Into her false peace she
snuggled and lay still; and the honest man, loving her to be there, let
her be.
Presently she opened her weary eyes, looked up, and smiled, then snuggled
again. He led her to his office chair, and took her on his knee. "Lie
here, my bird, make your pillow of my shoulder. That's more comfortable, I
hope. Why, Sancie, you've not been here, in my arms, since you hurt your
foot at Sidmouth deuce knows how long ago--and I kissed it well! Do you
remember that? Ah, but I do. I'm a foolish old chap, with nothing else to
think about but my girls. And you're the only one left--the only one,
Sancie. And I always loved you best--and behaved as if you were the worst
--God forgive me!" She put her hand up and touched his cheek. "Hush,
dearest. We don't talk about that."
"No, no, my darling--that's over, thank God. You have forgiven me, I know
--my great-hearted Sancie. Now, if you feel stronger, tell me all your
troubles." She murmured what follows.
"He came to see me. Nevile came."
"I know, my love. Your mother told me."
"She wrote to me. Rather a dreadful letter. She's on his side--she talks
about his position in the county."
"I daresay, I daresay.
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