He is waiting, probably, to
inquire after you. I told him you had long been an invalid. Will you
see him?"
"I would rather not, darling, unless you wish it. Go down a while, and
if he must come up, let me know first."
Slowly she descended the steps, passed through the long hall, and
entered the drawing-room, advancing with quiet dignity to welcome the
distinguished representative.
He listened a moment to her words, so calm and cold; then, clasping
her in his arms, he drew her down beside him, and said:
"Oh, my darling! thank Heaven, I find you still Constance Lyle!"
She tried to draw herself away from his side, but his arms held her
tightly, and his hand clasped hers. His eyes were gazing so earnestly
and lovingly in hers, as in by-gone days. She tried to speak, but he
said:
"Nay, my beautiful love, you must not move or speak until you have
heard me through, and then I shall await your verdict. I know you
think it so strange that I have not been to you before. I have been
the victim of a miserable mistake. The day I entered this city I
walked past here to catch a glimpse of you, perhaps. As I neared the
door, I beheld seated on the steps that pretty little girl that I
afterward saw with you.
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