"
Carefully and quietly Dora listened to Lady Earle's plans and
arrangements--how her children were to go to Earlescourt and
take the position belonging to them. Mrs. Vyvian was to go with
them and remain until Lord Earle returned. Until then they were
not to be introduced into society; it would take some time to
accustom them to so great a change. When Lord Earl returned he
could pursue what course he would.
"He will be so proud of them!" said Lady Earle. "I have never
seen a girl so spirited and beautiful as Beatrice, nor one so
fair and gentle as Lillian. Oh, Dora, I should be happy if you
were going with us."
Never once during the few days of busy preparation did Dora's
proud courage give way. The girls at first refused to leave her;
they exhausted themselves in conjectures as to her continued
residence at the Elms, and were forced to be satisfied with Lady
Earle's off-hand declaration that their mother could not endure
any but a private life.
"Mamma has a title now," said Beatrice, wonderingly; "why will
she not assume it?"
"Your mother's tastes are simple and plain," replied Lady Earle.
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