Carleton," said Mrs. Evelyn, and Fleda knew with what a + look,--"you know physicians are accustomed to be paid when their + prescriptions are taken." + </p> + <p> + But the answer to this was only a bow, so expressive in its air of haughty + coldness that any further efforts of Mrs. Evelyn's wit were chilled for + some minutes after he had gone. + </p> + <p> + Fleda had not seen this. She had taken up the vinaigrette, and was + thinking with acute pleasure that Mr. Carleton's manner last night and + to-night had returned to all the familiar kindness of old times. Not as it + had been during the rest of her stay in the city. She could be quite + contented now to have him go back to England, with this pleasant + remembrance left her. She sat turning over the vinaigrette, which to her + fancy was covered with hieroglyphics that no one else could read; of her + uncle's affair, of Charlton's danger, of her own distress, and the + kindness which had wrought its relief, more penetrating and pleasant than + even the fine aromatic scent which fairly typified it,--Constance's voice + broke in upon her musings. + </p> + <p> + "Isn't it awkward?" she said as she saw Fleda handling and looking at the + pretty toy,--"Isn't it awkward? I sha'n't have a bit of rest now for fear + something will happen to that. I hate to have people do such things!" + </p> + <p> + "Fleda my dear," said Mrs. Evelyn,--"I wouldn't handle it, my love; you + may depend there is some charm in it--some mischievous hidden + influence,--and if you have much to do with it I am afraid you will find a + gradual coldness stealing over you, and a strange forgetfulness of + Queechy, and you will perhaps lose your desire ever to go back there any + more." + </p> + <p> + The vinaigrette dropped from Fleda's fingers, but beyond a heightened + colour and a little tremulous gravity about the lip, she gave no other + sign of emotion. + </p> + <p> + "Mamma," said Florence laughing,--"you are too bad!" + </p> + <p> + "Mamma," said Constance, "I wonder how any tender sentiment for you can + continue to exist in Fleda's breast!--By the way, Fleda, my dear, do you + know that we have heard of two escorts for you? but I only tell you + because I know you'll not be fit to travel this age." + </p> + <p> + "I should not be able to travel to-morrow," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "They are not going to-morrow," said Mrs. Evelyn quietly. + </p> + <p> + "Who are they?" + </p> + <p> + "Excellent ones," said Mrs. Evelyn. "One of them is your old friend Mr. + Olmney," + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Olmney!" said Fleda. "What has brought him to New York?" + </p> + <p> + "Really," said Mrs. Evelyn laughing,--"I do not know. What should keep him + away? I was very glad to see him, for my part. Maybe he has come to take + you home." + </p> + <p> + "Who is the other?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "That's another old friend of yours--Mrs. Renney." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Renney?--who is she?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Why don't you know? Mrs. Renney--she used to live with your aunt Lucy in + some capacity--years ago,--when she was in New York,--housekeeper, I + think; don't you remember her?" + </p> + <p> + "Perfectly, now," said Fleda. "Mrs. Renney!--" + </p> + <p> + "She has been housekeeper for Mrs. Schenck these several years, and she is + going somewhere out West to some relation, her brother, I believe, to take + care of his family; and her road leads her your way." + </p> + <p> + "When do they go, Mrs. Evelyn?" + </p> + <p> + "Both the same day, and both the day after to-morrow. Mr. Olmney takes the + morning train, he says, unless you would prefer some other,--I told him + you were very anxious to go,--and Mrs. Renney goes in the afternoon. So + there's a choice for you." + </p> + <p> + "Mamma," said Constance, "Fleda is not fit to go at all, either time." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think she is," said Mrs. Evelyn. "But she knows best what she + likes to do." + </p> + <p> + Thoughts and resolutions came swiftly one after another into Fleda's mind + and were decided upon in as quick succession. First, that she must go the + day after to-morrow, at all events. Second, that it should not be with Mr. + Olmney. Third, that to prevent that, she must not see him in the mean + time, and therefore--yes, no help for it,--must refuse to see any one that + called the next day; there was to be a party in the evening, so then she + would be safe. No doubt Mr. Carleton would come, to give her a more + particular account of what he had done, and she wished unspeakably to hear + it; but it was not possible that she should make an exception in his + favour and admit him alone. That could not be. If friends would only be + simple and straightforward and kind,--one could afford to be + straightforward too;--but as it was she must not do what she longed to do + and they would be sure to misunderstand. There was indeed the morning of + the day following left her if Mr. Olmney did not take it into his head to + stay. And it might issue in her not seeing Mr. Carleton at all, to bid + good-bye and thank him? He would not think her ungrateful, he knew better + than that, but still--Well! so much for kindness!-- + </p> + <p> + "What <i>are</i> you looking so grave about?" said Constance. + </p> + <p> + "Considering ways and means," Fleda said with a slight smile. + </p> + <p> + "Ways and means of what?" + </p> + <p> + "Going." + </p> + <p> + "You don't mean to go the day after to-morrow?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "It's too absurd for anything! You sha'n't do it." + </p> + <p> + "I must indeed." + </p> + <p> + "Mamma," said Constance, "if you permit such a thing, I shall hope that + memory will be a fingerboard of remorse to you, pointing to Miss Ringgan's + pale cheeks." + </p> + <p> + "I shall charge it entirely upon Miss Ringgan's own fingerboard," said + Mrs. Evelyn, with her complacently amused face. "Fleda, my dear,--shall I + request Mr. Olmney to delay his journey for a day or two, my love, till + you are stronger?" + </p> + <p> + "Not at all, Mrs. Evelyn! I shall go then;--if I am not ready in the + morning I will take Mrs. Renney in the afternoon--I would quite as lief go + with her." + </p> + <p> + "Then I will make Mr. Olmney keep to his first purpose," said Mrs. Evelyn. + </p> + <p> + Poor Fleda, though with a very sorrowful heart, kept her resolutions, and + for very forlornness and weariness slept away a great part of the next + day. Neither would she appear in the evening, for fear of more people than + one. It was impossible to tell whether Mrs. Evelyn's love of mischief + would not bring Mr. Olmney there, and the Thorns, she knew, were invited. + Mr. Lewis would probably absent himself, but Fleda could not endure even + the chance of seeing his mother. She wanted to know, but dared not ask, + whether Mr. Carleton had been to see her. What if to-morrow morning should + pass without her seeing him? Fleda pondered this uncertainty a little, and + then jumped out of bed and wrote him the heartiest little note of thanks + and remembrance that tears would let her write; sealed it, and carried it + herself to the nearest branch of the despatch post the first thing next + morning. + </p> + <p> + She took a long look that same morning at the little vinaigrette which + still lay on the centre-table, wishing very much to take it up stairs and + pack it away among her things. It was meant for her she knew, and she + wanted it as a very pleasant relic from the kind hands that had given it; + and besides, he might think it odd if she should slight his intention. But + how odd it would seem to him if he knew that the Evelyns had half + appropriated it. And appropriate it anew, in another direction, she could + not. She could not without their knowledge, and they would put their own + absurd construction on what was a simple matter of kindness; she could not + brave it. + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus26.jpg"><img src="images/illus26.jpg" height="250" + alt="'I told him, 'O you were not gone yet!''" + title="'I told him, 'O you were not gone yet!''" /><br /> "I told him, 'O + you were not gone yet!'"</a> + </p> + <p> + The morning, a long one it was, had passed away; Fleda had just finished + packing her trunk, and was sitting with a faint-hearted feeling of body + and mind, trying to rest before being called to her early dinner, when + Florence came to tell her it was ready. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton was here awhile ago," she said, "and he asked for you; but + mamma said you were busy; she knew you had enough to tire you without + coming down stairs to see him. He asked when you thought of going." + </p> + <p> + "What did you tell him?" + </p> + <p> + "I told him, 'O you were not gone yet!'--it's such a plague to be bidding + people good-bye--<i>I</i> always want to get rid of it. Was I right?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda said nothing, but in her heart she wondered what possible concern it + could be of her friends if Mr. Carleton wanted to see her before she went + away. She felt it was unkind--they did not know how unkind, for they did + not understand that he was a very particular friend and an old + friend--they could not tell what reason there was for her wishing to bid + him good-bye. She thought she should have liked to do it, very much. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="47"></a>Chapter XLVII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Methought I was--there is no man can tell what. Methought I was, and + methought I had,--But man is but a patched fool, if he will offer to say + what methought I had.--Midsummer Night's Dream. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Mrs. Evelyn drove down to the boat with Fleda and did not leave her till + she was safely put in charge of Mrs. Renney. Fleda immediately retreated + to the innermost depths of the ladies' cabin, hoping to find some rest for + the body at least if not forgetfulness for the mind. + </p> + <p> + The latter was not to be. Mrs. Renney was exceeding glad to see her and + bent upon knowing what had become of her since those days when they used + to know each other. + </p> + <p> + "You're just the same, Miss Fleda, that you used to be--you're very little + altered--I can see that--though you're looking a good deal more thin and + pale--you had very pretty roses in your cheeks in those times.--Yes, I + know, I understood Mrs. Evelyn to say you had not been well; but allowing + for that I can see you are just yourself still--I'm glad of it. Do you + recollect, Miss Fleda, what a little thing you was then?" + </p> + <p> + "I recollect, very well," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I'm sure of another thing--you're just as good as you used to be," said + the housekeeper looking at her complacently. "Do you remember how you used + to come into my room to see me make jelly? I see it as well as if it was + yesterday;--and you used to beg me to let you squeeze the lemons; and I + never could refuse you, because you never did anything I didn't want you + to; and do you mind how I used to tie you up in a big towel for fear you + would stain your dress with the acid, and I'd stand and watch to see you + putting all your strength to squeeze 'em clean, and be afraid that Mrs. + Rossitur would be angry with me for letting you spoil your hands, but you + used to look up and smile at me so, I couldn't help myself but let you do + just whatever you had a mind. You don't look quite so light and bright as + you did in those times; but to be sure, you ain't feeling well! See + here--just let me pull some of these things onto this settee, and you put + yourself down there and rest--pillows--let's have another pillow,--there, + how's that?" + </p> + <p> + Oh if Fleda might have silenced her! She thought it was rather hard that + she should have two talkative companions on this journey of all others. + The housekeeper paused no longer than to arrange her couch and see her + comfortably laid down. + </p> + <p> + "And then Mr. Hugh would come in to find you and carry you away--he never + could bear to be long from you. How is Mr. Hugh, Miss Fleda? he used to be + always a very delicate looking child. I remember you and him used to be + always together--he was a very sweet boy! I have often said I never saw + such another pair of children. How does Mr. Hugh have his health, Miss + Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Not very well, just now," said Fleda gently, and shutting her eyes that + they might reveal less. + </p> + <p> + There was need; for the housekeeper went on to ask particularly after + every member of the family, and where they had been living, and as much as + she conveniently could about how they had been living. She was very kind + through it all, or she tried to be; but Fleda felt there was a difference + since the time when her aunt kept house in State street and Mrs. Renney + made jellies for her. When her neighbours' affairs were exhausted Mrs. + Renney fell back upon her own, and gave Fleda a very circumstantial + account of the occurrences that were drawing her westward; how so many + years ago her brother had married and removed thither; how lately his wife + had died; what in general was the character of his wife, and what, in + particular, the story of her decease; how many children were left without + care, and the state of her brother's business which demanded a great deal; + and how finally, she, Mrs. Renney, had received and accepted an invitation + to go on to Belle Rivière and be housekeeper de son chef. And as + Fleda's pale worn face had for some time given her no sign of attention + the housekeeper then hoped she was asleep, and placed herself so as to + screen her and have herself a good view of everything that was going on in + the cabin. + </p> + <p> + But poor Fleda was not asleep, much as she rejoiced in being thought so. + Mind and body could get no repose, sadly as the condition of both called + for it. Too worn to sleep, perhaps;--too down-hearted to rest. She blamed + herself for it, and told over to herself the causes, the recent causes, + she had of joy and gratitude; but it would not do. Grateful she could be + and was; but tears that were not the distillation of joy came with her + gratitude; came from under the closed eyelid in spite of her; the pillow + was wet with them. She excused herself, or tried to, with thinking that + she was weak and not very well, and that her nerves had gone through so + much for a few days past it was no wonder if a reaction left her without + her usual strength of mind. And she could not help thinking there had been + a want of kindness in the Evelyns to let her come away to-day to make such + a journey, at such a season, under such guardianship. But it was not all + that; she knew it was not. The journey was a small matter; only a little + piece of disagreeableness that was well in keeping with her other + meditations. She was going home and home had lost all its fair-seeming; + its honours were withered. It would be pleasant indeed to be there again + to nurse Hugh; but nurse him for what?--life or death?--she did not like + to think; and beyond that she could fix upon nothing at all that looked + bright in the prospect; she almost thought herself wicked, but she could + not. If she might hope that her uncle would take hold of his farm like a + man, and redeem his character and his family's happiness on the old + place,--that would have been something; but he had declared a different + purpose, and Fleda knew him too well to hope that he would be better than + his word. Then they must leave the old homestead, where at least the + associations of happiness clung, and go to a strange land. It looked + desolate to Fleda, wherever it might be. Leave Queechy!--that she loved + unspeakably beyond any other place in the world; where the very hills had + been the friends of her childhood, and where she had seen the maples grow + green and grow red through as many-coloured changes of her own fortunes; + the woods where the shade of her grandfather walked with her and where the + presence even of her father could be brought back by memory; where the air + was sweeter and the sunlight brighter, by far, than in any other place, + for both had some strange kindred with the sunny days of long ago. Poor + Fleda turned her face from Mrs. Renney, and leaving doubtful prospects and + withering comforts for a while as it were out of sight, she wept the fair + outlines and the red maples of Queechy as if they had been all she had to + regret. They had never disappointed her. Their countenance had comforted + her many a time, under many a sorrow. After all, it was only fancy + choosing at which shrine the whole offering of sorrow should be made. She + knew that many of the tears that fell were due to some other. It was in + vain to tell herself they were selfish; mind and body were in no condition + to struggle with anything. + </p> + <p> + It had fallen dark some time, and she had wept and sorrowed herself into a + half-dozing state, when a few words spoken near aroused her. + </p> + <p> + "It is snowing,"--was said by several voices. + </p> + <p> + "Going very slow, ain't we?" said Fleda's friend in a suppressed voice. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, 'cause it's so dark, you see; the Captain dursn't let her run." + </p> + <p> + Some poor witticism followed from a third party about the 'Butterfly's' + having run herself off her legs the first time she ever ran at all; and + then Mrs. Renney went on. + </p> + <p> + "Is the storm so bad, Hannah?" + </p> + <p> + "Pretty thick--can't see far ahead--I hope we'll make out to find our way + in--that's all <i>I</i> care for." + </p> + <p> + "How far are we?" + </p> + <p> + "Not half way yet--I don't know--depends on what headway we make, you + know;--there ain't much wind yet, that's a good thing." + </p> + <p> + "There ain't any danger, is there?" + </p> + <p> + This of course the chambermaid denied, and a whispered colloquy followed + which Fleda did not try to catch. A new feeling came upon her weary + heart,--a feeling of fear. There was a sad twinge of a wish that she were + out of the boat and safe back again with the Evelyns, and a fresh sense of + the unkindness of letting her come away that afternoon so attended. And + then with that sickness of heart the forlorn feeling of being alone, of + wanting some one at hand to depend upon, to look to. It is true that in + case of real danger none such could be a real protection,--and yet not so + neither, for strength and decision can live and make live where a moment's + faltering will kill, and weakness must often falter of necessity. "All the + ways of the Lord are mercy and truth" to his people; she thought of that, + and yet she feared, for his ways are often what we do not like. A few + moments of sick-heartedness and trembling,--and then Fleda mentally folded + her arms about a few other words of the Bible and laid her head down in + quiet again.--"<i>The Lord is my refuge and my fortress; my God; in him + will I trust</i>." + </p> + <p> + And then what comes after,--"<i>He shall cover thee with his feathers, and + under his wings shalt thou trust; his truth shall be thy shield and + buckler</i>." + </p> + <p> + Fleda lay quiet till she was called to tea. + </p> + <p> + "Bless me, how pale you are!" said the housekeeper, as Fleda raised + herself up at this summons,--"do you feel very bad, Miss Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda said no. + </p> + <p> + "Are you frighted?" said the housekeeper;--"there's no need of + that--Hannah says there's no need--we'll be in by and by." + </p> + <p> + "No, Mrs. Renney," said Fleda smiling. "I believe I am not very strong + yet." + </p> + <p> + The housekeeper and Hannah both looked at her with strangely touched + faces, and again begged her to try the refreshment of tea. But Fleda would + not go down, so they served her up there with great zeal and tenderness. + And then she waited patiently and watched the people in the cabin, as they + sat gossiping in groups or stupefying in solitude; and thought how + miserable a thing is existence where religion and refinement have not + taught the mind to live in somewhat beyond and above its every-day + concern. + </p> + <p> + Late at night the boat arrived safe at Bridgeport. Mrs. Renney and Fleda + had resolved to stay on board till morning, when the former promised to + take her to the house of a sister she had living in the town; as the cars + would not leave the place till near eleven o'clock. Kest was not to be + hoped for meantime in the boat, on the miserable couch which was the best + the cabin could furnish; but Fleda was so thankful to have finished the + voyage in safety that she took thankfully everything else, even lying + awake. It was a wild night. The wind rose soon after they reached + Bridgeport, and swept furiously over the boat, rattling the tiller chains + and making Fleda so nervously alive to possibilities that she got up two + or three times to see if the boat were fast to her moorings. It was very + dark, and only by a fortunately placed lantern she could see a bit of the + dark wharf and one of the posts belonging to it, from which the lantern + never budged; so at last, quieted or tired out, nature had her rights, and + she slept. + </p> + <p> + It was not refreshing rest after all, and Fleda was very glad that Mrs. + Renney's impatience for something comfortable made her willing to be astir + as early as there was any chance of finding people up in the town. Few + were abroad when they left the boat, they two. Not a foot had printed the + deep layer of snow that covered the wharf. It had fallen thick during the + night. Just then it was not snowing; the clouds seemed to have taken a + recess, for they hung threatening yet; one uniform leaden canopy was over + the whole horizon. + </p> + <p> + "The snow ain't done yet," said Mrs. Renney. + </p> + <p> + "No, but the worst of our journey is over," said Fleda. "I am glad to be + on the land." + </p> + <p> + "I hope we'll get something to eat here," said Mrs. Renney as they stepped + along over the wharf. "They ought to be ashamed to give people such a + mess, when it's just as easy to have things decent. My! how it has snowed. + I declare, if I'd ha' known I'd ha' waited till somebody had tracked a + path for us. But I guess it's just as well we didn't,--you look as like a + ghost as you can, Miss Fleda. You'll be better when you get some + breakfast. You'd better catch on to my arm--I'll waken up the seven + sleepers but what I'll have something to put life into you directly." + </p> + <p> + Fleda thanked her but declined the proffered accommodation, and followed + her companion in the narrow beaten path a few travellers had made in the + street, feeling enough like a ghost, if want of flesh and blood reality + were enough. It seemed a dream that she was walking through the grey light + and the empty streets of the little town; everything looked and felt so + wild and strange. + </p> + <p> + If it was a dream she was soon waked out of it. In the house where they + were presently received and established in sufficient comfort, there was + such a little specimen of masculine humanity as never shewed his face in + dream land yet; a little bit of reality enough to bring any dreamer to his + senses. He seemed to have been brought up on stove heat, for he was ail + glowing yet from a very warm bed he had just tumbled out of somewhere, and + he looked at the pale thin stranger by his mother's fireplace as if she + were an anomaly in the comfortable world. If he could have contented + himself with looking!--but he planted himself firmly on the rug just two + feet from Fleda, and with a laudable and most persistent desire to examine + into the causes of what he could not understand he commenced inquiring, + </p> + <p> + "Are you cold?--say! Are you cold?--say!"--in a tone most provokingly made + up of wonder and dulness. In vain Fleda answered him, that she was not + very cold and would soon not be cold at all by that good fire;--the + question came again, apparently in all its freshness, from the + interrogator's mind,--"Are you cold?--say!--" + </p> + <p> + And silence and words, looking grave and laughing, were alike thrown away. + Fleda shut her eyes at length and used the small remnant of her patience + to keep herself quiet till she was called to breakfast. After breakfast + she accepted the offer of her hostess to go up stairs and lie down till + the cars were ready; and there got some real and much needed refreshment + of sleep and rest. + </p> + <p> + It lasted longer than she bad counted upon. For the cars were not ready at + eleven o'clock; the snow last night had occasioned some perplexing delays. + It was not till near three o'clock that the often-despatched messenger to + the dépôt brought back word that they might go as soon as + they pleased. It pleased Mrs. Renney to be in a great hurry, for her + baggage was in the cars she said, and it would be dreadful if she and it + went different ways; so Fleda and her companion hastened down to the + station house and choose their places some time before anybody else + thought of coming. They had a long, very tiresome waiting to go through, + and room for some uneasy speculations about being belated and a night + journey. But Fleda was stronger now, and bore it all with her usual + patient submission. At length, by degrees the people dropped in and filled + the cars, and they get off. + </p> + <p> + "How early do you suppose we shall reach Greenfield?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Why we ought to get there between nine and ten o'clock, I should think," + said her companion. "I hope the snow will hold up till we get there," + </p> + <p> + Fleda thought it a hope very unlikely to be fulfilled. There were as yet + no snow-flakes to be seen near by, but at a little distance the low clouds + seemed already to enshroud every clump of trees and put a mist about every + hill. They surely would descend more palpably soon. + </p> + <p> + It was pleasant to be moving swiftly on again towards the end of their + journey, if Fleda could have rid herself of some qualms about the possible + storm and the certain darkness; they might not reach Greenfield by ten + o'clock; and she disliked travelling in the night at any time. But she + could do nothing, and she resigned herself anew to the comfort and trust + she had built upon last night. She had the seat next the window, and with + a very sober kind of pleasure watched the pretty landscape they were + flitting by--misty as her own prospects,--darkening as they?--no, she + would not allow that thought. "'Surely I know that it shall be well with + them that fear God;' and I can trust him." And she found a strange + sweetness in that naked trust and clinging of faith, that faith never + tried never knows. But the breath of daylight was already gone, though the + universal spread of snow gave the eye a fair range yet, white, white, as + far as the view could reach, with that light misty drapery round + everything in the distance and merging into the soft grey sky; and every + now and then as the wind served, a thick wreath of white vapour came by + from the engine and hid all, eddying past the windows and then skimming + off away over the snowy ground from which it would not lift; a more + palpable veil for a moment of the distant things,--and then broken, + scattered, fragmentary, lovely in its frailty and evanishing. It was a + pretty afternoon, but a sober; and the bare black solitary trees near hand + which the cars flew by, looked to Fleda constantly like finger-posts of + the past; and back at their bidding her thoughts and her spirits went, + back and forward, comparing, in her own mental view, what had once been so + gay and genial with its present bleak and chill condition. And from this, + in sudden contrast, came a strangely fair and bright image of Heaven--its + exchange of peace for all this turmoil,--of rest for all this weary + bearing up of mind and body against the ills that beset both,--of its + quiet home for this unstable strange world where nothing is at a + stand-still--of perfect and pure society for the unsatisfactory and + wearying friendships that the most are here. The thought came to Fleda + like one of those unearthly clear Northwestern skies from which a storm + cloud has rolled away, that seem almost to mock Earth with their distance + from its defilement and agitations. "Truly I know that it shall be well + with them that fear God!"--She could remember Hugh,--she could not think + of the words without him,--and yet say them with the full bounding + assurance. And in that weary and uneasy afternoon her mind rested and + delighted itself with two lines of George Herbert, that only a Christian + can well understand,-- + </p> + <p> + "Thy power and love,--my love and trust, Make one place everywhere." + </p> + <p> + But the night fell, and Fleda at last could see nothing but the dim rail + fences they were flying by, and the reflection from some stationary + lantern on the engine or one of the forward cars, that always threw a + bright spot of light on the snow. Still she kept her eyes fastened out of + the window; anything but the view <i>inboard</i>. They were going slowly + now, and frequently stopping; for they were out of time, and some other + trains were to be looked out for. Nervous work; and whenever they stopped + the voices which at other times were happily drowned in the rolling of the + car-wheels, rose and jarred in discords far less endurable. Fleda shut her + ears to the words, but it was easy enough without words to understand the + indications of coarse and disagreeable natures in whose neighbourhood she + disliked to find herself; of whose neighbourhood she exceedingly disliked + to be reminded. The muttered oath, the more than muttered jest, the + various laughs that tell so much of head or heart emptiness,--the shadowy + but sure tokens of that in human nature which one would not realize and + which one strives to forget;--Fleda shrank within herself and would gladly + have stopped her ears; did sometimes covertly. Oh if home could be but + reached, and she out of this atmosphere! how well she resolved that never + another time, by any motive, of delicacy or otherwise, she would be + tempted to trust herself in the like again without more than womanly + protection. The hours rolled wearily on; they heard nothing of Greenfield + yet. + </p> + <p> + They came at length to a more obstinate stop than usual. Fleda took her + hands from her ears to ask what was the matter. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Mrs. Renney. "I hope they won't keep us a great while + waiting here." + </p> + <p> + The door swung open and the red comforter and tarpaulin hat of one of the + brakemen shewed itself a moment. Presently after "Can't get on"--was + repeated by several voices in the various tones of assertion, + interrogation, and impatience. The women folks, having nobody to ask + questions of, had nothing for it but to be quiet and use their ears. + </p> + <p> + "Can't get on!" said another man coming in,--"there's nothing but snow out + o' doors--track's all foul." + </p> + <p> + A number of people instantly rushed out to see. + </p> + <p> + "Can't get on any further to-night?" asked a quiet old gentleman of the + news-bringer. + </p> + <p> + "Not another inch, sir;--worse off than old Dobbs was in the + mill-pond,--we've got half way but we can't turn and go back." + </p> + <p> + "And what are we going to do?" said an unhappy wight not quick in drawing + conclusions. + </p> + <p> + "I s'pose we'll all be stiff by the morning," answered the other + gravely,--"unless the wood holds out, which ain't likely." + </p> + <p> + How much there is in even a cheery tone of voice, Fleda was sorry when + this man took his away with him. There was a most uncheering confusion of + tongues for a few minutes among the people he had left, and then the car + was near deserted; everybody went out to bring his own wits to bear upon + the obstacles in the way of their progress. Mrs. Renney observed that she + might as well warm her feet while she could, and went to the stove for the + purpose. + </p> + <p> + Poor Fleda felt as if she had no heart left. She sat still in her place + and leaned her head upon the back of the deserted chair before her, in + utter inability to keep it up. The night journey was bad enough, but <i>this</i> + was more than she had counted upon. Danger, to be sure, there might be + none in standing still there all night, unless perhaps the danger of death + from the cold;--she had heard of such things;--but to sit there till + morning among all those people and obliged to hear their unloosed + tongues,--Fleda felt almost that she could not bear it,--a most forlorn + feeling, with which came anew a keen reflection upon the Evelyns for + having permitted her to run even the hazard of such trouble. And in the + morning, if well it came, who would take care of them in all the + subsequent annoyance and difficulty of getting out of the snow?-- + </p> + <p> + It must have taken very little time for these thoughts to run through her + head, for half a minute had not flown when the vacant seat beside her was + occupied and a hand softly touched one of hers which lay in her lap. Fleda + started up in terror,--to have the hand taken and her eye met by Mr. + Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton!--O sir, how glad I am to see you!"--was said by eye and + cheek as unmistakably as by word. + </p> + <p> + "Have you come from the clouds?" + </p> + <p> + "I might rather ask that question of you," said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "You have been invisible ever since the night when I had the honour of + playing the part of your physician." + </p> + <p> + "I could not help it, sir,--I was sure you would believe it. I wanted + exceedingly to see you and to thank you--as well as I could--but I was + obliged to leave it--" + </p> + <p> + She could hardly say so much. Her swimming eye gave him more thanks than + he wanted. But she scolded herself vigorously and after a few minutes was + able to look and speak again. + </p> + <p> + "I hoped you would not think me ungrateful, sir, but in case you might, I + wrote to let you know that you were mistaken." + </p> + <p> + "You wrote to me!" said he. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir--yesterday morning--at least it was put in the post yesterday + morning." + </p> + <p> + "It was more unnecessary than you are aware off," he said with a smile and + turning one of his deep looks away from her. + </p> + <p> + "Are we fast here for all night, Mr. Carleton?" she said presently. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid so--I believe so--I have been out to examine and the storm is + very thick." + </p> + <p> + "You need not look so about it for me," said Fleda;--"I don't care for it + at all now." + </p> + <p> + And a long-drawn breath half told how much she had cared for it, and what + a burden was gone. + </p> + <p> + "You look very little like breasting hardships," said Mr. Carleton, + bending on her so exactly the look of affectionate care that she had often + had from him when she was a child, that Fleda was very near overcome + again. + </p> + <p> + "O you know," she said, speaking by dint of great force upon + herself,--"You know the will is everything, and mine is very good--" + </p> + <p> + But he looked extremely unconvinced and unsatisfied. + </p> + <p> + "I am so comforted to see you sitting there, sir," Fleda went on + gratefully,--"that I am sure I can bear patiently all the rest." + </p> + <p> + His eye turned away and she did not know what to make of his gravity. But + a moment after he looked again and spoke with his usual manner. + </p> + <p> + "That business you entrusted to me," he said in a lower tone,--"I believe + you will have no more trouble with it." + </p> + <p> + "So I thought!--so I gathered--the other night,--" said Fleda, her heart + and her face suddenly full of many things. + </p> + <p> + "The note was given up--I saw it burned." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's two hands clasped each other mutely. + </p> + <p> + "And will he be silent?" + </p> + <p> + "I think he will choose to be so--for his own sake." + </p> + <p> + The only sake that would avail in that quarter, Fleda knew. How had Mr. + Carleton ever managed it! + </p> + <p> + "And Charlton?" she said after a few minutes' tearful musing. + </p> + <p> + "I had the pleasure of Capt. Rossitur's company to breakfast, the next + morning,--and I am happy to report that there is no danger of any trouble + arising there." + </p> + <p> + "How shall I ever thank you, sir!" said Fleda with trembling lips. + </p> + <p> + His smile was so peculiar she almost thought he was going to tell her. But + just then Mrs. Renney having accomplished the desirable temperature of her + feet, came back to warm her ears, and placed herself on the next seat; + happily not the one behind but the one before them, where her eyes were + thrown away; and the lines of Mr. Carleton's mouth came back to their + usual quiet expression. + </p> + <p> + "You were in particular haste to reach home?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + Fleda said no, not in the abstract; it made no difference whether to-day + or to-morrow. + </p> + <p> + "You had heard no ill news of your cousin?" + </p> + <p> + "Not at all, but it is difficult to find an opportunity of making the + journey, and I thought I ought to come yesterday." + </p> + <p> + He was silent again; and the baffled seekers after ways and means who had + gone out to try arguments upon the storm, began to come pouring back into + the car. And bringing with them not only their loud and coarse voices with + every shade of disagreeableness aggravated by ill-humour, but also an + average amount of snow upon their hats and shoulders, the place was soon + full of a reeking atmosphere of great coats. Fleda was trying to put up + her window, but Mr. Carleton gently stopped her and began bargaining with + a neighbouring fellow-traveller for the opening of his. + </p> + <p> + "Well, sir, I'll open it if you wish it," said the man civilly, "but they + say we sha'n't have nothing to make fires with more than an hour or two + longer;--so maybe you'll think we can't afford to let any too much cold + in." + </p> + <p> + The gentleman however persisting in his wish and the wish being moreover + backed with those arguments to which every grade of human reason is + accessible, the window was opened. At first the rush of fresh air was a + great relief; but it was not very long before the raw snowy atmosphere + which made its way in was felt to be more dangerous, if it was more + endurable, than the close pent-up one it displaced. Mr. Carleton ordered + the window closed again; and Fleda's glance of meek grateful patience was + enough to pay any reasonable man for his share of the suffering. <i>Her</i> + share of it was another matter. Perhaps Mr. Carleton thought so, for he + immediately bent himself to reward her and to avert the evil, and for that + purpose brought into play every talent of manner and conversation that + could beguile the time and make her forget what she was among. If success + were his reward he had it. He withdrew her attention completely from all + that was around her, and without tasking it; she could not have borne + that. He did not seem to task himself; but without making any exertion he + held her eye and ear and guarded both from communication with things + disagreeable. He knew it. There was not a change in her eye's happy + interest, till in the course of the conversation Fleda happened to mention + Hugh, and he noticed the saddening of the eye immediately afterwards. + </p> + <p> + "Is he ill?" said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda faltering a little,--"he was not--very,--but a + few weeks ago--" + </p> + <p> + Her eye explained the broken sentences which there in the neighbourhood of + other ears she dared not finish. + </p> + <p> + "He will be better after he has seen you," said Mr. Carleton gently. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--" + </p> + <p> + A very sorrowful and uncertain "yes," with an "if" in the speaker's mind + which she did not bring out. + </p> + <p> + "Can you sing your old song yet,--" said Mr. Carleton softly,-- + </p> + <p> + "'Yet one thing secures us. Whatever betide?'" + </p> + <p> + But Fleda burst into tears. + </p> + <p> + "Forgive me," he whispered earnestly,--"for reminding you of that,--you + did not need it, and I have only troubled you." + </p> + <p> + "No sir, you have not," said Fleda,--"it did not trouble me--and Hugh + knows it better than I do. I cannot bear anything to-night, I believe--" + </p> + <p> + "So you have remembered that, Mr. Carleton?" she said a minute after. + </p> + <p> + "Do you remember that?" said he, putting her old little Bible into her + hand. + </p> + <p> + Fleda seized it, but she could hardly bear the throng of images that + started up around it. The smooth worn cover brought so back the childish + happy days when it had been her constant companion--the shadows of the + Queechy of old, and Cynthia and her grandfather; and the very atmosphere + of those times when she had led a light-hearted strange wild life all + alone with them, reading the Encyclopædia and hunting out the + wood-springs. She opened the book and slowly turned over the leaves where + her father's hand had drawn those lines, of remark and affection, round + many a passage,--the very look of them she knew; but she could not see it + now, for her eyes were dim and tears were dropping fast into her lap,--she + hoped Mr. Carleton did not see them, but she could not help it; she could + only keep the book out of the way of being blotted. And there were other + and later associations she had with it too,--how dear!--how tender!--how + grateful! + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was quite silent for a good while--till the tears had ceased; + then he bent towards her so as to be heard no further off. + </p> + <p> + "It has been for many years my best friend and companion," he said in a + low tone. + </p> + <p> + Fleda could make no answer, even by look. + </p> + <p> + "At first," he went on softly, "I had a strong association of you with it; + but the time came when I lost that entirely, and itself quite swallowed up + the thought of the giver." + </p> + <p> + A quick glance and smile told how well Fleda understood, how heartily she + was pleased with that. But she instantly looked away again. + </p> + <p> + "And now," said Mr. Carleton after a pause,--"for some time past, I have + got the association again; and I do not choose to have it so. I have come + to the resolution to put the book back into your hands and not receive it + again, unless the giver go with the gift." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up, a startled look of wonder, into his face, but the dark + eye left no doubt of the meaning of his words; and in unbounded confusion + she turned her own and her attention, ostensibly, to the book in her hand, + though sight and sense were almost equally out of her power. For a few + minutes poor Fleda felt as if all sensation had retreated to her + finger-ends. She turned the leaves over and over, as if willing to cheat + herself or her companion into the belief that she had something to think + of there, while associations and images of the past were gone with a + vengeance, swallowed up in a tremendous reality of the present; and the + book, which a minute ago was her father's Bible, was now--what was + it?--something of Mr. Carleton's which she must give back to him. But + still she held it and looked at it--conscious of no one distinct idea but + that, and a faint one besides that he might like to be repossessed of his + property in some reasonable time--time like everything else was in a + whirl; the only steady thing in creation seemed to be that perfectly still + and moveless figure by her side--till her trembling fingers admonished her + they would not be able to hold anything much longer; and gently and + slowly, without looking, her hand put the book back towards Mr. Carleton. + That both were detained together she knew but hardly felt;--the thing was + that she had given it!-- + </p> + <p> + There was no other answer; and there was no further need that Mr. Carleton + should make any efforts for diverting her from the scene and the + circumstances where they were. Probably he knew that, for he made none. He + was perfectly silent for a long time, and Fleda was deaf to any other + voice that could be raised, near or far. She could not even think. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Renney was happily snoring, and most of the other people had + descended into their coat collars, or figuratively speaking had lowered + their blinds, by tilting over their hats in some uncomfortable position + that signified sleep; and comparative quiet had blessed the place for some + time; as little noticed indeed by Fleda as noise would have been. The sole + thing that she clearly recognized in connection with the exterior world + was that clasp in which one of her hands lay. She did not know that the + car had grown quiet, and that only an occasional grunt of ill-humour, or + waking-up colloquy, testified that it was the unwonted domicile of a + number of human beings who were harbouring there in a disturbed state of + mind. But this state of things could not last. The time came that had been + threatened, when their last supply of extrinsic warmth was at an end. + Despite shut windows, the darkening of the stove was presently followed by + a very sensible and fast-increasing change of temperature; and this + addition to their causes of discomfort roused every one of the company + from his temporary lethargy. The growl of dissatisfied voices awoke again, + more gruff than before; the spirit of jesting had long languished and now + died outright, and in its stead came some low and deep and bitter-spoken + curses. Poor Mrs. Renney shook off her somnolency and shook her shoulders, + a little business shake, admonitory to herself to keep cool; and Fleda + came to the consciousness that some very disagreeable chills were making + their way over her. + </p> + <p> + "Are you warm enough?" said Mr. Carleton suddenly, turning to her. + </p> + <p> + "Not quite," said Fleda hesitating,--"I feel the cold a little. Please + don't, Mr. Carleton!--" she added earnestly as she saw him preparing to + throw off his cloak, the identical black fox which Constance had described + with so much vivacity;--"pray do not! I am not very cold--I can bear a + little--I am not so tender as you think me; I do not need it, and you + would feel the want very much after wearing it.--I won't put it on." + </p> + <p> + But he smilingly bade her "stand up," stooping down and taking one of her + hands to enforce his words, and giving her at the same time the benefit of + one of those looks of good humoured wilfulness to which his mother always + yielded, and to which Fleda yielded instantly, though with a colour + considerably heightened at the slight touch of peremptoriness in his tone. + </p> + <p> + "You are not offended with me, Elfie?" he said in another manner, when she + had sat down again and he was arranging the heavy folds of the cloak. + </p> + <p> + Offended!--A glance answered. + </p> + <p> + "You shall have everything your own way," he whispered gently, as he + stooped down to bring the cloak under her feet,--"<i>except yourself</i>." + </p> + <p> + What good care should be taken of that exception was said in the dark eye + at which Fleda hardly ventured half a glance. She had much ado to command + herself. + </p> + <p> + She was shielded again from all the sights and sounds within reach. She + was in a maze. The comfort of the fur cloak was curiously mixed with the + feeling of something else, of which that was an emblem,--a surrounding of + care and strength which would effectually be exerted for her + protection,--somewhat that Fleda had not known for many a long day,--the + making up of the old want. Fleda had it in her heart to cry like a baby. + Such a dash of sunlight had fallen at her feet that she hardly dared look + at it for fear of being dazzled; but she could not look anywhere that she + did not see the reflection. + </p> + <p> + In the mean time the earful of people settled again into sullen quietude. + The cold was not found propitious to quarrelling. Those who could subsided + anew into lethargy, those who could not gathered in their outposts to make + the best defence they might of the citadel. Most happily it was not an + extreme night; cold enough to be very disagreeable and even (without a fur + cloak) dangerous; but not enough to put even noses and ears in immediate + jeopardy. Mr. Carleton had contrived to procure a comfortable wrapper for + Mrs. Renney from a Yankee who for the sake of being "a warm man" as to his + pockets was willing to be cold otherwise for a time. The rest of the great + coats and cloaks which were so alert and erect a little while ago were + doubled up on every side in all sorts of despondent attitudes. A dull + quiet brooded over the assembly; and Mr. Carleton walked up and down the + vacant space. Once he caught an anxious glance from Fleda, and came + immediately to her side. + </p> + <p> + "You need not be troubled about me," be said with a most genial smile;--"I + am not suffering--never was further from it in my life." + </p> + <p> + Fleda could neither answer nor look. + </p> + <p> + "There are not many hours of the night to wear out," he said. "Can't you + follow your neighbour's example?" + </p> + <p> + She shook her head. + </p> + <p> + "This watching is too hard for you. You will have another headache + to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "No--perhaps not," she said with a grateful look up. + </p> + <p> + "You do not feel the cold now, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "Not at all--not in the least--I am perfectly comfortable--I am doing very + well--" + </p> + <p> + He stood still, and the changing lights and shades on Fleda's cheek grew + deeper. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know where we are, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Somewhere between a town the name of which I have forgotten and a place + called Quarrenton, I think; and Quarrenton, they tell me, is but a few + miles from Greenfield. Our difficulties will vanish, I hope, with the + darkness." + </p> + <p> + He walked again, and Fleda mused, and wondered at herself in the black + fox. She did not venture another look, though her eye took in nothing very + distinctly but the outlines of that figure passing up and down through the + car. He walked perseveringly; and weariness at last prevailed over + everything else with Fleda; she lost herself with her head leaning against + the bit of wood between the windows. + </p> + <p> + The rousing of the great coats, and the growing gray light, roused her + before her uneasy sleep had lasted an hour. The lamps were out, the car + was again spotted with two long rows of window-panes, through which the + light as yet came but dimly. The morning had dawned at last, and seemed to + have brought with it a fresh accession of cold, for everybody was on the + stir. Fleda put up her window to get a breath of fresh air and see how the + day looked. + </p> + <p> + A change of weather had come with the dawn. It was not fine yet. The + snowing had ceased, but the clouds hung overhead still, though not with + the leaden uniformity of yesterday; they were higher and broken into many + a soft grey fold, that promised to roll away from the sky by and by. The + snow was deep on the ground; every visible thing lapped in a thick white + covering; a still, very grave, very pretty winter landscape, but somewhat + dreary in its aspect to a trainful of people fixed in the midst of it out + of sight of human habitation. Fleda felt that, but only in the abstract; + to her it did not seem dreary; she enjoyed the wild solitary beauty of the + scene very much, with many a grateful thought of what might have been. As + it was, she left difficulties entirely to others. + </p> + <p> + As soon as it was light the various inmates of the strange dormitory + gathered themselves up and set out on foot for Quarrenton. By one of them + Mr. Carleton sent an order for a sleigh, which in as short a time as + possible arrived, and transported him and Fleda and Mrs. Renney, and one + other ill-bestead woman, safely to the little town of Quarrenton. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="48"></a>Chapter XLVIII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Welcome the sour cup of prosperity! Affliction may one day smile again, + and till then, Sit thee down, sorrow!--Love's Labour Lost. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + It had been a wild night, and the morning looked scared. Perhaps it was + only the particular locality, for if ever a place shewed bleak and winter + stricken the little town of Quarrenton was in that condition that morning. + The snow overlaid and enveloped everything, except where the wind had been + at work; and the wind and the grey clouds seemed the only agencies abroad. + Nor a ray of sunlight to relieve the uniform sober tints, the universal + grey and white, only varied where a black house-roof, partially cleared, + or a blacker bare-branched tree, gave it a sharp interruption. There was + not a solitary thing that bore an indication of comfortable life, unless + the curls of smoke that went up from the chimneys; and Fleda was in no + condition to study their physiognomy. + </p> + <p> + A little square hotel, perched alone on a rising ground, looked the + especial bleak and unpromising spot of the place. It bore however the + imposing title of the Pocahontas; and there the sleigh set them down. + </p> + <p> + They were ushered up-stairs into a little parlour furnished in the usual + style, with one or two articles a great deal too showy for the place and a + general dearth as to the rest. A lumbering mahogany sofa, that shewed as + much wood and as little promise as possible; a marble-topped centre-table; + chairs in the minority and curtains minus; and the hearth-rug providently + turned bottom upwards. On the centre-table lay a pile of Penny Magazines, + a volume of selections of poetry from various good authors, and a + sufficient complement of newspapers. The room was rather cold, but of that + the waiter gave a reasonable explanation in the fact that the fire had not + been burning long. + </p> + <p> + Furs however might be dispensed with, or Fleda thought so; and taking off + her bonnet she endeavoured to rest her weary head against the sharp-cut + top of the sofa-back, which seemed contrived expressly to punish and + forbid all attempts at ease-seeking. The mere change of position was still + comparative ease. But the black fox had not done duty yet. Its ample folds + were laid over the sofa, cushion-back and all, so as at once to serve for + pillow and mattress, and Fleda being gently placed upon it laid her face + down again upon the soft fur, which gave a very kindly welcome not more to + the body than to the mind. Fleda almost smiled as she felt that. The furs + were something more than a pillow for her cheek--they were the soft image + of somewhat for her mind to rest on. But entirely exhausted, too much for + smiles or tears, though both were near, she resigned herself as helplessly + as an infant to the feeling of rest; and in five minutes was in a state of + dreamy unconsciousness. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Renney, who had slept a great part of the night, courted sleep anew + in the rocking-chair, till breakfast should be ready; the other woman had + found quarters in the lower part of the house; and Mr. Carleton stood + still with folded arms to read at his leisure the fair face that rested so + confidingly upon the black fur of his cloak, looking so very fair in the + contrast. It was the same face he had known in time past,--the same, with + only an alteration that had added new graces but had taken away none of + the old. Not one of the soft outlines had grown hard under Time's + discipline; not a curve had lost its grace or its sweet mobility; and yet + the hand of Time had been there; for on brow and lip and cheek and eyelid + there was that nameless grave composure which said touchingly that hope + had long ago clasped hands with submission. And perhaps, that if hope's + anchor had not been well placed, ay, even where it could not be moved, the + storms of life might have beaten even hope from her ground and made a + clean sweep of desolation over all she had left. Not the storms of the + last few weeks. Mr. Carleton saw and understood their work in the + perfectly colourless and thin cheek. But these other finer drawn + characters had taken longer to write. He did not know the instrument, but + he read the hand-writing, and came to his own resolutions therefrom. + </p> + <p> + Yet if not untroubled she had remained unspotted by the world; that was as + clear as the other. The slight eyebrow sat with its wonted calm purity of + outline just where it used; the eyelid fell as quietly; the forehead above + it was as unruffled; and if the mouth had a subdued gravity that it had + taken years to teach, it had neither lost any of the sweetness nor any of + the simplicity of childhood. It was a strange picture that Mr. Carleton + was looking at,--strange for its rareness. In this very matter of + simplicity, that the world will never leave those who belong to it. Half + sitting and half reclining, she had given herself to rest with the + abandonment and self-forgetfulness of a child; her attitude had the very + grace of a child's unconsciousness; and her face shewed that even in + placing herself there she had lost all thought of any other presence or + any other eyes than her own; even of what her hand and cheek lay upon, and + what it betokened. It meant something to Mr. Carleton too; and if Fleda + could have opened her eyes she would have seen in those that were fixed + upon her a happy promise for her future life. She was beyond making any + such observations; and Mrs. Renney gave no interruption to his till the + breakfast bell rang. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton had desired the meal to be served in a private room. But he + was met with a speech in which such a confusion of arguments endeavoured + to persuade him to be of another mind, that he had at last given way. It + was asserted that the ladies would have their breakfast a great deal + quicker and a great deal hotter with the rest of the company; and in the + same breath that it would be a very great favour to the house if the + gentleman would not put them to the inconvenience of setting a separate + table; the reasons of which inconvenience were set forth in detail, or + would have been if the gentleman would have heard them; and desirous + especially of haste, on Fleda's account, Mr. Carleton signified his + willingness to let the house accommodate itself. Following the bell a + waiter now came to announce and conduct them to their breakfast. + </p> + <p> + Down the stairs, through sundry narrow turning passages, they went to a + long low room at one corner of the house; where a table was spread for a + very nondescript company, as it soon proved, many of their last night's + companions having found their way thither. The two <i>ladies</i>, however, + were given the chief posts at the head, as near as possible to a fiery hot + stove, and served with tea and coffee from a neighbouring table by a young + lady in long ringlets who was there probably for their express honour. But + alas for the breakfast! They might as good have had the comfort of a + private room, for there was none other to be had. Of the tea and coffee it + might be said as once it was said of two bad roads--"whichever one you + take you will wish you had taken the other;" the beefsteak was a problem + of impracticability; and the chickens--Fleda could not help thinking that + a well-to-do rooster which she saw flapping his wings in the yard, must in + all probability be at that very moment endeavouring to account for a + sudden breach in his social circle; and if the oysters had been some very + fine ladies they could hardly have retained less recollection of their + original circumstances. It was in vain to try to eat or to drink; and + Fleda returned to her sofa with even an increased appetite for rest, the + more that her head began to take its revenge for the trials to which it + had been put the past day and night. + </p> + <p> + She had closed her eyes again in her old position. Mrs. Renney was tying + her bonnet-strings. Mr. Carleton was pacing up and down. + </p> + <p> + "Aren't you going to get ready, Miss Ringgan?" said the former. + </p> + <p> + "How soon will the cars be here?" exclaimed Fleda starting up. + </p> + <p> + "Presently," said Mr. Carleton; "but," said he, coming up to her and + taking her hands,--"I am going to prescribe for you again--will you let + me?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's face gave small promise of opposition. + </p> + <p> + "You are not fit to travel now. You need some hours of quiet rest before + we go any further." + </p> + <p> + "But when shall we get home?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "In good time--not by the railroad--there is a nearer way that will take + us to Queechy without going through Greenfield. I have ordered a room to + be made ready for you--will you try if it be habitable?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda submitted; and indeed there was in his manner a sort of gentle + determination to which few women would have opposed themselves; besides + that her head threatened to make a journey a miserable business. + </p> + <p> + "You are ill now," said Mr. Carleton. "Cannot you induce your companion to + stay and attend you?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't want her," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton however mooted the question himself with Mrs. Renney, but she + represented to him, though with much deference, that the care of her + property must oblige her to go where and when it went. He rang and ordered + the housekeeper to be sent. + </p> + <p> + Presently after a young lady in ringlets entered the room, and first + taking a somewhat leisurely survey of the company, walked to the window + and stood there looking out. A dim recollection of her figure and air made + Fleda query whether she were not the person sent for; but it was several + minutes before it came into Mr. Carleton's head to ask if she belonged to + the house. + </p> + <p> + "I do, sir," was the dignified answer. + </p> + <p> + "Will you shew this lady the room prepared for her? And take care that she + wants nothing." + </p> + <p> + The owner of the ringlets answered not, but turning the front view of them + full upon Fleda seemed to intimate that she was ready to act as her guide. + She hinted however that the rooms were very <i>airy</i> in winter and that + Fleda would stand a better chance of comfort where she was. But this Fleda + would not listen to, and followed her adviser to the half warmed and + certainly very airy apartment which had been got ready for her. It was + probably more owing to something in her own appearance than to Mr. + Carleton's word of admonition on the subject that her attendant was really + assiduous and kind. + </p> + <p> + "Be you of this country?" she said abruptly, after her good offices as + Fleda thought were ended, and she had just closed her eyes. + </p> + <p> + She opened them again and said "yes." + </p> + <p> + "Well, that ain't in the parlour, is he?" + </p> + <p> + "What?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "One of our folks?" + </p> + <p> + "An American, you mean?--No." + </p> + <p> + "I thought he wa'n't--What is he?" + </p> + <p> + "He is English." + </p> + <p> + "Is he your brother?" + </p> + <p> + "No." + </p> + <p> + The young lady gave her a good look out of her large dark eyes, and + remarking that "she thought they didn't look much like," left the room. + </p> + <p> + The day was spent by poor Fleda between pain and stupor, each of which + acted in some measure to check the other; too much exhausted for nervous + pain to reach the height it sometimes did, while yet that was sufficient + to prevent stupor from sinking into sleep. Beyond any power of thought or + even fancy, with only a dreamy succession of images flitting across her + mind, the hours passed she knew not how; that they did pass she knew from + her handmaid in the long curls who was every now and then coming in to + look at her and give her fresh water; it needed no ice. Her handmaid told + her that the cars were gone by--that it was near noon--then that it was + past noon. There was no help for it; she could only lie still and wait; it + was long past noon before she was able to move; and she was looking ill + enough yet when she at last opened the door of the parlour and slowly + presented herself. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was there alone, Mrs. Renney having long since accompanied + her baggage. He came forward instantly and led Fleda to the sofa, with + such gentle grave kindness that she could hardly bear it; her nerves had + been in an unsteady state all day. A table was set and partially spread + with evidently much more care than the one of the morning; and Fleda sat + looking at it afraid to trust herself to look anywhere else. For years she + had been taking care of others; and now there was something so strange in + this feeling of being cared for, that her heart was full. Whatever Mr. + Carleton saw or suspected of this, it did not appear. On the contrary his + manner and his talk on different matters was as cool, as quiet, as + graceful, as if neither he nor Fleda had anything particular to think of; + avoiding even an allusion to whatever might in the least distress her. + Fleda thought she had a great many reasons to be grateful to him, but she + never thanked him for anything more than at that moment she thanked him + for the delicacy which so regarded her delicacy and put her in a few + minutes completely at her ease as she could be. + </p> + <p> + The refreshments were presently brought, and Fleda was served with them in + a way that went as far as possible towards making them satisfactory; but + though a great improvement upon the morning they furnished still but the + substitute for a meal. There was a little pause then after the horses were + ordered. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid you have wanted my former prescription to-day," said Mr. + Carleton, after considering the little-improved colour of Fleda's face. + </p> + <p> + "I have indeed." + </p> + <p> + "Where is it?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda hesitated, and then in a little confusion said she supposed it was + lying on Mrs. Evelyn's centre-table. + </p> + <p> + "How happens that?" said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Because--I could not help it, Mr. Carleton," said Fleda with no little + difficulty;--"I was foolish--I could not bring it away." + </p> + <p> + He understood and was silent. + </p> + <p> + "Are you fit to bear a long ride in the cold?" he said compassionately a + few minutes after. + </p> + <p> + "Oh yes!--It will do me good." + </p> + <p> + "You have had a miserable day, have you not?" + </p> + <p> + "My head has been pretty bad,--" said Fleda a little evasively. + </p> + <p> + "Well, what would you have?" said he lightly;--"doesn't that make a + miserable day of it?