Page:The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (emended first edition), Volume 3.djvu/105

Rh. If you intend to reform, invoke God's blessing, his mercy, and his aid; not his curse."

"God help me, then—for I'm sure I need it—Where's Milicent?"

"She's there, just coming in with her sister."

He stepped out at the glass door, and went to meet them. I followed at a little distance. Somewhat to his wife's astonishment, he lifted her off from the ground and saluted her with a hearty kiss and a strong embrace; then, placing his two hands on her shoulders, he gave her, I suppose, a sketch of the great things he meant to do, for she suddenly threw her arms round him and burst into tears, exclaiming,—

"Do, do, Ralph—we shall be so happy! How very, very good you are!"

"Nay, not I" said he, turning her round and pushing her towards me. "Thank her; it's her doing."

Milicent flew to thank me, overflowing with gratitude. I disclaimed all title to it, telling