THE WIDOW BARNABY
BY FRANCES TROLLOPE
CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION TO THE FAMILY OF THE FUTURE MRS BARNABY—FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES—MATERNAL LOVE—PREPARATIONS FOR A FETE
Miss Martha Compton and Miss Sophia Compton were some fiveandtwenty years ago the leading beauties of the pretty town of Silverton in Devonshire
The elder of these ladies is the person I propose to present to my readers as the heroine of my story but ere she is placed before them in the station assigned her in my titlepage it will be necessary to give some slight sketch of her early youth and also such brief notice of her family as may suffice to make the subsequent events of her life and the persons connected with them more clearly understood
The Reverend Josiah Compton the father of my heroine and her sister was an exceedingly worthy man though more distinguished for the imperturbable tranquillity of his temper than either for the brilliance of his talents or the profundity of his learning He was the son of a small landed proprietor at no great distance from Silverton who farmed his own longdescended patrimony of three hundred acres with skilful and unwearied industry and whose chief ambition in life had been to see his only son Josiah privileged to assume the prefix of reverend before his name After three trials and two failures this blessing was at last accorded and his son ordained by the help of a very goodnatured examining chaplain of the then Bishop of Exeter
This rustic laborious and very happy Squire lived to see his son installed Curate of Silverton and blessed with the hand of the dashing Miss Martha Wisett who if her pedigree was not of such respectable antiquity as that of her bridegroom had the glory of being accounted the handsomest girl at the Silverton balls and if her race could not count themselves among the landed gentry she enjoyed all the consideration that a fortune of one thousand pounds could give to atone for any mortification which the accident of having a cidevant tallowchandler for her parent might possibly occasion
But notwithstanding all the pride and pleasure which the Squire took in the prosperity of this successful son the old man could never be prevailed upon by all Mrs Josiahs admirable reasonings on the rights of primogeniture to do otherwise than divide his three hundred acres of freehold in equal portions between the Reverend Josiah Compton his son and Elizabeth Compton spinster his daughter
It is highly probable that had this daughter been handsome or even healthy the proud old yeoman might have been tempted to reduce her portion to the charge of a couple of thousand pounds or so upon the estate but she was sickly deformed and motherless and the tenderness of the fathers heart conquered the desire which might otherwise have been strong within him to keep together the fields which for so many generations had given credit and independence to his race To leave his poor little Betsy in any degree dependent upon her fine sisterinlaw was in short beyond his strength so the home croft and the long fourteen the three linny crofts the five worthies and the tenacre clover bit together with the farmhouse and all its plenishing and one half of the live and dead farming stock were bequeathed to Elizabeth Compton and her heirs for ever—not perhaps without some hope on the part of her good father that her heirs would be those of her reverend brother also and so he died with as easy a conscience as ever rocked a father to sleep
But Mrs Josiah Compton when she became Mrs Compton with just one half of the property she anticipated waxed exceeding wroth and though her firm persuasion that the hideous little crookback could not live for ever greatly tended to console and soothe her it was not without very constant reflections on the necessity of keeping on good terms with her lest she might make as unnatural a will as her father did before her that she was enabled to resist the temptation of abusing her openly every time they met a temptation increased perhaps by the consciousness that Miss Betsy held her and all her race in the most sovereign contempt
Betsy Compton was an odd little body with some vigour of mind and frame too notwithstanding her deformity and as the defects in her constitution shewed themselves more in her inability to endure fatigue than in any pain or positive suffering she was likely to enjoy her comfortable independence considerably longer and considerably more than her sister thought it at all reasonable in Providence to permit
The little lady arranged her affairs and settled her future manner of life within a very few weeks after her fathers death and that without consulting brother sister or any one else yet it may be doubted if she could have done it better had she called all the parish to counsel
She first selected the two pleasantest rooms in the house for her bedroom and sittingroom and then skilfully marked out the warmest and prettiest corner of the garden overlooking some of her own rich pastures with the fine old grey tower of Silverton in the distance as the place of her bower her flowergarden and her little apiary She then let the remainder of her house and the whole of her wellconditioned dairyfarm for three hundred pounds ayear with as much waiting upon as she might require as much cream butter milk and eggs as she should use and as much fruit and vegetables as her tenants could spare—together with half a days labour every week for her tiny flowergarden
She had no difficulty in finding a tenant upon these terms the son of a wealthy farmer in the neighbourhood had a bride ready as soon as he could find a farmhouse to put her into and a sufficient dairy upon which to display her welllearned science Miss Betsys homestead was the very thing for them The brides portion was five hundred pounds for the purchase of the late Squire Comptons furniture and the half of his fine stock of cows c c the which was paid down in Bank of England notes within ten minutes after the lease was signed and being carefully put into the funds by Miss Betsy became as she said to herself but to nobody else a sort of nest egg which as she should only draw out the interest to lay it in again in the shape of principal would go on increasing till she might happen to want it so that upon the whole the style and scale of her expenses being taken into consideration it would have been difficult to find any lady of any rank more really and truly independent than Miss Betsy
She felt this and enjoyed it greatly Now and then indeed as she remembered her old father and his thoughtful care for her her sharp black eyes would twinkle through a tear but there was more softness than sorrow in this and a more contented or in truth a more happy spinster might have been sought in vain far and near notwithstanding her humped back
Far different was the case of those who inherited the other moiety of the estate called Compton Basett The reverend Josiah indeed was himself too gentle and kindhearted to feel anger against his father or a single particle of illwill towards his sister yet was he as far from sharing her peace and contentment as his disappointed and vituperative wife How indeed can any man hope to find peace and contentment even though he has passed the rubicon of ordination and has been happy enough to marry the favourite flirt of ten successive regiments if he be never permitted to close his eyes in sleep till he has been scolded for an hour and never suffered to wake at any signal save the larum of his ladys tongue
It was in vain that day and night he continued submissively to reiterate the phrases to be sure my dear certainly there is no doubt of it he ought not to have done so my love you are quite right my dear and the like All this and a great deal more submission and kindness was in vain Mrs Comptons complainings ceased not and what was harder still she always contrived by some ingenious mode of reasoning to prove that all the mischief which had happened was wholly and solely her husbands fault
Mean while the two little girls sent to bless this union of masculine softness and feminine hardness grew on and prospered as far as animal health went just as much as if their father were not taking to smoking and hot toddy as a consolation for all his sorrows or their mother to a system of visiting and gossiping which left her no time had she possessed the talent to do more for their advantage than take care that they had enough to eat They were very fine on Sundays or whenever their ma expected company and not too dirty at other times to pass muster at the dayschool at which they were destined to receive all the education which fate intended for them
Miss Betsy little as she admired her sisterinlaw and dearly as she loved her sunny garden in summer and her snug chimneycorner in winter now and then left both to pass a few hours in Silverton for she loved her brother despite the weakness of character which appeared to her keen faculties to be something very nearly approaching fatuity and being as well aware as the prettiest young lady in the town could be that she was herself totally unfit to be married she looked to his children with the interest with which human beings are apt to consider those who must become the possessors of all they leave behind
For many years Miss Betsy looked forward with hope for one of two greatly desired events That most coveted was the death of her sisterinlaw the other and for many years the most probable was the birth of a male heir to her brother
But time wore away and both were abandoned Had it been otherwise had Miss Betsy seen a male Compton ready to unite in his own person all the acquired and inherited honours of his twaddling father and all the daily increasing hoard that she was herself accumulating her temper of mind would probably have been very different As it was she looked upon the little girls as much more belonging to their mother than to their father and the steady thriftiness which had it been pursued for the sake of a nephew would have had some mixture of generous devotion in it now that its result could only benefit nieces by no means very dearly loved seemed to threaten the danger of her becoming saving for mere savings sake
There was however in the heart of Miss Betsy much to render such an incrustation of character difficult but there was also much to displease her in those who alone could claim her kindness on the plea of kindred so that the most acute observer might have been at a loss to say what tone her vexed temper might finally take towards them
Nevertheless the two young sisters at the respective ages of fifteen and seventeen were as forward and handsome girls as ever drew the attention of a country town They were equally handsome perhaps though very unlike Martha was tall darkeyed freshcoloured boldspirited and believed in her heart that she was to be called my lady and to drive in a coach and four Sophia the younger girl was less tall and less brightcoloured her hair was light and her eyes though their lashes were black were of the softest grey Her chief beauty however consisted in a complexion of great delicacy and a mouth and teeth that could hardly be looked at without pleasure even by cross Miss Betsy herself
Miss Martha Compton was a young lady endowed with a vast variety of brilliant talents She could dance every night and very nearly all night long though she had only learned for six weeks she could make pasteboard cardboxes and screens work satinstitch and like most other clever young ladies bred in a country town abounding with officers quote the oft profaned lyrics of Tom Moore
The reputation of her sister for talents rested on a basis much less extended it would indeed have been a false concord to talk of her talents for she had but one in the world Untaught and unconscious of the power nature had bestowed she sang with the sweet shrillness of the lark and had science been set to work upon her for six months Silverton might have boasted one of the finest native voices in the kingdom
Mrs Compton was proud of both her daughters and however difficult it might be to procure shoes and gloves out of an income of somewhat less than four hundred pounds ayear the winter balls of Silverton never opened till the Miss Comptons were ready to stand up
Had she been a little less brutally cross to her poor husband Mrs Compton would really at this time have been almost interesting from the persevering industry and ingenuity with which she converted the relics of her own maiden finery into fashionable dancingdresses for her girls And on the whole the Miss Comptons were astonishingly welldressed for besides the abovementioned hoards every article of the family consumption was made to contribute to the elegance of their appearance Brown sugar was substituted for white at the morning and the evening meal the butchers bills were kept down wonderfully by feeding the family upon tripe twice aweek the homebrewed was lowered till the saving in malt for one year bought two glazed calico slips four pair of long white gloves and a bunch of carnations for Martha and of lilies for Sophia Nothing in short was overlooked or forgotten that could be made to distil one drop of its value towards decorating the beauties of Silverton
Few subjects have furnished more various or more beautiful images for the poets pen than maternal fondness From the heartstirring fury of the dauntless lioness when her young ones are threatened down to the patient hen redbreast as she sits abrood lonely fasting and apart from all the joys of birdhood awaiting the coming life of her loved nestlings in short from one extremity of animal creation to the other volumes of tender anecdotes have been collected illustrative of this charming feature of female nature and yet much still remains to be said of it Where is the author who has devoted his power of looking into the human heart to the task of describing the restless activity the fond watchfulness the unwearied industry of a proud poor tender mother when labouring to dress her daughters for a ball Who has told of the turnings the dyings the ironings the darnings that have gone to make misses of ten pounds ayear pinmoney look as smart as the squanderer of five hundred Yet such things are the light of morning never steals into the eyes of mortals to spur them on again to deeds of greatness after nightly rest without awaking many hundred mothers whose principal business in life is to stitch flounce pucker and embroider for their daughters All this is very beautiful I speak not of the stitching flouncing puckering and embroidering but of the devotion of the maternal hearts dedicated to it All this is very beautiful yet never has gifted hand been found to bring forth in delicate penciling traits such as these with half the study that has been often bestowed on the painting a cobweb This is unjust
Great however as were Mrs Comptons exertions for the establishment of her daughters by the ways and means above described her maternal efforts were not confined to these for their sakes she on one occasion armed herself for an enterprise which notwithstanding the resolute tone of her character cost her some struggles This desperate undertaking which was nothing less than the penetrating to the rarelyinvaded retreat of Miss Betsy for the purpose of asking her to give the girls a little money was occasioned by a great event in the annals of Silverton
The officers of the —— regiment a detachment of which had been quartered there for a twelvemonth gallantly determined to give the neighbouring families a fête before they left the town in return for the hospitalities they had received I am writing of the year 1813 a period when the palmy days of country quarters still existed and many may still remember the tender sensibilities excited by a departing regiment and the gay hopes generated by an arriving one Either of these events were wellcalculated to chase the composure of spirits arising from the unbroken routine of ordinary existence, and it may easily be imagined that upon an occasion where the effects of both were brought to act upon the hearts and souls of a set of provincial fair ones at the same moment the emotions produced must have been of no ordinary nature
Such was the case at the fête given by the first battalion of the —— regiment on their leaving Silverton for as it chanced that they were to be replaced by the second battalion of the same corps the compliment intended for the neighbourhood was so arranged as to be shared by the officers who were about to be introduced to it and thus an immense mass of joys and sorrows regrets and hopes tears and smiles all came into action at once and volumes might be filled in the most interesting manner solely in describing the states of mind produced in the most charming portion of the inhabitants of twentyseven of the principal houses of Silverton and its vicinity
It was so quite unlike any other party that ever was given as Mrs Compton well observed in talking over the matter with her daughters that it was downright impossible not to make some difference in the way of preparing for it
Different I believe it is different exclaimed Miss Martha it is the first ball we ever showed ourselves at by daylight and I should like to know how we that always lead everything are to present ourselves in broad sunshine with dyed pink muslin and tarnished silver
You cant and you shant replied her affectionate mother if I sell the silver spoons and buy plated ones instead I will not have my girls disgraced in the face of two regiments at once But upon my life girls money is not to be had for the asking for truth it is and no lie that there is not above twenty pounds in the bank to last till Michaelmas and the butcher has not been paid these five months But dont look glum Martha Shall I tell you what I have made up my mind to do
Carry a plate round the messroom mamma when they are all assembled perhaps replied the lively young lady and if you asked for aid for the sake of our bright eyes it is likely enough you might get something but if it is not that what is it mother
Why I will walk over to Compton Basett Martha and ask the ramshorn your aunt for five pounds outright and tell her into the bargain what it is for and stingy and skinflint as she is I cant say that I shall be much surprised if she gives it for she is as proud as shes ugly and it wont be difficult to make her see this time that I am asking more for credits sake than for pleasure
Go mother by all means replied the young lady with a sneer that seemed to indicate despair of any aid from Miss Betsy All I know is that she never gave me anything since I was born but a bible and prayerbook and it dont strike me as very likely shell begin now Set off however by all manner of means and if you come back emptyhanded Ill tell you what my scheme shall be
Tell me now Martha said the mother Its no joke I can tell you striding over the hill this broiling day I dont want to go for nothing I promise you Tell us your scheme girl at once
Why if I was you mother I would go to Smiths shop and tell him confidentially that I wanted a little more credit and that everything would be sure to be settled at Christmas
That wont do Martha Compton Your father has given him a bill already for thirty pounds due in November and it is a chance if it gets honoured I promise you Smith knows too much about our money matters to be caught napping
Well then set off mother Id offer to go with you only I know that Captain Tate will be sure to be walking on the Hatherton Road and I shouldnt wonder yet if he was to come out with a proposal
Oh never mind me child I can go alone and thats what you cant do my dear You must take Sophy with you mind that and dont get talked of just as the new set are coming in
Nay for that matter Sophy will be as likely to meet Willoughby as I shall be to meet Tate so there is no fear I should have to go alone
Well take care of yourselves and dont let the sun get to tan your necks mind that
Having given these parting injunctions Mrs Compton set forth upon her expedition the result of which shall be given in the next chapter
CHAPTER II
A SISTERLY VISIT AND A CHEERFUL RECEPTION—THE RETREAT OF A RURAL HEIRESS—INTERESTING CONVERSATION—AN UNSATISFACTORY LETTER
Mrs Compton said no more than the truth when she declared that it was no joke to walk from Silverton to Compton Basett in the dogdays A long shadeless hill was to be mounted several pastures beautifully open to the sun with all their various stiles were to be conquered and finally a rough stony lane that might have crippled the hoof of a jackass was to be painfully threaded before she could find herself at Miss Betsys door Yet all this she undertook and all this she performed strengthened by the noble energy of maternal love
On reaching at length the comfortable wellconditioned abode of her husbands rural ancestors she so far suspended her steadfast purpose as to permit herself to drop into a deliciously cool woodbinecovered seat in the porch and there indulged the greatlyneeded luxuries of panting and fanning herself at her ease for a few minutes before she set to work on the stony heart of the spinster
Just as she was beginning to think that it was time her rest should end and her important labour begin a curlyheaded little girl of some eight or nine years old came from the house and very civilly asked her What she pleased to want
I want to see Miss Betsy cant you go to her my little girl and tell her that her sister Mrs Compton is come to pay her a visit
Yes maam replied the child there she is you can see her if you please to look this way there at the end of the long walk where you see the bit of grassplat and the two elm trees Miss Betsy always sits in her bower in a sunshiny morning watching the bees
Well trot away to tell her Mrs Compton is coming and then she wont be surprised you know
The child did as she was bid tripping lightly along a wellkept gravel walk which led to the grassplat while Mrs Compton followed with sedater step behind
How the announcement of her arrival was received by the little spinster she could not judge though she was at no great distance when it was made but her messenger having entered beneath the flowery shelter of Miss Betsys bower both parties were effectually concealed from her sight and despite the profound contempt she constantly expressed for the little fright she paused at some paces from the entrance to await the childs return
The interval was not long but though her little envoy speedily reappeared she brought no message and silently pointing to the bower ran back towards the house
Mrs Compton looked after her as if she had rather she would have remained but she called her courage of which she had usually a very sufficient stock to aid her in meeting the ugly little bodys queer ways and marched forward to the encounter
A few steps brought her to the front of Miss Betsys bower and there she saw the still happy heiress seated on a bench which though it might upon occasion hold two persons had nevertheless very much the comfortable air of an armchair with a last years new novel on a little table before her a subscription to a library at Exeter being one of her very few expensive indulgences
Miss Betsys dress was always as precisely neat and nice as that of a quaker and on the present occasion no bonnet concealed the regular plaiting of her snowwhite muslin cap which closely fitting round her pale but intelligent features was so peculiarly becoming that her visitor muttered in her heart She can dress herself up nasty crooked little thing and we shall soon see if she has generosity enough to make her nieces look half as smart
Good morning to you sister Betsy it was thus she began the difficult colloquy that she was come to hold You look charming well today with your beautiful cap and your pretty arbour and your book and your armchair and all so very snug and comfortable Ah goodness me nobody knows but those who have tried what a much finer thing it is to be single than married
Did you come all the way from Silverton Mrs Compton to tell me that said the lady of the bower pointing to a stool that stood at the entrance
Why no sister Betsy I cant say I did replied Mrs Compton seating herself I am come upon an errand not over agreeable I assure you—neither more nor less than to talk of your poor brothers troubles and difficulties and what is worst of all I dont feel over sure that you will care anything about it
And what makes you think that Mrs Compton said Miss Betsy in a sort of cheerful clear voice that certainly did not evince any painful acuteness of sympathy
How can I think that you care much about him or any of us sister Betsy since tis months and months that you have never come near us I am sure we often talk of you and wish you would be a little more sociable
That is exceedingly obliging Mrs Compton replied Miss Betsy in the same cheering happy tone of voice and I should be very wrong not to oblige you if I could fancy that my doing so could be of any real use or service But to tell you the truth I suspect that my poor brother likes to have a better dinner when I am at table than when I am not and if alls true that gossips tell about his butchers bill that can be neither right nor convenient and as for you Mrs Compton and the young ladies I greatly doubt if my frequent appearance among you would contribute much to your intimacy with the officers
You talk very strangely sister Betsy I am sure I was not thinking of the officers at all but only of how glad we always were to see you
That is very kind indeed replied the provoking spinster in the same happy voice and I assure you that I do believe my brother likes to see me very much and what is more remarkable still I have more than once fancied that my niece Sophy looked rather pleased when I came in
And so did Martha I am sure and so did I sister Betsy you cant deny that then why dont you come to see us oftener
For no reason in the world replied Miss Betsy gaily but because I like to stay at home better
So much the worse for us so much the worse for us sister Betsy If you had been to see us you must have found out what I am now come to tell you and that is that poor dear Josiah is in very great difficulty indeed and though we generally I must say bear all our hardships remarkably well yet just at this time it comes upon us with unbearable severity
Does it indeed Mrs Compton But you have never yet turned your head to look at my bees for my part I can sit and watch them by the hour together if my book is not too interesting careful little fellows It is but just three oclock standing up as she spoke to look out upon a sundial that glittered in the middle of the grassplat but just past three and they are beginning to come home with their work already
Mrs Compton felt what the French call desoutée but she recovered herself and returned to the charge
You are a happy woman sister Betsy said she with nothing to care about but your books and your bees
I am very happy indeed replied the maiden in an accent that well befitted the words and so are my bees too for it is beautiful weather and one can almost see the flowers grow they come on so finely
But I want to talk to you sister Betsy about our troubles You dont know how I slave and fag to make our poor girls look like somebody No Saturday night ever comes that I do not sit up till past midnight striving to make their things decent for Sunday
Do you indeed Mrs Compton I was told that they wore pink bows in their bonnets last Sunday and green the Sunday before but I did not know that you sat up to change them
Change them God bless you I wish that was all I have got to do Why I had to wash those pink ribbons and then dip them in saucer pink and then rub them very nearly dry till my poor arms almost came off and then iron them and then sew in the wire ribbon again and then make them up Ill leave you to judge how much sleep I was likely to get for I could not have the bonnets till after the girls came home from the evening parade where they had been with Mrs Colonel Williamson—they never go to parade without one of the regimental ladies as a chaperon