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda hesitated and coloured,--and then conscious that her cheeks were + answering for her, coloured so exceedingly that she was fain to put both + her hands up to hide what they only served the more plainly to shew. No + advantage was taken. Mr. Carleton said nothing; she could not see what + answer might be in his face. It was only by a peculiar quietness in his + tone whenever he spoke to her afterwards that Fleda knew she had been + thoroughly understood. She dared not lift her eyes. + </p> + <p> + They had soon employment enough around her. A sleigh and horses better + than anything else Quarrenton had been known to furnish, were carrying her + rapidly towards home; the weather had perfectly cleared off, and in full + brightness and fairness the sun was shining upon a brilliant world. It was + cold indeed, though the only wind was that made by their progress; but + Fleda had been again unresistingly wrapped in the furs and was for the + time beyond the reach of that or any other annoyance. She eat silently and + quietly enjoying; so quietly that a stranger might have questioned there + being any enjoyment in the case. It was a very picturesque broken country, + fresh-covered with snow; and at that hour, late in the day, the lights and + shadows were a constantly varying charm to the eye. Clumps of evergreens + stood out in full disclosure against the white ground; the bare branches + of neighbouring trees, in all their barrenness, had a wild prospective or + retrospective beauty peculiar to themselves. On the wavy white surface of + the meadow-land, or the steep hill-sides, lay every variety of shadow in + blue and neutral tint; where they lay not the snow was too brilliant to be + borne. And afar off, through a heaven bright and cold enough to hold the + canopy over Winter's head, the ruler of the day was gently preparing to + say good-bye to the world. Fleda's eye seemed to be new set for all forms + of beauty, and roved from one to the other, as grave and bright as nature + itself. + </p> + <p> + For a little way Mr. Carleton left her to her musings and was as silent as + she. But then he gently drew her into a conversation that broke up the + settled gravity of her face and obliged her to divide her attention + between nature and him, and his part of it he knew how to manage. But + though eye and smile constantly answered him he could win neither to a + straightforward bearing. + </p> + <p> + They were about a mile from Queechy when Pleda suddenly exclaimed, + </p> + <p> + "O Mr. Carleton, please stop the sleigh I--" + </p> + <p> + The horses were stopped. + </p> + <p> + "It is only Earl Douglass--our farmer," Fleda said in explanation,--"I + want to ask how they are at home." + </p> + <p> + In answer to her nod of recognition Mr. Douglass came to the side of the + vehicle; but till he was there, close, gave her no other answer by word or + sign; when there, broke forth his accustomed guttural, + </p> + <p> + "How d'ye do!" + </p> + <p> + "How d'ye do, Mr. Douglass," said Fleda. "How are they all at home?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, there ain't nothin' new among 'em, as I've heerd on," said Earl, + diligently though stealthily at the same time qualifying himself to make a + report of Mr. Carleton,--"I guess they'll be glad to see you. <i>I</i> + be." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Mr. Douglass. How is Hugh?" + </p> + <p> + "He ain't nothin' different from what he's been for a spell back--at least + I ain't heerd that he was.--Maybe he is, but if he is I han't heerd speak + of it, and if he was, I think I should ha' heerd speak of it. He <i>was</i> + pretty bad a spell ago--about when you went away--but he's been better + sen. So they say. I ha'n't seen him.--Well Flidda," he added with somewhat + of a sly gleam in his eye,--"do you think you're going to make up your + mind to stay to hum this time?" + </p> + <p> + "I have no immediate intention of running away, Mr. Douglass," said Fleda, + her pale cheeks turning rose as she saw him looking curiously up and down + the edges of the black fox. His eye came back to hers with a good-humoured + intelligence that she could hardly stand. + </p> + <p> + "It's time you was back," said he. "Your uncle's to hum,--but he don't do + me much good, whatever he does to other folks--nor himself nother, as far + as the farm goes; there's that corn"-- + </p> + <p> + "Very well, Mr. Douglass," said Fleda,--"I shall be at home now and I'll + see about it." + </p> + <p> + "<i>Very</i> good!" said Earl as he stepped back,--"Queechy can't get + along without you, that's no mistake." + </p> + <p> + They drove on a few minutes in silence. + </p> + <p> + "Aren't you thinking, Mr. Carleton," said Fleda, "that my countrymen are a + strange mixture?" + </p> + <p> + "I was not thinking of them at all at this moment. I believe such a notion + has crossed my mind." + </p> + <p> + "It has crossed mine very often," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "How do you read them? what is the basis of it?" + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus27.jpg"><img src="images/illus27.jpg" height="250" + alt="'How are they all at home?'" title="'How are they all at home?'" /><br /> + "How are they all at home?"</a> + </p> + <p> + "I think,--the strong self-respect which springs from the security and + importance that republican institutions give every man. But," she added + colouring, "I have seen very little of the world and ought not to judge." + </p> + <p> + "I have no doubt you are quite right," said Mr. Carleton smiling. "But + don't you think an equal degree of self-respect may consist with giving + honour where honour is due?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--" said Fleda a little doubtfully,--"where religion and not + republicanism is the spring of it." + </p> + <p> + "Humility and not pride," said he. "Yes--you are right." + </p> + <p> + "My countrymen do yield honour where they think it is due," said Fleda; + "especially where it is not claimed. They must give it to reality, not to + pretension. And I confess I would rather see them a little rude in their + independence than cringing before mere advantages of external + position;--even for my own personal pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "I agree with you, Elfie,--putting perhaps the last clause out of the + question." + </p> + <p> + "Now that man," said Fleda, smiling at his look,--"I suppose his address + must have struck you as very strange; and yet there was no want of respect + under it. I am sure he has a true thorough respect and even regard for me, + and would prove it on any occasion." + </p> + <p> + "I have no doubt of that." + </p> + <p> + "But it does not satisfy you?" + </p> + <p> + "Not quite. I confess I should require more from any one under my + control." + </p> + <p> + "Oh nobody is under control here," said Fleda. "That is, I mean, + individual control. Unless so far as self-interest comes in. I suppose + that is all-powerful here as elsewhere." + </p> + <p> + "And the reason it gives less power to individuals is that the greater + freedom of resources makes no man's interest depend so absolutely on one + other man. That is a reason you cannot regret. No--your countrymen have + the best of it, Elfie. But do you suppose that this is a fair sample of + the whole country?" + </p> + <p> + "I dare not say that," said Fleda. "I am afraid there is not so much + intelligence and cultivation everywhere. But I am sure there are many + parts of the land that will bear a fair comparison with it." + </p> + <p> + "It is more than I would dare say for my own land." + </p> + <p> + "I should think--" Fleda suddenly stopped. + </p> + <p> + "What?--" said Mr. Carleton gently. + </p> + <p> + "I beg your pardon, sir,--I was going to say something very presumptuous." + </p> + <p> + "You cannot," he said in the same tone. + </p> + <p> + "I was going to say," said Fleda blushing, "that I should think there + might be a great deal of pleasure in raising the tone of mind and + character among the people,--as one could who had influence over a large + neighbourhood." + </p> + <p> + His smile was very bright in answer. + </p> + <p> + "I have been trying that, Elfie, for the last eight years." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eye looked now eagerly in pleasure and in curiosity for more. But + he was silent. + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking a little while ago," he said, "of the time once before + when I rode here with you--when you were beginning to lead me to the + problem I have been trying to work out ever since.--When I left you in + Paris I went to resolve with myself the question, What I had to do in the + world?--Your little Bible was my invaluable help. I had read very little + of it when I threw aside all other books; and my problem was soon solved. + I saw that the life has no honour nor value which is not spent to the + glory of God. I saw the end I was made for--the happiness I was fitted + for--the dignity to which even a fallen creature may rise, through his + dear Redeemer and surety." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's eyes were down now. Mr. Carleton was silent a moment, watching one + or two bright witnesses that fell from them. + </p> + <p> + "The next conclusion was easy,--that my work was at home.--I have wanted + my good fairy," Mr. Carleton went on smiling. "But I hope she will be + contented to carry the standard of Christianity, without that of + republicanism." + </p> + <p> + "But Christianity tends directly to republicanism, Mr. Carleton," said + Fleda, trying to laugh. + </p> + <p> + "I know that," said he smiling, "and I am willing to know it. But the + leaven of truth is one thing, and the powder train of the innovator is + another." + </p> + <p> + Fleda sat thinking that she had very little in common with the layers of + powder trains. She did not know the sleigh was passing Deepwater Lake, + till Mr. Carleton said,-- + </p> + <p> + "I am glad, my dear Elfie, for your sake, that we are almost at the end of + your journey." + </p> + <p> + "I should think you might be glad for your own sake, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "No--my journey is not ended--" + </p> + <p> + "Not?" + </p> + <p> + "No--it will not be ended till I get back to New York, or rather till I + find myself here again--I shall make very little delay there--" + </p> + <p> + "But you will not go any further to-night?" said Fleda, her eye this time + meeting his fully. + </p> + <p> + "Yes--I must take the first train to New York. I have some reason to + expect my mother by this steamer." + </p> + <p> + "Back to New York!" said Fleda. "Then taking care of me has just hindered + you in your business." + </p> + <p> + But even as she spoke she read the truth in his eye and her own fell in + confusion. + </p> + <p> + "My business?" said he smiling;--"you know it now, Elfie. I arrived at + Mrs. Evelyn's just after you had quitted it, intending to ask you to take + the long talked of drive; and learned to my astonishment that you had left + the city, and as Edith kindly informed me, under no better guardianship + than that in which I found you. I was just in time to reach the boat." + </p> + <p> + "And you were in the boat night before last?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly." + </p> + <p> + "I should have felt a great deal easier if I had known that," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "So should I," said he, "but you were invisible, till I discerned you in + the midst of a crowd of people before me in the car." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was silent till the sleigh stopped and Mr. Carleton had handed her + out. + </p> + <p> + "What's going to be done + </p> + <p> + "I will send somebody down to help you with it," said Fleda. "It is too + heavy for one alone." + </p> + <p> + "Well I reckon it is," said he. "I guess you didn't know I was a cousin, + did you?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I believe I be." + </p> + <p> + "Who are you?" + </p> + <p> + "I am Pierson Barnes. I live to Quarrenton for a year back. Squire Joshua + Springer's your uncle, ain't he?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, my father's uncle." + </p> + <p> + "Well he's mine too. His sister's my mother." + </p> + <p> + "I'll send somebody to help you, Mr. Barnes." + </p> + <p> + She took Mr. Carleton's arm and walked half the way up to the house + without daring to look at him. + </p> + <p> + "Another specimen of your countrymen," he said smiling. + </p> + <p> + There was nothing but quiet amusement in the tone, and there was not the + shadow of anything else in his face. Fleda looked, and thanked him + mentally, and drew breath easier. At the house door he made a pause. + </p> + <p> + "You are coming in, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Not now." + </p> + <p> + "It is a long drive to Greenfield, Mr. Carleton;--you must not turn away + from a country house till we have shewn ourselves unworthy to live in it. + You will come in and let us give you something more substantial than those + Quarrenton oysters. Do not say no," she said earnestly as she saw a + refusal in his eye,--"I know what you are thinking of, but they do not + know that you have been told anything--it makes no difference." + </p> + <p> + She laid her gentle detaining hand, as irresistible in its way as most + things, upon his arm, and he followed her in. + </p> + <p> + Only Hugh was in the sitting-room, and he was in a great easy-chair by the + fire. It struck to Fleda's heart; but there was no time but for a flash of + thought. He had turned his face and saw her. Fleda meant to have + controlled herself and presented Mr. Carleton properly, but Hugh started + up, he saw nothing but herself, and one view of the ethereal delicacy of + his face made Fleda for a moment forget everything but him. They were in + each other's arms, and then still as death. Hugh was unconscious that a + stranger was there, and though Fleda was very conscious that one was there + who was no stranger,--there was so much in both hearts, so much of sorrow + and joy, and gratitude and tenderness, on the one part and on the other, + so much that even if they had been alone lips could only have said + silently,--that for a little while they kissed each other and wept in a + passionate attempt to speak what their hearts were too full of. + </p> + <p> + Fleda at last whispered to Hugh that somebody else was there and turned to + make as well as she might the introduction. But Mr. Carleton did not need + it, and made his own with that singular talent which in all circumstances, + wherever he chose to exert it, had absolute power. Fleda saw Hugh's + countenance change, with a kind of pleased surprise, and herself stood + still under the charm for a minute; then she recollected she might be + dispensed with. She took up her little spaniel who was in an agony of + gratulation at her feet, and went out into the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + "Well do you mean to say you are here at last?" said Barby, her grey eyes + flashing pleasure as she came forward to take the half hand which, owing + to King's monopoly, was all Fleda had to give her. "Have you come home to + stay, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I am tired enough to be quiet," said Fleda. "But dear Barby, what have + you got in the house?--I want supper as quickly as it can be had." + </p> + <p> + "Well you do look dreadful bad," said Barby eying her. "Why there ain't + much particular, Fleda; nobody's had any heart to eat lately; I thought I + might a'most as well save myself the fuss of getting victuals. Hugh lives + like a bird, and Mis' Rossitur ain't much better, and I think all of 'em + have been keeping their appetites till you came back; 'cept Philetus and + me; we keep it up pretty well. Why you're come home hungry, ain't you?" + </p> + <p> + "No, not I," said Fleda, "but there's a gentleman here that came with me + that must have something before he goes away again. What have you Barby?" + </p> + <p> + "Who is he?" said Barby. + </p> + <p> + "A friend that took care of me on the way--I'll tell you about it,--but in + the mean time, supper, Barby." + </p> + <p> + "Is he a New Yorker, that one must be curious for?" + </p> + <p> + "As curious as you like," said Fleda, "but he is not a New Yorker." + </p> + <p> + "Where <i>is</i> he from, then?" said Barby, who was busily putting on the + tea-kettle. + </p> + <p> + "England." + </p> + <p> + "England!" said Barby facing about. "Oh if he's an Englishman I don't care + for him, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "But you care for me," said Fleda laughing; "and for my sake don't let our + hospitality fail to somebody who has been very kind to me, if he is an + Englishman; and he is in haste to be off." + </p> + <p> + "Well I don't know what we're a going to give him," said Barby looking at + her. "There ain't much in the pantry besides cold pork and beans that + Philetus and me made our dinner on--they wouldn't have it in there, and + eat nothing but some pickerel the doctor sent down--and cold fish ain't + good for much." + </p> + <p> + "None of them left uncooked?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, there's a couple--he sent a great lot--I guess he thought there was + more in the family--but two ain't enough to go round; they're little + ones." + </p> + <p> + "No, but put them down and I'll make an omelette. Just get the things + ready for me, Barby, will you, while I run up to see aunt Lucy. The hens + have begun to lay?" + </p> + <p> + "La yes--Philetus fetches in lots of eggs--he loves 'em, I reckon--but you + ain't fit this minute to do a thing but rest, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "I'll rest afterwards. Just get the things ready for me, Barby, and an + apron; and the table--I'll be down in a minute. And Barby, grind some + coffee, will you?" + </p> + <p> + But as she turned to run up stairs, her uncle stood in her way, and the + supper vanished from Fleda's head. His arms were open and she was silently + clasped in them, with so much feeling on both sides that thought and well + nigh strength for anything else on her part was gone. His smothered words + of deep blessing overcame her. Fleda could do nothing but sob, in + distress, till she recollected Barby. Putting her arms round his neck then + she whispered to him that Mr. Carleton was in the other room and shortly + explained how he came to be there, and begged her uncle would go in and + see him till supper should be ready. Enforcing this request with a parting + kiss on his cheek, she ran off up stairs. Mr. Rossitur looked extremely + moody and cloudy for a few minutes, and then went in and joined his guest. + Mrs. Rossitur and her daughter could not be induced to shew themselves. + </p> + <p> + Little Rolf, however, had no scruples of any kind. He presently edged + himself into the room to see the stranger whom he no sooner saw than with + a joyous exclamation he bounded forward to claim an old friend. + </p> + <p> + "Why, Mr. Carleton," exclaimed Mr. Rossitur in surprise, "I was not aware + that this young gentleman had the honour of your acquaintance." + </p> + <p> + "But I have!" said Rolf. + </p> + <p> + "In London, sir, I had that pleasure," said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "I think it was <i>I</i> had the pleasure," said Rolf, pounding one hand + upon Mr. Carleton's knee. + </p> + <p> + "Where is your mother?" + </p> + <p> + "She wouldn't come down," said Rolf,--"but I guess she will when she knows + who is here--" + </p> + <p> + And he was darting away to tell her, when Mr. Carleton, within whose arms + he stood, quietly restrained him, and told him he was going away + presently, but would come again and see his mother another time. + </p> + <p> + "Are you going back to England, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "By and by." + </p> + <p> + "But you will come here again first?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--if Mr. Rossitur will let me." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton knows he commands his own welcome," said that gentleman + somewhat stately. "Go and tell your aunt Fleda that tea is ready, Rolf." + </p> + <p> + "She knows," said Rolf. "She was making an omelette--I guess it was for + this gentleman!" + </p> + <p> + Whose name he was not clear of yet. Mr. Rossitur looked vexed, but Hugh + laughed and asked if his aunt gave him leave to tell that. Rolf entered + forthwith into discussion on this subject, while Mr. Carleton who had not + seemed to hear it engaged Mr. Rossitur busily in another; till the + omelette and Fleda came in. Rolf's mind however was ill at ease. + </p> + <p> + "Aunt Fleda," said he, as soon as she had fairly taken her place at the + head of the table, "would you mind my telling that you made the omelette + for this gentleman?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda cast a confused glance first at the person in question and then + round the table, but Mr. Carleton without looking at her answered + instantly, + </p> + <p> + "Don't you understand, Rolf, that the same kindness which will do a favour + for a friend will keep him in ignorance of it?" + </p> + <p> + Rolf pondered a moment and then burst forth, + </p> + <p> + "Why, sir, wouldn't you like it as well for knowing she made it?" + </p> + <p> + It was hardly in human gravity to stand this. Fleda herself laughed, but + Mr. Carleton as unmoved as possible answered him, "Certainly not!"--and + Rolf was nonplussed. + </p> + <p> + The supper was over. Hugh had left the room, and Mr. Rossitur had before + that gone out to give directions about Mr. Carleton's horses. He and Fleda + were left alone. + </p> + <p> + "I have something against you, fairy," said he lightly, taking her hand + and putting it to his lips. "You shall not again do me such honour as you + have done me to-day--I did not deserve it, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + The last words were spoken half reproachfully. Fleda stood a moment + motionless, and then by some curious revulsion of feeling put both her + hands to her face and burst into tears. + </p> + <p> + She struggled against them, and spoke almost immediately, + </p> + <p> + "You will think me very foolish, Mr. Carleton,--I am ashamed of + myself--but I have lived here so long in this way,--my spirits have grown + so quieted by different things,--that it seems sometimes as if I could not + bear anything.--I am afraid--" + </p> + <p> + "Of what, my dear Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + But she did not answer, and her tears came again. + </p> + <p> + "You are weary and spent," he said gently, repossessing himself of one of + her hands. "I will ask you another time what you are afraid of, and rebuke + all your fears." + </p> + <p> + "I deserve nothing but rebuke now," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + But her hand knew, by the gentle and quiet clasp in which it lay, that + there was no disposition to give it. + </p> + <p> + "Do not speak to me for a minute," she said hastily as she heard some one + coming. + </p> + <p> + She went to the window and stood there looking out till Mr. Carleton came + to bid her good-bye. + </p> + <p> + "Will you permit me to say to Mrs. Evelyn," he said in a low tone, "that + you left a piece of your property in her house and have commissioned me to + bring it you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--" said Fleda, hesitating and looking a little confused,--"but--will + you let me write a note instead, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly!--but what are you thinking of, Elfie? what grave doubt is + lying under your brow?" + </p> + <p> + All Fleda's shadows rolled away before that clear bright eye. + </p> + <p> + "I have found by experience," she said, smiling a little but looking + down,--"that whenever I tell my secret thoughts to anybody I have some + reason afterwards to be sorry for it." + </p> + <p> + "You shall make me an exception to your rule, however, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up, one of her looks half questioning, half fearing, and then + answered, a little hesitating, + </p> + <p> + "I was afraid, sir, that if you went to Mrs. Evelyn's on that errand--I + was afraid you would shew them you were displeased." + </p> + <p> + "And what then?" said he quietly. + </p> + <p> + "Only--that I wanted to spare them what always gives me a cold chill." + </p> + <p> + "Gives you!" said Mr. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "No sir--only by sympathy--I thought my agency would be the gentlest." + </p> + <p> + "I see I was right," she said, looking up as he did not answer,--"they + don't deserve it,--not half so much as you think. They talk--they don't + know what. I am sure they never meant half they said--never meant to annoy + me with it, I mean,--and I am sure they have a true love for me; they have + shewn it in a great many ways. Constance especially never shewed me + anything else. They have been very kind to me; and as to letting me come + away as they did, I suppose they thought I was in a greater hurry to get + home than I really was--and they would very likely not have minded + travelling so themselves; I am so different from them that they might in + many things judge me by themselves and yet judge far wrong." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was going on, but she suddenly became aware that the eye to which + she was speaking had ceased to look at the Evelyns, even in imagination, + and she stopped short. + </p> + <p> + "Will you trust me, after this, to see Mrs. Evelyn without the note?" said + he smiling. + </p> + <p> + But Fleda gave him her hand very demurely without raising her eyes again, + and he went. + </p> + <p> + Barby who had come in to clear away the table took her stand at the window + to watch Mr. Carleton drive off. Fleda had retreated to the fire. Barby + looked in silence till the sleigh was out of sight. + </p> + <p> + "Is he going back to England now?" she said coming back to the table. + </p> + <p> + "No." + </p> + <p> + Barby gathered a pile of plates together and then enquired, + </p> + <p> + "Is he going to settle in America?" + </p> + <p> + "Why no, Barby! What makes you ask such a thing?" + </p> + <p> + "I thought he looked as if he had dressed himself for a cold climate," + said Barby dryly. + </p> + <p> + Fleda sat down by Hugh's easy-chair and laid her head on his breast. + </p> + <p> + "I like your Mr. Carleton very much," Hugh whispered after awhile. + </p> + <p> + "Do you?" said Fleda, a little wondering at Hugh's choice of that + particular pronominal adjective. + </p> + <p> + "Very much indeed. But he has changed, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--in some things--some great things." + </p> + <p> + "He says he is coming again," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's heart beat. She was silent. + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad," repeated Hugh, "I like him very much. But you won't + leave me, Fleda,--will you?" + </p> + <p> + "Leave you?" said Fleda looking at him. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Hugh smiling, and drawing her head down again;--I always + thought what he came over here for. But you will stay with me while I want + you, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "While you want me!" said Fleda again. + </p> + <p> + "Yes.--It won't be long." + </p> + <p> + "What won't be long?" + </p> + <p> + "I," said Hugh quietly. "Not long. I am very glad I shall not leave you + alone, dear Fleda--very glad!--promise me you will not leave me any more." + </p> + <p> + "Don't talk so, dear Hugh!" + </p> + <p> + "But it is true, Fleda," said Hugh gently. "I know it. I sha'n't be here + but a little while. I am so glad you are come home, dear Fleda!--You will + not let anybody take you away till I am gone first?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda drew her arm close around Hugh's neck and was still,--still even to + his ear,--for a good while. A hard battle must be fought, and she must not + be weak, for his sake and for everybody's sake. Others of the family had + come or were coming into the room. Hugh waited till a short breath, but + freer drawn, told him he might speak. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda--" he whispered. + </p> + <p> + "What?" + </p> + <p> + "I am very happy.--I only want your promise about that." + </p> + <p> + "I can't talk to you, Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "No, but promise me." + </p> + <p> + "What?" + </p> + <p> + "That you will not let anybody take you away while I want you." + </p> + <p> + "I am sure he would not ask it," said Fleda, hiding her cheeks and eyes at + once in his breast. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="49"></a>Chapter XLIX. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Do you think I shall not love a sad Pamela as well as a joyful? + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Sidney. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Mr. Carleton came back without his mother; she had chosen to put off her + voyage till spring. He took up his quarters at Montepoole, which, far + though it was, was yet the nearest point where his notions of ease could + have freedom enough. + </p> + <p> + One would have thought that saw him,--those most nearly concerned almost + did think,--that in his daily coming to Queechy Mr. Carleton sought + everybody's pleasure rather than his own. He was Fleda's most gentle and + kind assistant in taking care of Hugh, soon dearly valued by the sick one, + who watched for and welcomed his coming as a bright spot in the day; and + loved particularly to have Mr. Carleton's hand do anything for him. Rather + than almost any other. His mother's was too feeling; Fleda's Hugh often + feared was weary; and his father's, though gentle to him as to an infant, + yet lacked the mind's training. And though Marion was his sister in blood, + Guy was his brother in better bonds. The deep blue eye that little Fleda + had admired Hugh learned to love and rest on singularly. + </p> + <p> + To the rest of the family Mr. Carleton's influence was more soothing and + cheering than any cause beside. To all but the head of it. Even Mrs. + Rossitur, after she had once made up her mind to see him, could not bear + to be absent when he was in the house. The dreaded contrast with old times + gave no pain, either to her or Marion. Mr. Carleton forgot so completely + that there was any difference that they were charmed into forgetting it + too. But Mr. Rossitur's pride lay deeper, or had been less humbled by + sorrow; the recollections that his family let slip never failed to gall + him when Mr. Carleton was present; and if now and then for a moment these + were banished by his guest's graces of mind and manner, the next breath + was a sigh for the circles and the pleasures they served to recall, now + seeming for ever lost to him. Mr. Carleton perceived that his company gave + pain and not pleasure to his host and for that reason was the less in the + house, and made his visits to Hugh at times when Mr. Rossitur was not in + the way. Fleda he took out of the house and away with him, for her good + and his own. + </p> + <p> + To Fleda the old childish feeling came back, that she was in somebody's + hands who had a marvellous happy way of managing things about her and even + of managing herself. A kind of genial atmosphere, that was always doing + her good, yet so quietly and so skilfully that she could only now and then + get a chance even to look her thanks. Quietly and efficiently he was + exerting himself to raise the tone of her mind, to brighten her spirits, + to reach those sober lines that years of patience had drawn round her eye + and mouth, and charm them away. So gently, so indirectly, by efforts so + wisely and gracefully aimed, he set about it, that Fleda did not know what + he was doing; but <i>he</i> knew. He knew when he saw her brow unbend and + her eye catch its old light sparkle, that his conversation and the + thoughts and interests with which he was rousing her mind or fancy, were + working, and would work all he pleased. And though the next day he might + find the old look of patient gravity again, he hardly wished it not there, + for the pleasure of doing it away. Hugh's anxious question to Fleda had + been very uncalled for, and Fleda's assurance was well-grounded; that + subject was never touched upon. + </p> + <p> + Fleda's manner with Mr. Carleton was peculiar and characteristic. In the + house, before others, she was as demure and reserved as though he had been + a stranger; she never placed herself near him, nor entered into + conversation with him, unless when he obliged her; but when they were + alone there was a frank confidence and simplicity in her manner that most + happily answered the high-bred delicacy that had called it out. + </p> + <p> + One afternoon of a pleasant day in March Fleda and Hugh were sitting alone + together in the sick room. Hugh was weaker than usual, but not confined to + his bed; he was in his great easy-chair which had been moved up-stairs for + him again. Fleda had been repeating hymns. + </p> + <p> + "You are tired," Hugh said. + </p> + <p> + "No--" + </p> + <p> + "There's something about you that isn't strong," said Hugh fondly. "I + wonder where is Mr. Carleton to-day. It is very pleasant, isn't it?" + </p> + <p> + "Very pleasant, and warm; it is like April; the snow all went off + yesterday, and the ground is dry except in spots." + </p> + <p> + "I wish he would come and give you a good walk. I have noticed how you + always come back looking so much brighter after one of your walks or rides + with him." + </p> + <p> + "What makes you think so, dear Hugh?" said Fleda a little troubled. + </p> + <p> + "Only my eyes," said Hugh smiling. "It does me as much good as you, + Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "I <i>never</i> want to go and leave you, Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad there is somebody to take you. I wish he would come. You + want it this minute." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think I shall let him take me if he comes." + </p> + <p> + "Whither? and whom?" said another voice. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't know you were there, sir," said Fleda suddenly rising. + </p> + <p> + "I am but just here--Rolf admitted me as he passed out." + </p> + <p> + Coming in between them and still holding the hand of one Mr. Carleton bent + down towards the other. + </p> + <p> + "How is Hugh, to-day?" + </p> + <p> + It was pleasant to see, that meeting of eyes,--the grave kindliness on the + one side, the confident affection on the other. But the wasted features + said as plainly as the tone of Hugh's gentle reply, that he was passing + away,--fast. + </p> + <p> + "What shall I do for you?" + </p> + <p> + "Take Fleda out and give her a good walk. She wants it." + </p> + <p> + "I will, presently. You are weary--what shall I do to rest you?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing--" said Hugh, closing his eyes with a very placid look;--"unless + you will put me in mind of something about heaven, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "Shall I read to you?--Baxter,--or something else?" + </p> + <p> + "No--just give me something to think of while you're gone,--as you have + done before, Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "I will give you two or three of the Bible bits on that subject; they are + but hints and indications you know--rather rays of light that stream out + from the place than any description of it; but you have only to follow one + of these indications and see whither it will lead you. The first I + recollect is that one spoken to Abraham, 'Fear not--I am thy shield, and + thy exceeding great reward.'" + </p> + <p> + "Don't go any further, Mr. Carleton," said Hugh with a smile. "Fleda--do + you remember?" + </p> + <p> + They sat all silent, quite silent, all three, for nobody knew how long. + </p> + <p> + "You were going to walk," said Hugh without looking at them. + </p> + <p> + Fleda however did not move till a word or two from Mr. Carleton had backed + Hugh's request; then she went. + </p> + <p> + "Is she gone?" said Hugh. "Mr. Carleton, will you hand me that little + desk." + </p> + <p> + It was his own. Mr. Carleton brought it. Hugh opened it and took out a + folded paper which he gave to Mr. Carleton, saying that he thought he + ought to have it. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know the handwriting, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "No." + </p> + <p> + "Ah she has scratched it so. It is Fleda's." + </p> + <p> + Hugh shut his eyes again and Mr. Carleton seeing that he had settled + himself to sleep went to the window with the paper. It hardly told him + anything he did not know before, though set in a fresh light. + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Cold blew the east wind<br /> And thick fell the rain,<br /> I looked for + the tops<br /> Of the mountains in vain;<br /> Twilight was gathering<br /> + And dark grew the west,<br /> And the woodfire's crackling<br /> Toned + well with the rest. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Speak fire and tell me--<br /> Thy flickering flame<br /> Fell on me in + years past--<br /> Say, am I the same?<br /> Has my face the same + brightness<br /> In those days it wore?--<br /> My foot the same lightness<br /> + As it crosses the floor? + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Methinks there are changes--<br /> Am weary to-night,--<br /> I once was + as tireless<br /> As the bird on her flight;<br /> My bark in full measure<br /> + Threw foam from the prow;--<br /> Not even for pleasure<br /> Would I care + to move now. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Tis not the foot only<br /> That lieth thus still,--<br /> I am weary in + spirit,<br /> I am listless in will.<br /> My eye vainly peereth<br /> + Through the darkness, to find<br /> Some object that cheereth--<br /> Some + light for the mind. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "What shadows come o'er me--<br /> What things of the past,--<br /> Bright + things of my childhood<br /> That fled all too fast,<br /> The scenes + where light roaming<br /> My foot wandered free,<br /> Come back through + the gloamin'--<br /> Come all back to me. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "The cool autumn evening,<br /> The fair summer morn,--<br /> The dress + and the aspect<br /> Some dear ones have worn,--<br /> The sunshiny + places--<br /> The shady hill-side--<br /> The words and the faces<br /> + That might not abide.-- + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Die out little fire--<br /> Ay, blacken and pine!--<br /> So have paled + many lights<br /> That were brighter than thine.<br /> I can quicken thy + embers<br /> Again with a breath,<br /> But the others lie cold<br /> In + the ashes of death." + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Mr. Carleton had read near through the paper before Fleda came in. + </p> + <p> + "I have kept you a long time, Mr. Carleton," she said coming up to the + window; "I found aunt Lucy wanted me." + </p> + <p> + But she saw with a little surprise the deepening eye which met her, and + which shewed, she knew, the working of strong feeling. Her own eye went to + the paper in search of explanation. + </p> + <p> + "What have you there?--Oh, Mr. Carleton," she said, putting her hand over + it,--"Please to give it to me!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's face was very much in earnest. He took the hand but did not give + her the paper, and looked his refusal. + </p> + <p> + "I am ashamed you should see that!--who gave it to you?" + </p> + <p> + "You shall wreak your displeasure on no one but me," he said smiling. + </p> + <p> + "But have you read it?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "I am very sorry!" + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad, my dear Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "You will think--you will think what wasn't true,--it was just a mood I + used to get into once in a while--I used to be angry with myself for it, + but I could not help it--one of those listless fits would take me now and + then--" + </p> + <p> + "I understand it, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "I am very sorry you should know I ever felt or wrote so." + </p> + <p> + "Why?" + </p> + <p> + "It was very foolish and wrong--" + </p> + <p> + "Is that a reason for my not knowing it?" + </p> + <p> + "No--not a good one--But you have read it now,--won't you let me have it?" + </p> + <p> + "No--I shall ask for all the rest of the portfolio, Elfie," he said as he + put it in a place of security. + </p> + <p> + "Pray do not!" said Fleda most unaffectedly. + </p> + <p> + "Why?" + </p> + <p> + "Because I remember Mrs. Carleton says you always have what you ask for." + </p> + <p> + "Give me permission to put on your bonnet, then," said he laughingly, + taking it from her hand. + </p> + <p> + The air was very sweet, the footing pleasant. The first few steps of the + walk were made by Fleda in silence, with eager breath and a foot that grew + lighter as it trod. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think it was a right mood of mind I had when I wrote that," she + said. "It was morbid. But I couldn't help it.--Yet if one could keep + possession of those words you quoted just now, I suppose one never would + have morbid feelings, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps not; but human nature has a weak hold of anything, and many + things may make it weaker." + </p> + <p> + "Mine is weak," said Fleda. "But it is possible to keep firm hold of those + words, Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--by strength that is not human nature's--And after all the firm hold + is rather that in which we are held, or ours would soon fail. The very + hand that makes the promise its own must be nerved to grasp it. And so it + is best, for it keeps us looking off always to the Author and Finisher of + our faith." + </p> + <p> + "I love those words," said Fleda. "But Mr. Carleton, how shall one be <i>sure</i> + that one has a right to those other words--those I mean that you told to + Hugh? One cannot take the comfort of them unless one is <i>sure</i>." + </p> + <p> + Her voice trembled. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Elfie, the promises have many of them their <i>double</i>--stamped + with the very same signet--and if that sealed counterpart is your own, it + is the sure earnest and title to the whole value of the promise." + </p> + <p> + "Well--in this case?" said Fleda eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "In this case,--God says, 'I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great + reward.' Now see if your own heart can give the countersign,--'<i>Thou art + my portion, O Lord</i>!'" + </p> + <p> + Fleda's head sank instantly and almost lay upon his arm. + </p> + <p> + "If you have the one, my dear Elfie, the other is yours--it is the note of + hand of the maker of the promise--sure to be honoured. And if you want + proof here it is,--and a threefold cord is not soon broken.--'Because he + hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on + high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will + answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour + him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.'" + </p> + <p> + There was a pause of some length. Fleda had lifted up her head, but walked + along very quietly, not seeming to care to speak. + </p> + <p> + "Have you the countersign, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda flashed a look at him, and only restrained herself from weeping + again. + </p> + <p> + "Yes.--But so I had then, Mr. Carleton--only sometimes I got those fits of + feeling--I forgot it, I suppose." + </p> + <p> + "When were these verses written?" + </p> + <p> + "Last fall;--uncle Rolf was away, and aunt Lucy unhappy,--and I believe I + was tired--I suppose it was that." + </p> + <p> + For a matter of several rods each was busy with his own musings. But Mr. + Carleton bethought himself. + </p> + <p> + "Where are you, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "Where am I?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--Not at Queechy?" + </p> + <p> + "No indeed," said Fleda laughing. "Far enough away." + </p> + <p> + "Where?" + </p> + <p> + "At Paris--at the Marché des Innocens." + </p> + <p> + "How did you get to Paris?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--by a bridge of associations, I suppose, resting one end on + last year, and the other on the time when I was eleven years old." + </p> + <p> + "Very intelligible," said Mr. Carleton smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Do you remember that morning, Mr. Carleton?--when you took Hugh and me to + the Marché des Innocens?" + </p> + <p> + "Perfectly." + </p> + <p> + "I have thanked you a great many times since for getting up so early that + morning." + </p> + <p> + "I think I was well paid at the time. I remember I thought I had seen one + of the prettiest sights I had even seen in Paris." + </p> + <p> + "So I thought!" said Fleda. "It has been a pleasant picture in my + imagination ever since." + </p> + <p> + There was a curious curl in the corners of Mr. Carleton's mouth which made + Fleda look an inquiry--a look so innocently wistful that his gravity gave + way. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Elfie!" said he, "you are the very child you were then." + </p> + <p> + "Am I?" said Fleda. "I dare say I am, for I feel so. I have the very same + feeling I used to have then, that I am a child, and you taking the care of + me into your own hands." + </p> + <p> + "One half of that is true, and the other half nearly so." + </p> + <p> + "How good you always were to me!" Fleda said with a sigh. + </p> + <p> + "Not necessary to balance the debtor and creditor items on both sides," he + said with a smile, "as the account bids fair to run a good while." + </p> + <p> + A silence again, during which Fleda is clearly <i>not</i> enjoying the + landscape nor the fine weather. + </p> + <p> + "Elfie,--what are you meditating?" + </p> + <p> + She came back from her meditations with a very frank look. + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking,--Mr. Carleton,--of your notions about female education." + </p> + <p> + "Well?--" + </p> + <p> + They had paused upon a rising ground. Fleda hesitated, and then looked up + in his face. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid you will find me wanting, and when you do, will you put me in + the way of being all you wish me to be?" + </p> + <p> + Her look was ingenuous and tender, equally. He gave her no answer, except + by the eye of grave intentness that fixed hers till she could meet it no + longer and her own fell. Mr. Carleton recollected himself. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Elfie," said he, and whatever the look had meant Elfie was at no + loss for the tone now,--"what do you consider yourself deficient in?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda spoke with a little difficulty. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid in a good many things--in general reading,--and in what are + called accomplishments--" + </p> + <p> + "You shall read as much as you please by and by," said he, "provided you + will let me read with you; and as for the other want, Elfie, it is rather + a source of gratification to me." + </p> + <p> + Elfie very naturally asked why? + </p> + <p> + "Because as soon as I have the power I shall immediately constitute myself + your master in the arts of riding and drawing, and in any other art or + acquisition you may take a fancy to, and give you lessons diligently." + </p> + <p> + "And will there be gratification in that?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + His answer was by a smile. But he somewhat mischievously asked her, "Will + there not?"--and Fleda was quiet. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="50"></a>Chapter L. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Friends, I sorrow not to leave ye;<br /> If this life an exile be,<br /> + We who leave it do but journey<br /> Homeward to our family. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Spanish Ballad. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + The first of April came. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur had made up his mind not to abide at Queechy, which only held + him now by the frail thread of Hugh's life. Mr. Carleton knew this, and + had even taken some steps towards securing for him a situation in the West + Indies. But it was unknown to Fleda; she had not heard her uncle say + anything on the subject since she came home; and though aware that their + stay was a doubtful matter, she still thought it might be as well to have + the garden in order. Philetus could not be trusted to do everything wisely + of his own head, and even some delicate jobs of hand could not be safely + left to his skill; if the garden was to make any headway Fleda's head and + hand must both be there, she knew. So as the spring opened she used to + steal away from the house every morning for an hour or two, hardly letting + her friends know what she was about, to make sure that peas and potatoes + and radishes and lettuce were in the right places at the right times, and + to see that the later and more delicate vegetables were preparing for. She + took care to have this business well over before the time that Mr. + Carleton ever arrived from the Pool. + </p> + <p> + One morning she was busy in dressing the strawberry beds, forking up the + ground between the plants and filling the vacancies that the severe winter + or some irregularities of fall dressing had made. Mr. Skillcorn was + rendering a somewhat inefficient help, or perhaps amusing himself with + seeing how she worked. The little old silver-grey hood was bending down + over the strawberries, and the fork was going at a very energetic rate. + </p> + <p> + "Philetus--" + </p> + <p> + "Marm!" + </p> + <p> + "Will you bring me that bunch of strawberry plants that lies at the corner + of the beds, in the walk?--and my trowel?" + </p> + <p> + "I will!--" said Mr. Skillcorn. + </p> + <p> + It was another hand however that brought them and laid them beside her; + but Fleda very intent upon her work and hidden under her close hood did + not find it out. She went on busily putting in the plants as she found + room for them, and just conscious, as she thought, that Philetus was still + standing at her side she called upon him from time to time, or merely + stretched out her hand, for a fresh plant as she had occasion for it. + </p> + <p> + "Philetus," she said at length, raising her voice a little that it might + win to him round the edge of her hood without turning her face,--"I wish + you would get the ground ready for that other planting of potatoes--you + needn't stay to help me any longer." + </p> + <p> + "'Tain't me, I guess," said the voice of Philetus on the other side of + her. + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked in astonishment to make sure that it really was Mr. Skillcorn + proceeding along the garden path in that quarter, and turning jumped up + and dropped her trowel and fork, to have her hands otherwise occupied. Mr. + Skillcorn walked off leisurely towards the potato ground, singing to + himself in a kind of consolatory aside,-- + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "I cocked up my beaver, and who but I!--<br /> The lace in my hat was so + gallant and so gay,<br /> That I flourished like a king in his own coun<i>tray</i>." + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + "There is one of your countrymen that is an odd variety, certainly," said + Mr. Carleton, looking after him with a very comic expression of eye. + </p> + <p> + "Is he not!" said Fleda. "And hardly a common one. There never was a line + more mathematically straight than the course of Philetus's ideas; they + never diverge, I think, to the right hand or the left, a jot from his own + self-interest." + </p> + <p> + "You will be an invaluable help to me, Elfie, if you can read my English + friends as closely." + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid you will not let me come as close to them," said Fleda + laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps not. I shouldn't like to pay too high a premium for the + knowledge. How is Hugh, to-day?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda answered with a quick change of look and voice that he was much as + usual. + </p> + <p> + "My mother has written me that she will be here by the Europa, which is + due to-morrow--I must set off for New York this afternoon; therefore I + came so early to Queechy." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was instinctively pulling off her gardening gloves, as they walked + towards the house. + </p> + <p> + "Aunt Miriam wants to see you, Mr. Carleton--she begged I would ask you to + come there some time--" + </p> + <p> + "With great pleasure--shall we go there now, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "I will be ready in five minutes." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur was alone in the breakfast-room when they went in. Hugh she + reported was asleep, and would be just ready to see Mr. Carleton by the + time they got back. They stood a few minutes talking, and then Fleda went + to get ready. + </p> + <p> + Both pair of eyes followed her as she left the room and then met with + perfect understanding. + </p> + <p> + "Will you give your child to me, Mrs. Rossitur?" said the gentleman. + </p> + <p> + "With all my heart!" exclaimed Mrs. Rossitur bursting into tears,--"even + if I were left alone entirely--" + </p> + <p> + Her agitation was uncontrolled for a minute, and then she said, with + feeling seemingly too strong to be kept in, + </p> + <p> + "If I were only sure of meeting her in heaven, I could be content to be + without her till then!--" + </p> + <p> + "What is in the way, my dear madam?" said Mr. Carleton, with a gentle + sympathy that touched the very spring he meant it should. Mrs. Rossitur + waited a minute, but it was only till tears would let her speak, and then + said like a child,-- + </p> + <p> + "Oh, it is all darkness!--" + </p> + <p> + "Except this," said he, gently and clearly, "that Jesus Christ is a sun + and a shield; and those that put themselves at his feet are safe from all + fear, and they who go to him for light shall complain of darkness no + more." + </p> + <p> + "But I do not know how--" + </p> + <p> + "Ask him and he will tell you." + </p> + <p> + "But I am unworthy even to look up towards him," said Mrs. Rossitur, + struggling, it seemed, between doubts and wishes. + </p> + <p> + "He knows that, and yet he has bid you come to him. He knows that,--and + knowing it, he has taken your responsibility and paid your debt, and + offers you now a clean discharge, if you will take it at his hand;--and + for the other part of this unworthiness, that blood cannot do away, blood + has brought the remedy--'Shall we who are evil give good things to our + children, and shall not our Father which is in heaven give his Holy Spirit + to them that ask him?'" + </p> + <p> + "But must I do nothing?" said Mrs. Rossitur, when she had remained quiet + with her face in her hands for a minute or two after he had done speaking. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing but be willing--be willing to have Christ in all his offices, as + your Teacher, your King, and your Redeemer--give yourself to him, dear + Mrs. Rossitur, and he will take care of the rest." + </p> + <p> + "I am willing!" she exclaimed. Fresh tears came, and came freely. Mr. + Carleton said no more, till hearing some noise of opening and shutting + doors above stairs Mrs. Rossitur hurriedly left the room, and Fleda came + in by the other entrance. + </p> + <p> + "May I take you a little out of the way, Mr. Carleton?" she said when they + had passed through the Deepwater settlement.--"I have a message to carry + to Mrs. Elster--a poor woman out here beyond the lake. It is not a + disagreeable place." + </p> + <p> + "And what if it were?" + </p> + <p> + "I should not perhaps have asked you to go with me," said Fleda a little + doubtfully. + </p> + <p> + "You may take me where you will, Elfie," he said gently. "I hope to do as + much by you some day." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up at the piece of elegance beside her, and thought what a + change must have come over him if <i>he</i> would visit poor places. He + was silent and grave however, and so was she, till they arrived at the + house they were going to. + </p> + <p> + Certainly it was not a disagreeable place. Barby's much less strong minded + sister had at least a good share of her practical nicety. The little board + path to the door was clean and white still, with possibly a trifle less + brilliant effect. The room and its old inhabitants were very comfortable + and tidy; the patchwork counterpane as gay as ever. Mrs. Elster was alone, + keeping company with a snug little wood fire, which was near as much + needed in that early spring weather as it had been during the winter. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton had come back from his abstraction, and stood taking half + unconscious note of these things, while Fleda was delivering her message + to the old woman. Mrs. Elster listened to her implicitly with every now + and then an acquiescing nod or ejaculation, but so soon as Fleda had said + her say she burst out, with a voice that had never known the mufflings of + delicacy and was now pitched entirely beyond its owner's ken. Looking hard + at Mr. Carleton, + </p> + <p> + "Fleda!--Is <i>this</i> the gentleman that's to be your--<i>husband?</i>" + </p> + <p> + The last word elevated and brought out with emphatic distinctness of + utterance. + </p> + <p> + If the demand had been whether the gentleman in question was a follower of + Mahomet, it would hardly have been more impossible for Fleda to give an + affirmative answer; but Mr. Carleton laughed and bringing his face a + little nearer the old crone, answered, + </p> + <p> + "So she has promised, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus28.jpg"><img src="images/illus28.jpg" height="250" + alt="Is this the gentleman that's to be your husband?'" + title="'Is this the gentleman that's to be your husband?'" /><br /> "Is this + the gentleman that's to be your husband?"</a> + </p> + <p> + It was curious to see the lines of the old woman's face relax as she + looked at him. + </p> + <p> + "He's--worthy of you!--as far as looks goes," she said in the same key as + before, apostrophizing Fleda who had drawn back, but not stirring her eyes + from Mr. Carleton all the time. And then she added to him with a little + satisfied nod, and in a very decided tone of information, + </p> + <p> + "She will make you a good wife!" + </p> + <p> + "Because she has made a good friend?" said Mr. Carleton quietly. "Will you + let me be a friend too?" + </p> + <p> + He had turned the old lady's thoughts into a golden channel, whence, as + she was an American, they had no immediate issue in words; and Fleda and + Mr. Carleton left the house without anything more. + </p> + <p> + Fleda felt nervous. But Mr. Carleton's first words were as coolly and as + gravely spoken as if they had just come out from a philosophical lecture; + and with an immediate spring of relief she enjoyed every step of the way + and every word of the conversation which was kept up with great life, till + they reached Mrs. Plumfield's door. + </p> + <p> + No one was in the sitting-room. Fleda left Mr. Carleton there and passed + gently into the inner apartment, the door of which was standing ajar. + </p> + <p> + But her heart absolutely leaped into her mouth, for Dr. Quackenboss and + Mr. Olmney were there on either side of her aunt's bed. Fleda came forward + and shook hands. + </p> + <p> + "This is quite a meeting of friends," said the doctor blandly, yet with a + perceptible shading of the whilome broad sunshine of his + face.--"Your--a--aunt, my dear Miss Ringgan,--is in a most extraordinary + state of mind!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda was glad to hide her face against her aunt's and asked her how she + did. + </p> + <p> + "Dr. Quackenboss thinks it extraordinary, Fleda," said the old lady with + her usual cheerful sedateness,--"that one who has trusted God and had + constant experience of his goodness and faithfulness for forty years + should not doubt him at the end of it." + </p> + <p> + "You have no doubt--of any kind, Mrs. Plumfield?" said the clergyman. + </p> + <p> + "Not the shadow of a doubt!" was the hearty, steady reply. + </p> + <p> + "You mistake, my dear madam," said Dr. Quackenboss,--"pardon me--it is not + that--I would be understood to say, merely, that I do not comprehend how + such--a--such security--can be attained respecting what seems + so--a--elevated--and difficult to know." + </p> + <p> + "Only by believing," said Mrs. Plumfield with a very calm smile. "'He that + believeth on him shall not be ashamed;'--'shall <i>not</i> be ashamed!'" + she repeated slowly. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Quackenboss looked at Fleda, who kept her eyes fixed upon her aunt. + </p> + <p> + "But it seems to me--I beg pardon--perhaps I am arrogant--" he said with a + little bow,--"but it appears to me almost--in a manner--almost + presumptuous, not to be a little doubtful in such a matter until the time + comes. Am I--do you disapprove of me, Mr. Olmney?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Olmney silently referred him for his answer to the person he had first + addressed, who had closed her eyes while he was speaking. + </p> + <p> + "Sir," she said, opening them,--"it can't be presumption to obey God, and + he tells me to rejoice. And I do--I do!--'Let all those that love thee + rejoice in thee and be glad in thee!'--But mind!" she added energetically, + fixing her strong grey eye upon him--"he does not tell <i>you</i> to + rejoice--do not think it--not while you stand aloof from his terms of + peace. Take God at his word, and be happy;--but if not, you have nothing + to do with the song that I sing!" + </p> + <p> + The doctor stared at her till she had done speaking, and then slunk out of + her range of vision behind the curtains of the bed-post. Not silenced + however. + </p> + <p> + "But--a--Mr. Olmney," said he hesitating--"don't you think that there is + in general--a--a becoming modesty, in--a--in people that have done wrong, + as we all have,--putting off being sure until they are so? It seems so to + me!" + </p> + <p> + "Come here, Dr. Quackenboss," said aunt Miriam. + </p> + <p> + She waited till he came to her side, and then taking his hand and looking + at him very kindly, she said, + </p> + <p> + "Sir, forty years ago I found in the Bible, as you say, that I was a + sinner, and that drove me to look for something else. I found then God's + promise that if I would give my dependence entirely to the substitute he + had provided for me and yield my heart to his service, he would for + Christ's sake hold me quit of all my debts and be my father, and make me + his child. And, sir, I did it. I abhor every other dependence--the things + you count good in me I reckon but filthy rags. At the same time, I know + that ever since that day, forty years ago, I have lived in his service and + tried to live to his glory. And now, sir, shall I disbelieve his promise? + do you think he would be pleased if I did?" + </p> + <p> + The doctor's mouth was stopped, for once. He drew back as soon as he could + and said not another word. + </p> + <p> + Before anybody had broken the silence Seth came in; and after shaking + hands with Fleda, startled her by asking whether that was not Mr. Carleton + in the other room. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," Fleda said,--"he came to see aunt Miriam." + </p> + <p> + "Ain't you well enough to see him, mother?" + </p> + <p> + "Quite--and very happy," said she. + </p> + <p> + Seth immediately went back and invited him in. Fleda dared not look up + while the introductions were passing,--of "the Rev. Mr. Olmney," and of + "Dr. Quackenboss,"--the former of whom Mr. Carleton took cordially by the + hand, while Dr. Quackenboss conceiving that his hand must be as + acceptable, made his salutation with an indescribable air at once of + attempted gracefulness and ingratiation. Fleda saw the whole in the + advancing line of the doctor's person, a vision of which crossed her + downcast eye. She drew back then, for Mr. Carleton came where she was + standing to take her aunt's hand; Seth had absolutely stayed his way + before to make the said introductions. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Plumfield was little changed by years or disease since he had seen + her. There was somewhat more of a look of bodily weakness than there used + to be; but the dignified, strong-minded expression of the face was even + heightened; eye and brow were more pure and unclouded in their + steadfastness. She looked very earnestly at her visiter and then with + evident pleasure from the manner of his look and greeting. Fleda watched + her eye softening with a gratified expression and fixed upon him as he was + gently talking to her. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Olmney presently came round to take leave, promising to see her + another time, and passing Fleda with a frank grave pressure of the hand + which gave her some pain. He and Seth left the room. Fleda was hardly + conscious that Dr. Quackenboss was still standing at the foot of the bed + making the utmost use of his powers of observation. He could use little + else, for Mr. Carleton and Mrs. Plumfield after a few words on each side, + had as it were by common consent come to a pause. The doctor, when a + sufficient time had made him fully sensible of this, walked up to Fleda, + who wished heartily at the moment that she could have presented the + reverse end of the magnet to him. Perhaps however it was that very thing + which by a perverse sort of attraction drew him towards her. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose--a--we may conclude," said he with a somewhat saturnine + expression of mischief,--that Miss Ringgan contemplates forsaking the + agricultural line before a great while." + </p> + <p> + "I have not given up my old habits, sir," said Fleda, a good deal vexed. + </p> + <p> + "No--I suppose not--but Queechy air is not so well suited for them--other + skies will prove more genial," he said; she could not help thinking, + pleased at her displeasure. + </p> + <p> + "What is the fault of Queechy air, sir?" said Mr. Carleton, approaching + them. + </p> + <p> + "Sir!" said the doctor, exceedingly taken aback, though the words had been + spoken in the quietest manner possible,--'it--a--it has no fault, + sir,--that I am particularly aware of--it is perfectly salubrious. Mrs. + Plumfield, I will bid you good-day;--I--a--I <i>hope</i> you will get well + again!" + </p> + <p> + "I hope not, sir!" said aunt Miriam, in the same clear hearty tones which + had answered him before. + </p> + <p> + The doctor took his departure and made capital of his interview with Mr. + Carleton; who he affirmed he could tell by what he had seen of him was a + very deciduous character, and not always conciliating in his manners. + </p> + <p> + Fleda waited with a little anxiety for what was to follow the doctor's + leave-taking. + </p> + <p> + It was with a very softened eye that aunt Miriam looked at the two who + were left, clasping Fleda's hand again; and it was with a very softened + voice that she next spoke. + </p> + <p> + "Do you remember our last meeting, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "I remember it well," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda tells me you are a changed man since that time?" + </p> + <p> + He answered only by a slight and grave bow. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton," said the old lady,--"I am a dying woman--and this child is + the dearest thing in the world to me after my own,--and hardly after + him.--Will you pardon me--will you bear with me, if that I may die in + peace, I say, sir, what else it would not become me to say?--and it is for + her sake." + </p> + <p> + "Speak to me freely as you would to her," he said with a look that gave + her full permission. + </p> + <p> + Fleda had drawn close and hid her face in her aunt's neck. Aunt Miriam's + hand moved fondly over her cheek and brow for a minute or two in silence; + her eye resting there too. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton, this child is to belong to you--how will you guide her?" + </p> + <p> + "By the gentlest paths," he said with a smile. + </p> + <p> + A whispered remonstrance from Fleda to her aunt had no effect. + </p> + <p> + "Will her best interests be safe in your hands?" + </p> + <p> + "How shall I resolve you of that, Mrs. Plumfield?" he said gravely. + </p> + <p> + "Will you help her to mind her mother's prayer and keep herself unspotted + from the world?" + </p> + <p> + "As I trust she will help me." + </p> + <p> + A rogue may answer questions, but an eye that has never known the shadow + of double-dealing makes no doubtful discoveries of itself. Mrs. Plumfield + read it and gave it her very thorough respect. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton--pardon me, sir,--I do not doubt you--but I remember hearing + long ago that you were rich and great in the world--it is dangerous for a + Christian to be so--Can she keep in your grandeur the simplicity of heart + and life she has had at Queechy?" + </p> + <p> + "May I remind you of your own words, my dear madam? By the blessing of God + all things are possible. These things you speak of are not in themselves + evil; if the mind be set on somewhat else, they are little beside a larger + storehouse of material to work with--an increased stewardship to account + for." + </p> + <p> + "She has been taking care of others all her life," said aunt Miriam + tenderly;--"it is time she was taken care of; and these feet are very + unfit for rough paths; but I would rather she should go on struggling as + she has done with difficulties and live and die in poverty, than that the + lustre of her heavenly inheritance should be tarnished even a little.--I + would, my darling!--" + </p> + <p> + "But the alternative is not, so," said Mr. Carleton with gentle grace, + touching Fleda's hand who he saw was a good deal disturbed. "Do not make + her afraid of me, Mrs. Plumfield." + </p> + <p> + "I do not believe I need," said aunt Miriam, "and I am sure I could + not,--but sir, you will forgive me?" + </p> + <p> + "No madam--that is not possible." + </p> + <p> + "One cannot stand where I do," said the old lady, "without learning a + little the comparative value of things; and I seek my child's good,--that + is my excuse. I could not be satisfied to take her testimony--" + </p> + <p> + "Take mine, madam," said Mr. Carleton. "I have learned the comparative + value of things too; and I will guard her highest interests as carefully + as I will every other--as earnestly as you can desire." + </p> + <p> + "I thank you, sir," said the old lady gratefully. "I am sure of it. I + shall leave her in good hands. I wanted this assurance. And if ever there + was a tender plant that was not fitted to grow on the rough side of the + world--I think this is one," said she, kissing earnestly the face that yet + Fleda did not dare to lift up. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton did not say what he thought. He presently took kind leave of + the old lady and went into the next room, where Fleda soon rejoined him + and they set off homewards. + </p> + <p> + Fleda was quietly crying all the way down the hill. At the foot of the + hill Mr. Carleton resolutely slackened his pace. + </p> + <p> + "I have one consolation," he said, "my dear Elfie--you will have the less + to leave for me." + </p> + <p> + She put her hand with a quick motion upon his, and roused her self. + </p> + <p> + "She is a beautiful rebuke to unbelief. But she is hardly to be mourned + for, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "Oh I was not crying for aunt Miriam," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "For what then?" he said gently. + </p> + <p> + "Myself." + </p> + <p> + "That needs explanation," he said in the same tone. "Let me have it, + Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "O--I was thinking of several things," said Fleda, not exactly wishing to + give the explanation. + </p> + <p> + "Too vague," said Mr. Carleton smiling. "Trust me with a little more of + your mind, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + Fleda glanced up at him, half smiling, and yet with filling eyes, and then + as usual, yielded to the winning power of the look that met her. + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking," she said, keeping her head carefully down,--"of some of + the things you and aunt Miriam were saying just now,--and--how good for + nothing I am." + </p> + <p> + "In what respect?" said Mr. Carleton with praiseworthy gravity. + </p> + <p> + Fleda hesitated, and he pressed the matter no further; but more unwilling + to displease him than herself she presently went on, with some difficulty; + wording what she had to say with as much care as she could. + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking--how gratitude--or not gratitude alone--but how one can be + full of the desire to please another,--a fellow-creature,--and find it + constantly easy to do or bear anything for that purpose; and how slowly + and coldly duty has to move alone in the direction where it should be the + swiftest and warmest." + </p> + <p> + She knew he would take her words as simply as she said them; she was not + disappointed. He was silent a minute and then said gravely,-- + </p> + <p> + "Is this a late discovery, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "No--only I was realizing it strongly just now." + </p> + <p> + "It is a complaint we may all make. The remedy is, not to love less what + we know, but to know better that of which we are in ignorance. We will be + helps and not hindrances to each other, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "You have said that before," said Fleda still keeping her head down. + </p> + <p> + "What?" + </p> + <p> + "About my being a help to you!" + </p> + <p> + "It will not be the first time," said he smiling,--"nor the second. Your + little hand first held up a glass to gather the scattered rays of truth + that could not warm me into a centre where they must burn." + </p> + <p> + "Very innocently," said Fleda with a little unsteady feeling of voice. + </p> + <p> + "Very innocently," said Mr. Carleton smiling. "A veritable lens could + hardly have been more unconscious of its work or more pure of design." + </p> + <p> + "I do not think that was quite so either, Mr. Carleton," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "It was so, my dear Elfie, and your present speech is nothing against it. + This power of example is always unconsciously wielded; the medium ceases + to be clear so soon as it is made anything but a medium. The bits of truth + you aimed at me wittingly would have been nothing if they had not come + through that medium." + </p> + <p> + "Then apparently one's prime efforts ought to be directed to oneself." + </p> + <p> + "One's first efforts, certainly. Your silent example was the first thing + that moved me." + </p> + <p> + "Silent example!" said Fleda catching her breath a little. "Mine ought to + be very good, for I can never do good in any other way." + </p> + <p> + "You used to talk pretty freely to me." + </p> + <p> + "It wasn't my fault, I am certain," said Fleda half laughing. "Besides, I + was sure of my ground. But in general I never can speak to people about + what will do them any good." + </p> + <p> + "Yet whatever be the power of silent example there are often times when a + word is of incalculable importance." + </p> + <p> + "I know it," said Fleda earnestly,--"I have felt it very often, and + grieved that I could not say it, even at the very moment when I knew it + was wanting." + </p> + <p> + "Is that right, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda, with quick watering eyes,--"It is not right at all;--but + it is constitutional with me. I never can talk to other people of what + concerns my own thoughts and feelings." + </p> + <p> + "But this concerns other people's thoughts and feelings." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but there is an implied revelation of my own." + </p> + <p> + "Do you expect to include me in the denomination of 'other people'?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Fleda laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Do you wish it?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked down and up, and coloured, and said she didn't know. + </p> + <p> + "I will teach you," said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + The rest of the day by both was given to Hugh. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="51"></a>Chapter LI. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + O what is life but a sum of love,<br /> And death but to lose + it all?<br /> Weeds be for those that are left behind,<br /> And + not for those that fall! + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Milnes. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + "Here's something come, Fleda," said Barby walking into the sick room one + morning a few days afterwards,--"a great bag of something--more than you + can eat up in a fortnight--it's for Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "It's extraordinary that anybody should send <i>me</i> a great bag of + anything eatable," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "Where did it come from?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Philetus fetched it--he found it down to Mr. Sampion's when he went with + the sheep-skins." + </p> + <p> + "How do you know it's for me?" said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "'Cause it's written on, as plain as a pikestaff. I guess it's a mistake + though." + </p> + <p> + "Why?" said Fleda; "and what is it?" + </p> + <p> + "O I don't much think 'twas meant for him," said Barby. "It's oysters." + </p> + <p> + "Oysters!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--come out and look at 'em--you never see such fine fellows. I've + heerd say," said Barby abstractedly as Fleda followed her out and she + displayed to view some magnificent Ostraceans,--"I've heerd say that an + English shilling was worth two American ones, but I never understood it + rightly till now." + </p> + <p> + To all intents and purposes those were English oysters, and worth twice as + much as any others Fleda secretly confessed. + </p> + <p> + That evening, up in the sick room,--it was quite evening, and all the + others of the family were taking rest or keeping Mr. Rossitur company down + stairs,--Fleda was carefully roasting some of the same oysters for Hugh's + supper. She had spread out a glowing bed of coals on the hearth, and there + lay four or five of the big bivalves, snapping and sputtering in + approbation of their quarters in a most comfortable manner; and Fleda + standing before the fire tended them with a double kind of pleasure. From + one friend, and for another, those were most odorous oysters. Hugh sat + watching them and her, the same in happy simplicity that he had been at + eleven years old. + </p> + <p> + "How pleasant those oysters smell," said he. "Fleda, they remind me so of + the time when you and I used to roast oysters in Mrs. Renney's room for + lunch--do you recollect?--and sometimes in the evening when everybody was + gone out, you know; and what an airing we used to have to give the + dining-room afterwards. How we used to enjoy them, Fleda--you and I all + alone." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Fleda in a tone of doubtful enjoyment. She was shielding her + face with a paper and making self-sacrificing efforts to persuade a large + oyster-shell to stand so on the coals as to keep the juice. + </p> + <p> + "Don't!" said Hugh;--"I would rather the oysters should burn than you. Mr. + Carleton wouldn't thank me for letting you do so." + </p> + <p> + "Never mind!" said Fleda arranging the oysters to her satisfaction,--"he + isn't here to see. Now Hugh, my dear--these are ready as soon as I am." + </p> + <p> + "I am ready," said Hugh. "How long it is since we had a roast oyster, + Fleda!" + </p> + <p> + "They look good, don't they?" + </p> + <p> + A little stand was brought up between them with the bread and butter and + the cups; and Fleda opened oysters and prepared tea for Hugh, with her + nicest, gentlest, busiest of hands; making every bit to be twice as sweet, + for her sympathizing eyes and loving smile and pleasant word commenting. + She shared the meal with him, but her own part was as slender as his and + much less thought of. His enjoyment was what she enjoyed, though it was + with a sad twinge of alloy which changed her face whenever it was where he + could not see it; when turned upon him it was only bright and + affectionate, and sometimes a little too tender; but Fleda was too good a + nurse to let that often appear. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton did not bargain for your opening his oysters, Fleda. How + kind it was of him to send them." + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "How long will he be gone, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--he didn't say. I don't believe many days." + </p> + <p> + Hugh was silent a little while she was putting away the stand and the + oyster-shells. Then she came and sat down by him. + </p> + <p> + "You have burnt yourself over those things," said he sorrowfully;--"you + -shouldn't have done it. It is not right." + </p> + <p> + "Dear Hugh," said Fleda lightly, laying her head on his shoulder,--"I like + to burn myself for you." + </p> + <p> + "That's just the way you have been doing all your life." + </p> + <p> + "Hush!" she said softly. + </p> + <p> + "It is true,--for me and for everybody else. It is time you were taken + better care of, dear Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "Don't, dear Hugh!" + </p> + <p> + "I am right though," said he. "You are pale and worn now with waiting upon + me and thinking of me. It is time you were gone. But I think it is well I + am going too, for what should I do in the world without you, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda was crying now, intensely though quietly; but Hugh went on with + feeling as calm as it was deep. + </p> + <p> + "What should I have done all these years?--or any of us? How you have + tired yourself for everybody--in the garden and in the kitchen and with + Earl Douglass--how we could let you I don't know, but I believe we could + not help it." + </p> + <p> + Fleda put her hand upon his mouth. But he took it away and went on-- + </p> + <p> + "How often I have seen you sleeping all the evening on the sofa with a + pale face, tired out--Dear Fleda," said he kissing her cheek, "I am glad + there's to be an end put to it. And all the day you went about with such a + bright face that it made mother and me happy to look at you; and I knew + then, many a time, it was for our sakes-- + </p> + <p> + "Why do you cry so, Fleda? I like to think of it, and to talk of it, now + that I know you won't do so any more. I knew the whole truth, and it went + to the bottom of my heart; but I could do nothing but love you--I did + that!--Don't cry so, Fleda!--you ought not.--You have been the sunshine of + the house. My spirit never was so strong as yours; I should have been + borne to the ground, I know, in all these years, if it had not been for + you; and mother--you have been her life." + </p> + <p> + "You have been tired too," Fleda whispered. + </p> + <p> + "Yes at the saw-mill. And then you would come up there through the sun to + look at me, and your smile would make me forget everything sorrowful for + the rest of the day--except that I couldn't help you." + </p> + <p> + "Oh you did--you did--you helped me always, Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "Not much. I couldn't help you when you were sewing for me and father till + your fingers and eyes were aching, and you never would own that you were + anything but 'a little' tired--it made my heart ache. Oh I knew it all, + dear Fleda.--I am very, very glad that you will have somebody to take care + of you now that will not let you burn your fingers for him or anybody + else. It makes me happy!" + </p> + <p> + "You make me very unhappy, dear Hugh." + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean it," said Hugh tenderly. "I don't believe there is anybody + else in the world that I could be so satisfied to leave you with." + </p> + <p> + Fleda made no answer to that. She sat up and tried to recover herself. + </p> + <p> + "I hope he will come back in time," said Hugh, settling himself back in + the easy-chair with a weary look, and closing his eyes. + </p> + <p> + "In time for what?" + </p> + <p> + "To see me again." + </p> + <p> + "My dear Hugh!--he will to be sure, I hope." + </p> + <p> + "He must make haste," said Hugh. "But I want to see him again very much, + Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "For anything in particular?" + </p> + <p> + "No--only because I love him. I want to see him once more." + </p> + <p> + Hugh slumbered; and Fleda by his side wept tears of mixed feeling till she + was tired. + </p> + <p> + Hugh was right. But nobody else knew it, and his brother was not sent for. + </p> + <p> + It was about a week after this, when one night a horse and wagon came up + to the back of the house from the road, the gentleman who had been driving + leading the horse. It was late, long past Mr. Skillcorn's usual hour of + retiring, but some errand of business had kept him abroad and he stood + there looking on. The stars gave light enough. + </p> + <p> + "Can you fasten my horse where he may stand a little while, sir? without + taking him out?" + </p> + <p> + "I guess I can," replied Philetus, with reasonable confidence,--"if + there's a rope's end some place--" + </p> + <p> + And forthwith he went back into the house to seek it. The gentleman + patiently holding his horse meanwhile, till he came out. + </p> + <p> + "How is Mr. Hugh to-night?" + </p> + <p> + "Well--he ain't just so smart, they say," responded Philetus, insinuating + the rope's end as awkwardly as possible among the horse's head-gear,--"I + believe he's dying." + </p> + <p> + Instead of going round now to the front of the house, Mr. Carleton knocked + gently at the kitchen door and asked the question anew of Barby. + </p> + <p> + "He's--Come in, sir, if you please," she said, opening wide the door for + him to enter,--"I'll tell 'em you're here." + </p> + <p> + "Do not disturb any one for me," said he. + </p> + <p> + "I won't disturb 'em!" said Barby, in a tone a little though unconsciously + significant. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton neglected the chair she had placed for him, and remained + standing by the mantelpiece, thinking of the scenes of his early + introduction to that kitchen. It wore the same look it had done then; + under Barby's rule it was precisely the same thing it had been under + Cynthia's.--The passing years seemed a dream, and the passing generations + of men a vanity, before the old house more abiding than they. He stood + thinking of the people he had seen gathered by that fireplace and the + little household fairy whose childish ministrations had given such a + beauty to the scene,--when a very light step crossed the painted floor and + she was there again before him. She did not speak a word; she stood still + a moment trying for words, and then put her hand upon Mr. Carleton's arm + and gently drew him out of the room with her. + </p> + <p> + The family were all gathered in the room to which she brought him. Mr. + Rossitur, as soon as he saw Mr. Carleton come in, shrunk back where he + could be a little shielded by the bed-post. Marion's face was hid on the + foot of the bed. Mrs. Rossitur did not move. Leaving Mr. Carleton on the + near side of the bed Fleda went round to the place she seemed to have + occupied before, at Hugh's right hand; and they were all still, for he was + in a little doze, lying with his eyes closed, and the face as gently and + placidly sweet as it had been in his boyhood. Perhaps Mr. Rossitur looked + at it; but no other did just then, except Mr. Carleton. His eye rested + nowhere else. The breathing of an infant could not be more gentle; the + face of an angel not more peacefully at rest. "So he giveth his beloved + sleep,"--thought the gentleman, as he gazed on the brow from which all + care, if care there had ever been, seemed to have taken flight. + </p> + <p> + Not yet--not quite yet; for Hugh suddenly opened his eyes and without + seeing anybody else, said, + </p> + <p> + "Father--" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur left the bed-post and came close to where Fleda was standing, + and leaning forward, touched his son's head, but did not speak. + </p> + <p> + "Father--" said Hugh, in a voice so gentle that it seemed as if strength + must be failing,--"what will you do when you come to lie here?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur put his hands to his face. + </p> + <p> + "Father--I must speak now if I never did before--once I must speak to + you,--what will you do when you come to lie where I do?--what will you + trust to?" + </p> + <p> + The person addressed was as motionless as a statue. Hugh did not move his + eyes from him. + </p> + <p> + "Father, I will be a living warning and example to you, for I know that I + shall live in your memory--you shall remember what I say to you--that + Jesus Christ is a dear friend to those that trust in him, and if he is not + yours it will be because you will not let him. You shall remember my + testimony, that he can make death sweeter than life--in his presence is + fulness of joy--at his right hand there are pleasures for evermore. He is + better,--he is more to me,--even than you all, and he will be to you a + better friend than the poor child you are losing, though you do not know + it now. It is he that has made my life in this world happy--only he--and I + have nothing to look to but him in the world I am going to. But what will + you do in the hour of death, as I am, if he isn't your friend, father?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur's frame swayed, like a tree that one sees shaken by a distant + wind, but he said nothing. + </p> + <p> + "Will you remember me happily, father, if you come to die without having + done as I begged you? Will you think of me in heaven and not try to come + there too? Father, will you be a Christian?--will you not?--for my + sake--for <i>little Hugh's</i> sake, as you used to call him?--Father?--" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur knelt down and hid his face in the coverings; but he did not + utter a word. + </p> + <p> + Hugh's eye dwelt on him for a moment with unspeakable expression, and his + lip trembled. He said no more; he closed his eyes; and for a little time + there was nothing to be heard but the sobs which could not be restrained, + from all but the two gentlemen. It probably oppressed Hugh, for after a + while he said with a weary sigh and without opening his eyes, + </p> + <p> + "I wish somebody would sing." + </p> + <p> + Nobody answered at first. + </p> + <p> + "Sing what, dear Hugh?" said Fleda, putting aside her tears and leaning + her face towards him. + </p> + <p> + "Something that speaks of my want," said Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "What do you want, dear Hugh?" + </p> + <p> + "Only Jesus Christ," he said with a half smile. + </p> + <p> + But they were silent as death. Fleda's face was in her hands and her + utmost efforts after self-control wrought nothing but tears. The stillness + had lasted a little while, when very softly and sweetly the notes of a + hymn floated to their ears, and though they floated on and filled the + room, the voice was so nicely modulated that its waves of sweetness broke + gently upon the nearest ear. + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Jesus, the sinner's friend, to Thee,<br /> Lost and undone, for aid I + flee;<br /> Weary of earth, myself, and sin,<br /> Open thine arms and + take me in. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "Pity and save my sin-sick soul,--<br /> 'Tis thou alone canst make me + whole;<br /> Dark, till in me thine image shine,<br /> And lost I am, till + thou art mine. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "At length I own it cannot be,<br /> That I should fit myself for thee,<br /> + Here now to thee I all resign,--<br /> Thine is the work, and only thine. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + "What shall I say thy grace to move?--<br /> Lord, I am sin, but thou art + love!<br /> I give up every plea beside,--<br /> Lord, I am lost,--but + thou hast died!" + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + They were still again after the voice had ceased; almost perfectly still; + though tears might be pouring, as indeed they were from every eye, there + was no break to the silence, other than a half-caught sob now and then + from a kneeling figure whose head was in Marion's lap. + </p> + <p> + "Who was that?" said Hugh, when the singer had been silent a minute. + </p> + <p> + Nobody answered immediately; and then Mr. Carleton bending over him, said, + </p> + <p> + "Don't you know me, dear Hugh?" + </p> + <p> + "Is it Mr. Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + Hugh looked pleased, and clasped both of his hands upon Guy's which he + laid upon his breast. For a second he closed his eyes and was silent. + </p> + <p> + "Was it you sang?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "You never sang for me before," he remarked. + </p> + <p> + He was silent again. + </p> + <p> + "Are you going to take Fleda away?" + </p> + <p> + "By and by," said Mr. Carleton gently. + </p> + <p> + "Will you take good care of her?" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton hesitated, and then said, so low that it could reach but one + other person's ear, + </p> + <p> + "What hand and life can." + </p> + <p> + "I know it," said Hugh. "I am very glad you will have her. You will not + let her tire herself any more." + </p> + <p> + Whatever became of Fleda's tears she had driven them away and leaning + forward she touched her cheek to his, saying with a clearness and + sweetness of voice that only intensity of feeling could have given her at + the moment, + </p> + <p> + "I am not tired, dear Hugh." + </p> + <p> + Hugh clasped one arm round her neck and kissed her--again and again, + seeming unable to say anything to her in any other way; still keeping his + hold of Mr. Carleton's hand. + </p> + <p> + "I give all my part of her to you," he said at length. "Mr. Carleton, I + shall see both of you in heaven?" + </p> + <p> + "I hope so," was the answer, in those very calm and clear tones that have + a singular effect in quieting emotion, while they indicate anything but + the want of it. + </p> + <p> + "I am the best off of you all," Hugh said. + </p> + <p> + He lay still for awhile with shut eyes. Fleda had withdrawn herself from + his arms and stood at his side, with a bowed head, but perfectly quiet. He + still held Mr. Carleton's hand, as something he did not want to part with. + </p> + <p> + "Fleda," said he, "who is that crying?--Mother--come here." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton gave place to her. Hugh pulled her down to him till her face + lay upon his, and folded both his arms around her. + </p> + <p> + "Mother," he said softly, "will you meet me in heaven?--say yes." + </p> + <p> + "How can I, dear Hugh?" + </p> + <p> + "You can, dear mother," said he kissing her with exceeding tenderness of + expression,--"my Saviour will be yours and take you there. Say you will + give yourself to Christ--dear mother!--sweet mother! promise me I shall + see you again!--" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur's weeping it was difficult to hear. But Hugh hardly shedding + a tear still kissed her, repeating, "Promise me, dear mother--promise me + that you will;"--till Mrs. Rossitur in an agony sobbed out the word he + wanted,--and Hugh hid his face then in her neck. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton left the room and went down stairs. He found the sitting-room + desolate, untenanted and cold for hours; and he went again into the + kitchen. Barby was there for some time, and then she left him alone. + </p> + <p> + He had passed a long while in thinking and walking up and down, and he was + standing musing by the fire, when Fleda again came in. She came in + silently, to his side, and putting her arm within his laid her face upon + it with a simplicity of trust and reliance that went to his heart; and she + wept there for a long hour. They hardly changed their position in all that + time; and her tears flowed silently though incessantly, the only tokens of + sympathy on his part being such a gentle caressing smoothing of her hair + or putting it from her brow as he had used when she was a child. The + bearing of her hand and head upon his arm in time shewed her increasingly + weary. Nothing shewed him so. + </p> + <p> + "Elfie--my dear Elfie," he said at last very tenderly, in the same way + that he would have spoken nine years before--"Hugh gave his part of you to + me--I must take care of it." + </p> + <p> + Fleda tried to rouse herself immediately. + </p> + <p> + "This is poor entertainment for you, Mr. Carleton," she said, raising her + head and wiping away the tears from her face. + </p> + <p> + "You are mistaken," he said gently. "You never gave me such pleasure but + twice before, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's head went down again instantly, and this time there was something + almost caressing in the motion. + </p> + <p> + "Next to the happiness of having friends on earth," he said soothingly, + "is the happiness of having friends in heaven. Don't weep any more + to-night, my dear Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "He told me to thank you--" said Fleda. But stopping short and clasping + with convulsive energy the arm she held, she shed more violent tears than + she had done that night before. The most gentle soothing, the most tender + reproof, availed at last to quiet her; and she stood clinging to his arm + still and looking down into the fire. + </p> + <p> + "I did not think it would be so soon," she said. + </p> + <p> + "It was not soon to him, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "He told me to thank you for singing. How little while it seems since we + were children together--how little while since before that--when I was a + little child here--how different!" + </p> + <p> + "No, the very same," said he, touching his lips to her forehead,--"you are + the very same child you were then; but it is time you were my child, for I + see you would make yourself ill. No--" said he softly taking the hand + Fleda raised to her face,--"no more tonight--tell me how early I may see + you in the morning--for, Elfie, I must leave you after breakfast." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked up inquiringly. + </p> + <p> + "My mother has brought news that determines me to return to England + immediately." + </p> + <p> + "To England!" + </p> + <p> + "I have been too long from home--I am wanted there." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked down again and did her best not to shew what she felt. + </p> + <p> + "I do not know how to leave you--and now--but I must. There are + disturbances among the people, and my own are infected. I <i>must</i> be + there without delay." + </p> + <p> + "Political disturbances?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Somewhat of that nature--but partly local. How early may I come to you?" + </p> + <p> + "But you are not going away tonight? It is very late." + </p> + <p> + "That is nothing--my horse is here." + </p> + <p> + Fleda would have begged in vain, if Barby had not come in and added her + word, to the effect that it would be a mess of work to look for lodgings + at that time of night, and that she had made the west room ready for Mr. + Carleton. She rejected with great sincerity any claim to the thanks with + which Fleda as well as Mr. Carleton repaid her; "there wa'n't no trouble + about it," she said. Mr. Carleton however found his room prepared for him + with all the care that Barby's utmost ideas of refinement and exactness + could suggest. + </p> + <p> + It was still very early the next morning; when he left it and came into + the sitting-room, but he was not the first there. The firelight glimmered + on the silver and china of the breakfast table, all set; everything was in + absolute order, from the fire to the two cups and saucers which were alone + on the board. A still silent figure was standing by one of the windows + looking out. Not crying; but that Mr. Carleton knew from the unmistakable + lines of the face was only because tears were waiting another time; quiet + now, it would not be by and by. He came and stood at the window with her. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know," he said, after a little, "that Mr. Rossitur purposes to + leave Queechy?" + </p> + <p> + "Does he?" said Fleda rather starting, but she added not another word, + simply because she felt she could not safely. + </p> + <p> + "He has accepted, I believe, a consulship at Jamaica." + </p> + <p> + "Jamaica!" said Fleda. "I have heard him speak of the West Indies--I am + not surprised--I know it was likely he would not stay here." + </p> + <p> + How tightly her fingers that were free grasped the edge of the + window-frame. Mr. Carleton saw it and softly removed them into his own + keeping. + </p> + <p> + "He may go before I can be here again. But I shall leave my mother to take + care of you, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you," said Fleda faintly. "You are very kind--" + </p> + <p> + "Kind to myself," he said smiling. "I am only taking care of my own. I + need not say that you will see me again as early as my duty can make it + possible;--but I may be detained, and your friends may be + gone--Elfie--give me the right to send if I cannot come for you. Let me + leave my wife in my mother's care." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked down, and coloured, and hesitated; but the expression in her + face was not that of doubt. + </p> + <p> + "Am I asking too much?" he said gently. + </p> + <p> + "No sir," said Fleda,--"and--but--" + </p> + <p> + "What is in the way?" + </p> + <p> + But it seemed impossible for Fleda to tell him. + </p> + <p> + "May I not know?" he said, gently putting away the hair from Fleda's face, + which looked distressed. "Is it only your feeling?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir," said Fleda,--"at least--not the feeling you think it is--but--I + could not do it without giving great pain." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was silent. + </p> + <p> + "Not to anybody you know, Mr. Carleton," said Fleda, suddenly fearing a + wrong interpretation of her words,--"I don't mean that--I mean somebody + else--the person--the only person you could apply to--" she said, covering + her face in utter confusion. + </p> + <p> + "Do I understand you?" said he smiling. "Has this gentleman any reason to + dislike the sight of me?" + </p> + <p> + "No sir," said Fleda,--"but he thinks he has." + </p> + <p> + "That only I meant," said he. "You are quite right, my dear Elfie; I of + all men ought to understand that." + </p> + <p> + The subject was dropped, and in a few minutes his gentle skill had well + nigh made Fleda forget what they had been talking about. Himself and his + wishes seemed to be put quite out of his own view, and out of hers as far + as possible; except that the very fact made Fleda recognize with + unspeakable gratitude and admiration the kindness and grace that were + always exerted for her pleasure. If her good-will could have been put into + the cups of coffee she poured out for him, he might have gone in the + strength of them all the way to England. There was strength of another + kind to be gained from her face of quiet sorrow and quiet self-command + which were her very childhood's own. + </p> + <p> + "You will see me at the earliest possible moment," he said when at last + taking leave.--"I hope to be free in a short time; but it may not be. + Elfie--if I should be detained longer than I hope--if I should not be able + to return in a reasonable time, will you let my mother bring you out?--if + I cannot come to you will you come to me?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda coloured a good deal, and said, scarce intelligibly, that she hoped + he would be able to come. He did not press the matter. He parted from her + and was leaving the room. Fleda suddenly sprang after him, before he had + reached the door, and laid her hand on his arm. + </p> + <p> + "I did not answer your question, Mr. Carleton," she said with cheeks that + were dyed now,--"I will do whatever you please--whatever you think best." + </p> + <p> + His thanks were most gratefully though silently spoken, and he went away. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="52"></a>Chapter LII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Daughter, they seem to say,<br /> Peace to thy heart!<br /> We + too, yes, daughter,<br /> Have been as thou art.<br /> + Hope-lifted, doubt-depressed,<br /> Seeing in part,--<br /> + Tried, troubled, tempted,--<br /> Sustained,--as thou art. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Unknown. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Mr. Rossitur was disposed for no further delay now in leaving Queechy. The + office at Jamaica, which Mr. Carleton and Dr. Gregory had secured for him, + was immediately accepted; and every arrangement pressed to hasten his + going. On every account he was impatient to be out of America, and + especially since his son's death. Marion was of his mind. Mrs. Rossitur + had more of a home feeling, even for the place where home had not been to + her as happy as it might. + </p> + <p> + They were sad weeks of bustle and weariness that followed Hugh's death; + less sad perhaps for the weariness and the bustle. There was little time + for musing, no time for lingering regrets. If thought and feeling played + their Eolian measures on Fleda's harpstrings, they were listened to only + by snatches, and she rarely sat down and cried to them. + </p> + <p> + A very kind note had been received from Mrs. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + April gave place to May. One afternoon Fleda had taken an hour or two to + go and look at some of the old places on the farm, that she loved and that + were not too far to reach. A last look she guessed it might be, for it was + weeks since she had had a spare afternoon, and another she might not he + able to find. It was a doubtful pleasure she sought too, but she must have + it. + </p> + <p> + She visited the long meadow and the height that stretched along it, and + even went so far as the extremity of the valley, at the foot of the + twenty-acre lot, and then stood still to gather up the ends of memory. + There she had gone chestnutting with Mr. Ringgan--thither she had guided + Mr. Carleton and her cousin Rossitur that day when they were going after + wood-cock--there she had directed and overseen Earl Douglass's huge crop + of corn. How many pieces of her life were connected with it. She stood for + a little while looking at the old chestnut trees, looking and thinking, + and turned away soberly with the recollection, "The world passeth + away,--but the word of our God shall stand forever." And though there was + one thought that was a continual well of happiness in the depth of Fleda's + heart, her mind passed it now, and echoed with great joy the countersign + of Abraham's privilege,--"Thou art my portion, O Lord!"--And in that + assurance every past and every hoped-for good was sweet with added + sweetness. She walked home without thinking much of the long meadow. + </p> + <p> + It was a chill spring afternoon and Fleda was in her old trim, the black + cloak, the white shawl over it, and the hood of grey silk. And in that + trim she walked into the sitting-room. + </p> + <p> + A lady was there, in a travelling dress, a stranger. Fleda's eye took in + her outline and feature one moment with a kind of bewilderment, the next + with perfect intelligence. If the lady had been in any doubt, Fleda's + cheeks alone would have announced her identity. But she came forward + without hesitation after the first moment, pulling off her hood, and stood + before her visiter, blushing in a way that perhaps Mrs. Carleton looked at + as a novelty in her world. Fleda did not know how she looked at it, but + she had nevertheless an instinctive feeling, even at the moment, that the + lady wondered how her son should have fancied particularly anything that + went about under such a hood. + </p> + <p> + Whatever Mrs. Carleton thought, her son's fancies she knew were + unmanageable; and she had far too much good breeding to let her thoughts + be known; unless to one of those curious spirit thermometers that can tell + a variation of temperature through every sort of medium. There might have + been the slightest want of forwardness to do it, but she embraced Fleda + with great cordiality. + </p> + <p> + "This is for the old time--not for the new, dear Fleda," she said. "Do you + remember me?" + </p> + <p> + "Perfectly!--very well," said Fleda, giving Mrs. Carleton for a moment a + glimpse of her eyes.--"I do not easily forget." + </p> + <p> + "Your look promises me an advantage from that, which I do not deserve, but + which I may as well use as another. I want all I can have, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + There was a half look at the speaker that seemed to deny the truth of + that, but Fleda did not otherwise answer. She begged her visiter to sit + down, and throwing off the white shawl and black cloak, took tongs in hand + and began to mend the fire. Mrs. Carleton sat considering a moment the + figure of the fire-maker, not much regardful of the skill she was bringing + to bear upon the sticks of wood. + </p> + <p> + Fleda turned from the fire to remove her visitor's bonnet and wrappings, + but the former was all Mrs. Carleton would give her; she threw off shawl + and tippet on the nearest chair. + </p> + <p> + It was the same Mrs. Carleton of old,--Fleda saw while this was + doing,--unaltered almost entirely. The fine figure and bearing were the + same; time had made no difference; even the face had paid little tribute + to the years that had passed by it; and the hair held its own without a + change. Bodily and mentally she was the same. Apparently she was thinking + the like of Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I remember you very well," she said with kindly accent when Fleda sat + down by her. "I have never forgotten you. A dear little creature you were. + I always knew that." + </p> + <p> + Fleda hoped privately the lady would see no occasion to change her mind; + but for the present she was bankrupt in words. + </p> + <p> + "I was in the same room this morning at Montepoole where we used to dine, + and it brought back the whole thing to me--the time when you were sick + there with us. I could think of nothing else. But I don't think I was your + favourite, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + Such a rush of blood again answered her as moved Mrs. Carleton in common + kindness to speak of common things. She entered into a long story of her + journey--of her passage from England--of the steamer that brought her--of + her stay in New York;--all which Fleda heard very indifferently well. She + was more distinctly conscious of the handsome travelling dress which + seemed all the while to look as its wearer had done, with some want of + affinity upon the little grey hood which lay on the chair in the corner. + Still she listened and responded as became her, though for the most part + with eyes that did not venture from home. The little hood itself could + never have kept its place with less presumption, nor with less flutter of + self-distrust. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton came at last to a general account of the circumstances that + had determined Guy to return home so suddenly, where she was more + interesting. She hoped he would not be detained, but it was impossible to + tell. It was just as it might happen. + </p> + <p> + "Are you acquainted with the commission I have been charged with?" she + said, when her narrations had at last lapsed into silence and Fleda's eyes + had returned to the ground. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose so, ma'am," said Fleda with a little smile. + </p> + <p> + "It is a very pleasant charge," said Mrs. Carleton softly kissing her + cheek. Something in the face itself must have called forth that kiss, for + this time there were no requisitions of politeness. + </p> + <p> + "Do you recognize my commission, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not answer. Mrs. Carleton sat a few minutes thoughtfully drawing + back the curls from her forehead, Mr. Carleton's very gesture, but not by + any means with his fingers; and musing perhaps on the possibility of a + hood's having very little to do with what it covered. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know," she said, "I have felt as if I were nearer to Guy since I + have seen you." + </p> + <p> + The quick smile and colour that answered this, both very bright, wrought + in Mrs Carleton an instant recollection that her son was very apt to be + right in his judgments and that probably the present case might prove him + so. The hand which had played with Fleda's hair was put round her waist, + very affectionately, and Mrs. Carleton drew near her. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure we shall love each other, Fleda," she said. + </p> + <p> + It was said like Fleda, not like Mrs. Carleton, and answered as simply. + Fleda had gained her place. Her head was in Mrs. Carleton's neck, and + welcomed there. + </p> + <p> + "At least I am sure I shall love you," said the lady kissing her,--"and I + don't despair on my own account,--for somebody else's sake." + </p> + <p> + "No--" said Fleda,--but she was not fluent to-day. She sat up and + repeated, "I have not forgotten old times either, Mrs. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to think of the old time--I want to think of the new,"--she + seemed to have a great fancy for stroking back those curls of hair;--"I + want to tell you how happy I am, dear Fleda." + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not say whether she was happy or unhappy, and her look might + have been taken for dubious. She kept her eyes on the ground, while Mrs. + Carleton drew the hair off from her flushing cheeks, and considered the + face laid bare to her view; and thought it was a fair face--a very + presentable face--delicate and lovely--a face that she would have no + reason to be ashamed of, even by her son's side. Her speech was not + precisely to that effect. + </p> + <p> + "You know now why I have come upon you at such a time. I need not ask + pardon?--I felt that I should be hardly discharging my commission if I did + not see you till you arrived in New York. My wishes I could have made to + wait, but not my trust. So I came." + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad you did!" + </p> + <p> + She could fain have persuaded the lady to disregard circumstances and stay + with her, at least till the next day, but Mrs. Carleton was unpersuadable. + She would return immediately to Montepoole. + </p> + <p> + "And how long shall you be here now?" she said. + </p> + <p> + "A few days--it will not be more than a week." + </p> + <p> + "Do you know how soon Mr. Rossitur intends to sail for Jamaica?" + </p> + <p> + "As soon as possible--he will make his stay in New York very short--not + more than a fortnight perhaps,--as short as he can." + </p> + <p> + "And then, my dear Fleda, I am to have the charge of you--for a little + while--am I not?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda hesitated and began to say, "Thank you," but it was finished with a + burst of very hearty tears. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton knew immediately the tender spot she had touched. She put + her arms about Fleda and caressed her as gently as her own mother might + have done. + </p> + <p> + "Forgive me, dear Fleda!--I forgot that so much that is sad to you must + come before what is so much pleasure to me.--Look up and tell me that you + forgive me." + </p> + <p> + Fleda soon looked up, but she looked very sorrowful, and said nothing. + Mrs. Carleton watched her face for a little while, really pained. + </p> + <p> + "Have you heard from Guy since he went away?" she whispered. + </p> + <p> + "No, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "I have." + </p> + <p> + And therewith she put into Fleda's hand a letter,--not Mrs. Carleton's + letter, as Fleda's first thought was. It had her own name and the seal was + unbroken. But it moved Mrs. Carleton's wonder to see Fleda cry again, and + longer than before. She did not understand it. She tried soothing, but she + ventured no attempt at consoling, for she did not know what was the + matter. + </p> + <p> + "You will let me go now, I know," she said smilingly, when Fleda was again + recovered and standing before the fire with a face <i>not</i> so + sorrowful, Mrs. Carleton saw. "But I must say something--I shall not hurt + you again." + </p> + <p> + "Oh no, you did not hurt me at all--it was not what you said." + </p> + <p> + "You will come to me, dear Fleda? I feel that I want you very much." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you--but there is my uncle Orrin, Mrs. Carleton,--Dr. Gregory." + </p> + <p> + "Dr. Gregory? He is just on the eve of sailing for Europe--I thought you + knew it." + </p> + <p> + "On the <i>eve?</i>--so soon?" + </p> + <p> + "Very soon, he told me. Dear Fleda--shall I remind you of my commission, + and who gave it to me?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda hesitated still; at least she stood looking into the fire and did + not answer. + </p> + <p> + "You do not own his authority yet," Mrs. Carleton went on,--"but I am sure + his wishes do not weigh for nothing with you, and I can plead them." + </p> + <p> + Probably it was a source of some gratification to Mrs. Carleton to see + those deep spots on Fleda's cheeks. They were a silent tribute to an + invisible presence that flattered the lady's affection,--or her pride. + </p> + <p> + "What do you say, dear Fleda--to him and to me?" she said smiling and + kissing her. + </p> + <p> + "I will come, Mrs. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + The lady was quite satisfied and departed on the instant, having got, she + said, all she wanted; and Fleda--cried till her eyes were sore. + </p> + <p> + The days were few that remained to them in their old home; not more than a + week, as Fleda had said. It was the first week in May. + </p> + <p> + The evening before they were to leave Queechy, Fleda and Mrs. Rossitur + went together to pay their farewell visit to Hugh's grave. It was some + distance off. They walked there arm in arm without a word by the way. + </p> + <p> + The little country grave-yard lay alone on a hill-side, a good way from + any house, and out of sight even of any but a very distant one. A sober + and quiet place, no tokens of busy life immediately near, the fields + around it being used for pasturing sheep, except an instance or two of + winter grain now nearing its maturity. A by-road not much travelled led to + the grave-yard, and led off from it over the broken country, following the + ups and downs of the ground to a long distance away, without a moving + thing upon it in sight near or far. No sound of stirring and active + humanity. Nothing to touch the perfect repose. But every lesson of the + place could be heard more distinctly amid that silence of all other + voices. Except indeed nature's voice; that was not silent; and neither did + it jar with the other. The very light of the evening fell more tenderly + upon the old grey stones and the thick grass in that place. + </p> + <p> + Fleda and Mrs. Rossitur went softly to one spot where the grass was not + grown and where the bright white marble caught the eye and spoke of grief + fresh too. Oh that that were grey and moss-grown like the others! The + mother placed herself where the staring black letters of Hugh's name could + not remind her so harshly that it no more belonged to the living; and + sitting down on the ground hid her face; to struggle through the parting + agony once more with added bitterness. + </p> + <p> + Fleda stood awhile sharing it, for with her too it was the last time, in + all likelihood. If she had been alone, her grief might have witnessed + itself bitterly and uncontrolled; but the selfish relief was foregone, for + the sake of another, that it might be in her power by and by to minister + to a heart yet sorer and weaker than hers. The tears that fell so quietly + and so fast upon the foot of Hugh's grave were all the deeper-drawn and + richer-fraught. + </p> + <p> + Awhile she stood there; and then passed round to a group a little way off, + that had as dear and strong claims upon her love and memory. These were + not fresh, not very; oblivion had not come there yet; only Time's + softening hand. Was it softening?--for Fleda's head was bent down further + here, and tears rained faster. It was hard to leave these! The cherished + names that from early years had lived in her child's heart,--from this + their last earthly abiding-place she was to part company. Her mother's and + her father's graves were there, side by side; and never had Fleda's heart + so clung to the old grey stones, never had the faded lettering seemed so + dear,--of the dear names and of the words of faith and hope that were + their dying or living testimony. And next to them was her grandfather's + resting-place; and with that sunshiny green mound came a throng of + strangely tender and sweet associations, more even than with the other + two. His gentle, venerable, dignified figure rose before her, and her + heart yearned towards it. In imagination Fleda pressed again to her breast + the withered hand that had led her childhood so kindly; and overcome here + for a little she kneeled down upon the sod and bent her head till the long + grass almost touched it, in an agony of human sorrow. Could she leave + them?--and for ever in this world? and be content to see no more these + dear memorials till others like them should be raised for herself, far + away?--But then stole in consolations not human, nor of man's + devising,--the words that were written upon her mother's tombstone,-- + </p> + <p> + "<i>Them that sleep in Jesus will God bring with him</i>."--It was like + the march of angel's feet over the turf. And her mother had been a meek + child of faith, and her father and grandfather, though strong men, had + bowed like little children to the same rule.--Fleda's head bent lower yet, + and she wept, even aloud, but it was one half in pure thankfulness and a + joy that the world knows nothing of. Doubtless they and she were one; + doubtless though the grass now covered their graves, the heavenly bond in + which they were held would bring them together again in light, to a new + and more beautiful life that should know no severing. Asleep in + Jesus;--and even as he had risen so should they,--they and others that she + loved,--all whom she loved best. She could leave their graves; and with an + unspeakable look of thanks to Him who had brought life and immortality to + light, she did; but not till she had there once again remembered her + mother's prayer, and her aunt Miriam's words, and prayed that rather + anything might happen to her than that prosperity and the world's favour + should draw her from the simplicity and humility of a life above the + world. Rather than not meet them in joy at the last,--oh let her want what + she most wished for in this world. + </p> + <p> + If riches have their poisonous snares, Fleda carried away from this place + a strong antidote. With a spirit strangely simple, pure, and calm she went + back to her aunt. + </p> + <p> + Poor Mrs. Rossitur was not quieted, but at Fleda's touch and voice, gentle + and loving as the spirit of love and gentleness could make them, she tried + to rouse herself; lifted up her weary head and clasped her arms about her + niece. The manner of it went to Fleda's heart, for there was in it both a + looking to her for support and a clinging to her as another dear thing she + was about to lose. Fleda could not speak for the heart-ache. + </p> + <p> + "It is harder to leave this place than all the rest," Mrs. Rossitur + murmured, after some little time had passed on. + </p> + <p> + "He is not here," said Fleda's soothing voice. It set her aunt to crying + again. + </p> + <p> + "No--I know it--" she said. + </p> + <p> + "We shall see him again. Think of that." + </p> + <p> + "You will," said Mrs. Rossitur very sadly. + </p> + <p> + "And so will you, dear aunt Lucy,--<i>dear</i> aunt Lucy--you promised + him?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--" sobbed Mrs. Rossitur,--"I promised him--but I am such a poor + creature--" + </p> + <p> + "So poor that Jesus cannot save you?--or will not?--No, dear aunt + Lucy--you do not think that;--only trust him--you do trust him now, do you + not?" + </p> + <p> + A fresh gush of tears came with the answer, but it was in the affirmative; + and after a few minutes Mrs. Rossitur grew more quiet. + </p> + <p> + "I wish something were done to this," she said, looking at the fresh earth + beside her;--"if we could have planted something--" + </p> + <p> + "I have thought of it a thousand times," said Fleda sighing;--I would have + done it long ago if I could have got here;--but it doesn't matter, aunt + Lucy,--I wish I could have done it." + </p> + <p> + "You?" said Mrs. Rossitur;--"my poor child! you have been wearing yourself + out working for me,--I never was worth anything!"--she said, hiding her + face again. + </p> + <p> + "When you have been the dearest and best mother to me? Now that is not + right, aunt Lucy--look up and kiss me." + </p> + <p> + The pleading sweet tone of voice was not to be resisted. Mrs. Rossitur + looked up and kissed her earnestly enough but with unabated self reproach. + </p> + <p> + "I don't deserve to kiss you, for I have let you try yourself beyond your + strength.--How you look!--Oh how you look!--" + </p> + <p> + "Never mind how I look," said Fleda bringing her face so close that her + aunt could not see it. "You helped me all you could, aunt Lucy--don't talk + so--and I shall look well enough by and by. I am not so very tired." + </p> + <p> + "You always were so!" exclaimed Mrs. Rossitur clapping her in her arms + again;--"and now I am going to lose you too--My dear Fleda!--that gives me + more pleasure than anything else in the world!--" + </p> + <p> + But it was a pleasure well cried over. + </p> + <p> + "We shall all meet again, I hope,--I will hope,--" said Mrs. Rossitur + meekly when Fleda had risen from her arms; + </p> + <p> + "Dear aunty!--but before that--in England--you will come to see me--Uncle + Rolf will bring you." + </p> + <p> + Even then Fleda could not say even that without the blood mounting to her + face. Mrs. Rossitur shook her head and sighed; but smiled a little too, as + if that delightful chink of possibility let some light in. + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't like to see Mr. Carleton now," she said, "for I could not + look him in the face; and I am afraid he wouldn't want to look in mine, he + would be so angry with me." + </p> + <p> + <a href="images/illus29.jpg"><img src="images/illus29.jpg" height="250" + alt="Slowly and lingeringly they moved away." + title="Slowly and lingeringly they moved away." /><br /> Slowly and + lingeringly they moved away.</a> + </p> + <p> + The sun was sinking low on that fair May afternoon and they had two miles + to walk to get home. Slowly and lingeringly they moved away. + </p> + <p> + The talk with her aunt had shaken Fleda's calmness and she could have + cried now with all her heart; but she constrained herself. They stopped a + moment at the fence to look the last before turning their backs upon the + place. They lingered, and still Mrs. Rossitur did not move, and Fleda + could not take away her eyes. + </p> + <p> + It was that prettiest time of nature which while it shows indeed the shade + side of everything, makes it the occasion of a fair contrast The + grave-stones cast long shadows over the ground, foretokens of night where + another night was resting already; the longest stretched away from the + head of Hugh's grave. But the rays of the setting sun softly touching the + grass and the face of the white tombstone seemed to say, "Thy brother + shall rise again." Light upon the grave! The promise kissing the record of + death!--It was impossible to look in calmness. Fleda bowed her head upon + the paling and cried with a straitened heart, for grief and gratitude + together. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rossitur had not moved when Fleda looked up again. The sun was yet + lower; the sunbeams, more slant, touched not only that bright white + stone--they passed on beyond, and carried the promise to those other grey + ones, a little further off; that she had left--yes, for the last time; and + Fleda's thoughts went forward swiftly to the time of the promise.--"<i>Then</i> + shall be brought to pass the saying which is written, Death is swallowed + up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? + The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks + be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus + Christ."--And then as she looked, the sunbeams might have been a choir of + angels in light singing, ever so softly, "Glory to God in the highest, and + on earth peace, good will towards men." + </p> + <p> + With a full heart Fleda clasped her aunt's arm, and they went gently down + the lane without saying one word to each other, till they had left the + graveyard far behind them and were in the high road again. + </p> + <p> + Fleda internally thanked Mr. Carleton for what he had said to her on a + former occasion, for the thought of his words had given her courage, or + strength, to go beyond her usual reserve in speaking to her aunt; and she + thought her words had done good. + </p> + <h1> + <a name="53"></a>Chapter LIII. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + Use your pleasure: If your love do not persuade you to come, let not my + letter. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Merchant of Venice. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + On the way home Mrs. Rossitur and Fleda went a trifle out of their road to + say good-bye to Mrs. Douglass's family. Fleda had seen her aunt Miriam in + the morning, and bid her a conditional farewell; for, as after Mrs. + Rossitur's sailing she would be with Mrs. Carleton, she judged it little + likely that she should see Queechy again. + </p> + <p> + They had time for but a minute at Mrs. Douglass's. Mrs. Rossitur had + shaken hands and was leaving the house when Mrs. Douglass pulled Fleda + back. + </p> + <p> + "Be you going to the West Indies too, Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Mrs. Douglass." + </p> + <p> + "Then why don't you stay here?" + </p> + <p> + "I want to be with my aunt while I can," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "And then do you calculate to stop in New York?" + </p> + <p> + "For awhile," said Fleda colouring. + </p> + <p> + "O go 'long!" said Mrs. Douglass, "I know all about it. Now do you s'pose + you're agoing to be any happier among all those great folks than you would + be if you staid among little folks?" she added tartly; while Catherine + looked with a kind of incredulous admiration at the future lady of + Carleton. + </p> + <p> + "I don't suppose that greatness has anything to do with happiness, Mrs. + Douglass," said Fleda gently. + </p> + <p> + So gently,--and so calmly sweet the face was that said it that Mrs. + Douglass's mood was overcome. + </p> + <p> + "Well you ain't agoing to forget Queechy?" she said, shaking Fleda's hand + with a hearty grasp. + </p> + <p> + "Never--never!" + </p> + <p> + "I'll tell you what I think," said Mrs. Douglass, the tears in her eyes + answering those in Fleda's.--"It'll be a happy house that gets you into + it, wherever 'tis! I only wish it wa'n't out o' Queechy." + </p> + <p> + Fleda thought on the whole as she walked home that she did not wish any + such thing. Queechy seemed dismantled, and she thought she would rather go + to a new place now that she had taken such a leave of every thing here. + </p> + <p> + Two things remained however to be taken leave of; the house and Barby. + Happily Fleda had little time for the former. It was a busy evening, and + the morning would be more busy; she contrived that all the family should + go to rest before her, meaning then to have one quiet look at the old + rooms by herself; a leave-taking that no other eyes should interfere with. + She sat down before the kitchen fire-place, but she had hardly realized + that she was alone when one of the many doors opened and Barby's tall + figure walked in. + </p> + <p> + "Here you be," she half whispered. "I knowed there wouldn't be a minute's + peace to-morrow; so I thought I'd bid you good-bye to-night." + </p> + <p> + Fleda gave her a smile and a hand, but did not speak. Barby drew up a + chair beside her, and they sat silent for some time, while quiet tears + from the eyes of each said a great many things. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I hope you'll be as happy as you deserve to be,"--were Barby's + first words, in a voice very altered from its accustomed firm and spirited + accent. + </p> + <p> + "Make some better wish for me than that, dear Barby." + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't want any better for myself," said Barby determinately. + </p> + <p> + "I would for you," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + She thought of Mr. Carleton's words again, and went on in spite of + herself. + </p> + <p> + "It is a mistake, Barby. The best of us do not deserve anything good; and + if we have the sight of a friend's face, or the very sweet air we breathe, + it is because Christ has bought it for us. Don't let us forget that, and + forget him." + </p> + <p> + "I do, always," said Barby crying,--"forget everything. Fleda, I wish + you'd pray for me when you are far away, for I ain't as good as you be." + </p> + <p> + "Dear Barby," said Fleda, touching her shoulder affectionately, "I haven't + waited to be far away to do that." + </p> + <p> + Barby sobbed for a few minutes with the strength of a strong nature that + rarely gave way in that manner; and then dashed her tears right and left, + not at all as if she were ashamed of them, but with a resolution not to be + overcome. + </p> + <p> + "There won't be nothing good left in Queechy, when you're gone, you and + Mis' Plumfield--without I go and look at the place where Hugh lies--" + </p> + <p> + "Dear Barby," said Fleda with softening eyes, "won't you be something good + yourself?" + </p> + <p> + Barby put up her hand to shield her face. Fleda was silent for she saw + that strong feeling was at work. + </p> + <p> + "I wish I could," Barby broke forth at last, "if it was only for your + sake." + </p> + <p> + "Dear Barby," said Fleda, "you can do this for me--you can go to church + and hear what Mr. Olmney says. I should go away happier if I thought you + would, and if I thought you would follow what he says; for dear Barby + there is a time coming when you will wish you were a Christian more than + you do now; and not for my sake." + </p> + <p> + "I believe there is, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + "Then will you?--won't you give me so much pleasure?" + </p> + <p> + "I'd do a'most anything to do you a pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "Then do it, Barby." + </p> + <p> + "Well, I'll go," said Barby. "But now just think of that, Fleda, how you + might have stayed in Queechy all your days and done what you liked with + everybody. I'm glad you ain't, though; I guess you'll be better off." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was silent upon that. + </p> + <p> + "I'd like amazingly to see how you'll be fixed," said Barby after a trifle + of ruminating. "If 'twa'n't for my old mother I'd be 'most a mind to pull + up sticks and go after you." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you could, Barby; only I am afraid you would not like it so well + there as here." + </p> + <p> + "Maybe I wouldn't. I s'pect them English folks has ways of their own, from + what I've heerd tell; they set up dreadful, don't they?" + </p> + <p> + "Not all of them," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "No, I don't believe but what I could get along with Mr. Carleton well + enough--I never see any one that knowed how to behave himself better." + </p> + <p> + Fleda gave her a smiling acknowledgment of this compliment. + </p> + <p> + "He's plenty of money, ha'n't he?" + </p> + <p> + "I believe so." + </p> + <p> + "You'll be sot up like a princess, and never have anything to do no more." + </p> + <p> + "O no," said Fleda laughing,--"I expect to have a great deal to do; if I + don't find it, I shall make it." + </p> + <p> + "I guess it'll be pleasant work," said Barby. "Well, I don't care! you've + done work enough since you've lived here that wa'n't pleasant, to play for + the rest of your days; and I'm glad on't. I guess he don't hurt himself. + You wouldn't stand it much longer to do as you have been doing lately." + </p> + <p> + "That couldn't be helped," said Fleda; "but that I may stand it to-morrow + I am afraid we must go to bed, Barby." + </p> + <p> + Barby bade her good-night and left her. But Fleda's musing mood was gone. + She had no longer the desire to call back the reminiscences of the old + walls. All that page of her life, she felt, was turned over; and after a + few minutes' quiet survey of the familiar things, without the power of + moralizing over them as she could have done half an hour before, she left + them--for the next day had no eyes but for business. + </p> + <p> + It was a trying week or two before Mr. Rossitur and his family were fairly + on shipboard. Fleda as usual, and more than usual,--with the eagerness of + affection that felt its opportunities numbered and would gladly have + concentrated the services of years into days,--wrought, watched, and + toiled, at what expense to her own flesh and blood Mrs. Rossitur never + knew, and the others were too busy to guess. But Mrs. Carleton saw the + signs of it, and was heartily rejoiced when they were fairly gone and + Fleda was committed to her hands. + </p> + <p> + For days, almost for weeks, after her aunt was gone Fleda could do little + but rest and sleep; so great was the weariness of mind and body, and the + exhaustion of the animal spirits, which had been kept upon a strain to + hide her feelings and support those of others. To the very last moment + affection's sweet work had been done; the eye, the voice, the smile, to + say nothing of the hands, had been tasked and kept in play to put away + recollections, to cheer hopes, to soften the present, to lighten the + future; and hardest of all, to do the whole by her own living example. As + soon as the last look and wave of the hand were exchanged and there was no + longer anybody to lean upon her for strength and support, Fleda shewed how + weak she was, and sank into a state of prostration as gentle and deep + almost as an infant's. + </p> + <p> + As sweet and lovely as a child too, Mrs. Carleton declared her to be; + sweet and lovely as <i>she</i> was when a child; and there was no going + beyond that. As neither this lady nor Fleda had changed essentially since + the days of their former acquaintanceship, it followed that there was + still as little in common between them, except indeed now the strong + ground of affection. Whatever concerned her son concerned Mrs. Carleton in + almost equal degree; anything that he valued she valued; and to have a + thorough appreciation of him was a sure title to her esteem. The + consequence of all this was that Fleda was now the most precious thing in + the world to her after himself; especially since her eyes, sharpened as + well as opened by affection, could find in her nothing that she thought + unworthy of him. In her personally, country and blood Mrs. Carleton might + have wished changed; but her desire that her son should marry, the + strongest wish she had known for years, had grown so despairing that her + only feeling now on the subject was joy; she was not in the least inclined + to quarrel with his choice. Fleda had from her the tenderest care, as well + as the utmost delicacy that affection and good-breeding could teach. And + Fleda needed both, for she was slow in going back to her old health and + strength; and stripped on a sudden of all her old friends, on this + turning-point of her life, her spirits were in that quiet mood that would + have felt any jarring most keenly. + </p> + <p> + The weeks of her first languor and weariness were over, and she was + beginning again to feel and look like herself. The weather was hot and the + city disagreeable now, for it was the end of June; but they had pleasant + rooms upon the Battery, and Fleda's windows looked out upon the waving + tops of green trees and the bright waters of the bay. She used to lie + gazing out at the coming and going vessels with a curious fantastic + interest in them; they seemed oddly to belong to that piece of her life, + and to be weaving the threads of her future fate as they flitted about in + all directions before her. In a very quiet, placid mood, not as if she + wished to touch one of the threads, she lay watching the bright sails that + seemed to carry the shuttle of life to and fro; letting Mrs. Carleton + arrange and dispose of everything and of her as she pleased. + </p> + <p> + She was on her couch as usual, looking out one fair morning, when Mrs. + Carleton came in to kiss her and ask how she did. Fleda said better. + </p> + <p> + "Better! you always say 'better'," said Mrs. Carleton; "but I don't see + that you get better very fast. And sober;--this cheek is too sober," she + added, passing her hand fondly over it;--"I don't like to see it so." + </p> + <p> + "That is just the way I have been feeling, ma'am--unable to rouse myself. + I should be ashamed of it, if I could help it." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Evelyn has been here begging that we would join her in a party to + the Springs--Saratoga--how would you like that?" + </p> + <p> + "I should like anything that you would like, ma'am," said Fleda, with a + thought how she would like to read Montepoole for Saratoga. + </p> + <p> + "The city is very hot and dusty just now." + </p> + <p> + "Very, and I am sorry to keep you in it, Mrs. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "Keep me, love?" said Mrs. Carleton bending down her face to her again;--" + it's a pleasure to be kept anywhere by you." + </p> + <p> + Fleda shut her eyes, for she could hardly bear a little word now. + </p> + <p> + "I don't like to keep <i>you</i> here--it is not myself I am thinking of. + I fancy a change would do you good." + </p> + <p> + "You are very kind, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Very interested kindness," said Mrs. Carleton. "I want to see you looking + a little better before Guy comes--I am afraid he will look grave at both + of us." But as she paused and stroked Fleda's cheek it came into her mind + to doubt the truth of the last assertion, and she ended off with, "I wish + he would come!--" + </p> + <p> + So Fleda wished truly; for now, cut off as she was from her old + associations, she longed for the presence of the one friend that was to + take place of them all. + </p> + <p> + "I hope we shall hear soon that there is some prospect of his getting + free," Mrs. Carleton went on. "He has been gone now,--how many weeks?--I + am looking for a letter to-day. And there it is!--" + </p> + <p> + The maid at this moment entered with the steamer despatches. Mrs. Carleton + pounced upon the one she knew and broke it open. + </p> + <p> + "Here it is!--and there is yours, Fleda." + </p> + <p> + With kind politeness she went off to read her own and left Fleda to study + hers at her leisure. An hour after she came in again. Fleda's face was + turned from her. + </p> + <p> + "Well what does he say?" she asked in a lively tone. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose the same he has said to you, ma'am," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I don't suppose it indeed," said Mrs. Carleton laughing, "He has given me + sundry charges, which if he has given you it is morally certain we shall + never come to an understanding." + </p> + <p> + "I have received no charges." said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I am directed to be very careful to find out your exact wish in the + matter and to let you follow no other. So what is it, my sweet Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "I promised--" said Fleda colouring and turning her letter over. But there + she stopped. + </p> + <p> + "Whom and what?" said Mrs. Carleton after she had waited a reasonable + time. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "What did you promise, my dear Fleda?" + </p> + <p> + "That--I would do as he said." + </p> + <p> + "But he wishes you to do as you please." + </p> + <p> + Fleda brought her eyes quick out of Mrs. Carleton's view, and was silent. + </p> + <p> + "What do you say, dear Fleda?" said the lady, taking her hand and bending + over her. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure we shall be expected," said Fleda. "I will go." + </p> + <p> + "You are a darling girl!" said Mrs. Carleton kissing her again and again. + "I will love you forever for that. And I am sure it will be the best thing + for you--the sea will do you good--and ne vous en déplaise, our own + home is pleasanter just now than this dusty town. I will write by this + steamer and tell Guy we will be there by the next. He will have everything + in readiness, I know, at all events; and in half an hour after you get + there, my dear Fleda, you will be established in all your rights--as well + as if it had been done six months before. Guy will know how to thank you. + But after all, Fleda, you might do him this grace--considering how long he + has been waiting upon you." + </p> + <p> + Something in Fleda's eyes induced Mrs. Carleton to say, laughing, + </p> + <p> + "What's the matter?" + </p> + <p> + "He never waited for me," said Fleda simply. + </p> + <p> + "Didn't he?--But my dear Fleda I--" said Mrs. Carleton in amused + extremity,--"how long is it since you knew what he came out here for?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know now, ma'am," said Fleda. But she became angelically rosy the + next minute. + </p> + <p> + "He never told you?" + </p> + <p> + "No."-- + </p> + <p> + "And you never asked him?" + </p> + <p> + "Why no, ma'am!" + </p> + <p> + "He will be well suited in a wife," said Mrs. Carleton laughing. "But he + can have no objection to your knowing now, I suppose. He never told me but + at the latest. You must know, Fleda, that it has been my wish for a great + many years that Guy would marry--and I almost despaired, he was so + difficult to please--his taste in everything is so fastidious; but I am + glad of it now," she added, kissing Fleda's cheek. "Last spring--not this + last, but a year ago--one evening at home I was talking to him on this + subject; but he met everything I said lightly--you know his way--and I saw + my words took no hold. I asked him at last in a kind of desperation if he + supposed there was a woman in the world that could please him; and he + laughed, and said if there was he was afraid she was not in that + hemisphere. And a day or two after he told me he was going to America." + </p> + <p> + "Did he say for what?" + </p> + <p> + "No,--but I guessed as soon as I found he was prolonging his stay, and I + was sure when he wrote me to come out to him. But I never knew till I + landed, Fleda my dear, any more than that. The first question I asked him + was who he was going to introduce to me." + </p> + <p> + The interval was short to the next steamer, but also the preparations were + few. A day or two after the foregoing conversation, Constance Evelyn + coming into Fleda's room found her busy with some light packing. + </p> + <p> + "My dear little creature!" she exclaimed ecstatically,--"are you going + with us?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Where are you going then?" + </p> + <p> + "To England." + </p> + <p> + "England!--Has--I mean, is there any addition to my list of acquaintances + in the city?" + </p> + <p> + "Not that I know of," said Fleda, going on with her work. + </p> + <p> + "And you are going to England!--Greenhouses will be a desolation to me!--" + </p> + <p> + "I hope not," said Fleda smiling;--"you will recover yourself, and your + sense of sweetness, in time." + </p> + <p> + "It will have nothing to act upon!--And you are going to England!--I think + it is very mean of you not to ask me to go too and be your bridesmaid." + </p> + <p> + "I don't expect to have such a thing," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Not?--Horrid! I wouldn't be married so, Fleda. You don't know the world, + little Queechy; the art <i>de vous faire valoir</i> I am afraid is unknown + to you." + </p> + <p> + "So it may remain with my good will," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Why?" said Constance. + </p> + <p> + "I have never felt the want of it," said Fleda simply. + </p> + <p> + "When are you going?" said Constance after a minute's pause. + </p> + <p> + "By the Europa." + </p> + <p> + "But this is a very sudden move!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--very sudden." + </p> + <p> + "I should think you would want a little time to make preparations." + </p> + <p> + "That is all happily taken off my hands," said Fleda. "Mrs. Carleton has + written to her sister in England to take care of it for me." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't know that Mrs. Carleton had a sister.--What's her name?" + </p> + <p> + "Lady Peterborough." + </p> + <p> + Constance was silent again. + </p> + <p> + "What are you going to do about mourning, Fleda? wear white, I suppose. As + nobody there knows anything about you, you won't care." + </p> + <p> + "I do not care in the least," said Fleda calmly; "my feeling would quite + as soon choose white as black. Mourning so often goes alone, that I should + think grief might be excused for shunning its company." + </p> + <p> + "And as you have not put it on yet," said Constance, "you won't feel the + change. And then in reality after all he was only a cousin." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's quiet mood, sober and tender as it was, could go to a certain + length of endurance, but this asked too much. Dropping the things from her + hands, she turned from the trunk beside which she was kneeling and hiding + her face on a chair wept such tears as cousins never shed for each other. + Constance was startled and distressed; and Fleda's quick sympathy knew + that she must be, before she could see it. + </p> + <p> + "You needn't mind it at all, dear Constance," she said as soon as she + could speak,--"it's no matter--I am in such a mood sometimes that I cannot + bear anything. Don't think of it," she said kissing her. + </p> + <p> + Constance however could not for the remainder of her visit get back her + wonted light mood, which indeed had been singularly wanting to her during + the whole interview. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton counted the days to the steamer, and her spirits rose with + each one. Fleda's spirits were quiet to the last degree, and passive, too + passive, Mrs. Carleton thought. She did not know the course of the years + that had gone, and could not understand how strangely Fleda seemed to + herself now to stand alone, broken off from her old friends and her former + life, on a little piece of time that was like an isthmus joining two + continents. Fleda felt it all exceedingly; felt that she was changing from + one sphere of life to another; never forgot the graves she had left at + Queechy, and as little the thoughts and prayers that had sprung up beside + them. She felt, with all Mrs. Carleton's kindness, that she was completely + alone, with no one on her side the ocean to look to; and glad to be + relieved from taking active part in anything she made her little Bible her + companion for the greater part of the time. + </p> + <p> + "Are you going to carry that sober face all the way to Carleton?" said + Mrs. Carleton one day pleasantly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "What do you suppose Guy will think of it?" + </p> + <p> + But the thought of what he would think of it, and what he would say to it, + and how fast he would brighten it, made Fleda burst into tears. Mrs. + Carleton resolved to talk to her no more, but to get her home as fast as + possible. + </p> + <p> + "I have one consolation," said Charlton Rossitur as he shook hands with + her on board the steamer;--"I have received permission, from + head-quarters, to come and see you in England; and to that I shall look + forward constantly from this time." + </p> + <h1> + <a name="54"></a>Chapter LIV. + </h1> + <blockquote> + <p> + The full sum of me<br /> Is sum of something; which to term in gross,<br /> + Is an unlesson'd girl, unschool'd, unpractis'd;<br /> Happy in this, she + is not yet so old<br /> But she may learn; and happier than this,<br /> + She is not bred so dull but she can learn;<br /> Happiest of all, is that + her gentle spirit<br /> Commits itself to yours to be directed,<br /> As + from her lord, her governor, her king. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + Merchant of Venice. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + They had a very speedy passage to the other side, and partly in + consequence of that Mr. Carleton was <i>not</i> found waiting for them in + Liverpool. Mrs. Carleton would not tarry there but hastened down at once + to the country, thinking to be at home before the news of their arrival. + </p> + <p> + It was early morning of one fair day in July when they were at last + drawing near the end of their journey. They would have reached it the + evening before but for a storm which had constrained them to stop and wait + over the night at a small town about eight miles off. For fear then of + passing Guy on the road his mother sent a servant before, and making an + extraordinary exertion was actually herself in the carriage by seven + o'clock. + </p> + <p> + Nothing could be fairer than that early drive, if Fleda might have enjoyed + it in peace. The sweet morning air was exceeding sweet, and the summer + light fell upon a perfect luxuriance of green things. Out of the carriage + Fleda's spirits were at home, but not within it; and it was sadly irksome + to be obliged to hear and respond to Mrs. Carleton's talk, which was kept + up, she knew, in the charitable intent to divert her. She was just in a + state to listen to nature's talk; to the other she attended and replied + with a patient longing to be left free that she might steady and quiet + herself. Perhaps Mrs. Carleton's tact discovered this in the + matter-of-course and uninterested manner of her rejoinders; for as they + entered the park gates she became silent, and the long drive from them to + the house was made without a word on either side. + </p> + <p> + For a length of way the road was through a forest of trees of noble + growth, which in some places closed their arms overhead and in all + sentinelled the path in stately array. The eye had no scope beyond the + ranks of this magnificent body; Carleton park was celebrated for its + trees; but magnificent though they were and dearly as Fleda loved every + form of forest beauty, she felt oppressed. The eye forbidden to range, so + was the mind, shut in to itself; and she only felt under the gloom and + shadow of those great trees the shadow of the responsibilities and of the + change that were coming upon her. But after a while the ranks began to be + thinned and the ground to be broken; the little touches of beauty with + which the sun had enlivened the woodland began to grow broader and + cheerfuller; and then as the forest scattered away to the right and left, + gay streams of light came through the glades and touched the surface of + the rolling ground, where in the hollows, on the heights, on the sloping + sides of the dingles, knots of trees of yet more luxuriant and picturesque + growth, planted or left by the cultivator's hand long ago and trained by + no hand but nature's, stood so as to distract a painter's eye; and just + now, in the fresh gilding of the morning and with all the witchery of the + long shadows upon the uneven ground certainly charmed Fleda's eye and mind + both. Fancy was dancing again, albeit with one hand upon gravity's + shoulder, and the dancing was a little nervous too. But she looked and + caught her breath as she looked, while the road led along the very edge of + a dingle, and then was lost in a kind of enchanted open woodland--it + seemed so--and then passing through a thicket came out upon a broad sweep + of green turf that wiled the eye by its smooth facility to the distant + screen of oaks and beeches and firs on its far border. It was all new. + Fleda's memory had retained only an indistinct vision of beauty, like the + face of an angel in a cloud as painters have drawn it; now came out the + beautiful features one after another, as if she had never seen them. + </p> + <p> + So far nature had seemed to stand alone. But now another hand appeared, + not interfering with nature but adding to her. The road came upon a belt + of the shrubbery where the old tenants of the soil were mingled with + lighter and gayer companionship and in some instances gave it place; + though in general the mingling was very graceful. There was never any + crowding of effects; it seemed all nature still, only as if several climes + had joined together to grace one. Then that was past; and over smooth + undulating ground, bearing a lighter growth of foreign wood with here and + there a stately elm or ash that disdained their rivalry, the carriage came + under the brown walls and turrets of the house. Fleda's mood had changed + again; and as the grave outlines rose above her, half remembered and all + the more for that imposing, she trembled at the thought of what she had + come there to do and to be. She felt very nervous and strange and out of + place, and longed for the familiar free and voice that would bid her be at + home. Mrs. Carleton, now, was not enough of a stand-by. With all that, + Fleda descended from the carriage with her usual quiet demureness; no one + that did not know her well would have seen in her any other token of + emotion than a somewhat undue and wavering colour. + </p> + <p> + They were welcomed, at least one of them was, with every appearance of + sincerity by the most respectable-looking personage who opened to them and + whom Fleda remembered instantly. The array of servants in the hall would + almost have startled her if she had not recollected the same thing on her + first coming to Carleton. She stepped in with a curious sense of that + first time, when she had come there a little child. + </p> + <p> + "Where is your master?' was Mrs. Carleton's immediate demand. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Carleton set off this morning for Liverpool." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton gave a quick glance at Fleda, who kept her eyes at home. + </p> + <p> + "We did not meet him--we have not passed him--how long ago?" were her next + rapid words. + </p> + <p> + "My master left Carleton as early as five o'clock--he gave orders to drive + as fast as possible." + </p> + <p> + "Then he had gone through Hollonby an hour before we left it," said Mrs. + Carleton looking again to her companion;--"but he will hear of us at + Carstairs--we stopped there yesterday afternoon--he will be back again in + a few hours I am sure. Then we have been expected?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes ma'am--my master gave orders that you should be expected." + </p> + <p> + "Is all well, Popham?" + </p> + <p> + "All is well, madam!" + </p> + <p> + "Is Lady Peterborough here?" + </p> + <p> + "His lordship and Lady Peterborough arrived the day before yesterday," was + the succint reply. + </p> + <p> + Drawing Fleda's arm within hers and giving kind recognition to the rest + who stood around, Mrs. Carleton led her to the stairs and mounted them, + repeating in a whisper, "He will be here presently again." They went to + Mrs. Carleton's dressing room, Fleda wondering in an interval fever + whether "orders had been given" to expect her also; from the old butler's + benign look at her as he said "All is well!" she could not help thinking + it. If she maintained her outward quiet it was the merest external crust + of seeming; there was nothing like quiet beneath it; and Mrs. Carleton's + kiss and fond words of welcome were hardly composing. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carleton made her sit down, and with very gentle hands was busy + arranging her hair, when the housekeeper came in; to pay her more + particular respects and to offer her services. Fleda hardly ventured a + glance to see whether <i>she</i> looked benign. She was a dignified + elderly person, as stately and near as handsome as Mrs. Carleton herself. + </p> + <p> + "My dear Fleda," said the latter when she had finished the hair,--"I am + going to see my sister--will you let Mrs. Fothergill help you in anything + you want, and take you then to the library--you will find no one, and I + will come to you there. Mrs. Fothergill, I recommend you to the particular + care of this lady." + </p> + <p> + The recommendation was not needed, Fleda thought, or was very effectual; + the housekeeper served her with most assiduous care, and in absolute + silence. Fleda hurried the finishing of her toilet. + </p> + <p> + "Are the people quiet in the country?" she forced herself to say. + </p> + <p> + "Perfectly quiet, ma'am. It needed only that my master should be at home + to make them so." + </p> + <p> + "How is that?" + </p> + <p> + "He has their love and their ear, ma'am, and so it is that he can just do + his pleasure with them." + </p> + <p> + "How is it in the neighbouring country?" + </p> + <p> + "They're quiet, ma'am, I believe,--mostly--there's been some little + disturbance in one place and another, and more fear of it, as well as I + can make out, but it's well got over, as it appears. The noblemen and + gentlemen in the country around were very glad, all of them I am told, of + Mr. Carleton's return. Is there nothing more I can do for you, ma'am?" + </p> + <p> + The last question was put with an indefinable touch of kindliness which + had not softened the respect of her first words. Fleda begged her to show + the way to the library, which Mrs. Fothergill immediately did, remarking + as she ushered her in that "those were Mr. Carleton's favourite rooms." + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not need to be told that; she put the remark and the benignity + together, and drew a nervous inference. But Mrs. Fothergill was gone and + she was alone. Nobody was there, as Mrs. Carleton had said. + </p> + <p> + Fleda stood still in the middle of the floor, looking around her, in a + bewildered effort to realize the past and the present; with all the mind + in the world to cry, but there was too great a pressure of excitement and + too much strangeness of feeling at work. Nothing before her in the dimly + familiar place served at all to lessen this feeling, and recovering from + her maze she went to one of the glazed doors, which stood open, and turned + her back upon the room with its oppressive recollections. Her eye lighted + upon nothing that was not quiet now. A secluded piece of smooth green, + partially bordered with evergreens and set with light shrubbery of rare + kinds, exquisitely kept; over against her a sweetbriar that seemed to have + run wild, indicating, Fleda was sure, the entrance of the path to the rose + garden, that her memory alone would hardly have helped her to find. All + this in the bright early summer morning, and the sweet aromatic smell of + firs and flowers coming with every breath. There were draughts of + refreshment in the air. It composed her, and drinking it in delightedly + Fleda stood with folded arms in the doorway, half forgetting herself and + her position, and going in fancy from the firs and the roses over a very + wide field of meditation indeed. So lost, that she started fearfully on + suddenly becoming aware that a figure had come just beside her. + </p> + <p> + It was an elderly and most gentlemanly-looking man, as a glance made her + know. Fleda was reassured and ashamed in a breath. The gentleman did not + notice her confusion, however, otherwise than by a very pleasant and + well-bred smile, and immediately entered into some light remarks on the + morning, the place, and the improvements Mr. Carleton had made in the + latter. Though he said the place was one of those which could bear very + well to want improvement; but Carleton was always finding something to do + which excited his admiration. + </p> + <p> + "Landscape gardening is one of the pleasantest of amusements," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I have just knowledge enough in the matter to admire;--to originate any + ideas is beyond me; I have to depend for them upon my gardener,--and my + wife--and so I lose a pleasure, I suppose; but every man has his own + particular hobby. Carleton, however, has more than his share--he has half + a dozen, I think." + </p> + <p> + "Half a dozen hobbies!" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps I should not call them hobbies, for he manages to ride them all + skilfully; and a hobby-horse, I believe, always runs away with the man?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda could hardly return his smile. She thought people were possessed + with an unhappy choice of subjects in talking to her that morning. But + fancying that she had very ill kept up her part in the conversation and + must have looked like a simpleton, she forced herself to break the silence + which followed the last remark, and asked the same question she had asked + Mrs. Fothergill,--if the country was quiet? + </p> + <p> + "Outwardly quiet," he said;--"O yes--there is no more difficulty--that is, + none which cannot easily be handled. There was some danger a few months + ago, but it is blown over; all was quiet on Carleton's estates so soon as + he was at home, and that of course had great influence on the + neighbourhood. No, there is nothing to be apprehended. He has the hearts + of his people completely, and one who has their hearts can do what he + pleases with their heads, you know. Well he deserves it--he has done a + great deal for them." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was afraid to ask in what way,--but perhaps he read the question in + her eyes. + </p> + <p> + "That's one of his hobbies--ameliorating the condition of the poorer + classes on his estates. He has given himself to it for some years back; he + has accomplished a great deal for them--a vast deal indeed! He has changed + the face of things, mentally and morally, in several places, with his + adult schools, and agricultural systems, and I know not what; but the most + powerful means I think after all has been the weight of his personal + influence, by which he can introduce and carry through any measure; + neither ignorance nor prejudice nor obstinacy seem to make head against + him. It requires a peculiar combination of qualities, I think,--very + peculiar and rare,--to deal successfully with the mind of the masses." + </p> + <p> + "I should think so indeed," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "He has it--I don't comprehend it--and I have not studied his machinery + enough to understand that; but I have seen the effects. Never should have + thought he was the kind of man either--but there it is!--I don't + comprehend him. There is only one fault to be found with him though." + </p> + <p> + "What is that?" said Fleda smiling. + </p> + <p> + "He has built a fine dissenting chapel down here towards Hollonby," he + said gravely, looking her in the face,--"and what is yet worse, his uncle + tells me, he goes there half the time himself!" + </p> + <p> + Fleda could not help laughing, nor colouring, at his manner. + </p> + <p> + "I thought it was always considered a meritorious action to build a + church," she said. + </p> + <p> + "Indubitably.