Page:Eliot - Felix Holt, the Radical, vol. III, 1866.djvu/49

Rh it appears she is not likely to have been informed yet; and you will invite her to visit you here at once, that all scandal, air hatching of law-mischief, may be avoided, and the thing may be brought to an amicable conclusion." "It seems almost incredible—extraordinary—a girl in her position," said Mrs Transome, with difficulty. It would have seemed the bitterest humiliating penance if another sort of suffering had left any room in her heart.

"I assure you she is a lady; I saw her when I was canvassing, and was amazed at the time. You will be quite struck with her. It is no indignity for you to invite her."

"Oh," said Mrs Transome, with low-toned bitterness, " I must put up with all things as they are determined for me. When shall we go?"

"Well," said Harold, looking at his watch, "it is hardly two yet. We could really go to-day, when you have lunched. It is better to lose no time. I'll order the carriage."

"Stay," said Mrs Transome, making a desperate effort. "There is plenty of time. I shall not lunch. I have a word to say."

Harold withdrew his hand from the bell, and leaned against the mantelpiece to listen.