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Rh honour of your presence; but I suppose you do not wish to remain in the churchyard?" Francesca followed where he led, without uttering a word. "I have been somewhat remiss in courtesy," said he, suddenly; "doubtless, Mr. Evetyn has bidden guests to his bridal festivities? It is hard that there should be neither bridegroom nor bride to receive them. Perhaps you would wish to make his apologies? There is no lack of deer-stalkers in these glades to assemble a goodly company in honour of an outlaw's wedding."

Still she walked by his side, unanswering. Now, he had expected her to weep, and was quite angry that she did not. He had prepared divers little speeches about women and crocodiles' tears, and it was very provoking to have them wasted. However, he continued. Talking is to some the relief that crying is to others; and taunts and reproaches brought them midway into the forest. Had the reproaches been more biting, or the taunts more keen, Buckingham might have been amused by them; but, such as they were, they proved exceedingly tiresome; and weariness took the form of pity for Francesca. "He will certainly talk the poor girl to death," thought he; and he looked sympathisingly on her pale and melancholy countenance. "Lady Francesca," he said at length,