--But you see, this was a chapel." + </p> + <p> + The laugh and the colour both grew more unequivocal--Fleda could not help + it. + </p> + <p> + "I beg your pardon, sir--I have not learned such nice + distinctions--Perhaps a chapel was wanted just in that place." + </p> + <p> + "That is presumable. But <i>he</i> might be wanted somewhere else. + However," said the gentleman with a good-humoured smile,--"his uncle + forgives him; and if his mother cannot influence him,--I am afraid nobody + else will. There is no help for it. And I should be very sorry to stand + ill with him. I have given you the dark side of his character." + </p> + <p> + "What is the other side in the contrast?" said Fleda, wondering at herself + for her daring. + </p> + <p> + "It is not for me to say," he answered with a slight shrug of the + shoulders and an amused glance at her;--"I suppose it depends upon + people's vision,--but if you will permit me, I will instance a bright spot + that was shewn to me the other day, that I confess, when I look at it, + dazzles my eyes a little." + </p> + <p> + Fleda only bowed; she dared not speak again. + </p> + <p> + "There was a poor fellow--the son of one of Mr. Carleton's old tenants + down here at Enchapel,--who was under sentence of death, lying in prison + at Carstairs. The father, I am told, is an excellent man and a good + tenant; the son had been a miserable scapegrace, and now for some crime--I + forget what--had at last been brought to justice. The evidence against him + was perfect and the offence was not trifling--there was not the most + remote chance of a pardon, but it seemed the poor wretch had been building + up his dependence upon that hope and was resting on it; and consequently + was altogether indisposed and unfit to give his attention to the subjects + that his situation rendered proper for him. + </p> + <p> + "The gentleman who gave me this story was requested by a brother clergyman + to go with him to visit the prisoner. They found him quite + stupid--unmovable by all that could be urged, or rather perhaps the style + of the address, as it was described to me, was fitted to confound and + bewilder the man rather than enlighten him. In the midst of all this Mr. + Carleton came in--he was just then on the wing for America, and he had + heard of the poor creature's condition in a visit to his father. He + came,--my informant said,--like a being of a different planet. He took the + man's hand,--he was chained foot and wrist,--'My poor friend,' he said, 'I + have been thinking of you here, shut out from the light of the sun, and I + thought you might like to see the face of a friend';--with that singular + charm of manner which he knows how to adapt to everybody and every + occasion. The man was melted at once--at his feet, as it were;--he could + do anything with him. Carleton began then, quietly, to set before him the + links in the chain of evidence which had condemned him--one by one--in + such a way as to prove to him, by degrees but irresistibly, that he had no + hope in this world. The man was perfectly subdued--sat listening and + looking into those powerful eyes that perhaps you know,--taking in all his + words and completely in his hand. And then Carleton went on to bring + before him the considerations that he thought should affect him in such a + case, in a way that this gentleman said was indescribably effective and + winning; till that hardened creature was broken down,--sobbing like a + child,--actually sobbing!--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda did her best, but she was obliged to hide her face in her hands, let + what would be thought of her. + </p> + <p> + "It was the finest exhibition of eloquence, this gentleman said, he had + ever listened to.--For me it was an exhibition of another kind. I would + have believed such an account of few men, but of all the men I know I + would least have believed it of Guy Carleton a few years ago; even now I + can hardly believe it. But it is a thing that would do honour to any + man."-- + </p> + <p> + Fleda felt that the tears were making their way between her fingers, but + she could not help it; and she presently knew that her companion had gone + and she was left alone again. Who was this gentleman? and how much did he + know about her? More than that she was a stranger, Fleda was sure; and + dreading his return, or that somebody else might come and find her with + tokens of tears upon her face, she stepped out upon the greensward and + made for the flaunting sweet-briar that seemed to beckon her to visit its + relations. + </p> + <p> + The entrance of a green path was there, or a grassy glade, more or less + wide, leading through a beautiful growth of firs and larches. No roses, + nor any other ornamental shrubs; only the soft, well-kept footway through + the woodland. Fleda went gently on and on, admiring, where the trees + sometimes swept back, leaving an opening, and at other places stretched + their graceful branches over her head. The perfect condition of everything + to the eye, the rich coloured vegetation,--of varying colour above and + below,--the absolute retirement, and the strong pleasant smell of the + evergreens, had a kind of charmed effect upon senses and mind too. It was + a fairyland sort of place. The presence of its master seemed everywhere; + it was like him; and Fleda pressed on to see yet livelier marks of his + character and fancy beyond. By degrees the wood began to thin on one side; + then at once the glade opened into a bright little lawn rich with roses in + full bloom. Fleda was stopped short at the sudden vision of loveliness. + There was the least possible appearance of design; no dry beds were to be + seen; the luxuriant clumps of Provence and white roses, with the varieties + of the latter, seemed to have chosen their own places; only to have chosen + them very happily. One hardly imagined that they had submitted to + dictation, if it were not that Queen Flora never was known to make so + effective a disposition of her forces without help. The screen of trees + was very thin on the border of this opening, so thin that the light from + beyond came through. On a slight rocky elevation which formed the further + side of it sat an exquisite little Moorish temple, about which and the + face of the rock below some Noisette and Multiflora climbers were vying + with each other; and just at the entrance of the further path a white + dog-rose had thrown itself over the way, covering the lower branches of + the trees with its blossoms. + </p> + <p> + Fleda stood spell bound a good while, with a breath oppressed with + pleasure. But what she had seen excited her to see more, and a dim + recollection of the sea-view from somewhere in the walk drew her on. Roses + met her now frequently. Now and then a climber, all alone, seemed to have + sought protection in a tree by the path-side, and to have displayed itself + thence in the very wantonness of security, hanging out its flowery + wreaths, fearless of hand or knife. Clusters of Noisettes, or of French or + Damask roses, where the ground was open enough, stood without a rival and + needing no foil, other than the beautiful surrounding of dark evergreen + foliage. But the distance was not long before she came out upon a wider + opening and found what she was seeking--the sight of the sea. The glade, + here, was upon the brow of high ground, and the wood disappearing entirely + for a space left the eye free to go over the lower tree-tops and the + country beyond to the distant shore and sea-line. Roses were here too; the + air was full of the sweetness of Damask and Bourbon varieties; and a few + beautiful Banksias, happily placed, contrasted without interfering with + them. It was very still;--it was very perfect;--the distant country was + fresh-coloured with the yet early light which streamed between the trees + and laid lines of enchantment upon the green turf; and the air came up + from the sea-board and bore the breath of the roses to Fleda every now and + then with a gentle puff of sweetness. Such light--she had seen none such + light since she was a child. Was it the burst of mental sunshine that had + made it so bright?--or was she going to be really a happy child again? + No--no,--not that; and yet something very like it. So like it that she + almost startled at herself. She went no further. She could not have borne, + just then, to see any more; and feeling her heart too full she stood even + there, with hands crossed upon her bosom, looking away from the roses to + the distant sea-line. + </p> + <p> + That said something very different. That was very sobering; if she had + needed sobering, which she did not. But it helped her to arrange the + scattered thoughts which had been pressing confusedly upon her brain. + "Look away from the roses" indeed she could not, for the same range of + vision took in the sea and them,--and the same range of thought. These + might stand for an emblem of the present; that, of the future,--grave, + far-off, impenetrable;--and passing as it were the roses of time Fleda + fixed upon that image of eternity; and weighing the one against the other, + felt, never in her life more keenly, how wild it would be to forget in + smelling the roses her preparations for that distant voyage that must be + made from the shores where they grow. With one eye upon this brightest + bits of earth before her, the other mentally was upon Hugh's grave. The + roses could not be sweeter to any one; but in view of the launching away + into that distant sea-line, in view of the issues on the other shore, in + view of the welcome that might be had there,--the roses might fade and + wither, but her happiness could not go with their breath. They were + something to be loved, to be used, to be thankful for,--but not to live + upon; something too that whispered of an increased burden of + responsibility, and never more deeply than at that moment did Fleda + remember her mother's prayer; never more simply recognized that happiness + could not be made of these things. She might be as happy at Queechy as + here. It depended on the sunlight of undying hopes, which indeed would + give wonderful colour to the flowers that might be in her way;--on the + possession of resources the spring of which would never dry;--on the peace + which secures the continual feast of a merry heart. Fleda could take her + new honours and advantages very meekly, and very soberly, with all her + appreciation of them. The same work of life was to be done here as at + Queechy. To fulfil the trust committed to her, larger here--to keep her + hope for the future--undeceived by the sunshine of earth to plant her + roses where they would bloom everlastingly. + </p> + <p> + The weight of these things bowed Fleda to the ground and made her bury her + face in her hands. But there was one item of happiness from which her + thoughts never even in imagination dissevered themselves, and round it + they gathered now in their weakness. A strong mind and heart to uphold + hers,--a strong hand for here to rest in,--that was a blessing; and Fleda + would have cried heartily but that her feelings were too high wrought. + They made her deaf to the light sound of footsteps coming over the + grass,--till two hands gently touched hers and lifted her up, and then + Fleda was at home. But surprised and startled she could hardly lift up her + face. Mr. Carleton's greeting was as grave and gentle as if she had been a + stray child. + </p> + <p> + "Do not fancy I am going to thank you for the grace you have shewn me," + said he lightly. "I know you would never have done it if circumstances had + not been hard pleaders in my cause. I will thank you presently when you + have answered one or two questions for me." + </p> + <p> + "Questions?" said Fleda looking up. But she blushed the next instant at + her own simplicity. + </p> + <p> + He was leading her back on the path she had come. No further however than + to the first opening, where the climbing dog-rose hung over the way. There + he turned aside crossing the little plot of greensward, and they ascended + some steps cut in the rock to the pavilion Fleda had looked at from a + distance. + </p> + <p> + It stood high enough to command the same sea-view. On that side it was + entirely open, and of very light construction on the others. Several + people were there; Fleda could hardly tell how many; and when Lord + Peterborough was presented to her she did not find out that he was her + morning's acquaintance. Her eye only took in besides that there were one + or two ladies, and a clergyman in the dress of the Church of England; she + could not distinguish. Yet she stood beside Mr. Carleton with all her + usual quiet dignity, though her eye did not leave the ground and her words + were in no higher key than was necessary, and though she could hardly bear + the unchanged easy tone of his. The birds were in a perfect ecstasy all + about them; the soft breeze came through the trees, gently waving the + branches and stirring the spray wreaths of the roses, the very fluttering + of summer's drapery; some roses looked in at the lattice, and those which + could not be there sent in their congratulations on the breath of the + wind, while the words were spoken that bound them together. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton then dismissing his guests to the house, went with Fleda + again the other way. He had felt the extreme trembling of the hand which + he took, and would not go in till it was quieted. He led her back to the + very rose-bush where he had found her, and in his own way, presently + brought her spirit home from its trembling and made it rest; and then + suffered her to stand a few minutes quite silent, looking out again over + the fair rich spread of country that lay between them and the sea. + </p> + <p> + "Now tell me, Elfie," said he softly, drawing back with the same old + caressing and tranquillizing touch the hair that hung over her + brow,--"what you were thinking about when I found you here?--in the very + luxury of seclusion--behind a rose-bush." + </p> + <p> + Fleda looked a quick look, smiled, and hesitated, and then said it was + rather a confusion of thoughts. + </p> + <p> + "It will be a confusion no longer when you have disentangled them for me." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know--" said Fleda. And she was silent, but so was he, quietly + waiting for her to go on. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you will wonder at me, Mr. Carleton," she said, hesitating and + colouring. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps," he said smiling;--"but if I do I will not keep you in + ignorance, Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "I was almost bewildered, in the first place,--with beauty--and then--" + </p> + <p> + "Do you like the rose garden?" + </p> + <p> + "Like it!--I cannot speak of it!" + </p> + <p> + "I don't want you to speak of it," said he smiling at her. "What followed + upon liking it, Elfie?" + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking," said Fleda, looking resolutely away from him,--"in the + midst of all this,--that it is not these things which make people happy." + </p> + <p> + "There is no question of that," he replied. "I have realized it thoroughly + for a few months past." + </p> + <p> + "No, but seriously, I mean," said Fleda pleadingly. + </p> + <p> + "And seriously you are quite right, dear Elfie. What then?" + </p> + <p> + "I was thinking," said Fieda, speaking with some difficulty, "of Hugh's + grave,--and of the comparative value of things; and afraid, I + believe,--especially--here--" + </p> + <p> + "Of making a wrong estimate?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes--and of not doing and being just what I ought." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton was silent for a minute, considering the brow from which his + fingers drew off the light screen. + </p> + <p> + "Will you trust me to watch over and tell you?" + </p> + <p> + Fleda did not trust her voice to tell him, but her eyes did it. + </p> + <p> + "As to the estimate--the remedy is to 'keep ourselves in the love of God;' + and then these things are the gifts of our Father's hand and will never be + put in competition with him. And they are never so sweet as when taken + so." + </p> + <p> + "Oh I know that!" + </p> + <p> + "This is a danger I share with you. We will watch over each other." + </p> + <p> + Fleda was silent with filling eyes. + </p> + <p> + "We do not seek our happiness in these things," he said tenderly. "I never + found it in them. For years, whatever others may have judged, I have felt + myself a poor man; because I had not in the world a friend in whom I could + have entire sympathy. And if I am rich now, it is not in any treasure that + I look to enjoy in this world alone." + </p> + <p> + "Oh do not, Mr. Carleton!" exclaimed Fleda, bowing her head in distress, + and giving his hand an earnest entreaty. + </p> + <p> + "What shall I not do?" said he half laughing and half gently, bringing her + face near enough for his lips to try another kind of eloquence. "You shall + not do this, Elfie, for any so light occasion.--Was this the whole burden + of those grave thoughts?" + </p> + <p> + "Not quite--entirely--" she said stammering. "But grave thoughts are not + always unhappy." + </p> + <p> + "Not always. I want to know what gave yours a tinge of that colour this + morning." + </p> + <p> + "It was hardly that.--You know what Foster says about 'power to its very + last particle being duty'--I believe it frightened me a little." + </p> + <p> + "If you feel that as strongly as I do, Elfie, it will act as a strong + corrective to the danger of false estimates." + </p> + <p> + "I do feel it," said Fleda. "One of my fears was that I should not feel it + enough." + </p> + <p> + "One of my cares will be that you do not act upon it too fiercely," said + he smiling. "The power being limited so is the duty. But you shall have + power enough, Elfie, and work enough. I have precisely what I have + needed--my good sprite back again." + </p> + <p> + "With a slight difference." + </p> + <p> + "What difference?" + </p> + <p> + "She is to act under direction now." + </p> + <p> + "Not at all--only under safe control," he said laughing. + </p> + <p> + "I am very glad of the difference, Mr. Carleton," said Fleda, with a grave + and grateful remembrance of it. + </p> + <p> + "If you think the sprite's old office is gone, you are mistaken," said he. + "What were your other fears?--one was that you should not feel enough your + responsibility, and the other that you might forget it." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know that there were any other particular fears," said Fleda;--"I + had been thinking of all these things--" + </p> + <p> + "And what else?" + </p> + <p> + Her colour and her silence begged him not to ask. He said no more, and let + her stand still again looking off through the roses, while her mind more + quietly and lightly went over the same train of thoughts that had moved it + before; gradually calmed; came back from being a stranger to being at + home, at least in one presence; and ended, her action even before her look + told him where, as her other hand unconsciously was joined to the one + already on his arm. A mute expression of feeling the full import of which + he read, even before her eye coming back from its musings was raised to + him, perhaps unconsciously too, with all the mind in it; its timidity was + not more apparent than its simplicity of clinging affection and + dependence. Mr. Carleton's answer was in three words, but in the tone and + manner that accompanied them there was a response to every part of her + appeal; so perfect that Fleda was confused at her own frankness. + </p> + <p> + They began to move towards the house, but Fleda was in a maze again and + could hardly realize anything. "His wife"!--was she that?--had so + marvellous a change really been wrought in her?--the little asparagus + cutter of Queechy transformed into the mistress of all this domain, and of + the stately mansion of which they caught glimpses now and then, as they + drew near it by another approach into which Mr. Carleton had diverged. And + his wife!--that was the hardest to realize of all. + </p> + <p> + She was as far from realizing it when she got into the house. They entered + now at once into the breakfast-room where the same party were gathered + whom she had met once before that morning. Mr. Carleton the elder, and + Lord Peterborough and Lady Peterborough, she had met without seeing. But + Fleda could look at them now; and if her colour came and went as frankly + as when she was a child, she could speak to them and meet their advances + with the same free and sweet self-possession as then; the rare dignity of + a little wood-flower, that is moved by a breath, but recovers as easily + and instantly its quiet standing. There were one or two who looked a + little curiously at first to see whether this new member of the family + were worthy of her place and would fill it to satisfy them. Not Mr. + Carleton; he never sought to ascertain the value of anything that belonged + to him by a popular vote; and his own judgment always stood carelessly + alone. But Mrs. Carleton was less sure of her own ground or of others. For + five minutes she noted Fleda's motions and words, her blushes and smiles, + as she stood talking to one and another;--for five minutes, and then with + a little smile at her sister Mrs. Carleton moved off to the + breakfast-table, well pleased that Lady Peterborough was too engaged to + answer her. Fleda had won them all. Mr. Carleton's intervening shield of + grace and kindness was only needed here against the too much attention or + attraction that might distress her. He was again, now they were in + presence of others, exactly what he had been to her when she was a child, + the same cool and efficient friend and protector. Nobody in the room + shewed less thought of her <i>except</i> in action; a great many little + things done for her pleasure or comfort, so quietly that nobody knew it + but one person, and she hardly noticed it at the time. All could not have + the same tact. + </p> + <p> + There was an uninterrupted easy flow of talk at the table, which Fleda + heard just enough to join in where it was necessary; the rest of the time + she sat in a kind of abstraction, dipping enormous strawberries one by one + into white sugar, with a curious want of recognition between them and the + ends of her fingers; it never occurred to her that they had picked baskets + full. + </p> + <p> + "I have done something for which you will hardly thank me, Mr. Carleton," + said Lord Peterborough. "I have driven this lady to tears within the first + hour of her being in the house." + </p> + <p> + "If she will forgive you, I will, my lord," Mr. Carleton answered + carelessly. + </p> + <p> + "I will confess myself though," continued his lordship looking at the face + that was so intent over the strawberries. "I was under the impression when + I first saw a figure in the window that it was Lady Peterborough. I own as + soon as I found it was a stranger I had my suspicions--which did not lack + confirmation in the course of the interview--I trust I am forgiven the + means I used." + </p> + <p> + "It seems you had your curiosity too, my lord," said Mr. Carleton the + uncle. + </p> + <p> + "Which ought in all justice to have lacked gratification," said Lady + Peterborough. "I hope Fleda will not be too ready to forgive you." + </p> + <p> + "I expect forgiveness nevertheless," said he looking at Fleda. "Must I + wait for it?" + </p> + <p> + "I am much obliged to you, sir." + </p> + <p> + And then she gave him a very frank smile and blush as she added, "I beg + pardon--you know my tongue is American." + </p> + <p> + "I don't like that," said his lordship gravely. + </p> + <p> + "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh," said the elder + Carleton. "The heart being English, we may hope the tongue will become so + too." + </p> + <p> + "I will not assure you of that, sir," Fleda said laughingly, though her + cheeks showed the conversation was not carried on without effort. Oddly + enough nobody saw it with any dissatisfaction. + </p> + <p> + "Of what, madam?" said Lord Peterborough. + </p> + <p> + "That I will not always keep a rag of the stars and stripes flying + somewhere." + </p> + <p> + But that little speech had almost been too much for her equanimity. + </p> + <p> + "Like Queen Elizabeth who retained the crucifix when she gave up the + profession of popery." + </p> + <p> + "Very unlike indeed!" said Fleda, endeavouring to understand what Mr. + Carleton was saying to her about wood strawberries and hautbois. + </p> + <p> + "Will you allow that, Carleton?" + </p> + <p> + "What, my lord?" + </p> + <p> + "A rival banner to float alongside of St. George's?" + </p> + <p> + '"The flags are friendly, my lord." + </p> + <p> + "Hum--just now,--they may seem so.--Has your little standard-bearer + anything of a rebellious disposition?" + </p> + <p> + "Not against any lawful authority, I hope," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Then there is hope for you, Mr. Carleton, that you will be able to + prevent the introduction of mischievous doctrines." + </p> + <p> + "For shame, Lord Peterborough!" said his wife,--"what atrocious + suppositions you are making. I am blushing, I am sure, for your want of + discernment." + </p> + <p> + "Why--yes--" said his lordship, looking at another face whose blushes were + more unequivocal,--"it may seem so--there is no appearance of anything + untoward, but she is a woman after all. I will try her. Mrs. Carleton, + don't you think with my Lady Peterborough that in the present nineteenth + century women ought to stand more on that independent footing from which + lordly monopoly has excluded them?" + </p> + <p> + The first name Fleda thought belonged to another person, and her downcast + eyelids prevented her seeing to whom it was addressed. It was no matter, + for any answer was anticipated. + </p> + <p> + "The boast of independence is not engrossed by the boldest footing, my + lord." + </p> + <p> + "She has never considered the subject," said Lady Peterborough. + </p> + <p> + "It is no matter," said his lordship. "I must respectfully beg an answer + to my question." + </p> + <p> + The silence made Fleda look up. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you think that the rights of the weak ought to be on a perfect + equality with those of the strong?" + </p> + <p> + "The rights of the weak <i>as such</i>--yes, my lord." + </p> + <p> + The gentlemen smiled; the ladies looked rather puzzled. + </p> + <p> + "I have no more to say, Mr. Carleton," said his lordship, "but that we + must make an Englishwoman of her!" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid she will never be a perfect cure," said Mr. Carleton smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I conceive it might require peculiar qualities in the physician,--but I + do not despair. I was telling her of some of your doings this morning, and + happy to see that they met with her entire disapproval." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carleton did not even glance towards Fleda and made no answer, but + carelessly gave the conversation another turn; for which she thanked him + unspeakably. + </p> + <p> + There was no other interruption of any consequence to the well-bred flow + of talk and kindliness of manner on the part of all the company, that put + Fleda as much as possible at her ease. Still she did not realize anything, + and yet she did realize it so strongly that her woman's heart could not + rest till it bad eased itself in tears. The superbly appointed table at + which she sat,--her own, though Mrs. Carleton this morning presided,--the + like of which she had not seen since she was at Carleton before; the + beautiful room with its arrangements, bringing back a troop of + recollections of that old time; all the magnificence about her, instead of + elevating sobered her spirits to the last degree. It pressed home upon her + that feeling of responsibility, of the change that come over her; and + though beneath it all very happy, Fleda hardly knew it, she longed so to + be alone and to cry. One person's eyes, however little seemingly observant + of her, read sufficiently well the unusual shaded air of her brow and her + smile. But a sudden errand of business called him abroad immediately after + breakfast. + </p> + <p> + The ladies seized the opportunity to carry Fleda up and introduce her to + her dressing-room and take account of Lady Peterborough's commission, and + ladies and ladies' maids soon formed a busy committee of dress and + decorations. It did not enliven Fleda, it wearied her, though she forgave + them the annoyance in gratitude for the pleasure they took in looking at + her. Even the delight her eye had from the first minute she saw it, in the + beautiful room, and her quick sense of the carefulness with which it had + been arranged for her, added to the feeling with which she was oppressed; + she was very passive in the hands of her friends. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of all this the housekeeper was called in and formally + presented, and received by Fleda with a mixture of frankness and + bashfulness that caused Mrs. Fothergill afterwards to pronounce her "a + lady of a very sweet dignity indeed." + </p> + <p> + "She is just such a lady as you might know my master would have fancied," + said Mr. Spenser. + </p> + <p> + "And what kind of a lady is that?" said Mrs. Fothergill. + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Spenser was too wise to enter into any particulars and merely + informed Mrs. Fothergill that she would know in a few days. + </p> + <p> + "The first words Mrs. Carleton said when Mr. Carleton got home," said the + old butler,--"she put both her hands on his arms and cried out, 'Guy, I am + delighted with her!'" + </p> + <p> + "And what did <i>he</i> say?" said Mrs. Fothergill. + </p> + <p> + "He!" echoed Mr. Spenser in a tone of indignant intelligence,--"what + should <i>he</i> say?--He didn't say anything; only asked where she was, I + believe." + </p> + <p> + In the midst of silks, muslins and jewels Mr. Carleton found Fleda still + on his return; looking pale and even sad, though nobody but himself + through her gentle and grateful bearing would have discerned it. He took + her out of the hands of the committee and carried her down to the little + library, adjoining the great one, but never thrown open,--<i>his</i> room, + as it was called, where more particularly art and taste had accumulated + their wealth of attractions. + </p> + <p> + "I remember this very well," said Fleda. "This beautiful room!" + </p> + <p> + "It is as free to you as to me, Elfie; and I never gave the freedom of it + to any one else." + </p> + <p> + "I will not abuse it," said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "I hope not, my dear Elfie," said he smiling,--"for the room will want + something to me now when you are not in it; and a gift is abused that is + not made free use of." + </p> + <p> + A large and deep bay window in the room looked upon the same green lawn + and fir wood with the windows of the library. Like those this casement + stood open, and Mr. Carleton leading Fleda there remained quietly beside + her for a moment, watching her face which his last words had a little + moved from its outward composure. Then, gently and gravely as if she had + been a child, putting his arm round her shoulders and drawing her to him + he whispered, + </p> + <p> + "My dear Elfie,--you need not fear being misunderstood--" + </p> + <p> + Fleda started and looked up to see what he meant. But his face said it so + plainly, in its perfect intelligence and sympathy with her, that her + barrier of self-command and reserve was all broken down; and hiding her + head in her hands upon his breast she let the pent-up burden upon her + heart come forth in a flood of unrestrained tears. She could not help + herself. And when she would fain have checked them after the first burst + and bidden them, according to her habit to wait another time, it was out + of her power; for the same kindness and tenderness that had set them a + flowing, perhaps witting of her intent, effectually hindered its + execution. He did not say a single word, but now and then a soft touch of + his hand or of his lips upon her brow, in its expressive tenderness would + unnerve all her resolution and oblige her to have no reserve that time at + least in letting her secret thoughts and feelings be known, as far as + tears could tell them. She wept, at first in spite of herself and + afterwards in the very luxury of indulged feeling; till she was as quiet + as a child, and the weight of oppression was all gone. Mr. Carleton did + not move, nor speak, till she did. + </p> + <p> + "I never knew before how good you were, Mr. Carleton," said Fleda raising + her head at length, as soon as she dared, but still held fast by that kind + arm. + </p> + <p> + "What new light have you got on the subject?" said he, smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Fleda, trying as hard as ever did sunshine to scatter the + remnants of a cloud,--it was a bright cloud too by this time, "I have + always heard that men cannot endure the sight of a woman's tears." + </p> + <p> + "You shall give me a reward then. Elfie." + </p> + <p> + "What reward?" said Fleda. + </p> + <p> + "Promise me that you will shed them nowhere else." + </p> + <p> + "Nowhere else?--" + </p> + <p> + "But here--in my arms." + </p> + <p> + "I don't feel like crying any more now," said Fleda evasively;--at + least."--for drops were falling rather fast again,--" not sorrowfully." + </p> + <p> + "Promise me, Elfie," said Mr. Carleton after a pause. + </p> + <p> + But Fleda hesitated still and looked dubious. + </p> + <p> + "Come!--" he said smiling,--"you know you promised a little while ago that + you would have a particular regard to my wishes." + </p> + <p> + Fleda's cheeks answered that appeal with sufficient brightness, but she + looked down and said demurely, + </p> + <p> + "I am sure one of your wishes is that I should not say anything rashly." + </p> + <p> + "Well?--" + </p> + <p> + "One cannot answer for such wilful things as tears." + </p> + <p> + "And for such wilful things as men?" said he smiling. + </p> + <p> + But Fleda was silent. + </p> + <p> + "Then I will alter the form of my demand. Promise me that no shadow of + anything shall come over your spirit that you do not let me either share + or remove." + </p> + <p> + There was no trifling in the tone,--full of gentleness as it was; there + could be no evading its requisition. But the promise demanded was a grave + one. Fleda was half afraid to make it. She looked up, in the very way he + had seen her do when a child, to find a warrant for her words before she + uttered them. But the full, clear, steadfast eye into which she looked for + two seconds, authorized as well as required the promise; and hiding her + face again on his breast Fleda gave it, amid a gush of tears every one of + which was illumined with heart-sunshine. + </p> + <p class="smallcaps"> + The End. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Queechy, Susan Warner +(AKA Elizabeth Wetherell) + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK QUEECHY *** + +This file should be named 8874-h.htm or 8874-h.zip + +Produced by Distributed Proofreaders + +Project Gutenberg eBooks are often created from several printed +editions, all of which are confirmed as Public Domain in the US +unless a copyright notice is included. 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