But why dont the young ladies rub their ribbons a little themselves asked Miss Betsy
Oh that would not answer at all sister Betsy Why that very Saturday night they were at a musical party at Colonel Williamsons and Sophy was the principal lady singer She and that elegant young Willoughby always sing together and the best judges in Silverton say it is as fine as anything in London
Well thats very nice indeed Mrs Compton and I dont suppose she could well rub her ribbons while she was singing
As she said this Miss Betsys eye returned as if drawn by some strong attraction as had been often the case before since the conversation began to the volume that lay open on the little table before her Mrs Compton became desperate and rising from her stool approached the table and boldly closed the book
Upon my word you must hear what I have got to say sister Betsy and leave alone reading for a minute or so while I talk to you of what concerns the honour of your family
The honour of the family said the spinster in an accent of some alarm employing herself however in finding her place again and then putting a mark in it I hope you have got nothing very bad to tell me about the young ladies Mrs Compton
Nothing in the world but good sister Betsy if you will but lend us a helping hand once and away You seem to know all the news and therefore I dare say you have heard that the first battalion of the —— are to go to Plymouth on the seventeenth and that the second battalion are to march into Silverton on the same day so the colonels have agreed that a fête a public breakfast and dancing to the band in tents in a field behind the Spread Eagle shall be given by the officers of the first battalion on the sixteenth and that all or nearly all the officers of the second battalion shall have leave to come forward one days march to join it and be introduced to all the neighbourhood Now just fancy our girls being invited to such a party as this and not having a dress in the world that they can go in Just tell me what you think of this sister Betsy
Not having had much experience in such matters Mrs Compton I really am quite at a loss to guess what it is that young ladies are likely to do in such a case
Dont you think it would be very natural sister Betsy to turn towards some kind generous rich relation and ask their help out of such a strait dont you think this would be natural and right sister Betsy
Yes very natural and right indeed Mrs Compton
Thank God then all our troubles are at an end Dear blessed sister Betsy ten pounds ten pounds will be quite enough for us all and buy a pair of new black stockings for Josiah into the bargain in case he should like to go
Miss Betsy made no reply but drawing the table a little towards her opened her book and began to read
Its a long walk I have to go sister resumed Mrs Compton and I shall be particularly glad to get home so will you have the kindness to give me the money at once
Maam said Miss Betsy looking up with a most innocent expression of countenance
Whatever sum you may be pleased to grant us sister Betsy I beg and entreat you to give me directly
So I would Mrs Compton without a moments delay replied Miss Betsy with the most cheerful goodhumour only I dont intend to give you any money at all
Oh isnt that treachery isnt that cruelty exclaimed the agitated matron wringing her hands Did not you say sister Betsy that it would be the most natural and right thing in the world to ask ones rich relations in such a moment as this
But I never said it would be right to ask me Mrs Compton
But you meant it if you did not say it and that Im sure you cant deny and isnt it hardhearted to disappoint me now
It is a great deal more hardhearted in you Mrs Compton to take upon you to say that I am rich I am a poor crooked ramshorn of a body as you know well enough and I want the comfort and the consolation of all the little countrified indulgences that my good father provided for me by his will You were a beauty Mrs Compton and your daughters are beauties and it must be a great blessing to be a beauty but when God denied me this he gave me a kindhearted father who took care that if I could not have lovers I should have wherewithal to do tolerably well without them and I am not going to fly in the face of Providence or of my father either in order to dress you and your daughters up to please the officers So now Mrs Compton I think you had better go home again
And is this the way you treat your poor brothers children Miss Betsy your own flesh and blood and they poor girls sitting at home in the midst of their faded wornout trumpery and thinking what a disgrace they shall be to the name of Compton in the eyes of all the country if their aunt Betsy wont come forward to help them
Stop a minute Mrs Compton and I will help them in the best manner I can But I must go into my own room first and you may sit here the while
Will you give me a draught of milk sister Betsy said the again sanguine visitor my mouth is perfectly parched
The same little girl who had acted as her usher was again within call and Miss Betsy summoned her by name
Go to your mother Sally and desire her to spare me a pennyworth of fresh milk and here my dear is the money to pay for it Dont drop it Sally
Dear me sister Betsy I dont want to put you to the expense of a penny for me I thought that you had milk allowed you in your rent
And so I have as much as I can use But you are not me Mrs Compton and I make a great point of being just and exact in all ways And now I will go for what I promised you
In about ten minutes the little lady returned with something in her hand that looked like a sealed letter
Please to give this to my nieces Mrs Compton with my good wishes for their well doing and happiness and now if you please I will wish you good morning for I am rather tired of talking Dont open that letter but give it sealed to your daughters Good morning Mrs Compton
Miss Betsy then carefully took up the empty cup which her visitor had drained and returned to the house leaving her sisterinlaw to set off upon her homeward walk in a condition painfully balancing between hope and fear nevertheless she obeyed the command she had received and delivered the letter unopened into the hands of her daughter Martha
That young lady tore it asunder by the vehemence of her haste to obtain information as to what it might contain but Miss Sophia who was of a more gentle nature quietly took the dissevered parts and having carefully placed them side by side upon the table read as follows
Niece Martha and Niece Sophia
Your mother tells me that you are greatly troubled in your minds as to what dresses you shall appear in at a fête or entertainment about to be given by some officers She tells me that your dresses are all very dirty wherefore I hereby strongly advise you never on any account to put them on again till such time as they shall be made clean for it is by no means an idle proverb which says Cleanliness is next to godliness Your mother spoke also of some articles which as she said it would be necessary for you to put on upon this occasion all of which you possessed but in a state greatly faded—which means as I take it that they have lost their colour by exposure to the sun observing what is indeed very obviously true that as this fête or entertainment is to be given by daylight the loss of colour in these articles would if seen at such a time become particularly conspicuous It is therefore her opinion and it is in some sort mine also that the wearing such faded apparel would be exposing yourselves to the unpleasant observations of your richer cleaner and smarter neighbours For which reason my opinion is and I shall be very glad if it prove useful to you that you avoid such a disagreeable adventure by staying at home
I am your aunt
Elizabeth Compton
The effect likely to be produced by such a communication as this upon ladies in the situation of Mrs Compton and her daughters must be too easily divined to require any description but the resolution taken in consequence of it by Miss Martha being rather more out of the common way shall be related in a chapter dedicated to the subject
CHAPTER III
GRAPHIC DESCRIPTION OF THE MOST INTERESTING OF THE SILVERTON LOCALITIES—A RENCONTRE NOT UNEXPECTED—A SUCCESSFUL MANŒUVRE
After uttering a few of those expressions which by a very remarkable sort of superstition most nations of the civilized world hold to be a relief under vexation Miss Martha Compton resumed the bonnet and parasol which she had but recently laid aside and without consulting either mother or sister who were occupied in a reperusal of Miss Betsys epistle she sallied forth and deliberately took her way in a direction leading towards the barracks which were situated close by the turnpike that marked the entrance to the town
Let it not be supposed however that the young lady had any intention of entering within the boundary of that region whose very name is redolent to all provincial female hearts as much of terror as of joy she had no such desperate measure in her thoughts Nor was there need she should for between the curates dwelling and the barrackyard there was a threecornered open space planted with lime trees displaying on one side some of the handsomest shops in the town among which were the pastrycooks and the circulating library both loved resorts of idle men and beneath the trees a welltrodden a very welltrodden walk rarely or never without some lounging red coat to enliven its shade When it is added that in this open space the band played morning and evening all the world will be aware that if not the centre it was decidedly the heart of Silverton for to and from it the stream of human life was ever flowing and all its tenderest affections were nourished there
Being by necessity obliged to pass along this walk or the pavement which skirted the road beside it Miss Martha Compton had no occasion whatever to enter the barrackyard or even to approach its enclosure in order to ensure meeting within the space of any given hour before messtime any officer she might wish to see
There was at this particular epoch much of constancy in the feelings of the fair Martha for though she had parted from Captain Tate only threequarters of an hour before it was Captain Tate and Captain Tate only that she now wished to see Nor did she long wish in vain When her tall person straight ankles and flashing eyes first entered upon the High Street Parade Captain Tate was swallowing the fourth spoonful of a raspberry ice but ere she had reached the middle of it he was by her side
Oh Captain Tate she exclaimed with heightened colour and brightened eyes I did not expect to see you again this morning I thought for certain you would be riding with the colonel or the major or some of them
Ah Miss Martha You dont know what it is to be ordered from quarters where you dont know what it is to be torn heart and soul and body asunder as I shall be in a few days or you would not fancy one should be riding out of town as long as one had the power of staying in it
Oh dear you wont mind it Im sure you will like Plymouth quite as well or perhaps better than you do Silverton we shall all remember you longer than you will remember us
Do not say so do not say so beautiful Martha—you cannot think it
Im sure I do responded the young lady with a very distinct sigh
It was exceedingly wrong in Captain Tate yet all his family and intimate friends declared that he was as worthy a fellow as ever lived—it was exceedingly wrong in him to offer his arm to Miss Martha the moment he heard this sigh for in fact he was engaged to be married to his cousin and the marriage ceremony was only deferred till he should be gazetted as a major yet he scrupled not as I have related to offer his arm saying in a very soft and even tender accent—
I know it is not the etiquette of dear quiet little Silverton for the officers to offer their arms to the young ladies but just at the last at such a moment as this not even the Lord Mayor of the town himself could think it wrong
This reasoning seemed quite satisfactory for Miss Marthas arm was immediately placed within his
It is very true as you say Captain Tate the last time does make a difference But it will be very dull work for you going to Smiths shop with me and I must go there because mamma has sent me
Dull Oh Miss Martha do you really think that any place can be dull to me where you are
How do I know Captain Tate How can any girl know how much or how little
Good heaven we are at the shop already said the Captain interrupting her How such dear moments fly
Miss Martha answered not with her lips but had no scruple to let her fine large eyes reply with very intelligible meaning even though at that very moment she had reached the front of the counter and that Mr Smith himself stood before her begging to know her commands Her arm too still confidingly hung upon that of the stylishlooking young officer and there certainly was both in her attitude and manner something that spoke of an interest and intimacy between them of no common kind
A few more muttered words were exchanged between them before the drapers necessary question met any attention whatever yet in general the Miss Comptons were particularly civil to Mr Smith and at length when she turned to answer him she stopped short before she had well pronounced the words mull muslin saying with an air of laughing embarrassment and withdrawing her arm—
Upon my word and honour you must go Captain Tate I can no more buy anything while you stand talking to me than I can fly
Did not you promise me said the Captain reproachfully and not knowing what in the world to do with himself till it was time to dress
Yes I know I did she replied but the truth is and she pressed both her hands upon her heart and shook her head the thing is impossible You must leave me indeed we shall meet tonight at the Majors you know farewell and she stretched out her hand to him with a smile full of tender meaning
The Captain looked rather puzzled but fervently pressed her hand and saying Au revoir then left the shop The young lady looked after him for a moment and then turning to Mr Smith with a look a sigh and a smile not at all likely to be misunderstood said—
I suppose Mr Smith you have heard the news about me There never was such a place for gossip as Silverton
Mr Smith smilingly protested he had heard nothing whatever about her but added with very satisfactory significance that he rather thought he could guess what the news was and begged very respectfully to wish her joy of it
You are very kind Mr Smith I am sure it is the last thing I expected so much above me in every way And now Mr Smith I want to speak to you about the things that must be bought I am sure you are too neighbourly and too kind to put difficulties in my way It is a very different thing now you know as to what I buy and I am sure you will let me have quite on my own account and nothing at all to do with papa a few things that I want very much at the present moment
Miss Martha looked so handsome and the whole affair seemed so clear and satisfactory that Mr Smith careful tradesman as he was could not resist her appeal and declared he should be happy to serve her with whatever articles she might choose to purchase
Her dark eyes sparkled with the triumph of success she had often felt her own powers of management swelling within her bosom when she witnessed the helpless despondency of her father or listened to the profitless grumbling of her mother upon every new pecuniary pressure that beset them and it is not wonderful if she now believed more firmly than ever that much suffering and embarrassment might very often be spared or greatly alleviated by the judicious exercise of such powers as she felt conscious of possessing
As a proof that her judgment was in some measure commensurate with her skill she determined not to abuse the present opportunity by contracting a debt which it would be quite impossible for her father to pay so notwithstanding all the tempting finery with which the confiding Mr Smith spread the counter she restrained her purchases to such articles as it might really have endangered all their schemes of future conquest to have been without and then took her leave amidst blushes and smiles and with many assurances to the gentlyfacetious shopkeeper that let her be where she would she should never forget his obliging civility
It was a moment of great triumph for Martha when Mr Smiths man arrived and the huge and carefully packed parcel was brought up to the chamber where Mrs Compton and her daughters sat at work
What in the world is this exclaimed the mother seizing upon it Is it possible that her letter was only a joke and that the little fright has actually sent you some dresses at last
It is much more likely I fancy that I have coaxed Mr Smith into giving us a little more credit It can all be paid off by a little and a little at a time you know and at any rate here are some very pretty dresses for the fête besides about three pounds worth of things that we really could not do without any longer
And do you really mean Martha that you have got Smith to send in all these beautiful things on credit
I do indeed mamma
Was there ever such a girl Only look Sophy at this lovely muslin Why it will wash and make up again with different trimmings as good as new for a dozen regiments to come Oh you dear clever creature what a treasure you are I wish to God I had trusted all to you from the first and not tired myself to death by walking over to that stingy little monster but tired or not we must cut these dear sweet dresses out at once Nancy Baker must come in and make the bodies and we must set to girls and run the seams and a pleasure it will be too God knows I have worked at turning and twisting old gowns into new ones till I have hated the sight of an ironing box and a needle but this is another guess sort of a business and I shall set about it with a right good will I promise you
And so she did and the dresses went on prosperously as well as everything else connected with the officers fête and when the wishedfor but dreaded day arrived in which so many farewell sighs were to be sighed and so many last looks looked and so many scrutinizing glances given as to what might be hoped for from the flirtations of the ensuing year the sun shone so brightly as evidently to take part with the newcomers permitting not one single cloud to sympathise with those who were about to depart
Of all the beauties assembled at this hybrid festival none appeared to greater advantage than the Misses Compton Their dresses were neither dirty nor faded but exceedingly well calculated to set off their charms as favourably as their mother herself could have desired Captain Tate after dancing his last dance with Martha pointed her out with some feeling of triumph to one of the new arrivals as the girl upon whom he had bestowed the largest share of his regimental gallantries but he was far from imagining as he did so how very much better she had contrived to manage the flirtation than himself She had made it the means of clothing herself and sister from top to toe while to him it had been very costly in gloves ices eau de cologne and dancingpumps
CHAPTER IV
A WEDDING AND ITS CONSEQUENCES—A TRANSFER OF PROPERTY—MISS MARTHA RECEIVES A PROPOSAL OF MARRIAGE—ANOTHER EXPEDITION TO COMPTON BASETT
The regimental gala which had been looked forward to with so much interest though very gay and very agreeable did not perhaps produce all the results expected by the soft hearts and bright eyes of Silverton for only one wedding was achieved in consequence of it This one made a very hasty and imprudent bride of Sophia Compton Her charming voice joined to her pretty person was too enchanting for the enthusiastic Lieutenant Willoughby to leave behind him and just as the full moon rose upon the tents of the revellers he drew her gently into the deep shadow of that appropriated to the sutlers and there swore a very solemn oath that it was quite impossible he should continue to exist, if she refused to elope with him that evening
Upon the whole Miss Sophia was by no means sorry to hear this but could not help expressing a modest wish that he would be so obliging as to change the plan of operations and instead of eloping with her would just speak to papa and so be married in a proper way
For a considerable time longer indeed than it was possible to remain in the shadow of the sutlers tent the young gentleman declared this to be impossible because in that case his own relations must be informed of the affair and he knew perfectly well that if this happened effectual measures would be taken to prevent his ever possessing his adorable Sophia at all These arguments were repeated and dwelt upon with very convincing energy for the space of one whole quadrille during which the tender pair sat ensconced behind a fanciful erection on the front of which was traced in letters formed of laurel leaves the words TO THE LADIES Nor was his pretty listener insensible to their force or the probable truth of the misery they predicted it was therefore all things considered much to the credit of Miss Sophy that she persevered in her refusal of accepting him on the terms he offered
Lieutenant Willoughby was by no means a wicked young man but it was his nature to covet particularly whatever it was least convenient to obtain and it was I believe of him that a youthful anecdote has been recorded which sets this disposition in a striking point of view Upon occasion of some dainty but pernicious delicacy being forbidden or some frolic tending too strongly to mischief being stopped he is said to have exclaimed It is a very very shocking thing mamma that everything that is nice is called wrong and everything that is nasty is called right This was said when he was seven years old but at twentytwo he was very nearly of the same unfortunate opinion and invariably valued everything in proportion to the conviction he felt that he should be opposed in his pursuit of it
When therefore Miss Sophia persisted in her declaration that she would not run away with him Lieutenant Willoughby became perfectly desperate in his determination to obtain her and having a sort of natural instinct which convinced him that no proposal of marriage would be illreceived by Mrs Compton he wrung the hand of his Sophy implored her not to dance with anybody else and then having sought and found her mother amidst the group of matrons who sat apart admiring their respective daughters he drew her aside and told his tale of love
This as he expected was by no means unkindly received and when Mrs Compton having recovered from her first ecstasy began to hint at income and settlement the impassioned young gentleman contrived to puzzle her so completely by stating the certainty of his being disinherited if his marriage were immediately known and the handsome fortune it was possible he might have if it were kept profoundly secret that he sent her home as vehemently determined to let him marry her daughter without saying a word to his family about the matter as he could possibly have desired
The result of this may be easily divined Nothing approved by Mrs Compton was ever effectually opposed by Mr Compton so Miss Sophia was married to Lieutenant Willoughby within ten days of the regimental ball and within one year afterwards a female infant called Agnes Willoughby was placed in the care of the Curate of Silverton and his wife her young mother being dead and her brokenspirited father about to set off for the West Indies having found his father implacable his wellmarried sisters indignant and nothing left him whereon to found a hope of escape from his difficulties except thus giving up his little girl to her grandfather and exchanging his commission in the gay —— regiment for one in a corps about to embark for a service very likely to settle all his embarrassments by consigning him to an early tomb
Meanwhile the Curate of Silverton was becoming every day more involved in debt and his dashing eldest daughter though handsomer than ever painfully conscious that among all the successive legions of lovers whose conspicuous adorations had made her the most envied of her sex there was not one who offered any rational probability of becoming her husband
The first of these misfortunes was the most embarrassing and so imperiously demanded a remedy that the poor Curate at length consented to find it in the sale of his moiety of his paternal acres It is certain that his nightly potations of hot toddy had very considerably impaired his powers of caring for anything nevertheless it was not without a pang that he permitted his wife to insert an advertisement in the county paper proclaiming the sale by auction of certain crofts and meadows barns and byres making part and parcel of a capital dairyfarm known by the name of Compton Basett
When the day of sale arrived several competitors appeared who bid pretty briskly for the lot for the land particularly thirty acres of it known by the name of the butchers close was some of the best in the county but the successful candidate who it was pretty evident from the first was determined that it should be knocked down to no one else was farmer Wright Miss Betsys prosperous and welldeserving tenant This though the purchase was a large one for a mere farmer amounting to six thousand five hundred and twentyfive pounds did not greatly surprise the neighbourhood for the Wrights were known to be a prudent thrifty and industrious race It is possible they might have been more surprised had they known that it was Miss Betsy herself and not her tenant who was the purchaser But so it was The twentyfive years which had elapsed since the death of her father had enabled this careful little lady to accumulate by means of her rent her five hundred pounds and its compound interest and the profits of her wellmanaged apiary a much larger sum than it required to become the possessor of her brothers share of Compton Basett and when she had finished the affair and leased out the whole property the butchers close included to her friend and tenant farmer Wright for the annual rent of six hundred pounds now including two chickens per week for her own use she still remained possessed of four thousand pounds sterling safely lodged in the funds a property which went on very rapidly increasing as her scale of expense never varied and rarely exceeded ten pounds per annum beyond the profits of her bees and her stipulated accommodation from the farm But in spite of this strict economy Miss Betsy was no bad neighbour to the poor and in a small and very quiet way did more towards keeping dirt and cold out of their dwellings than many who spent three times as much upon them and made ten times as much fuss about it
It was not however till many years later that the fact of her being the possessor of the whole of the Compton Basett estate became known to any one but farmer Wright and as to the amount of her halfyearly increasing property in the funds she had no confidant but her broker This mystery this profound secrecy in the silent rolling up of her wealth was perhaps the principal source of her enjoyment from it It amused her infinitely to observe that while the bad management and improvidence of her brother and his wife were the theme of eternal gossipings her own thrift seemed permitted to go quietly on without eliciting any observation at all Her judicious and regularly administered little charities assisted in producing this desired effect much more than she had the least idea of for the praises of Miss Betsys goodness and kindness proceeded from many who had profited more from her judgment and her welltimed friendly loans than from her donations and the gratitude for such services was much more freely and generally expressed than if the favours conferred had been merely those of ordinary almsgiving It was therefore very generally reported in Silverton that Miss Betsy Compton gave away all her income in charity which was the reason why she never did anything to help her embarrassed relations These erroneous reports were productive of at least one advantage to the family of the Curate of Silverton for it effectually prevented their having any expectations from her beyond a vague and uncertain hope that if she did not bequeath her farmhouse and acres to a hospital the property might be left to them But not even the croaking illwill of Mrs Compton could now anticipate a very early date for this possible bequest for pale and delicatelooking as she ever continued nobody had ever heard of Miss Betsys having a doctors bill to pay and as she was just seven years younger than her brother the Curate who moreover was thought to be dropsical there appeared wofully little chance that her death would ever benefit her disappointed sisterinlaw at all A very considerable portion of the purchasemoney of the estate had dwindled away the little Agnes Willoughby had attained the age of eleven years and Mr Compton had become so ill as to have been forced to resign his curacy when Mr Barnaby the celebrated surgeon and apothecary of Silverton who for the last ten years had admired Miss Martha Compton more than any lady he had ever looked upon suddenly took courage and asked her pointblank to become his wife
