Page:The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (emended first edition), Volume 1.djvu/60

48 are dark and damp, and Arthur, I fear, is too delicate to risk exposure to their influence with impunity. We must defer the enjoyment of your hospitality, till the return of longer days and warmer nights."

Rose, now, at a hint from my mother, produced a decanter of wine, with accompaniments of glasses and cake, from the cupboard under the oak sideboard, and the refreshment was duly presented to the guests. They both partook of the cake, but obstinately refused the wine, in spite of their hostess's hospitable attempts to force it upon them. Arthur, especially shrank from the ruby nectar as if in terror and disgust, and was ready to cry when urged to take it.

"Never mind, Arthur," said his mamma, "Mrs. Markham thinks it will do you good, as you were tired with your walk; but she will not oblige you to take it;—I dare say you will do very well without. He detests the very sight of wine," she added, "and the smell of it