Page:The Semi-attached Couple.djvu/173

 to cross, too. Well, I think it much the worst arrangement that could have been made. And have you actually consented to it? "

"Very nearly. I said I would first consult you; but I do not see how I can well refuse."

"And when are you to go? "

"Immediately; I must be off in less than a week if I am to be of any use. That does not leave much time for preparation." He looked wistfully at her, for her words had been so vague, he was still in doubt as to her intentions.

"No time at all. In every respect it is a bad scheme, except, to be sure, in one point,"—and she brightened as she spoke. "If it is to take place so soon, our company must all leave us directly."

"Of course."

"Well, then, I should be very dull here without you; and I should naturally pass the six weeks of your absence with my own people. Mamma writes me word that Sophia is very unwell and wants to see me; and, indeed, when you came in, I was just on the point of sending for you to ask when we could go to her."

"Go now—this afternoon, if you like. Please yourself."

Helen looked at him, and saw that one of his blackest clouds had come over his countenance. She went on in a hurried voice:

"No, not now; if you are to go so soon, I should like to be with you till the last moment," and she took his hand as she spoke.

"I can go before the end of the week if it will be any convenience to you "; and he coldly withdrew his hand.

"I have half a mind to go up to town with Lady Portmore and Miss Forrester the day after to-morrow."

"Mary is going with me to Eskdale—at least, mamma asks her to come."