Had he done this some few years before his fate would have been told in the brief monosyllable no uttered probably with as much indignation as any sound compounded of two letters could express but since that time the fair Martha had seen so many colonels majors captains ay and lieutenants too march into the town and then march out again without whispering anything more profitable in her ear than an assurance of her being an angel that the case was greatly altered and after the meditation of a moment she answered very modestly You must speak to my mother Mr Barnaby
Perfectly satisfied by the reply Mr Barnaby did speak to her mother but the young lady took care to speak to her first and after a long and very confidential conversation it was determined between them that the offer of the gentleman should be accepted that fifty pounds out of the few remaining hundreds should be spent upon her weddinggarments and that whenever it pleased God to take poor Mr Compton his widow and little granddaughter should be received into Mr Barnabys family
It has not been recorded with any degree of certainty whether these last arrangements were mentioned to the enamoured Galen when the important interview which decided the fate of Miss Martha took place but whether they were or not the marriage ceremony followed with as little delay as possible
Two circumstances occurred previous to the ceremony which must be mentioned as being calculated to open the character of my heroine to the reader No sooner was this important affair decided upon than Miss Martha told her mamma that it was her intention to walk over to Compton Basett and inform Miss Betsy of the news herself
And what do you expect to get by that Martha said the old lady I have not forgot yet my walk to Compton Basett just before poor dear Sophys marriage nor the trick the little monster played me making me bring home her vile hypocritical letter as carefully as if it had been a banknote for a hundred pounds You must go without me if go you will for I have taken my last walk to Compton Basett I promise you
I dont want you to trouble yourself about it in any way mother replied Miss Martha Ill make Agnes walk with me and whether I get anything out of the little porcupine or not the walk can do us no great harm
Tis not so hot as when I went thats certain said Mrs Compton becoming better reconciled to the expedition She has never seen Agnes since the poor little thing was thought to be dying in the measles just five years ago and then you know she did hire a nurse and send in oranges and jellies and all that sort of trumpery and who can say but her heart may soften towards her again when she sees what a sweet pretty creature she is grown
I cant say I have much faith in good looks doing much towards drawing her pursestrings She has seen poor Sophy and me often enough and I cant say that we ever found our beauty did us any good with her neither is it that upon which I reckon now But telling her of a wedding is not begging you know and I dont think it impossible but what such a prudent businesslike wedding as mine may be more to her taste than poor Sophys where there was nothing but a few finesounding names to look to and much good they did her poor thing
Well set off Martha whenever you like There is no need to make little Agnes look smart even if I had the means to do it for its quite as well that she should be reminded of the wants of the poor child by the desolate condition of her old strawbonnet When do you think you shall go
This afternoon Im sure of not seeing Barnaby again till teatime for he has got to go as far as Pemberton so we may start as soon as dinner is over
Miss Martha Compton and her young companion set off accordingly about three oclock and pursued their way chiefly in silence to Miss Betsys abode for Agnes rarely spoke to her aunt except when she was spoken to and Miss Martha was meditating profoundly the whole way upon the probability of obtaining Mr Barnabys consent to the refurnishing his drawingroom It was the month of April the air deliciously sweet and mild and birds singing on every tree so that although the leaves were not yet fully out they found Miss Betsy sitting as usual in her bower and enjoying as keenly the busy hum about her beehives as ever Miss Martha did the bustling animation produced by the murmurings of a dozen redcoats
Miss Betsy was at this time about fifty years of age and though the defect in her shape was certainly not lessened by age she was altogether an exceedingly nicelooking little old lady and her cap was as neat and becoming and her complexion very nearly as delicate as at the time of Mrs Comptons visit just twelve years before
She fixed her eyes for a moment upon Martha as she approached the bower but appeared not to know her the little girl following close behind was for a minute or two invisible but the instant she caught sight of her she rose from her seat and stepping quickly forward took the child by her hand drew her in and placed her on the bench by her side
Little Agnes who knew she was come to see her aunt felt assured by this notice that she was in her presence and moreover that she was a very kind person so when the old lady after examining her features very attentively said You are little Agnes are you not she replied without hesitation or timidity Yes I am and you are good aunt Betsy that used to give me the oranges
Do you remember that my child tis a long while almost half your little life Take off your bonnet Agnes and let me see your face
Agnes obeyed the desolate strawbonnet was laid aside and Miss Betsy gazed upon one of the fairest and most delicate little faces that the soft beams of an April sun ever fell upon
The pale recluse kept her keen eyes fixed upon the little girl for many minutes without pronouncing a word at length she said but apparently speaking only to herself—
It is just such a face as I wanted her to have Her father was a gentleman She will never have red cheeks that is quite certain
How dye do aunt Betsy said Miss Martha in a very clear and distinct voice probably thinking that she had remained long enough in the background
Very well I thank you was the reply and who are you
Dear me aunt you must say that for fun for it is hardly likely you should know Agnes that was almost a baby the last time you ever saw her and forget me that was quite grown up at that same time
Oh then you are Miss Martha the great beauty are you You look very old indeed Miss Martha considering that you cant be very much past thirty and that I suppose is the reason I did not know you How is your poor father Miss Martha
Hes very bad aunt Betsy but I hope the news I am come to tell you will be a comfort to him and please you too
And what news can that be Miss Martha
I am going to be married aunt Betsy to a person that is extremely well off and able to set me above all poverty and difficulties for ever and the only thing against it is that papa cannot afford to give me any money at all for my wedding clothes which is a dreadful disgrace to the name of Compton and to tell you the truth at once for I am a frank honesthearted girl that never hides anything I am come over here on purpose to ask you to give me a few pounds just to prevent my having to ask my husband for a shift
If you have no shift Miss Martha while you are wearing such a gay bonnet as that I think any man must be a great fool for taking you However that is his affair and not mine I cannot afford to buy your weddingclothes Miss Martha nor do I intend ever to give you any money at all for any purpose whatever either now or at any future period so if you are wise as well as frank you will never ask me again If you marry a gentleman and have children who shall behave according to my notions of honour honesty and propriety it is possible that the little I may leave will be divided among them and any others whom I may think have an equal claim upon me But I heartily hope you will have none for I feel certain I should not like them and I would rather that the poor little trifle I may have left when I die should go to some one I did like
Miss Marthas heart swelled with rage yet remote as Miss Betsys contingent benefits were likely to be they had still influence sufficient to prevent her breaking out into open violence and she sat silent though with burning cheeks and a beating heart The address she had just listened to was certainly not of the most agreeable style and tone but it may be some apology for Miss Betsys severity to state that the scene which had taken place in Mr Smiths shop rather more than twelve years before in which a certain Captain Tate took an important though unconscious part was accurately wellknown to the little spinster Mrs Wright the wife of her tenant having witnessed the whole of it
When she had finished her speech to Miss Martha which was spoken in her usual gay tone of voice Miss Betsy turned again towards Agnes who was then standing at the entrance of the bower earnestly watching the bees
They are pretty curious creatures are they not Agnes said she I hope some day or other you will be as active and industrious Do you love to work my little girl
I love to play better replied Agnes
Ay thats because you are such a young thing And who are your playfellows Agnes
I have not got any playfellows but myself was the reply
And where do you play
In grandpapas garden behind the house
And what do you play at
Oh so many things I play at making flowerbeds in the summer and at snowballs in the winter and I know a blackbird and ever so many robinredbreasts and they know me and I
Do you know how to read Agnes
A little replied the child blushing deeply
Come here then and read a page of my book to me
Poor Agnes obeyed the summons and submissively placing herself by the side of her aunt took the book in her hands and began to read But it was so very lame and imperfect a performance that Miss Betsy wanted either the cruelty or the patience to let it proceed and taking the volume away she said in a graver tone than was usual with her Nobody seems to have given themselves much trouble about teaching you my little girl but I dare say you will read better by and bye Are you hungry Agnes do you wish for something to eat after your walk
Delighted at being thus relieved from exposing her ignorance the little girl replied gaily—
I am very hungry indeed maam
Then sit here to rest for a few minutes and I will see what I can get for you and so saying Miss Betsy rose and walked briskly away towards the house
Old brute exclaimed Miss Martha as soon as she was quite beyond hearing Theres a hump for you Isnt she a beauty Agnes
A beauty aunt Martha No I dont think she is a beauty though I like the look of her face too but she certainly is not a beauty for she is not the least bit like you and you are a beauty you know
And who told you that child
Oh I have heard grandmamma and you talk about it very often and I heard Mr Barnaby say when he came in yesterday How are you my beauty and besides I see you are a beauty myself
And pray Agnes replied her aunt laughing with great goodhumour how do you know a beauty when you see one
Why dont I see every time I walk by Mr Gibbss shop his beauties in the window with their rosy cheeks and their black eyes and their quantity of fine ringlets and you are exactly the very image of one of Mr Gibbss beauties aunt Martha
Miss Martha remembered that there was one very pretty face in the window of the village perruquier and doubted not that the little Agness observation had reference to that one it was therefore with one of her most amiable smiles that she replied—
You little goose how can I be like a painted wax image
But the protestations and exclamations by which the simile might have been proved good were broken off by the approach of a maidservant from the house who said that Miss Betsy was waiting for them
They found the neat little lady in her pretty sittingroom with a lilywhite cloth spread on a table near the open window and a homemade loaf a little bowl of native cream and a decanter of bright springwater with a couple of tumblers near it
Simple as this repast was it was well relished by both the nieces though decidedly served in honour of only one However no positive objection being made to Miss Marthas taking her share of it she spared neither the loaf nor the cream and remembering her mothers account of her penny repast felt something like triumph as she ate to think how much more she had contrived to get out of her churlish relative
But this was all she got excepting indeed that she felt some consolation for her disappointment in having to tell her mother on her return that if she had children and of course she should as everybody else had they were to have their share of all the old maid might leave
Ugly old hypocrite it wont be much take my word for it replied Mrs Compton She likes all the beggars in the parish a vast deal better than she does her own flesh and blood Dont talk any more of her Martha I should be glad if I was never to hear her name mentioned again
CHAPTER V
A VISIT FROM THE HEIRESS—MISS AGNES WILLOUGHBY IS SENT TO SCHOOL
In about a month after this visit and less than a week before the day fixed upon for the happiness of Mr Barnaby Miss Betsy Compton very unexpectedly made a visit to her brother She found him a good deal altered but she found him also with his toddy and pipe both objects of such hatred and disgust to her anchoritish spirit that all the kind feelings which might have been awakened by his failing health were chased by looking upon what caused it
To see her feebleminded brother was not however the only or the principal object of her visit to Silverton and she permitted not many minutes to be wasted in mutual questionings that meant very little before she let him understand what was
I am come to speak to you brother she said about little Agnes I should like to know in what manner you intend to educate her
Mrs Compton manages all that sister Betsy replied the invalid and at any rate I am sure I have no money to teach her anything
But it is a sin brother to let the child run wild about the garden as you would a magpie Do you know that she cant read
No sister Betsy I know nothing at all about it I tell you How can I help it Am I in a condition to teach anybody to read
There are others more to blame than you are brother no doubt but let it be whos fault it will it must not go on so I suppose you will make no objection to my sending her to school
Oh dear no not I but you had better ask Mrs Compton about it
Very well But I have your consent have I not
Dear me yes sister Betsy Why do you tease me so making me take the pipe out of my mouth every minute
Miss Betsy left the little smokedried back parlour appropriated to the master of the house and made her way to the front room up stairs called the drawingroom which had been reserved since time out of mind for the use of the ladies of the family and their visitors There she found as she expected Mrs Compton and her daughter amidst an ocean of needlework all having reference more or less to the ceremony which was to be performed on the following Thursday
So Mrs Compton was her salutation to the old lady and a nod of the head to the young one I have been speaking to my brother continued Miss Betsy concerning the education of little Agnes and he has given his consent to my putting her to school
His consent exclaimed Mrs Compton and pray is she not my grandchild too I think I have as good a right to take care of the child as he has
She has a right replied the spinster to expect from both of you a great deal more care than she has found and were I you Mrs Compton I would take some trouble to conceal from all my friends and acquaintance the fact that at eleven years of age my grandchild was unable to read
And thats a fact that I can have no need to hide Miss Betsy for its no fact at all—Ive seen Martha teaching her scores of times
Then have her in Mrs Compton and let us make the trial If I have said what is not true I will beg your pardon
Lor mamma said Miss Martha colouring a little what good is there in contradicting aunt Betsy if she wants to send Agnes to school I am sure it is the best thing that can be done for her now I am going to be married And Mr Barnaby asked me the other day if you did not mean to send her to school
I dont want to keep her from school God knows poor little thing or from anything else that could do her good Only Miss Betsy speaks so sharp But I can assure you sister we should have put her to the best of schools long and long ago only that Heaven knows we had not the means to do it and thankful shall I be if you are come at last to think that there may be as much charity in helping your own blood relations as in giving away your substance to strangers and beggars
You are right Mrs Compton as far as relates to sending Agnes to school that will certainly be a charity When can the child be got ready
As soon as ever you shall be pleased to give us the means sister Betsy
Do you mean Mrs Compton that she has not got clothes to go in
I do indeed sister Betsy
Let me see what she has got and then I shall know what she wants
That is easily told aunt without your troubling yourself to look over a few ragged frocks and the like She wants just everything aunt Betsy said the bride expectant brave in anticipated independence and rather inclined to plague the old lady by drawing as largely as might be on her reluctant funds now they were opened even though the profit would not be her own
If she really does want everything Martha Compton while you are dressed as you now are very cruel injustice has been done her replied the aunt Your sister had no portion given her either of the patrimony of her father or the thousand pounds brought by her mother and as her marriage with a man who had not a sixpence was permitted this child of hers has an equal right with yourself to share in the property of your parents
The property of their parents Why bless me Betsy Compton how you do talk as if you did not know that all the property they ever had is as good as gone Has not farmer Wright got the estate And has not the butcher and the baker and the shoemaker and all the rest of them got what it sold for as well as my thousand pounds among them long ago
Then you are now on the very verge of ruin Mrs Compton said the spinster gravely
Yes sister Betsy we are replied the matron reproachfully And I cant but say she continued that a lone woman like you without any expenses whatever but your own meat and drink which everybody says is next to nothing—I cant but say that you might have helped us a little before now and no harm done
That is your opinion of the case Mrs Compton mine is wholly different I think harm is done whenever power of any kind is exerted in vain I have no power to help you Were all I have poured out upon you while I lodged myself in the parish workhouse my conviction is that I should only be enabling you to commit more follies and in my judgment more sins
Well well Miss Betsy it is of no use talking to you—I know that of old and to tell you the truth when I do come to beggary I had rather beg of anybody else than of you I hear far and near of your charity to others but I cant say that I ever saw any great symptom of it myself
Let me see what clothes little Agnes has got Mrs Compton if you please Our time will be more profitably employed in seeing what I may be able to do for her than in discoursing of what I am not able to do for you Miss Martha then I suppose may be able to bring her things in
Why as far as the quantity goes they wont be very difficult to carry But I dont see much use in overhauling all the poor childs trumpery unless it is just to make you laugh at our poverty maam
The spinster answered this with a look which shewed plainly enough that however little beauty her pale face could boast it was by no means deficient in expression Miss Martha hastened out of the room to do her errand without saying another word
I will not give the catalogue of poor Agness wardrobe but only observe that it was considerably worse than Miss Betsy expected she made however no observation upon it but having examined it apparently with very little attention she took leave of the mother and daughter saying she would call again in a day or two and took with her no permission asked a greatly faded but recently fitted frock which abduction mother and daughter remonstrated against loudly declaring it was her best dress except the old white muslin worked with coloured worsteds and that she would have nothing upon earth to wear
It shall not be kept long was the reply and the little lady departed enduring for a moment the atmosphere of her brothers parlour as she passed in order to tell him as she thought herself in duty bound to do that she should get some decent clothes made for the child and call again as soon as they were ready to take her to school
The poor gentleman seemed greatly pleased at this and said Thank you Betsy with more animation than he had been heard to impart to any words for many years
It was just three days after Miss Martha Compton had become Mrs Barnaby that the same postchaise drove up to the door that had carried her away from it on an excursion of eightandforty hours to Exeter which the gallant bridegroom had stolen a holiday to give her but upon this occasion it was hired neither by bride nor bridegroom but by the little crooked spinster who was come according to her promise to take Agnes to school
Mrs Compton was just setting out to pay her first morning visit to the bride and therefore submitted to the hasty departure of the little girl with less grumbling than she might have done if less agreeably engaged
You must bid your grandpapa goodbye Agnes said Miss Betsy as they passed the door of his parlour and accordingly they all entered together
God bless you my poor little girl said the old man after kissing her forehead and keep your aunt Betsys favour if you can for I dont think I can do much more to help anybody God bless you Agnes
Dear me Mr Compton you need not bring tears in the childs eyes by speaking that way I am sure she has never wanted friends since her poor dear mother died and theres no like she should either with such an aunt as Martha married to such a man as Mr Barnaby I suppose she is not to be kept from her family sister Betsy but that we shall see her in the holidays I am sure I dont know where she is likely to see things so elegant as at her aunt Barnabys Such a drawingroom and a man in livery at least a boy and everything else conformable I suppose this is to be her home Miss Betsy still
I am glad you have mentioned this Mrs Compton replied her sisterinlaw because now in the presence of my brother I may explain my intentions at once Whatever you may think of my little means either you or your wife or your daughter brother Josiah I am not rich enough in my own opinion to make it prudent for me to saddle myself with the permanent charge of this poor child Moreover to do so I must altogether change the quiet manner of life that I have so long enjoyed and I am not conscious of being bound by any tie sufficiently strong to make this painful sacrifice a duty Something I think I ought to do for this child and I am willing to do it I conceive that it will be more easily in my power to spare something from my little property to obtain a respectable education for her than either in yours brother or even in that of her newlymarried aunt Barnaby for doubtless it would not be agreeable for her to begin her wedded life by throwing a burden upon her husband But on the other hand it will certainly be much more within the power of her aunt Barnaby to give her a comfortable and advantageous home afterwards than in mine I will therefore now take charge of her for five years during which time she shall be supplied with board lodging clothes and instruction at my expense or in case I should die at that of my executors After this period I shall restore her to you brother or to her grandmother if both or either of you shall be alive or if not to her aunt Barnaby and when I die she shall have a share with such others as I may think have a claim upon me of the small matter I may leave behind But this of course must be lessened by the expenses I am now contracting for her
And are we never to see her for five years sister Betsy said Mrs Compton very dolorously
To tell you the truth Mrs Compton I think the coming home to you twice ayear for the holidays could be no advantage to her education and the expense of such repeated journeyings would be very inconvenient to me I have therefore arranged with the persons who are to take charge of her that she is to pass the vacations with them I shall however make a point of seeing her myself more than once in the course of the time and will undertake that she shall come to Silverton twice during these five years for a few days each time And now I think there is no more to say so come my little girl for it is not right to keep the driver and the horses any longer waiting
The adieux between the parties were now hastily exchanged little Agnes mounted the postchaise aunt Betsy followed and they drove off though in what direction they were to go after leaving the Silverton turnpike no one had ever thought of inquiring
Poor Mrs Compton stood for some moments silently gazing after the postchaise and on reentering her drawingroom felt a sensation that greatly resembled desolation from the unwonted stillness that reigned there She was instantly cheered however by recollecting the very agreeable visit she was going to pay and only pausing to put on her new wedding bonnet and shawl set off for Mr Barnabys saying to the maid whom she passed as she descended I should like Sally to have seen what sort of things she has got for the poor child
If they was as neat and as nice as the little trunk as was strapped on in the front and thats where they was packed no doubt there wouldnt be no need to complain of them was the reply And now leaving Agnes to aunt Betsy and her fate I must return to the duty I have assigned myself and follow the fortunes of Mrs Barnaby
CHAPTER VI
WEDDED HAPPINESS—DEATH OF MRS COMPTON—THE EXCURATE BROUGHT INTO A PEACEFUL HARBOUR—HE FALLS SICK AND HIS SISTER AND GRANDCHILD ARE SUMMONED
The first five or six months of Mrs Barnabys married life were so happy as not only to make her forget all her former disappointments but almost to persuade her that it was very nearly as good a thing to marry a middleaged country apothecary with a good house and a good income as a beautiful young officer with neither
Since her adventure with Mr Smith the draper milliner mercer and haberdasher of Silverton par excellence Mrs Barnabys genius for making bargains had been sadly damped not but that she had in some degree saved her credit with that important and muchprovoked personage by condescending to wear the willow before his eyes she even went so far as to say to him with a twinkling of lids that passed for having tears in her own—
