Beatrice had watched each
day begin and end until her heart grew faint with fear; she was
as far as ever from finding herself freed from Hugh Fernely.
Lord Airlie, on his arrival, was startled by the change in her
brilliant face. Yet he was flattered by it. He thought how
intensely she must love him if his absence could affect her so
strongly. He kissed her pale face over and over again, declaring
that he would not leave her any more--no one else knew how to
take care of her.
They were all pleased to welcome him for every one liked Lord
Airlie, and the family circle did not seem complete without him.
That very night he had an interview with Lord Earle and besought
him to allow the marriage to take place as soon as possible. He
had been miserable away from Beatrice, he declared, and he
thought she looked pale and grave. Would Lord Earle be willing
to say November, or perhaps the latter end of October?
"My daughter must arrange the time herself" said Lord Earle;
"whatever day she chooses will meet with my approval."
Lord Airlie went to the drawing room where he had left Beatrice,
and told her Lord Earle's answer; she smiled, but he saw the
white lips quiver as she did so.
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