No young lady was ever so used before I believe I am sure Mr Smith you saw enough yourself to be certain that I was engaged to Captain Tate yet the moment he found a girl with a little money he sent back all my letters
Perhaps Mr Smith believed the lady perhaps he did not but at any rate he gave her no encouragement to recommence operations upon his confiding nature on the contrary he ceased not to send in his little account very constantly once every three months steadfastly refusing to give credit for any articles however needful After the sale of the Compton Basett property the bill was paid but no farther accommodation in that quarter ever obtained indeed the facility of selling out of the funds a hundred pounds a time as it was wanted superseded the necessity of pressing for it and in a little way Miss Martha and Mr Smith had continued to deal most amicably but always with a certain degree of mutual shyness
How delightfully different was the case now Mrs Barnaby had only to send her maid or her man boy to the redundant storehouse of Mr Smith and all that her heart best loved was sent for her inspection and choice without the slightest doubt or scruple
Mr Barnaby was proud of his wife for if not quite as slender and delicate she really looked very nearly as handsome as ever a slight soupçon of rouge refreshing the brilliancy of her eyes and concealing the incipient fading of her cheeks while the total absence of mauvaise honte an advantage which may be considered as the natural consequence of a twelve years reign as the belle of a wellofficered county town enabled her to preside at his own supper parties and fill the place of honour as bride at those of his neighbours with an easy sprightliness of manner that he felt to be truly fascinating In short Mr Barnaby was excessively fond of his lady and as he was known to have made much more money than he had spent as no bill had ever been sent to him without immediate payment following and as Mrs Barnabys nature expanded itself in this enlarged sphere of action and led her to disburse five times as much as Mr Barnaby had ever expended without her all the tradesmen in the town were excessively fond of her too Wherever she went she was greeted with a smile and instead of being obliged to stand in every shop waiting till some one happened to be at leisure to ask her what she wanted to buy her feathers and her frills were no sooner discovered to be approaching the counter than as many right arms as were in presence thrust forward a seat towards her while the wellpleased master himself invariably started forth to receive her commands
Any bride might have found matter for rejoicing in such a change but few could have felt it so keenly as Mrs Barnaby She was by nature both proud and ambitious and her personal vanity though sufficiently strong within her to form rather a conspicuous feature in her character was in truth only a sort of petted imp that acted as an agent to assist in forwarding the hopes and wishes which her pride and ambition formed
This pride and ambition however were very essentially different from the qualities known by these names among minds of a loftier nature The ambition for instance instead of being that last infirmity of noble mind for which Milton seems to plead so feelingly was in truth the first vice of a very mean one Mrs Barnaby burned with ambition to find herself in a situation that might authorize her giving herself the airs of a great lady and her pride would have found all the gratification it sought could she have been sure that her house and her dress would be daily cited among her acquaintance as more costly than their own
Mrs Barnaby had moreover un esprit intriguant in the most comprehensive sense of the phrase for she would far rather have obtained any object she aimed at by means of her own manœuvring than by any simple concurrence of circumstances whatever and this was perhaps the reason why at the first moment the proposals of Mr Barnaby whom she had comparatively speaking used no tricks to captivate produced a less pleasurable effect upon her mind than a similar overture from any one of the innumerable military men whom she had so strenuously laboured to win would have done However she was for this very reason happier than many other brides for in fact she became daily more sensible of the substantial advantages she had obtained and on the whole daily better pleased with her complaisant husband
As her temper though quietly and steadily selfish was neither sour nor violent this state of connubial happiness might have continued long had not some untoward accidents occurred to disturb it
The first of these was the sudden and dangerous illness of Mrs Compton which was of a nature to render it perfectly impossible for Mr and Mrs Barnaby to continue their delightful little parties at home and abroad The dying lady ceased not to implore her daughter not to leave her in accents so piteous that Mr Barnaby himself notwithstanding his tender care for his ladys health was the first to declare that she must remain with her This heavy burden however did not inconvenience her long for the seizure terminated in the death of the old lady about a week after its commencement
But even this though acknowledged to be certainly a blessing and a happy release could not restore the bride to the triumphant state of existence the illness of her mother had interrupted for in the first place her deep mourning was by no means becoming to her and she was perfectly aware of it and her white satin and her silver fringe would be sure to turn yellow before she could wear them again Besides what was worse than all a young attorney of Silverton married the daughter of a neighbouring clergyman who of course was immediately installed in all a brides honours to the inexpressible mortification of Mrs Barnaby
The annoyance which followed these vexations was however far more serious the resources of poor Mr Compton were completely exhausted he had drawn out his last hundred from the funds and actually remained possessed of no property whatever except the nearly expired lease and the wornout furniture of the house in which he lived
Mrs Barnaby listened to the feeble old mans statement of his desperate position with dismay she knew just enough of his affairs to be aware that it was very likely to be true though with mistaken tenderness her mother had always refrained from representing their embarrassments to her daughter as being of the hopeless extent which they really were
What then was to be done The choice lay between two measures only both deeply wounding to her pride In the one case she must leave the old man to be arrested in his bed for the price of the food which for a few months longer perhaps he might still get on credit in the other she must undergo the humiliation of informing her husband that all the gay external appearances she and her mother had so laboriously presented to the public eye were in reality but so much cheatery and delusion and that if he would not take compassion on her fathers destitute condition the poor old man must either die in the county prison or the parish workhouse
The alternative offered more of doubt than of choice and it might have been long ere she decided had she not cleverly recollected that if she decided upon leaving him to get on as he could for a few weeks longer she must at last submit to her husbands knowing the real state of the case she therefore resolutely determined that he should know it at once
The time she chose to make the disclosure was the hour when men are generally supposed to be in the most amiable frame of mind possible namely when hunger but not appetite has been satisfied and digestion not fully begun that is to say Mr Barnaby was enjoying his walnuts and his wine
My dear Barnaby she began I have some very disagreeable intelligence to communicate to you which has reached me only today and which has distressed me more than I can express
Good heaven What can you mean my dear love For Gods sake do not weep my beautiful Martha but tell me what it is and trust to me for consolation
And that indeed I must do dearest Barnaby for who else have I now to look to My poor father I had no idea of it till this morning my poor father is
Dying perhaps my poor love Alas Martha dearest I have long known that his case was perfectly hopeless and I had hoped that you had been aware of this also but really my love his state of health is such as ought in a great degree to reconcile you to his loss I am sure he must suffer a great deal at times
Mrs Barnabys first impulse was to reply that what she had to tell was a great deal worse than that but this would have been the truth and a sort of habitual or it might indeed be called natural cautiousness led her always to pause before she uttered anything that she had no motive for saying excepting merely that it was true and she generally found upon reconsideration that there was hardly anything which might not according to her tactics be improved by a leetle dressing up So in reply to this affectionate remonstrance from her husband Mrs Barnaby answered with a sob—
No my dear Barnaby I have no reason to doubt but that Providence will spare my sole remaining parent for some short time longer if only to prove to him that his happy daughter has the will as well as the means to supply to him the exemplary wife he has lost But alas dear Barnaby who in this world can we expect to find perfect My poor dear mother in her great anxiety to spare his age and weakness the suffering such intelligence must occasion most unwisely concealed from him and from me the failure of the merchant in whose hands he had deposited the sum for which he sold his patrimonial estate His object in selling it was to increase his income principally indeed for my poor mothers sake and now the entire sum is lost to us for ever
God bless me This is a sad stroke indeed my dear What is the name of this merchant I hope at least that we may get some dividend out of him
I really do not know his name but I know that it is a New York merchant and so I fear there is little or no chance of our ever recovering a penny
Why really in that case I will not flatter you with much hope on the subject And what has the poor old gentleman got to live upon my dear Martha
Nothing Barnaby absolutely nothing and unless your tender affection should induce you to permit his spending the little remnant of his days under our roof I fear a prison will soon enclose him
A violent burst of weeping appeared to follow this avowal and Mr Barnaby who was really a very kindhearted man hastened to console her by declaring that he was heartily glad he had a home to offer him So dry up your tears my dear girl and let me see you look gay and happy again said he and depend upon it we shall be able to make papa very comfortable here
The disagreeable business was over and therefore Mrs Barnaby did look gay and happy again Moreover she gave her husband a kiss and said in a very consolatory accent The poor old man need not be in our way much my dear Barnaby I have been thinking that the little room behind the laundry may be made very comfortable for him without any expense at all I shall only just have to
No no Martha interrupted the worthy Galen there is no need of packing the poor gentleman into that dismal little place Let him have the room over the diningroom the south is always the best aspect for the old and besides there is a closet that will serve to keep his pipes and tobacco and his phials and his pillboxes out of sight
You are most excessively kind my dear Barnaby replied his lady but did not you tell me that you meant to offer the Thompsons a bed when the bachelors ball is given?... And I am sure you would not like to put them anywhere but in the south room
I did say so my dear and I am sure I meant it at the time but a bed for the ballnight is of so little consequence to them and a warm comfortable room for your father is so important that do you know it would seem to me quite silly to bring the two into comparison
Well I am sure I cant thank you enough and I will go the first thing tomorrow to tell my father of your kindness
I must pass by his house tonight my dear in my way to the Kellys and I will just step in and tell him how we have settled it
It was impossible even for Mrs Barnaby to find at the moment any plausible reason for objecting to this goodnatured proposal but in truth it was far from agreeable to her Her poor father was quite ignorant of the elegant turn she had given to the disagreeable fact of his having spent his last shilling and she was by no means desirous that her kindhearted husband should enter upon any discussion of his misfortunes with him But a moments reflection sufficed to bring her ready wit into play again and then she said in addition to the applause she had already uttered—By the by my dear Barnaby I am not quite sure that I can let you enjoy this pleasure without my sharing it with you I know it will make my dear father so very happy
Well then Martha put on your bonnet and cloak and come along it will be better you should go too or I might linger with him too long to explain matters and I really have no time to lose
The kindness thus manifested by the worthy Barnaby was not evanescent it led him to see that the money produced by the sale of the little remnant of poor Mr Comptons property was immediately disposed of in the payment of such trifling debts as despite his long waning credit he had been able to contract and for the two years and eight months that he continued struggling with advancing age and increasing disease his attention to him was unremitting
During the whole of that time Miss Betsy Compton never saw him All hope and indeed all urgent want of assistance from her wellguarded purse having ended Mrs Barnabys anger and hatred towards the spinster flourished unchecked by any motives of interest and Miss Betsy was not a person to present herself uninvited at the house of a rich apothecary who had the privilege of calling her aunt She had indeed from time to time taken care to inform herself of the condition of her brother and finding that he wanted for nothing but was on the contrary very carefully nursed and attended she settled the matter very easily with her conscience and with the exception of the pension and other little expenses of Agnes her income yearly increasing continued to roll up for no other purpose as it should seem than merely to afford her the satisfaction of knowing that she was about ten times as rich as anybody excepting perhaps farmer Wright believed her to be
When however the last hours of the old man were approaching he told Mr Barnaby that he should like to see both his sister and his grandchild and ten minutes had not passed after he said so before an express was galloping towards Compton Basett with a civil gentlemanlike letter from the apothecary to Miss Betsy informing her of the condition of her brother and expressing the hospitable wish that she and the little Agnes would be pleased to make his house their home as long as the poor gentleman remained alive
Miss Betsy had some strong prejudices but she had strong discernment too and few old maids whose personal knowledge of the world had been as contracted as hers would have so instantly comprehended the good sense and the good feeling of the author of this short note as she did Her answer was brief but not so brief as to prevent the friendly feeling with which she wrote it from being perceptible and ere they met this stranger aunt and nephew were exceedingly welldisposed to be civil to each other
Miss Betsys arrangements were soon made She wrote to the person to whose care she had intrusted Agnes desiring her immediately to send her under proper protection to Silverton and having done this she set off in farmer Wrights chaisecart to pay her first visit to her married niece and her last to her dying brother
CHAPTER VII
THE ELEGANCE OF MRS BARNABY DISPLAYED—ITS EFFECT ON HER AUNT BETSY—INTERVIEW BETWEEN THE BROTHER AND SISTER
Agnes Willoughby had never been in Silverton from the day that her aunt Betsy first took her from her grandfathers house Had Mrs Compton lived she would probably have battled for the performance of Miss Betsys promise that the little girl should sometimes visit them but though it is probable Mrs Barnaby might occasionally have thought of her niece with some degree of interest and curiosity the feeling was not strong enough to induce her to open a correspondence with Miss Betsy still it was certainly not without something like pleasure that she found she was again to see her
Miss Betsy arrived late in the evening of the day on which the summons reached her and being shewn into Mrs Barnabys smart drawingroom was received with much stateliness by that lady who derived considerable consolation under the disagreeable necessity of welcoming a person she detested from the opportunity it afforded her of displaying the enormous increase of wealth and importance that had fallen upon her since they last met
Poor Miss Betsy really felt sad at the thoughts of the errand upon which she was come nevertheless she could not without some difficulty suppress her inclination to smile at the fullblown dignity of Mrs Barnaby Fond as this lady was of parading her grandeur on all occasions she had never even among the dear friends whom she most especially desired to inspire with envy felt so strong an inclination to shew off her magnificence as on the present The covers were removed from the chairs and sofas the eclipse produced by the dim grey drugget when stretched across the radiance of the manycoloured carpet was over five goldenleaved annuals the glory of her library were spread at wellgraduated distances upon her round table her workbox bright in its rosecoloured lining her smart embossed lettercase her chimney ornaments her picture frames her footstools all were uncovered all were studiously shown forth to meet the careless eye of Miss Betsy while the proud owner of all these very fine things notwithstanding the gloomy state of her mansion was herself a walking museum of lace and trinkets Nor were her manners less superb than her habiliments
I am sorry Miss Compton she said I may call you Miss Compton now as my marriage put an end to the possibility of any confusion I am sorry that your first introduction to my humble abode should have been made under circumstances so melancholy Dismal as of necessity everything must look now I can assure you that this unpretending little room is the scene of much domestic comfort
This was unblushingly said though the cold stifflooking apartment was never entered but upon solemn occasions when the whole house was turned inside out for the reception of company Miss Betsy or rather Miss Compton as in compliance with Mrs Barnabys hint we will in future call her looked round upon the spotless carpet and upon all the comfortless precision of the apartment and replied—
If this is your common living room niece Martha you are certainly much improved in neatness and seeing it so prim it is quite needless to ask if you have any children
This reply was bitter every way for first it spoke plainly enough the spinsters disbelief in the domestic elegance of her niece and secondly it alluded to her being childless a subject of very considerable mortification to Mrs Barnaby
How far this sort of ambush warfare might have proceeded it is impossible to say as it would have been difficult to place together any two people who more cordially disliked each other but before Mrs Barnaby had time to seek for words bearing as sharp a sting as those she had received her husband entered He waited not for the pompous introduction his wife was preparing but walking up to his guest addressed her respectfully but mournfully saying he feared it was necessary to press an early interview with her brother if she wished that he should be sensible of her kindness in coming to him
Miss Compton immediately rose and uttering a short strong phrase expressive of gratitude for his kindness to the dying man said she was ready to attend him She found her brother quite sensible but very weak and evidently approaching his last hour he thanked her for coming to him warmly expressed his gratitude to Mr Barnaby and then murmured something about wishing to see little Agnes before he died
She will be here tomorrow brother replied Miss Compton and in time I trust to receive your blessing
Thank you thank you sister Betsy but tell me tell me before you go have you sold fathers poor dear fields as I have done That is all I have got to be very sorry for I ought never to have done that sister Betsy
Mr Barnaby had left the room as soon as he had placed Miss Compton in a chair by the sick mans bed and none but an old woman who acted as his nurse remained in it
You may go nurse if you please for a little while I will watch by my brother said Miss Compton The woman obeyed and they were left alone The old man followed the nurse with his eyes as she retreated and when she closed the door said—
I am glad we are alone once more dear sister for you are the only one I could open my heart to I dont believe I have been a very wicked man sister Betsy though I am afraid I never did much good to anybody nor to myself neither but the one thing that lies heavy at my heart is having sold away my poor fathers patrimony I cant help thinking Betsy that I see him every now and then at the bottom of my bed with his old hat and his spud and his brown gaiters and I never told anybody but he seems always just going to repeat the last words he ever said to me which were spoken just like as I am now speaking to you Betsy with his last breath and he said Josiah my son I could not die with a safe conscience if I left my poor weakly Betsy without sufficient to keep her in the same quiet comfort as she has been used to But it would grieve me Josiah Oh how plain I hear his voice at this minute—it would grieve me Josiah he said if I thought the acres would be parted for ever they have been above four hundred years belonging to us from father to son and once Compton Basett was a name that stood for a thousand acres instead of three hundred and then dont be angry sister Betsy said the sick man pressing her hand which he held but he said I dont think Betsy very likely to marry and if she dont Josiah why then all that is left of Compton Basett will be joined together again for your descendants and yet after this I sold my portion Betsy and I do fear his poor spirit is troubled for it—I do indeed and it is that which hangs so heavy upon my mind
And if that be all Josiah you may close your eyes and go to join our dear father in peace He struggled with and conquered his strongest feeling his just and honourable pride for my sake and for his as well as for the same feeling which is very strong within my own breast also I have lived poorly though not hardly Josiah and have added penny to penny till I was able to make Compton Basett as respectable a patrimony as he left it It was not farmer Wright who bought the land brother—it was I
The old mans emotion at hearing this was stronger than any he had shewn for many years He raised his sisters hand to his lips and kissed it fervently Bless you Betsy bless you my own dear sister he said in a voice that trembled as much from feeling as from weakness and for several minutes afterwards he lay perfectly silent and motionless
Miss Compton watched him with an anxious eye and not without a flutter at her heart lest she should suddenly find this stillness to be that of death But it was not so on the contrary his voice appeared considerably stronger than it had done since their interview began when he again spoke and said—
I see him now sister Betsy as plainly as I see the two posts at the bottom of my bed and he stands exactly in the middle between them he has got no hat on but his smooth white hair is round his face just as it used to be and he looks so smiling and so happy Do not think I am frightened at seeing him Betsy quite the contrary I feel so peaceful so very peaceful
Then try to sleep dear brother said Miss Compton who felt that his pulse fluttered and aware that his senses were wandering feared that the energy with which he spoke might hasten the last hour and so rob his grandchild of his blessing
I will sleep he replied more composedly as soon as you have told me one thing Who will have the Compton Basett estate Betsy when you are dead
Agnes Willoughby replied the spinster solemnly
That is right Now go away Betsy it is quite right go away now and let me sleep
She watched him for a moment and seeing his eyes close and hearing a gentle regular breathing that convinced her he was indeed asleep she crept noiselessly from his bedside then having summoned the nurse and reestablished her beside the fire retired to the solitude of her own room
CHAPTER VIII
SOLITARY MEDITATION AND IMPORTANT RESOLUTIONS—AGNES WILLOUGHBY ARRIVES AT SILVERTON—HER GRANDFATHER GIVES HER HIS BLESSING AND DIES—MISS COMPTON MAKES A SUDDEN RETREAT
When Miss Compton reached her room she found a tiny morsel of fire just lighted in a tiny grate and as the season was November the hour nine P M and the candle she carried in her hand not of the brightest description the scene was altogether gloomy enough But not even to save herself from something greatly worse would she at that moment have exchanged its solitude for the society of Mrs Barnaby although she had been sure of finding her in the bestlighted room and seated beside the brightest fire that ever blazed So wrapping around her the stout camlet cloak by the aid of which she had braved the severity of many years wintry walks to church she sat down in the front of the little fire and gave herself up to the reflections that crowded upon her mind
Elizabeth Compton did not believe in the doctrine of ghosts her mind was of a strong and healthy fibre which was rarely sufficiently wrought upon by passing events to lose its power of clear perception and unimpassioned judgment but the scene she had just passed through had considerably shaken her philosophy Fiveandthirty years had passed since Josiah and Elizabeth shared the paternal roof together They were then very tender friends for he was affectionate and sweettempered and she though nearly seventeen was as young in appearance and as much in need of his thoughtful care of her as if she had been many years younger But this union was totally and for ever destroyed when Josiah married from the first hour they met the two sistersinlaw conceived an aversion for each other which every succeeding interview appeared to strengthen and this so effectually separated the brother from the sister that they had never met again with that peculiar species of sympathy which can only be felt by children of the same parents till now that the sister came expressly to see the brother die
This reunion had softened and had opened both their hearts Josiah confessed to his dear sister Betsy that his conscience reproached him for having made away with his patrimony a fact which he had never hinted to any other human being and she owned to him that she was secretly possessed of landed property worth above six hundred ayear and also—which was a confidence if possible more sacred still—that Agnes Willoughby would inherit it
It would be hardly doing justice to the good sense of Miss Betsy to state that this rational and proper destination of her property had never been finally decided upon by her till the moment she answered her brothers question on the subject and still less correctly true would it be to say that the dying mans delirious fancy respecting the presence of their father was the reason that she answered that appeal in the manner she did yet still there might be some slight mixture of truth in both Miss Compton was constantly in the habit of telling herself that she had not decided to whom she would leave her property but it is no less true that the only person she ever thought of as within the possibility of becoming her heir was Agnes It is certain also as I have stated above that Miss Compton did not believe that departed spirits ever revisited the earth nevertheless the dying declaration of Josiah that he saw the figure of his father did produce a spasm at her heart which found great relief by her pronouncing the words Agnes Willoughby
And now that she was quietly alone and perfectly restored to her sober senses she began to reconsider all that she had spoken and to pass judgment upon herself for the having yielded in some degree to the weakness of a visionary imagination
The result however of this selfexamination was not exactly what she herself expected At first she was disposed to exclaim mentally I have been foolish—I have been weak but as she gazed abstractedly on her little fire and thought—thought—thought of all the chain of events each so little in itself, yet all so linked together as to produce an important whole by which she the sickly crooked little Betsy Compton had become the proprietor of the long preserved patrimony of her ancestors and also when she remembered the infinite chances which had existed against either of her portionless uneducated nieces forming such a marriage as might produce a child of gentle blood to be her successor—when she thought of all this and that notwithstanding the lieutenants poverty the name of Willoughby could disgrace none to which it might be joined she could not but feel that all things had been managed for her better than she could have managed them for herself
And if thought she I was influenced by hearing my poor father so accurately described to bind myself at once by a promise to make little Agnes my heir how do I know but that Providence intended it should be so
Is my freedom of action then gone for ever she continued carrying on her mental soliloquy The idea was painful to her and her head sunk upon her breast as she brooded upon it
Not so she muttered to herself after some minutes cogitation I am not pledged to this nor shall it be so If indeed some emanation from my fathers mind has made itself felt by his children this night it ought not to make a timid slave of me but rather rouse my courage and my strength to do something more than mere justice to the race that seems so strangely intrusted to my care And so I will if the girl be such a one as may repay the trouble if not I will shew that I have still some freedom left
Miss Compton had never seen Agnes Willoughby from the time she first took her from Silverton Deeply shocked at the profound ignorance in which she found the poor little girl when she visited Compton Basett she had set herself very earnestly to discover where she could immediately place her with the best chance of her recovering the time she had so negligently been permitted to lose and by good luck heard of a clergymans family in which young ladies were received for a stipend of fifty pounds ayear and treated more like the children of affectionate parents than the pupils of mercenary teachers The good spinster heard all this and was well pleased by the description yet would she not trust to it but breaking through all her habits she put herself into a postchaise and drove to the rectory of Empton a distance of at least twenty miles from the town of Silverton Here she found everything she wished to find a small regular establishment a ladylike and very intelligent woman with an accomplished young person her only child fully capable of undertaking the education of a gentlemans daughter while the venerable father of the family and of the parish by his gentle manners and exemplary character ensured exactly the sort of respectability in the home she sought for the little Agnes which she considered as its most essential feature
The preliminaries were speedily arranged and as soon as a neat and sufficient wardrobe was ready for her use her final separation from her improvident grandmother took place in the manner that has been related
When Miss Compton left the little girl in the charge of Mrs Wilmot she had certainly no idea of her remaining there above three years without visiting or being seen by any of her family but Mrs Wilmot in her subsequent letters so strongly urged the advantage of not disturbing studies so late begun and now proceeding so satisfactorily that our reasonable aunt Betsy willingly submitted to her remaining quietly where she was an arrangement rendered the more desirable by the death of her grandmother and the breaking up of the establishment which had been her only home
The seeing her again after this long absence was now an event of very momentous importance to Miss Compton Should she in any way resemble either her grandmother or her aunt Barnaby the little spinster felt that the promise so solemnly given would become a sore pain and grief to her for rather a thousand times would she have bequeathed her carefully collected wealth to the county hospital than have bestowed it to swell the vulgar ostentation of a Mrs Barnaby The power of choice however she felt was no longer left her She had pledged her word and that under circumstances of no common solemnity that Agnes Willoughby should be her heir
The poor little lady as these anxious ruminations harassed her mind became positively faint and sick as the idea occurred to her that the eyes of little Agnes had formerly sparkled with somewhat of the brightness she thought so very hateful in her wellrouged aunt and at length having sat till her candle was nearly burnt out and her fire too she arose in order to return to the fine drawingroom and bid her entertainers good night but she stood with clasped hands for one moment upon the hearthstone before she quitted it and muttered half aloud I have said that Agnes Willoughby shall be my heir and so she shall she shall be she a gorgon or a second Martha inherit the Compton Basett acres restored improved and worth at least one fourth more than when my poor father Heaven give his spirit rest divided them between his children But for my snug twelve thousand pounds sterling vested in the three per cents and my little mortgage of eighteen hundred more for which I so regularly get my five per cent that at least is my own and that shall never never go to enrich any one who inherits the red cheeks and bright black eyes of Miss Martha Wisett No not if I am driven to choose an heir for it from the Foundling Hospital
Somewhat comforted in spirit by this magnanimous resolve Miss Compton found her way to the drawingroom and would have been fully confirmed in the wisdom of it had any doubt remained by the style and tone of Mrs Barnaby whom she found sitting there in solitary state her husband being professionally engaged in the town and her own anxiety for her dying father quite satisfied by being told that he was asleep
And where have you been hiding yourself aunt Betsy since you left papa said the fulldressed lady warmed into good humour by the consciousness of her own elegance and the delightful contrast between a married woman sitting in her own handsome drawingroom looking as she had just ascertained that she herself did look by a long solitary study of her image in the glass and a poor crooked little old maid like her visitor I have been expecting to see you for this hour past I hope Barnaby will be in soon and then we will go to supper Barnaby always eats a hot supper and so I eat it with him for company and I hope you feel disposed to join us after your cold drive
I never eat any supper at all Mrs Barnaby
No really I thought farmhouse people always did though not exactly such a supper as Barnabys perhaps for he always will have something nice and delicate and so as it pleases him I have taken to the same sort of thing myself veal cutlets and mashed potatoes or half a chicken grilled perhaps with now and then a glass of raspberry cream or a mince pie as the season may be all which I take to be very light and wholesome and indeed Barnaby thinks so too or else I am sure he would not let me touch it You cant think aunt Betsy what a fuss he makes about me To be sure he is a perfect model of a husband
God grant she may be the colour of a tallowcandle and her eyes as pale and lustreless as those of a dead whiting mentally ejaculated the whimsical spinster but in reply to her niece she said nothing After sitting however for about ten minutes in the most profound silence she rose and said—
I should like to have a bedcandle if you please maam I need not wait to see the doctor If he thinks there is any alteration in my brother he will be kind enough to let me know
The lady of the mansion condescendingly rang the bell which her liveryboy answered with promptness for he was exceedingly well drilled Mrs Barnaby having little else to do than to keep him and her two maids in proper order the desired candle was brought and Miss Compton having satisfied herself that her brother still slept retired to rest
The following day was an important one to her race the last male of the Compton Basett family expired and the young girl to whom its small but ancient patrimony was to descend appeared for the first time before Miss Compton in the character of her heiress
It was about midday when the postchaise which conveyed Agnes arrived at Mr Barnabys door Had the person expected been a judge in whose hands the life and death of the spinster freeholder was placed her heart could hardly have beat with more anxiety to catch a sight of his countenance and to read her fate in it than it now did to discover whether her aspect were that of a vulgar beauty or a gentlewoman
Miss Compton was sitting in the presence of Mrs Barnaby when the carriage stopped at the door and had been for some hours keenly suffering from the disgust which continually increased upon her at pretty nearly every word her companion uttered If she be like this creature thought she as she rose from her seat with nervous emotion if she be like her in any way I will keep my promise when I die but I will never see her more
Nothing but her dread of encountering this hated resemblance prevented her from going down stairs to meet the important little girl but after a moments fidgetting and taking a step or two towards the door she came back and reseated herself The suspense did not last long the door was opened and Muss Willerby announced
A short round little creature who though nearly fourteen did not look more than twelve with cheeks as red as roses and large darkgrey eyes a great deal brighter than ever her aunts or grandmothers had been entered and timidly stopped short in her approach to her two aunts as if purposely to be looked at and examined
She was looked at and examined and judgment was passed upon her by both differing very widely however as was natural enough but in which a circumstance much less natural considering the qualifications for judging possessed by the two ladies the younger shewed considerably more discernment than the elder Mrs Barnaby thought her—and she was right—exceedingly like what she remembered her very pretty mother at the same age just as round and as rosy but with a strong mixture of the Willoughby countenance which was very decidedly Patrician both in contour and expression
But poor Miss Compton saw nothing of all this she saw only that she was short fat freshcoloured and brighteyed This dreaded spectacle was a deathblow to all her hopes the hated confirmation of all her fears It was in vain that when the poor child spoke her voice proved as sweet as a voice could be—in vain that her natural curls fell round her neck as soon as her bonnet was taken off in rich chestnut clusters—in vain that the smile with which she answered Mrs Barnabys question Do you remember me Agnes displayed teeth as white and as regular as a row of pearls—all these things were but so many items against her in the opinion of Miss Compton for did they not altogether constitute a brilliant specimen of vulgar beauty Had Agnes been tall pale and slight made with precisely the same features her aunt Betsy would have willingly devoted the whole of her remaining life to her would have ungrudgingly expended every farthing of her income for her comfort and advantage and would only have abstained from expending the principal too because she might leave it to her untouched at her death But now now that she saw her as she fancied so very nearly approaching in appearance to everything she most disliked all the longindulged habits of frugality that had enabled her as she at this moment delighted to remember to accumulate a fortune over which she still had entire control seemed to rise before her and press round her very heart as the only means left of atoning to herself for the promise she had been led to make
I will see the eyes of my fathers son closed thought she and then I will leave the beauties to manage together as well as they can till mine are closed too and by that time perhaps the rents of the lands that I must no longer consider as my own and my interest and my mortgages may have grown into something rich enough to make them and theirs wish that they had other claims upon Elizabeth Compton besides being her nearest of kin
These thoughts passed rapidly but their impression was deep and lasting Miss Compton sat in very stern and melancholy silence such as perhaps did not ill befit the occasion that had brought them all together but Mrs Barnaby whose habitual propensity to make herself comfortable prevented her from sacrificing either her curiosity or her love of talking to ceremony ceased not to question Agnes as to the people she had been with the manner in which she had lived and the amount of what she had learned
On the first subject she received nothing in return but unbounded unqualified expressions of praise and affection such as might either be taken for the unmeaning hyperbole of a silly speaker or the warm outpouring of welldeserved affection and gratitude so Miss Compton classed all that Agnes said respecting the family of the Wilmots under the former head her record of their manner of living produced exactly the same result and on the important chapter of her improvements the genuine modesty of the little girl did her great disservice for when in answer to Mrs Barnabys questions Do you understand French Can you dance Can you play Can you draw she invariably answered A little Miss Compton failed not to make a mental note upon it which if spoken would have been Little enough I dare say
This examination had lasted about half an hour when Mr Barnaby entered and addressing them all said Poor Mr Compton has woke up and appears quite collected but from his pulse I do not think he can last long Is this Miss Willoughby Martha I am sorry that your first visit my dear should be so sad a one but you had better all come now and take leave of him
The three ladies rose immediately and without speaking followed Mr Barnaby to the bedside of the dying man He was evidently sinking fast but knew them all and expressed pleasure at the sight of Agnes Dear child he said looking earnestly at her I am glad she is come to take my blessing God bless you Agnes She is very like God bless you Agnes God bless you all
Mr Barnaby took his wife by the arm and led her away she took her weeping niece with her but Miss Compton shook her head when invited by Mr Barnaby to follow them and in a very few minutes completed the duty to perform which she had left her solitude for with her own hands she closed her brothers eyes and then stole to her room from which she speedily dispatched an order for a postchaise to come immediately to the door
The conduct and manners of Mr Barnaby had pleased the difficult little lady greatly and she would willingly have shaken hands with him before leaving his house but to do this she must have reentered the drawingroom and again seen Mrs Barnaby and Agnes a penance which she felt quite unequal to perform so leaving a civil message for him with the maid she went down stairs with as little noise as possible as soon as the chaise was announced and immediately drove off to Compton Basett
CHAPTER IX
MR BARNABY PAYS A VISIT TO COMPTON BASETT AND RECEIVES FROM THE HEIRESS A FORMAL CONGÉ—AGNES IS SENT BACK TO SCHOOL AND REMAINS THERE TILL CALLED HOME BY THE NEWS OF HIS DEATH
Some surprise and great indignation were expressed by Mrs Barnaby on hearing that Miss Compton had departed without the civility of taking leave She resented greatly the rudeness to herself but as she justly said the meaning of it was much more important to Agnes than to her
What is to become of her Mr Barnaby I should like to know said the angry lady Agnes says that Mrs Wilmot expects her back directly and who is to pay the expense of sending her I wonder
Mr Barnaby assured her in reply that there would be no difficulty about that adding that they should doubtless hear from Miss Compton as soon as she had recovered the painful effect of the scenes at which she had so lately been present
Days passed away however the funeral was over and everything in the family of Mr Barnaby restored to its usual routine yet still they heard nothing of Miss Compton
I see clearly how it is said the shrewd lady of the mansion Aunt Betsy means to throw the whole burden of poor dear little Agnes upon us and what in the world are we to do with her Barnaby
I cannot think she has any such intention Martha After the excellent education she has been giving her for the last three or four years it is hardly likely that she would suddenly give her up when it is impossible but she must have been delighted with her But at any rate make yourself easy my dear Martha if she abandons her we will not we have no children of our own and I think the best thing we can do is to adopt this dear girl She is really the sweetest little creature I ever saw in my life I can assure you that when her education is finished I for one should be delighted to have her live with us What say you to it Martha
I am sure you are goodness itself my dear Barnaby and if the crabbed crooked old maid would just promise at once to leave her the little she may have left after all her ostentatious charities I should make no objection whatever to our adopting Agnes She is just like poor Sophy and it certainly is a pleasure to look at her
Well then dont fret yourself any more about aunt Betsy I will call upon her one of these days when I happen to be going Compton Basett way and find out if I can what she means to do about sending her back to Mrs Wilmot It would be a pity not to finish her education for it is easy to see that she has had great justice done her
It was not however till some word from Agnes gave him to understand that she was herself very anxious about going on with her studies and desirous of letting Mrs Wilmot know what was become of her that he made or met an opportunity of conversing with Miss Compton He found her reading a novel in her chimney corner and dressed in deep but very homely mourning She received him civilly nay there was even something of kindness in her manner when she reverted to the time she had passed in his house and thanked him for the hospitality he had shewn her He soon perceived however that the name of Agnes produced no feeling of interest but that on the contrary when he mentioned her the expression of the old ladys face changed from very pleasing serenity to peevish discomfort so he wisely determined to make what he had to say a matter of business and immediately entered upon it accordingly
My principal reason Miss Compton for troubling you with a visit said he is to learn what are your wishes and intentions respecting Miss Willoughby Is it your purpose to send her back to Mrs Wilmot
I have already been at a great and very inconvenient expense Mr Barnaby for the education of Agnes Willoughby but as I have no intention whatever of straitening my poor little income any further by incurring cost on her account I am glad that what I have done has been of the nature most likely to make her independent of me and of you too Mr Barnaby in future When I first placed her with Mrs Wilmot I agreed to keep her there for five years seventeen months of which are still unexpired To this engagement I am willing to adhere and though I cant say I think her a very bright girl but rather perhaps a little inclining towards the contrary yet still I imagine that when she knows she has her own bread to get she may be induced to exert herself sufficiently during the next year and five months to enable her to take the place of governess to very young children or perhaps that of teacher in a second or third rate school Thats my notion about her Mr Barnaby and now if you please I never wish to hear any more upon the subject
Greatly displeased by the manner in which Miss Compton spoke of his young favourite Mr Barnaby rose and very drily wished her good morning adding however that no farther delay should take place in sending Miss Willoughby back to resume her studies
He was then bowing off but the little lady stopped him saying As I have been the means of sending the child to such a distance from her nearest relation I mean your wife sir it is but just that I should pay such travelling expenses as are consequent upon it Here sir is a tenpoundnote that I have carefully set apart for this purpose have the kindness to dispense it for her as may seem most convenient And now sir farewell I wish not again to have my humble retreat disturbed by any persons so much above me in all worldly advantages as you and your elegant wife and having performed what I thought to be my duty by the little Willoughby I beg to have nothing farther to do with her I dare say your lady will grow exceedingly fond of her for it seems to me that they are vastly alike and if that happens there will be no danger of the young girls wanting anything that a poor little sickly and deformed old body like me could do for her Good morning Mr Barnaby
Mr Barnaby silently received the ten pounds which he thought he had no right to refuse and having patiently waited till Miss Compton had concluded her speech he returned her good morning and took his leave
The worthy apothecarys account of his visit produced considerable sensation Agnes indeed received it in silence but the offensive brightness of her eyes was dimmed for a moment or two by a few involuntary tears Her young heart was disappointed for not only had the strong liking conceived by the Wilmot family for her aunt Betsy led her to believe that she must unquestionably like her too but she gratefully remembered her former gentle quiet kindness to herself and worse still on being brought back amongst her relatives she had contrary to what is usual in such cases conceived the greatest predilection for the only one among them who did not like her at all
But it was not in silence that Mrs Barnaby received her husbands statement of the capricious old ladys firmly pronounced resolve of never having anything more to do with Agnes Willoughby All the old familiar epithets of abuse came forth again as fresh and vigorous as if but newly coined and though these were mixed up with language which it was by no means agreeable to hear her judicious husband suffered her to run on without opposition till she was fairly out of breath and then closed the conversation by putting a bedcandle into her hand and saying
Now let us all go to bed my dear and I dare say you will have much pleasure in proving to your peevish relative that as long as you live Agnes will want no other aunt to take care of her
The good seed sown with these words brought forth fruit abundantly Mrs Barnaby could not do enough in her own estimation to prove to the whole town of Silverton the contrast between Miss Compton and herself—the difference between a bad aunt and a good one
Fortunately for the wellbeing of Agnes at this important period of her existence she had inspired a strong feeling of affectionate interest in a more rational being than Mrs Barnaby her welljudging husband thought they should do better service to the young girl by sending her back to Mrs Wilmot with as little delay as possible than by keeping her with them for the purpose of proving to all the world that they were the fondest and most generous uncle and aunt that ever a dependant niece was blest with and she was sent back to Empton accordingly
In order to do justice to the kindness of Mr Barnabys adoption of the desolate girl it must be remembered that neither he nor his wife had any knowledge of the scene which passed between Miss Compton and her brother before his death neither had they the least idea that the old lady possessed anything beyond her original moiety of the Compton Basett estate and they both believed her to be so capricious as to render it very probable although it was remembered she had once talked of leaving it to those who had claims on her that some of the poor of her parish might eventually become her heirs—an idea which the unaccountable dislike she appeared to have taken to Agnes greatly tended to confirm
Once during the time that remained for her continuance with the Wilmots Agnes paid a fortnights visit to the abode she was now taught to consider as her home the next time she entered it a few weeks only before the period fixed for the termination of her studies she was summoned thither by the very sudden death of her excellent and valuable friend Mr Barnaby This event produced an entire and even violent change in her prospects and manner of life as well as in those of her aunt and it is from this epoch that the narrative promised by the title of The Widow Barnaby actually commences the foregoing pages being only a necessary prologue to the appearance of my heroine in that character
CHAPTER X
THE WIDOW BARNABY ENTERS ACTIVELY ON HER NEW EXISTENCE—HER WEALTH—HER HAPPY PROSPECTS—MRS WILMOT VISITS MISS COMPTON AND OBTAINS LEAVE TO INTRODUCE AGNES WILLOUGHBY
Mrs Barnaby was really very sorry for the death of her husband and wept with little or no effort several times during the dismal week that preceded his interment but she was not a woman to indulge long in so very unprofitable a weakness and accordingly as soon as the funeral was over and the will read by which he left her sole executrix and sole legatee of all he possessed she very rationally began to meditate upon her position and upon the best mode of enjoying the many good things which had fallen to her share
She certainly felt both proud and happy as she thought of her independence and her wealth Of the first she unquestionably had as much as it was possible for woman to possess for no human being existed who had any right whatever to control her Of the second her judgment would have been more correct had she better understood the value of money Though it is hardly possible any day should pass without adding something to the knowledge of all civilized beings on this subject it is nevertheless certain that there are two modes of education which lead the mind in after life into very erroneous estimates respecting it The one is being brought up to spend exactly as much money as you please and the other having it deeply impressed on your mind that you are to spend none at all In the first case it is long before the most complete reverse of fortune can make the cidevant rich man understand how a little money can be eked out so as to perform the office of a great deal and in the last the change from having no money to having some will often if it come suddenly so puzzle all foregone conclusions as to leave the possessor wonderfully little power to manage it discreetly
The latter case was pretty nearly that of Mrs Barnaby when she learned that her dear lost husband had left her uncontrolled mistress of property to the amount of three hundred and seventytwo pounds per annum besides the house and furniture the shop and all it contained she really felt as if her power in this life were colossal and that she might roam the world either for conquest or amusement or sustain in Silverton the style of a retired duchess as might suit her fancy best
Never yet had this ladys temper been so amiably placid or so caressingly kind as during the first month of her widowhood She gave Agnes to understand that she wished to be considered as her mother and trusted that they should find in each other all the happiness and affection which that tenderest of ties was so well calculated to produce
It will not be my fault Agnes she said if such be not the case Thanks be to heaven and my dear lost Barnaby I have wealth enough to consult both your pleasure and advantage in my future mode of life and be assured my dear that however much my own widowed feelings might lead me to prefer the tranquil consolations of retirement I shall consider it my duty to live more for you than for myself and I will indeed hasten in spite of my feelings to lay aside these sad weeds that I may be able with as little delay as possible to give you such an introduction to the world as my niece has a right to expect
Agnes was at a loss what to reply she had still all the frank straightforwardness of a child who has been educated by unaffected sensible people and yet she knew that she must not on this occasion say quite what she thought which would probably have been—
Pray dont fancy that I want you to throw aside your widows weeds for me aunt I dont believe you are one half as sorry for uncle Barnabys death as I am But fortunately there was no mixture of bêtise in her frankness and though it might have been beyond her power to express any great satisfaction at being thus addressed she had no difficulty in saying—You are very kind to me aunt for this was true
Notwithstanding this youthful frankness of mind however Agnes had by this time lost in a great measure that very childish look which distinguished her at the time her appearance so little pleased the fastidious taste of Miss Compton She was still indeed in very good health which was indicated by a colour as fresh and almost as delicate too as that of the wild rose but her rapid growth during the last two years had quite destroyed the offensive roundness and her tall wellmade person gave as hopeful a promise as could be wished for of womanly grace and beauty The fair face was already the very perfection of loveliness and had the secretly proud Miss Compton seen her as she walked in her deep heavy mourning beside her widespreading aunt to church on the Sunday when that lady first restored herself to the public eye she might perchance have thought that not only was she worthy to inherit Compton Basett and all its accumulated rents but any other glory and honour that this little earth of ours could bestow
A feeling of strong mutual affection between the parties led both the Wilmot family and Agnes to petition earnestly that the few weeks which remained of the stipulated and already paid for five years might be completed and Mrs Barnaby though it was really somewhat against her inclination consented
But though she had not desired this renewed absence of her niece the notable widow determined to put it to profit and set about a final arrangement of all her concerns with an activity that proved good Mr Barnaby quite right in not having troubled her with any assistant executor
She soon contrived to learn who it was who wished to succeed her dear Barnaby and managed matters so admirably well as to make the eager young man pay for the house furniture shop c c about half as much again as they were worth cleverly contriving moreover to retain possession for three months
This important business being settled she set herself earnestly and deliberately to consider what when these three months should be expired she should do with her freedom her money herself and her niece In deciding upon this question she called none to counsel for she had sense enough to avow to herself that she should pay not the slightest attention to any opinion but her own In silence and in solitude therefore she pondered upon the future and to assist her speculations she drew forth from the recesses of an oldfashioned bureau sundry documents and memoranda relative to the property bequeathed to her by her husband
It was evident that her income would now somewhat exceed four hundred ayear and this appeared to her amply sufficient to assist the schemes already working in her head for future aggrandizement but by no means equal to what she felt her beauty and her talents gave her a right to hope for
It is however a handsome income thought she and such a one as with my person may and must if properly made use of lead to all I wish
Mrs Barnaby had once heard it said by a clever man that human wishes might oftener be achieved did mortals better know how to set about obtaining them
First said the oracle let him be sure to find out what his wishes really are This ascertained let him in the second place employ all his acuteness to discover what is required for their fulfilment Thirdly let him examine himself and his position in order to decide how much he or it can contribute towards this Fourthly let him subtract the sum of the capabilities he possesses from the total of means required Fifthly let him learn by with and in his heart of hearts what it is that constitutes the remainder and sixthly and lastly let him gird up the loins of his resolution and start forth DETERMINED to acquire them Whoso doeth this shall seldom fail
In the course of her visitings military friendships and all included Mrs Barnaby even in the small arena of Silverton had heard several wise things in her day but none of them ever produced such lasting effect as the words I have just quoted They touched some chord within her that vibrated not indeed with such a thrill as they might have made to ring along the nerves of a fine creature new to life and emulous of all things good and great but with a little sharp twitch just at that point of the brain where selflove expands itself into a mesh of ways and means instinct with will to catch all it can that may be brought home to glut the craving for enjoyment and so pregnant did they seem to her of the only wisdom that she wished to master that her memory seized upon them with extraordinary energy nor ever after relinquished its hold
Little however could it profit her at the time she heard it but she kept it like an ape in the corner of his jaw first mouthed to be last swallowed
It was upon these words that she now pondered Her two elbows set on the open bureau her legs stretched under it her lips resting upon the knuckles of her clasped hands and her eyes fixed in deep abstraction on the row of pigeonholes before her she entered upon a sort of self-catechism which ran thus—
Q What is it that I most wish for on earth
A A rich and fashionable husband
Q What is required to obtain this
A Beauty fortune talents and a free entrance into good society
Q Do I possess any of these and which
A I possess beauty fortune and talents
Q What remains wanting
A A free entrance into good society
True she exclaimed aloud it is that I want and it is that I must procure
Notwithstanding her sanguine estimate of herself the widow when she arrived at this point was fain to confess that she did not exactly know how this necessary addition to her ways and means was to be acquired Beyond the town of Silverton and a thinly inhabited circuit of a mile or two round it she had not a personal acquaintance in the world This was a very perplexing consideration for a lady determined upon finding her way into the first circles but its effect was rather to strengthen than relax her energies
There was however one person and she truly believed one only in the wide world who might at her first setting out upon her progress be useful to her This was a sister of Mr Barnabys married to a clothier whose manufactory was at Frome but whose residence was happily at Clifton near Bristol She had never seen this lady or any of her family all intercourse between the brother and sister having of late years consisted in letters not very frequent and the occasional interchange of presents—a jar of turtle being now and then forwarded by mail from Bristol and dainty quarters of Exmoor mutton and tin pots of clouted cream returned from Silverton
Nevertheless Mrs Peters was her sisterinlaw just as much as if they had lived next door to each other for the last five years and she had of course a right to all the kindness and hospitality so near a connexion demands
A clothiers wife to be sure was not exactly the sort of person she would have chosen had choice been left her but it was better than nothing infinitely better and besides as the logical widows head went on to reason she may introduce me to people above herself At a public place too like Clifton it must be so easy And then every new acquaintance I make will serve to lead on to another I am not so shy but I can turn all accidents to account and I am not such a fool as to stand at one end of a room when I ought to be at the other
Mrs Barnaby never quoted Shakspeare or she would probably have added here—
Why then the worlds mine oyster which I with wit will open for it was with some such thought that her soliloquy ended
Day by day the absence of Agnes wore away and day after day saw some business preparatory to departure dispatched Sometimes the hours were winged by her having to pull about all the finery in her possession and dividing it into portions some to be abandoned for ever some to be enveloped with reverend care in cotton and silver paper for her future use and some to be given to the favoured Agnes
While such cares occupied her hands her thoughts naturally enough hurried forward to the time when she should lay aside her weeds This was a dress so hatefully unbecoming in her estimation that she firmly believed the inventor of it must have been actuated by some feeling akin to that which instituted the horrible Hindoo rite of which she had heard whereby living wives were sacrificed to their departed husbands
Only she cried bursting out into involuntary thanksgiving ours thank God is not for ever
To appear for the first time in the fashionable world in this frightful disguise was quite out of the question and consequently she could not make her purposed visit to Clifton till the time was arrived for throwing them off and till to use her own words lilacs and greys were possible Yet there were other considerations that had weight with her too
His sister however shall just see me in my widows weeds thought she it may touch her heart perhaps and must make her feel how very nearly we are related but before any living soul out of the family can come near me I will take care to look what I really am Six months it must I suppose be six months first Dreadful bore
The first half of this probationary term was to be passed at Silverton—that was already wearing fast away—and for the latter part of it she determined to take lodgings in Exeter
Yes it shall be Exeter she exclaimed and then added with a perfect quiver of delight Oh what a difference now from what it was formerly How well I remember the time when a journey to Exeter appeared to me the very gayest thing in the world and now I should no more think of staying there than a queen would think of passing her life in her bedroom
The more she meditated on the future indeed the more enamoured did she become of it till at length her affairs being very nearly all brought to a satisfactory conclusion a restless sort of impatience seized upon her and nearly a fortnight before the time fixed for the return of Agnes she wrote a very peremptory letter of recall but altogether omitted to point out either the mode of conveyance or the protection she deemed necessary for her during the journey
Perhaps Mrs Wilmot was not sorry for this as it afforded her an excuse for remaining herself to the last possible moment with a pupil who had found the way to create almost a maternal interest in her heart and moreover gave her an opportunity of seeking an interview with the singular but interesting recluse who five years before had placed in her hands the endearing though ignorant little girl whose education had proved a task so unusually pleasing
The principal reason however for Mrs Wilmots wishing to pay Miss Compton a visit arose from the description Agnes had given of her conduct towards her and of the system of nonintercourse which it was so evidently the little ladys intention to maintain
Without having uttered a word resembling faultfinding or complaint Agnes had somehow or other made the Wilmots feel that though aunt Betsy certainly did not like her she liked aunt Betsy a great deal better than she did aunt Barnaby and this added to the favourable impression Miss Compton had herself left upon their minds made the good Mrs Wilmot exceedingly anxious that she should not remain ignorant of the treasure she possessed in her young relation
The delay of a few days before Mrs Wilmot could take her pupil home was inevitable and when they arrived Mrs Barnaby had bustled her affairs into such a state of forwardness that though she received them without any great appearance of melancholy or illhumour she hinted pretty plainly that Agnes came too late to be of much use to her in packing
Mrs Wilmot made a very sufficient apology for the delay and then took leave saying that she should remain in Silverton that night and drive out the next morning to pay her compliments to Miss Compton The bare mention of the spinsters name at once converted the widows civility into rudeness she offered her guest neither refreshment nor accommodation of any kind and poor Agnes had the pain of seeing her dearest friend depart to pass the night at an inn when she would have gladly stood by to watch her slumbers all night might she have offered her own bed for her use
On the following morning Mrs Wilmot paid her purposed visit to Miss Compton and found her in dress occupation and mode of life so precisely what she has been described before that not a word need be added on the subject Greatly different however was the welcome she accorded that lady to what we have formerly seen her bestow upon her relatives She greeted her indeed with a smile so cordial and a tone of voice so pleasantly expressive of the satisfaction her visit gave that it was only when the object of it was brought forward that Mrs Wilmot too discovered that Miss Compton could be a very cross little old lady when she chose it
I shall quite long my dear madam to hear your opinion of my pupil said Mrs Wilmot for I cannot but flatter myself that you will be delighted with her
Then ask me nothing about her maam if you please replied the recluse
But it is near two years Miss Compton since you saw her and she is wonderfully improved in that time said Mrs Wilmot Yet I own I should have thought that even then two years ago when you did see her that you must have found her a very charming girl full of sweetness and intelligence and with a face
We had better say no more about her if you please Mrs Wilmot tartly interrupted the recluse I dare say you made the best you could of her and it is no fault of yours that old Wisetts great granddaughter should be a Wisett but I hate the very sight of her as I do and have done and ever shall do that of all their kin and kind so it is no good to talk of it
The sight of her reiterated the astonished Mrs Wilmot Why my dear Miss Compton she is reckoned by every one that sees her to be one of the loveliest creatures that nature ever formed If her timid artless manners do not please you it is unfortunate but that you should not think her beautiful is impossible
I beg your pardon maam I should not care a straw for the manners of a child for I know that time and care might change them but it is her person that I cant endure there is no disputing about taste you know I should not have thought indeed that she was quite the style for you to admire so violently but of course that is nothing to me I know that the look of her eyes and the colour of her cheeks is exactly what I think the most detestable there is no right or wrong in the matter it is all fancy and the sight of her makes me sick Pray maam say no more about her
There was but one way in which Mrs Wilmot could comprehend this extraordinary antipathy to what was so little calculated to inspire it and this was by supposing that Miss Comptons personal deformity rendered the sight of beauty painful to her an interpretation indeed as far as possible from the truth for the little spinster was peculiarly sensible to beauty of form and expression wherever she found it but it was the only explanation that suggested itself; and with mingled feelings of pity and contempt Mrs Wilmot replied—There may be no right or wrong Miss Compton in a judgment passed on external appearance only for it may as you observe be purely a matter of taste but surely it must be otherwise of an aversion conceived against a near relative whose amiable disposition faultless conduct and brilliant talents justly entitle her to the love esteem and admiration of the whole world This is not merely a matter of taste and in this there may be much wrong
Miss Compton appeared struck by these words but after pondering a moment upon them replied—And how can I tell Mrs Wilmot but that your judgment of this childs character and disposition may be as much distorted by unreasonable partiality as your opinion of her vulgarlooking person
A new light here broke in upon the mind of Mrs Wilmot she remembered the remarkable plumpness of the little Agnes before she made that sudden start in her growth which in the course of two important years had converted a clumsylooking child into a tall slight elegantly made girl and with greatly increased earnestness of manner she answered—
I only ask you to see her once Miss Compton I have no wish whatever that your judgment should be influenced by mine with respect either to the person or the mind of Agnes Willoughby but I greatly wish that your own opinion of her should be formed upon what she now is and not upon what she has been I am sure you must feel that this is reasonable Will you then promise me that you will see her
I will replied Miss Compton The request is reasonable and I promise to comply with it Yet it can only be on one condition Mrs Wilmot
And what is that Miss Compton
That I may see her without her horrid aunt Barnaby
Mrs Wilmot smiled involuntarily but answered gravely Of course Miss Compton that must be as you please Rather than you should fail to see my pretty Agnes I will remain another day from home on purpose to bring her to you myself Will you receive us if we come over to you at this hour tomorrow morning
I will again replied the recluse and whatever may be the result of the interview I shall hold myself indebted to the kind feelings which have led you to insist upon it
Thank you thank you said Mrs Wilmot rising to take her leave Tomorrow then you will see me again with my young charge
CHAPTER XI
AN IMPORTANT CORRESPONDENCE AND AN IMPORTANT INTERVIEW
On returning to her solitary quarters at the Kings Head Mrs Wilmot called for pen ink and paper and wrote the following note to her young pupil
My dear Agnes
I am just returned from a visit to Compton Basett where I was very kindly received by your aunt She wishes to see you before you leave the neighbourhood and I have promised to take you to her tomorrow morning I will therefore call at eleven oclock when I hope I shall find you ready to accompany me With compliments to Mrs Barnaby believe me dear Agnes
Affectionately yours
Mary Wilmot
To this epistle she speedily received the following answer
Mrs Barnaby presents her compliments to Mrs Wilmot and begs to know if there is any reason why she should not join the party to Compton Basett tomorrow morning If not she requests Mrs Wilmots permission to accompany her in the drive as the doing so will be a considerable convenience Mrs Barnaby wishing to pay her duty to her aunt before she leaves the country
To return a negative to this request was disagreeable being absolutely necessary however it was done without delay but it was with burning cheeks and flashing eyes that Mrs Barnaby read the following civil refusal
Mrs Wilmot regrets extremely that she is under the necessity of declining the company of Mrs Barnaby tomorrow morning but Miss Compton expressly desired that Agnes should be brought to her alone
To this Mrs Barnaby replied—
As Mrs Wilmot has been pleased to take upon herself the office of go between she is requested to inform Miss Betsy Compton that the aunt who has adopted Agnes Willoughby intends to bestow too much personal care upon her to permit her paying any visits in which she cannot accompany her
The vexed and discomfited Mrs Wilmot returned to Compton Basett with these two notes in her hand instead of the pretty Agnes and her mortification was very greatly increased by perceiving that the disappointment of the old lady fully equalled her own This obvious sympathy of feeling led to a more confidential intercourse than had ever before taken place between the solitary heiress and any other person whatever so contrary indeed was this species of frank communication to her habits that it was produced rather by the necessity of giving vent to her angry feelings than for the gratification of confessing any other
In reply to her first indignant burst of resentment Mrs Wilmot said—
I lament the consequences of this illtimed impertinence for my poor pupils sake more than it is easy for me to explain to you Miss Compton Do me the justice to believe that I am not in the habit of interfering in the family concerns of my pupils and then you will be better able to appreciate the motives and feelings which still lead me to urge you not to withdraw your protection and kindness from Agnes Willoughby
I do believe that your motives are excellent and I can believe too that if your pupil deserve half you have said of her the protection and kindness even of such a being as myself might be more beneficial to her than being left at the mercy of this hateful vulgarminded woman But what would you have me do Mrs Wilmot You would not ask me to leave my flowers my bees my books and my peaceful home to keep watch over Mrs Barnaby and see that she does not succeed in making this poor girl as detestable as herself You would not expect me to do this would you
No Miss Compton no one I think would willingly impose such a task upon you as that of watching Mrs Barnaby But I see no objection to your watching Agnes
And how is the one to be done without the other It is quite natural that the child of one of Miss Martha Wisetts daughters should live with the other of them My relationship to this girl is remote in comparison to hers
Miss Compton replied Mrs Wilmot I fear that my acquaintance with you hardly justifies the pertinacity with which I feel disposed to urge this point but indeed it is of vital importance to one that I very dearly love and one whom you would dearly love too would you permit yourself to know her
Do not apologise to me for the interest you take in her returned the old lady in a tone rather more encouraging There is more need perhaps that I should apologise for the want of it and to say truth she added after a considerable pause I have no objection to explain my motives to you though it has never fallen in my way before to meet any one to whom I wished to do this My life has been an odd one though surrounded by human beings with whom I have lived on the most friendly terms I have passed my existence as to anything like companionship entirely alone I have never been dull for I have read incessantly and altogether I think it likely that I have been happier than most people But in the bosom of this unrepining solitude it is likely enough that I have nursed opinions into passions and distastes into hatred Thus Mrs Wilmot the reasonable opinion that I set out with for instance when inheriting my fathers longdescended acres that it was my duty in all things to sustain as much as in me lay the old claim to gentle blood which attached to my race injured perhaps in some degree by this division of its patrimony in my favour even this reasonable opinion Mrs Wilmot has by degrees grown perhaps into unreasonable strength for I would rather madam press age and ugliness remarkable as my own to my heart as the acknowledged descendant of that race than a vulgar coarseminded coarselooking thing though she were as buxom as Martha Wisett when my poor silly brother married her
The latter part of this speech was uttered with great rapidity and an appearance of considerable excitement but this quickly subsided and the little spinster became as pale and composed as usual while she listened to Mrs Wilmots quiet accents in reply
There is nothing to surprise me in this Miss Compton the feeling is a very natural one But the more strongly it is expressed the more strongly must I wonder at your permitting the sole descendant of your ancient race to be left at the mercy of a Mrs Barnaby
Not all the eloquence in the world could have gone so far towards obtaining the object Mrs Wilmot had in view as this concluding phrase
You are right excellent woman You are right and I deserve to see my fathers acres peopled by a race of Barnabys I will save her
But here the poor old lady stopped A sudden panic seized her and she sat for several minutes positively trembling at the idea that she might unadvisedly take some step which should involve her in the horrible necessity of being encumbered for the rest of her life with a companion whose looks or manner might remind her of a Martha Wisett or a Mrs Barnaby
I dare not do it she exclaimed at last Do not ask it do not force me or at any rate contrive to let me see her first in a shop or in the street or any way I can decide on nothing till I have seen her
I would do anything within my power to arrange this for you replied Mrs Wilmot but I cannot delay my return beyond tomorrow nor do I believe that my agency would render this more easy Why should you not at once call on both your nieces Miss Compton There would be no difficulty in this and it would give you the best possible opportunity of judging both of the appearance and manners of Agnes
Both my nieces no difficulty You understand little or nothing of my feelings But go home go home Mrs Wilmot Do your own duty which is a plain one and leave me to find out mine if I can
You will not then abandon the idea of seeing this poor girl Miss Compton
No I will not was the reply pronounced almost solemnly
Then farewell my dear madam I can ask no more than this except indeed your forgiveness for having asked thus much so perseveringly
I thank you for it Mrs Wilmot I believe you are a very good woman and I will endeavour to act if God will give me grace as I think you would approve if you could read all the feelings of my heart Farewell
And so they parted the active useful matron to receive the eager welcome of her expecting family and the solitary recluse to the examination of her own thoughts which were alternately both sweet and bitter sometimes cheering her with a vision of domestic happiness and endearment to soothe her declining age and sometimes making her shudder as she fancied her tranquil existence invaded and destroyed by the presence of one whom she might strive in vain to love
CHAPTER XII
CHOOSING A LADYSMAID—A HAPPY MEETING UNHAPPILY BROKEN IN UPON—MISS COMPTON UTTERS A LONG FAREWELL TO AGNES
Mrs Wilmot did not leave Silverton without taking an affectionate leave of Agnes and when this was over the poor girl felt herself wholly and for ever consigned to the authority and companionship of Mrs Barnaby It would be difficult to trace out the cause of the sharp pang which this conviction brought with it but it was strong enough at that moment to rob the future of all the bright tints through which eyes of sixteen are apt to look at it She cherished certainly a deep feeling of gratitude for the kindness that afforded her a home but unhappily she cherished also a feeling equally strong that it was less easy to repay the obligation with affection than with gratitude
Not a syllable had been said to her by Mrs Wilmot respecting the interview she was still likely to have with her aunt Compton for she had promised this secrecy to the nervous and uncertain old lady who while trembling with anxious impatience to see this important niece shrunk before the difficulties she foresaw in finding such an opportunity as she sought for she still resolutely persevered in her determination not to see Mrs Barnaby with her but yet when finally she did contrive to come within sight of the poor girl it was exactly under the circumstances she so earnestly wished to avoid
Mrs Barnaby in her often meditated estimate of revenue and expenses had arrived at the conclusion that she ought not to travel without a maid but that the said maid must be hired at the lowest rate of wages possible The necessity for this addition to her suite did not arise from any idle wish for personal attendance to which she had never been much accustomed but from the conviction that there was something in the sound of my maid which might be of advantage to her on many occasions
The finding out and engaging a girl that might enact the character of ladysmaid showily and cheaply was the most important thing still left to be done before they quitted Silverton The first qualification was a tall person that might set off to advantage such articles of the widows castoff finery as might be unnecessary for Agnes the next a willingness to accept low wages
While meditating on the subject it occurred to Mrs Barnaby that one of the girls she had seen walking in procession to church with the charityschool was greatly taller than all the rest and in fact so remarkably long and lanky that she felt convinced she might if skilfully dressed up pass extremely well for a stylish ladysmaid
Delighted at the idea she immediately summoned Agnes to walk with her to the schoolhouse which was situated outside the town about a mile on the road leading to Compton Basett On reaching the building her knock was answered by the schoolmistress herself who civilly asked her commands
I must come in Mrs Sims before I can tell you was the reply and it was quite true for as Mrs Barnaby knew not the name of her intended Abigail the only mode of entering upon her business must be by pointing out the girl whose length of limb had attracted her But no sooner had she passed the threshold than she perceived the long and slender object of her search immediately opposite to her in the act of taking down a workbasket from the top of a high commode which manœuvre as it placed her on tiptoe and obliged her to stretch out her longitude to the very utmost displayed her to the eyes of Mrs Barnaby to the greatest possible advantage and convinced her very satisfactorily that her judgment had not erred
That is the girl I wanted to speak about she said pointing to the lizardlike figure opposite to her What is her name Mrs Sims
This one maam as is fetching my basket interrogated Mrs Sims in her turn
Yes that one that tall girl What is her name
Betty Jacks maam is her name
Jacks repeated Mrs Barnaby a little disconcerted Jacks that wont do I can never call her Jacks but for that matter I could give her another name easy enough to be sure And what is she good for what can she do
Not over much of anything maam She was put late to me But she can read and iron a little and can do plain work well enough when she chooses it
When she chooses it and shell be sure to choose it I suppose when she goes to service I want a girl to wait upon me and to sew for me when she has nothing else to do and I think this one will do for me very well
I ask your pardon maam replied Mrs Sims but if I might make so bold I would just say that for a notable tidy good girl Sally Wilkins there that one at the end of the form, is far before Betty Jacks in being likely to suit
What that little thing Why she is a baby Mrs Sims
She is eleven months older than Betty Jacks maam and greatly beyond her in every way
But I dont like the look of such a little thing The other would do for what I want much better Come here Betty Jacks Should you like to go out to service with a lady who would take care that you should always be well dressed and let you travel about with her and see a great deal of the world
Yes my lady replied the young maypole grinning from ear to ear and shewing thereby a very fine set of teeth
Well then Betty Jacks I think we shall suit each other very well But I shant call you Betty though nor Jacks either mind that You wont care about it I suppose if I find out some pretty genteelsounding name for you will you
No my lady responded the delighted girl
Very well and I will give you three pounds a year wages and good clothes enough to make you look a deal better than ever you did before What do you say to it
Ill be glad to come and thankye too my lady if father will let me
Who is her father Mrs Sims
Joe Jacks the carpenter maam
I dont suppose he is likely to make much objection to her getting such a place as mine is he
That is what I cant pretend to say maam replied the schoolmistress very gravely I dont think Betty over steady myself but of course it is no business of mine and it will be far best that you should see Joe Jacks yourself maam and hear what he says about it
To be sure and where can I see him
Hell be certain to be here tomorrow morning maam for hell come to be paid for the bench he made for me and if so be you would take the trouble to call again just about one when Betty will be going home with him for the half holiday they always haves of a Saturday why then maam youd be quite sure to see him and hear what hed got to say
Very well then that will do and we shall certainly walk over again tomorrow if the weather is anything like fine—Good morning to you Mrs Sims Mind what I have said to you Betty this is a fine chance for you and so you must tell your father Come along Agnes
It so chanced that within half an hour of their departure Miss Compton also paid a visit to the school Mrs Sims was one of the persons whom she had saved from severe and probably lasting penury by one of those judicious loans which never being made without good and sufficient knowledge of the party accommodated were sure to be repaid and enabled her to perform a most essential benefit without any pecuniary loss whatever
There were no excursions which gave the old lady so much pleasure as those which enabled her to contemplate the good effects of this rational species of benevolence and farmer Wright never failed to offer her a place in his chaisecart whenever his business took him near any of the numerous cottages where this agreeable spectacle might greet her On the present occasion he set her down at the door of the schoolhouse while he called upon a miller at no great distance and Mrs Sims who was somewhat disturbed in mind by the visit and schemes of Mrs Barnaby no sooner saw her enter than she led her through the throng of young stitchers and spellers to the tidy little parlour behind
Well now Miss Compton you are kindly welcome she said and I wish with all my heart you had been here but a bit ago for who should we have here maam but your own niece Mrs Barnaby
Miss Compton knit her brows with an involuntary frown
And that sweet pretty creature Miss Willoughby comed with her She is a beauty to be sure if ever there was one
What did they come for Mrs Sims inquired Miss Compton with sudden animation
Why that is just what I want to tell you maam and to ask your advice about She come here—Mrs Barnaby I mean—to look after that saucy Betty Jacks by way of taking her to be her servant and travelling about with her and upon my word Miss Compton she might just as well take my cat there for any good or use shes likely to be of and besides that maam I have no ways a good opinion of the child—for child she is though shes such a monster in tallness—she does not speak the truth Miss Compton and thats what I cant abide and I dont think shell do me any credit in any way but yet Im afraid it would be doing a bad action if I was to stand in the girls light and prevent her going by telling all the ill I think of her when they comes again tomorrow to settle about it
Mrs Sims ceased and certainly expected a decided opinion from Miss Compton on the subject for that lady had kept her eyes fixed upon her and appeared to be listening with very profound attention but the only reply was And do you think the girl will come with her
Come with who maam
With Mrs Barnaby to be sure
Oh no maam she wont come with her She will go home as usual tonight and is to come back to meet the ladies here a little after noon tomorrow with her father
But Agnes Miss Willoughby I mean are you sure she will come back with her aunt tomorrow
I am sure I cant say maam but I think she will for I well remember Mrs Barnaby said with her grand way We will walk over tomorrow if the weather be anyways fine
Miss Compton now seemed sunk in profound meditation of which Mrs Sims fully hoped to reap the fruits but once more she was disappointed for when Miss Compton again spoke it was only to say—
I want to see Agnes Willoughby Mrs Sims and I do not want to see Mrs Barnaby Do you think you could manage this for me if I come here again tomorrow
I am sure maam replied Mrs Sims looking a little surprised and a little puzzled—I am sure there is nothing that I am not in duty bound to do for you if done it can be and if you will be pleased to say how the thing shall be managed I will do my part with a right good will to make everything go as you wish
This was a very obliging reply but it shewed Miss Compton that she must trust to her own ingenuity for discovering the ways and means for putting her design in practice After thinking about it a little and looking round upon the locale she said—
I will tell you how it must be I will be here tomorrow before the time you have named to them and you shall place me in this room When Mrs Barnaby is engaged in talking to the girl and her father take Agnes by the hand and lead her in to me saying if you will that you have something you wish her to see which will be no more than the truth If Mrs Barnaby happens to hear this and offers to follow then as you value my friendship close the door and lock it—never mind what she thinks of it I will take care her anger shall do you no harm
Oh dear maam Im not the least afraid of Mrs Barnabys anger nor do I expect she will take any notice She seems so very hot upon having that great awkward hoyden Betty Jacks that I dont think when she is engaged with the father about it she will be likely to take much heed of Miss Agnes and me But at any rate Miss Compton Ill take good care maam that she shant come anear you And now maam will you be so good as to tell me if you think I shall be doing a sin letting this idle hussy set off travelling with her
No sin at all Mrs Sims replied Miss Compton with decision Let the girl be what she may depend upon it she is quite but here she stopped adding a minute after Do go Mrs Sims and see if farmer Wrights cart is come back
A few minutes more brought the humble vehicle to the door when the heiress climbed to her accustomed place in it and gave herself up to meditation so unusually earnest as not only to defeat all the good farmers respectful attempts at conversation but to occupy her for one whole hour after her return and that so completely as to prevent her from opening her halfread volume though that volume was Walter Scotts
Thoughts and schemes were working and arranging themselves in her head which were in truth important enough to demand some leisure for their operations This beauty if ever there was one this poor motherless and fatherforgotten Agnes this inevitable heiress of the Compton acres ought she because she had found her short and fat two years before to abandon her to the vulgar patronage of the hateful Mrs Barnaby A blush of shame and repentance mantled her pale cheek as this question presented itself, and she acknowledged to her own heart the sin and folly of the prejudice which had led her to turn away from the only being connected with her to whom she could be useful She remembered too in this hour of self-examination and reproach that the father of this illtreated girl was a gentleman and that she ought therefore to have been kindly fostered by the last of the Comptons as a representative more worthy to revive their antiquated claims to patrician rank than could have been reasonably expected from any descendant of her brother Josiah
These thoughts having been sufficiently dwelt upon examined and acknowledged to be just the arrangement of her future conduct was next to be considered and notwithstanding the singularly secluded life she had led the little lady was far from being ignorant of the entire change it would be her duty to make in the whole manner of her existence should she decide upon taking Agnes Willoughby from Mrs Barnaby and becoming herself her sole guardian and protectress
Could she bear this and could she afford it The little weaklooking but wirey frame of the spinster had a spirit within it of no inconsiderable firmness and the first of these questions was soon answered by a mentally ejaculated I WILL which in sincerity and intensity of purpose was well worth the best vow ever breathed before the altar For the solution of the other the old lady turned to her account books and found the leading items in the column of receipts to be as follows—
£
By annual rent from the Compton Basett farm 600
By interest on 12000l in the Three per Cents 360
By interest on 1800l lent on mortgage at 5l per cent 90
By interest on 6000l lent on mortgage at 4l per cent 240
By interest on 2500l lent on mortgage at 5l per cent 125
——
£1415
Of this income the last item of which however had been entered only three weeks before being the result of the latest appropriation of her savings Miss Compton spent not one single farthing nor had done so since the payment in advance of three hundred and fifty pounds to Mrs Wilmot for the education and dress of Agnes In fact the profits arising from the honey she sold fully furnished all the cash she wanted as her stipulated supplies from the farm amounted very nearly to all that her ascetic table required She used neither tea nor wine milk supplying their place She had neither rent taxes nor servants to pay and her toilet though neat to admiration cost less than any lady would believe possible who had not studied the enduring nature of stout and simple habiliments when worn as Miss Compton wore them
Such being the facts it might be imagined that a schedule like the above would have appeared to such a possessor of such an income a sufficient guarantee against any possible pecuniary embarrassment from inviting one young girl to share it with her But Miss Compton as she sat in her secluded bower had for years been looking out upon the fashionable world through the powerful though somewhat distorting lunette dapproche furnished by modern novels and if she had acquired no other information thereby she at least had learned to estimate with some tolerable degree of justness the difference between the expense of living in the world and out of it
If I do adopt her and make her wholly mine thought she it shall not be for the purpose of forming her into a rich countrytown miss She shall be introduced into the world she shall improve whatever talents Nature may have given her by lessons from the best masters her dress shall be that of a wellborn woman of good fortune and she shall be waited upon as a gentlewoman ought to be Can I do all this and keep her a carriage besides for fourteen hundred ayear No was uttered aloud by the deeply meditative old lady What then was she to decide upon Should she wait for two more years before she declared her intentions and by aid of the farther sum thus saved enable herself to reach the point she aimed at Something that she took for prudence very nearly answered YES but was checked by a burst of contrary feeling that again found vent in words—And while I am saving hundreds of pounds may she not be acquiring thousands of vulgar habits that may again quench all my hopes No it shall be done at once So at length she laid her head on her pillow resolved to take her heiress immediately under her own protection provided always that the examination which was to take place on the morrow should not prove that the Wisett style of beauty was unbearably predominant and that having arranged with her honest tenant some fair equivalent for her profitable apiary her lodgings and her present allowances she should take her at once to London devote one year to the completion of her education and leave it to fate and fortune to decide what manner of life they should afterwards pursue
For a little rustic old woman who had never in her life travelled beyond the county town of her native shire this plan was by no means ill concocted and must I think display very satisfactorily to all unprejudiced eyes the great advantages to be derived from a long and diligent course of novelreading as without it Miss Compton would most assuredly never have discovered that fourteen hundred ayear was insufficient to supply the expenses of herself and her young niece
But alas All this wisdom was destined to be blighted in the bud
Miss Compton was true to her appointment and so was Mrs Barnaby the fair Agnes too failed not to make her appearance and moreover the critical eyes of the old lady failed not to discover at the very first glance that no trace of Wisett vulgarity was there to lessen the effect of her exceeding loveliness But all this was of no avail for the matter went in this wise
The first who arrived of the parties expected by Mrs Sims was Joe Jacks the carpenter His daughter Betty had given him such an account of the proposal made to her as caused him to be exceedingly anxious for its acceptance and he now came rather before the appointed time in order to hint pretty plainly to Mrs Sims that he should take it very ill if she did not give a good word to help his troublesome Betty off his hands
Then came Miss Compton who walked straight through the schoolroom and ensconced herself in the little parlour behind it and in about ten minutes afterwards the stately Mrs Barnaby and her graceful companion arrived also
Mrs Sims was by no means deficient in her manner of managing the little intrigue intrusted to her she waited very quietly till she perceived Mrs Barnaby completely occupied in making the carpenter understand that if she engaged to find shoes shifts and flannel petticoats for his daughter as well as all her finery the wages could not be more than two pounds And then she laid a gentle hand on Agnes who not being particularly interested in the discussion suffered herself to be abducted without resistance and in the next moment found herself in the presence of Miss Compton
The young girl knew her in a moment for she had made a deep impression on her memory both by her kindness at one period and her capricious want of it at another But far different was the effect of memory in the old lady for not only was she unable to recognize in the figure before her the Agnes of her recollection or rather of her fancy but it was not immediately that she could be made to believe in the identity
You do not mean to tell me Mrs Sims that this young lady is Agnes Willoughby said she rising up and really trembling from agitation
Dear me yes Miss Compton to be sure it is
Do you not know me dear aunt said Agnes approaching her and timidly holding out her hand
Your aunt am I really your aunt Is it possible that you are my poor brothers grandchild
I am Agnes Willoughby replied the young girl puzzled and almost frightened by the doubts and the agitation she witnessed
If you are exclaimed Miss Compton suddenly embracing her I am a more guilty creature than I ever thought to be
At this moment and while the arms of the diminutive spinster were still twined round the person of Agnes who had just decided in her own mind that her greataunt was the most unintelligible person in the world the door of the little parlour opened with a jerk that shewed it yielded to no weak hand and the fullblown person of the widow Barnaby stood before them Her eyes and her rouge were as bright as ever and her sober cap and sable draperies vainly as it should seem endeavoured to soften those peculiarities of the Wisett aspect against which Miss Compton had sworn eternal hatred for never had she appeared more detestable her usual bravura manner indeed was somewhat exaggerated by her indignation at the concealment which had been attempted and which had been adroitly pointed out to her by the sharpwitted Betty Jacks
Soh you thought I should not find you out I suppose she exclaimed as she shut the door behind her
God give me patience cried the irritated recluse suddenly disengaging herself from Agnes This is strange persecution Mrs Barnaby and as she spoke she endeavoured to effect her retreat But this could not be done in a straight direction inasmuch as it required a considerable circuit safely to weather either side of the expansive widow and before Miss Compton reached the door that lady had so established herself before it as to render her leaving the room without permission absolutely impossible
The time had been when the hope of getting something out of the little hunchback would have enabled Mrs Barnaby to put a very strong restraint upon any feeling likely to offend her but this was over She thought her turn was come now and considered her own revenues and her own position as so immeasurably superior to those of the little old woman clothed in grey who stood shaking before her that her pride would never have forgiven her avarice had it led her to neglect this favourable opportunity of displaying some of the contempt and scorn which she had felt she had heretofore received from her
Upon my word Miss Compton she began I do really wonder you are not ashamed of yourself to come visiting this vulgar body Mrs Sims instead of profiting by the notice of your own relations which might do you honour And your dress Miss Compton What must my niece Miss Willoughby think at seeing the sister of her own grandfather going about in such a horrid coarse miserable stuff gown as that We all know how you have been squandering your little property upon the beggars you get to flatter you but that is no reason for behaving as you do towards me My excellent husband has left me in circumstances of such affluence as might enable me to assist you by the gift of some of my own clothes if you conducted yourself as you ought to do
This harangue would probably have been cut short had Miss Compton retained breath enough to articulate but astonishment and indignation almost choked her instead of speaking she stood still and panted till Agnes inexpressibly shocked and terrified moved a chair towards her and entreated her to sit down Her only reply however was rudely pushing Agnes and her chair aside and then with a sort of desperate effort exclaiming—
Woman Let me pass
Oh yes—you may pass and welcome said Mrs Barnaby standing aside—You have behaved to me from first to last more like a fiend than an aunt and I certainly shall not break my heart if I never set my eyes on you again Come Agnes my love I have concluded my business in this mustysmelling place and now let us be gone Dont stand fawning upon her I promise you it will be all in vain You will get nothing by it my dear
Distressed beyond measure at this painful scene and not well knowing how to express the strong feeling which drew her to the side of Miss Compton Agnes stood timidly uncertain what she ought to do when Mrs Barnabys authoritative voice again uttered Come my dear Agnes I am impatient to take you away from what I consider so very disgraceful a meeting
Thus painfully obliged to decide upon either taking leave of her older relative or of departing without it Agnes turned again towards Miss Compton and silently bending down offered to kiss her cheek But the angry old lady started away from her saying—None of that if you please—No fawning upon me You are her dear love and her dear Agnes and none such shall ever be graced or disgraced by me And thus saying she walked past the tittering Mrs Barnaby and out of the house preferring the chance of toiling two miles to reach her home rather than endure another moment passed under the same roof with her
CHAPTER XIII
MRS BARNABY SETS FORTH ON HER TRAVELS—THE READER TAKES LEAVE OF MISS COMPTON—MRS BARNABY ENJOYS HER JOURNEY AND ARRIVES SAFELY AT EXETER
Within a week after this unfortunate interview all Mrs Barnabys earthly possessions excepting her money were deposited in the waggon that travelled between Silverton and Exeter and the day afterwards herself her niece and her maid whom she had surnamed Jerningham the two former in the coach and the latter on the top of it set forth on their way to that fair and ancient city of the west
Before we follow them thither we must stop for a moment to bid a long adieu to poor Miss Compton Unfortunately for her temper as well as her limbs farmer Wright did not overtake her till within a few yards of their home and the agitation and fatigue both equally unusual to her so completely overpowered her strength and spirits that having taken to her bed as soon as she reached her room she remained in it for above a fortnight being really feverish and unwell but believing herself very much worse than she really was During the whole of this time and indeed for several months afterwards she never attempted to separate the innocent image of Agnes from the offensive one of Mrs Barnaby The caress which the poor girl had offered with such true tenderness and sympathy was the only distinct idea respecting her that remained on the mind of Miss Compton and this suggested no feeling but that of indignation from the conviction that Mrs Barnabys dear love not a whit less detestable was only more artful than herself or that not yet being in possession of the wealth of which her hateful protectress boasted she deemed it prudent to aim at obtaining whatever she herself might have to bestow
Notwithstanding all these disagreeable imaginings however the old lady gradually recovered both her health and her usual tranquil equality of spirits sometimes even persuading herself that she was very glad she had not been seduced by the appearance of Agnes to sacrifice her own comfort for the advantage of an artful girl who was after all quite as much the granddaughter of a Wisett as of a Compton
Never during the prosperous years that Mrs Barnaby had been the mistress of her comfortable house at Silverton excepting perhaps for the delightful interval while she was treated throughout the town as a bride did she feel half so grand or so happy a personage as now that she had no house at all There was an elegance and freedom which she never felt conscious of before in thus setting off upon her travels with what she believed to be an ample purse of which she was the uncontrolled mistress a beautiful niece to chaperone and a ladysmaid to wait upon her and had Agnes who sat opposite to her been less earnestly occupied in recalling all the circumstances of her last strange interview with her aunt Compton she must have observed and been greatly puzzled by the series of perhaps involuntary grimaces which accompanied Mrs Barnabys mental review of her own situation
A rich and handsome widow Could fate have possibly placed her in any situation she should have liked so well This was the question she silently asked herself and cordially did her heart answer No
As these thoughts worked in her mind her dark wellmarked eyebrows raised themselves her eyes flashed and her lips curled into a triumphant smile
The person who occupied the transverse corner to herself was a handsome young man who had joined the Silverton coach from the mansion of a gentleman in the neighbourhood to which however he was himself quite a stranger and having in vain tried to get sight of the features concealed by the long crape veil beside him he took to watching those no way concealed by the short crape veil opposite
Mother and daughter of course thought he A young specimen without rouge or moustache would not be amiss
Mrs Barnaby perceived he was looking at her and settled her features into dignified but not austere harmony
It is very pleasant travelling this morning maam said the young man
As pleasant as a stagecoach can be I imagine but I am so little accustomed to the sort of thing that I am not a very good judge Do you know sir where the coach stops for dinner
I cannot say I do I never travelled this road before
Then you are not a resident in the neighbourhood
No maam quite a bird of passage It is the first time I have ever been in Devonshire It seems to be a beautiful county indeed
Very Mrs Barnaby heartily hoped that no comparisons would follow as it was not at all her intention to confess either on the present or any future occasion that she had never seen any other and she therefore rather abruptly changed the conversation by adding Do you know sir whether there are many outside passengers I hope my maid will not be annoyed in any way It is the first time I ever put her outside a coach
Poor woman thought the young man—lost her husband and her money with him I suppose I must contrive to look at this tall slender girl though
But Agnes seemed little disposed to give him any opportunity of doing so for she continued to keep her eyes fixed on the scene without thus very nearly turning her back on her curious neighbour
Mrs Barnabys first act of active chaperonship was a very obliging one she perceived the young mans object and not having the slightest inclination to conceal the beauty of Agnes which she held to be one of the many advantages with which she was herself surrounded she said—
My dear Agnes do look at that pretty cottage it is a perfect picture of rural felicity
Agnes obeyed the words and followed with her eyes the finger that pointed through the opposite window thus indulging her neighbour with a full view of her exquisite profile The effect was by no means what Mrs Barnaby expected the young man looked and instead of being led by what he saw into talkative civility he became very respectfully silent But respectful silence was not an offering to which Mrs Barnaby in the most brilliant season of her beauty had ever been accustomed it puzzled her till a thought struck her which is worth recording because it very greatly influenced her conduct and feelings for a long time afterwards This gentleman whose attentions for the journey she greatly wished to conciliate had addressed her in the easy style by which fast young men are apt to believe they can propitiate the favour of every woman somewhat under fifty years of age and somewhat too beneath themselves in condition Our traveller had no fear of blundering when he settled that Mrs Barnaby belonged to this class but the instant he caught a glimpse of the countenance of Agnes he became equally sure that she at least belonged to a higher one It was not wonderful that poor Miss Compton doubted when she looked at her the possibility of her being a descendant of the buxom Martha Wisett for excepting something in the form and soft lustre of her darkbrown eyes her features bore no resemblance to her mother or her mothers family but a most decided one to that of her father who though a very foolish hotheaded lieutenant when we made his acquaintance was descended from a race of aristocratic ancestors rather remarkable for their noble and regular cast of features which appeared indeed to be their least alienable birthright
The traveller though a young man had lived sufficiently in the world to have learned at least the alphabet of character as written on the countenances of those he met and he spelt gentlewoman so plainly on that of Agnes that he felt no more right to address her without introduction than he would have done had the stagecoach been an operabox
Thats very odd thought Mrs Barnaby She certainly is a most beautiful creature quite as handsome as I was even in poor dear Tates days and yet the moment he got a sight of her his pleasant gay manner changed all at once and he now looks as glum as a boy at school Though she is my niece she is not like me thats certain and who knows but that many men may still prefer my style to hers As to this one at least it is impossible to doubt it and it will be great folly in me to set out with a fancy that my face and figure especially when I get back to dress again will not stand a comparison with hers For some years at any rate in justice to myself I will keep this in mind and not take it for granted that every glance directed towards us is for the child and not for the woman
This agreeable idea seemed all that was wanting to make the journey perfectly delicious and not even the continued reserve of the young man could affect in any great degree the charming harmony of her spirits We hear much of the beautiful freshness of hope in young hearts just about to make their first trial of the joys of life but it is quite a mistake to suppose that any such feeling can equal the fearless confident triumphant mastery and command of future enjoyment which dilates the heart in the case of such an outcoming widow as Mrs Barnaby
The Silverton coach set its passengers down at Streets hotel in the Churchyard and my heroine who now for the first time in her life found herself at an inn with the power of ordering what she chose determined to enjoy the twofold gratification of passing for a lady of great fashion and fortune and of taking especial care of her creaturecomforts into the bargain
Do you want rooms maam said the head of a waiter suddenly placing itself among the insides
Yes young man I want the best rooms in the house Where is my maid—Let her be ready to attend me as soon as I get out We have nothing with us but three trunks one square box one hatbox two carpetbags and my dressingcase Let everything be conveyed to my apartments Now open the door and let me get out Follow me Agnes You will come if you please without delay young man to receive my orders respecting refreshments
Two lighted candles were snatched up as they passed the bar and Mrs Barnaby proceeded up the stairs in state the waiter and his candles before Agnes and my maid behind
This room is extremely dark and disagreeable Pray send the master of the house to me I wish to give my orders to him
My master is not at home maam
Not at home Extremely negligent I must say Perhaps it will be better for me to proceed to some other hotel where I may be able to see the head of the establishment I have not been accustomed to be treated with anything like neglect people of my condition indeed seldom are
If you will be pleased my lady to give your orders to me said the waiter very respectfully you shall find nothing wanting that belongs to a firstrate house
Then pray send my maid to me Oh there you are Jerningham
Yes maam answered the gawky soubrette tucking back the veil with which Mrs Barnaby had adorned one of her own bonnets and staring at the draperied windows and all the other fine things which met her eyes
You will see Jerningham that my sleeping apartment is endurable
Now Betty Jacks though careless and idle was by no means a stupid girl but she was but fifteen years old and her experiences not having hitherto been upon a very extended scale she found herself at a loss to understand what her new mistress meant about nine times out of every ten that she spoke to her On receiving the order above mentioned she meditated for an instant upon what an endurable sleeping apartment might be but the sagacity which failed to discover this sufficed to suggest the advantage of not confessing her ignorance and she answered boldly Yes sure maam
Go then said the lady languidly throwing her person upon a sofa and then turning to the waiter who still remained with the door in his hand she pronounced with impressive emphasis—
Let there be tea sugar and cream brought with buttered toast and muffins also if it be possible Agnes my love I am afraid there is hardly room for you on the sofa but sit down dear and try to make yourself comfortable on a chair
The two ladies were now left to themselves Betty Jacks joyfully accompanying the smart young waiter to the regions below And who may be your missus my dear he said giving her an encouraging chuck under the chin she cant have much to do Im thinking with any of the county families for they beant much given to stagecoaches and never without their own gentlemen to guard em Is she a real grand lady or only a strutting makebelieve
Betty thinking it much more for her own credit to serve a real grand lady than a makebelieve readily answered
To be sure she is a real grand lady Mr Imperdence We comes up along from Silverton and shes one of the finest ladies in the town
In the town repeated the knowing waiter significantly I understand Well she shall have some tea And now my girl you had better go and do what she bid you
Well now if I havnt downright forgot already said the unblushing Betty Will you tell me what it was then
How old are you my dear was the unsatisfactory reply
And pray whats that to you But come now do tell me willy what was it missus told me to do
To go see after her bed my dear and all that and unpack her nightcap I suppose
Well then give me a candle—thats a good man But where is her bed though
You beant quite hatched yet my gay maypole but youll do well enough some of these day Here Susan shew this young waitingmaid a bedroom for two ladies—and one for yourself too I suppose my dear I shouldnt wonder Susan if it was possible the grand lady up stairs may pay less than a duchess but take my word for it shell blow you sky high if you dont serve her as if you thought she was one
How did she come snappishly inquired the chambermaid
By the Royal Regulator answered the waiter But inside Susan inside you know and with her ladysmaid here to wait upon her so mind what youre about I tell you
Come this way young woman if you please said the experienced official who was not to be bullied out of a firstfloor room by the report of duchesslike airs or the sight of a lanky child for a waitingmaid So Betty was made to mount to a proper stagecoach elevation
Mrs Barnaby however got her tea and her toast and her muffins greatly to her satisfaction even though the master of the establishment knew nothing about it and though she did make Agness slender arm pay for the second flight of stairs in order to prove how very little used she was to such fatigue she was on the whole well pleased with her room when she reached it well pleased with her bed well pleased with her breakfast and ready to set off as soon as it was over to look out for lodgings and adventures
CHAPTER XIV
HOW TO CHOOSE LODGINGS—REASONS FOR LAYING ASIDE WIDOWS WEEDS—LADYLIKE ACCOMPLISHMENTS—AFFECTIONATE FORETHOUGHT—CHARMING SENSIBILITY—GENEROUS INTENTIONS—A CLEVER LETTER BUT ONE UPON WHICH DOCTORS MAY DISAGREE
Of lodgings Mrs Barnaby saw enough to offer a most satisfactory selection and heartily to weary Agnes who followed her up and down innumerable stairs and stood behind her during what seemed endless colloquies with a multitude of respectablelooking landladies long after she had flattered herself that her aunt must have been suited to her hearts desire by what she had already seen Of adventures the quiet streets of Exeter were not likely to produce many but the widow had the satisfaction of observing that lounging gentlemen were abundant a cavalry officer still visible now and then and that hardly one man in ten of any class passed her without staring her full in the face
At length after having walked about till she was sufficiently tired herself and till poor Agnes looked extremely pale she entered a pastrycooks shop for the purpose of eating buns and of taking into deliberate consideration whether she should secure apartments in the Crescent which were particularly comfortable or some she had seen in the High Street which were particularly gay
Mrs Barnaby often spoke aloud to herself while appearing to address her niece and so she did now
Thats a monstrous pretty drawingroom certainly and if I was sure that I should be able to get any company to come and see me Id stick to the Crescent But its likely enough that I shall find nobody to know and in that case it would be most horribly dull But if we did not get a soul from Monday morning to Saturday night we could never be dull in the High Street Such lots of country gentlemen And they always look about them more than any other men And then suddenly addressing her niece in good earnest she added—
Dont you think so Agnes
I dont know maam replied Agnes in an accent that would have delighted her aunt Compton and which might have offended some sort of aunts but it only amused her aunt Barnaby who laughed heartily and said for the benefit of the young woman who presided at the counter as well as for that of her niece—
Yes my dear thats quite right thats the way we all begin And you will know all how and about it too long and long before you will own it
Agnes suddenly thought of Empton parsonage its pretty lawn its flowers its books and its gentle intellectual inmates and involuntarily she closed her eyes for a moment and sighed profoundly but the reverie was not permitted to last long for Mrs Barnaby having finished her laugh and her bun rose from her chair saying—
Come along child The High Street will suit us best wont it Agnes
You must best know what you best like aunt replied the poor girl almost in a whisper but the Crescent seemed to me very quiet and agreeable
Quiet Yes I should think so And if thats your fancy it is rather lucky that its my business to choose and not yours And its my business to pay too Its just sixpence she added with a laugh and pulling out her purse One bun for the young lady and five for me Come along Agnes and do throw back that thick crape veil child Your bonnet will look as well again
Another half hour settled the situation of their lodgings in Exeter Smart Mrs Tompkins firstfloor in the High Street with a bed in the garret for Jerningham was secured for three months at the end of which time Mrs Barnaby was secretly determined as nearly as possible to lay aside her mourning and come forth with the apple blossoms dazzling in freshness and couleur de rose The bargain for the lodgings however was not concluded without some little difficulty for Mrs Tompkins who owned that she considered herself as the most respectable lodginghouse keeper in Exeter did not receive this second and conclusive visit from the elegant widow with as much apparent satisfaction as was expected
Here I am again Mrs Tompkins said the lively lady in crape and bombasin I can see no lodgings I like as well as yours after all
Well I dont know maam about that replied the cautious Mrs Tompkins but to say the truth Im not over and above fond of lady lodgers they give a deal more trouble than gentlemen and Ive always been used to have the officers as long as there were any to be had and even now with only three cavalry companies in the barracks its a rare chance to find me without them
But as you do happen to be without them now Mrs Tompkins and as your bill is up I suppose your lodgings are to let and I am willing to take them
And may I beg the favour of your name maam said the respectable landlady stiffly
Barnaby answered the widow with an emphasis that gave much dignity to the name I am the widow of a gentleman of large fortune in the neighbourhood of Silverton and finding the scene of my lost happiness too oppressive to my spirits I am come to Exeter with my niece and only one ladysmaid to wait upon us both that I may quietly pass a few months in comparative retirement before I join my family and friends in the country as their rank and fortune naturally lead them into more gaiety than I should at present like to share I am not much accustomed to be called upon thus to give an account of myself but this is my name and this is my station and if neither happens to satisfy you I must seek lodgings elsewhere
I beg your pardon maam Im sure replied Mrs Tompkins considerably awed by this imposing statement but in our line it is quite necessary and real ladies as I dare say you are are always served the better for being known At what inn is your ladysmaid and your luggage put up maam
At Streets hotel Mrs Tompkins and if we agree about the apartments I shall go there pay my bill and return directly You have flies here I think have you not I have no carriage with me
Yes maam we have flies and none better but if its only for the luggage a porter would do better and tis but a step to walk
The bargain was then concluded the ladies returned to the hotel and after a short struggle in the heart of the widow between economy and her rather particular love of a comfortable dinner she decided upon an early broiled chicken and mushrooms before her removal in preference to a doubtful sort of mutton chop after it But at seven oclock the two ladies were seated at tea in the drawingroom the ladysmaid having been initiated by the factotum of the house into all the mysteries of the neighbouring shop for everything and performing her first act of confidential service very much to the satisfaction of her mistress who could not wonder that a city like Exeter should be dearer than such a little outoftheway place as Silverton
Mrs Barnaby knew not a single soul in Exeter and she lay in bed on the following morning for a full hour later than usual ruminating on the possibilities of making acquaintance with somebody who might serve as a wedge by which she might effect an entry into the society to be found there Once seen and known she felt confident that no difficulty would remain but the first step was not an easy one
She doubted not indeed that she might easily enough have obtained some introductions from among her acquaintance at Silverton but it was no part of her plans to make her entrée into the beau monde even of Exeter as the widow of an apothecary No thought she as she turned herself by a vigorous movement from one side of the bed to the other I will carve out my own fortune without any Silverton introductions whatever I know that I have a head of my own as well as a face and when once I have got rid of this nasty gown and that hideous cap we shall see what can be done
Walking up and down the High Street however which formed nearly her only occupation during all the hours of light was she soon found the only gaiety she could hope for and it proved a source of mingled joy and woe To see so many smart people and so many beautiful bonnets was an enchantment that made her feel as if she had got to the gates of Paradise but the impossibility of speaking to the smart people or wearing the beautiful bonnets soon turned all the pleasure into bitterness and she became immeasurably impatient to cure at least one of these miseries by throwing aside her hated weeds To do this soon became as she said necessary to her existence; and her landlady at last turned out to be a perfect treasure from the sympathy and assistance she afforded her in the accomplishment of her wishes
Mrs Tompkins had speedily discovered both that her lodger really had money and that the gentleman of large fortune whom she had lost was the apothecary of Silverton The respect obtained by the first quite obliterated in Mrs Tompkins eyes any contempt that might have been generated by the falsehoods which the second brought to light and on the whole nothing could be more friendly than their intercourse
There can be no use Mrs Tompkins said the doleful widow do you think there can in my going on wearing this dismal dress that almost breaks my heart every time I look at myself It is very nearly six months now since my dear Mr Barnaby died and I believe people of fashion never wear first mourning longer
Mr Barnaby however had been alive and well exactly three months after the period named by his widow as that of his death and that too Mrs Tompkins knew as well as she did but Mrs Tompkins sister was a milliner and family affection being stronger within her than any abstract love of propriety she decidedly voted for laying aside the weeds immediately there being no yearthly good as she well observed in any womans going on breaking her heart by looking at herself in the glass So the sister was sent for and after a long consultation in the widows bedroom it was decided that the following Sunday should send her to the cathedral in a black satin dress with lavendercoloured bonnet fichu gloves reticule and so forth
Considering the complete dependence of Agnes and the great aptitude of such a disposition as that of Mrs Barnaby to keep this ever in her mind she certainly felt a greater degree of embarrassment at the idea of communicating this resolution to her than might have been expected Her friends might fairly have drawn an inference considerably in her favour from this namely that she was ashamed of it But however respectable its cause the feeling was not strong enough to offer any effectual impediment to her purpose and she came forth from the councilchamber where this great measure had been decided on wishing for the moment at least that Agnes was at the bottom of the sea but firm in her determination to announce to her the important resolution she had taken without a moments further delay
I dont know how it is my dear Agnes said she after seating herself and looking steadfastly at her niece for a minute or two but though I dont dislike to see you in deep mourning the sight of it on myself makes me perfectly wretched Why should I go on making my poor heart ache for no reason upon earth that I know of but because when people happen to be where they are known by everybody it is customary to wear a certain dress for a certain number of days and weeks but thank Heaven Agnes there is not a single soul in all Exeter that knows me and I really think there is something very like a rebellion against Providence in refusing to take advantage of this lucky circumstance which doubtless the mercy of Heaven has arranged on purpose so as to enable me to spare myself without impropriety It is easy enough Agnes for ordinaryminded women to wear for a whole year together a dress that must remind them every instant of the most dreadful loss a woman can sustain—it is easy enough for others but it will not do for me And in justice to myself and indeed to you too Agnes I am determined to make the effort at once and discard a garb that breaks my poor heart every time I cast my eyes on any part of it You must of course perceive that it is not for myself alone my dear child that I make this effort to restore the health and spirits with which nature has hitherto so bountifully blessed me it is indeed chiefly for you Agnes it is for your sake my dear that I am determined as far as in me lies to stop the sorrow that is eating into my very vitals But never be unjust to me Agnes Whenever you see me shaking off the gloom of my widowed condition remember it is solely owing to my love for you Remember this with gratitude Agnes and for the sake of truth let others know it too whenever you have an opportunity of alluding to it
And now again did young Agnes doubt her power of answering with propriety The principle of truth was strong within her and to have expressed either sympathy or gratitude would have been an outrage to this principle, which would have made her hate herself she could not she would not do it and in reply to her aunts harangue who seemed to wait for her answer she only said
The dress of a widow is indeed very sad to look upon no one can doubt that aunt Barnaby
Good Heaven then you also suffer from the sight of it my poor child Poor dear Agnes I ought to have thought of this before but I will wound your young heart no longer This week shall end a suffering so heavy and so unnecessary for us both and I trust you will never forget what you owe me And yet my dear though I hope and believe I shall be sustained and find myself capable of making this effort respecting my own dress there is a tender weakness still struggling at my heart Agnes which would make it very painful to me were I immediately to see you change yours Do you feel any repugnance my dear girl to wearing that deep mourning for your poor uncle for some months longer
Agnes now felt no difficulty whatever in answering as she was expected to do and very eagerly replied Oh dear no aunt none in the least
I rejoice said the widow solemnly to perceive in you young as you are Agnes feelings so perfectly what they ought to be you would spare me suffering from sadness too profound yet would you my child in all things not injurious to me desire to testify your deep respect for the invaluable being we have lost This is exactly what I would wish to see and I trust you will ever retain a disposition so calculated to make me love you But look not so sad my love I really must invent some occupation to cheer and amuse you Agnes Let me see what say you dearest to running some edging for me on a tulle border for my tour de bonnet
The widow faithfully kept her kind promise to Agnes and never again excepting for a short interval that will be mentioned hereafter did she run the risk of grieving any heart by the sight of deep mourning for her lost Barnaby for though she restrained herself for some time longer within the sober dignity of black satins and silks as the material of her robes there was no colour of the rainbow that did not by degrees find its way amidst her trimmings and decorations During this period all the hours not devoted to the displaying her recovered finery in church or street were employed in converting cheap muslin into rich embroidery and labouring to make squares of Scotch cambric assume the appearance of genuine batiste rich with the delicate labours of Moravian needles
It was a great happiness for Agnes that satinstitch had never ranked as a necessary branch of female education at Empton Rectory had she been able to embroider muslin her existence would have been dreadful for beyond all question few of her waking hours would have been employed upon anything else one of Mrs Barnabys favourite axioms being that there is NOTHING which makes so prodigious a difference in a ladys dress as her wearing a great profusion of good work So a great profusion of good work she was quite determined to wear and deep was her indignation at the culpable negligence of Mrs Wilmot upon finding that an accomplishment so particularly ladylike and so very useful had been utterly neglected
To invent an occupation for herself during the hours thus employed by her aunt soon became the subject of all Agness meditations She knew that it must be something that should not annoy or inconvenience Mrs Barnaby in the slightest degree and it was this knowledge perhaps which made her too discreet to ask for the hire of a pianoforte for which nevertheless she longed very much like a hart for the water brook for the musical propensities of her father and mother had descended to her and of all the pleasures she had yet tasted that derived from her study and practice of music had been the greatest But that her aunt should pay money for no other purpose than for her to amuse herself by making a noise in their only sittingroom was quite out of the question So the piano she mentally abandoned for ever but there were other studies that she had pursued at Empton which if permitted to renew even without the aid of any master would greatly embellish an existence which the poor girl often felt to be as heavy a gift as could well have been bestowed upon a mortal Having at length decided what it was she would ask for she took courage hemmed twice and then said—
Should you have any objection aunt to my endeavouring by myself to go on with my French and Italian while you are at work I am sometimes afraid that I shall forget all I have learned
I am sure I hope not and it will be very stupid and very wicked of you Agnes if you do Your teaching is all we ever got out of that hunchbacked Jesabel of an aunt and you must always recollect you know that it is very possible you may have to look to this as your only means of support I am sure I am excessively fond of you I may say passionately attached to you it is quite impossible you can ever deny that but yet we must neither of us ever forget that it is likely enough I may marry again and have a family and in that case my dear much as I love you and my disposition is uncommonly affectionate it will be my bounden duty to think of my husband and children which would probably make it necessary for you to go out as a governess or teacher at a school
I understand that very well aunt replied Agnes greatly comforted by the prospect thus held out and that is a great additional reason for my endeavouring to render myself fit to undertake such a situation I was getting on very well at Empton Will you be so very kind as to let me try to get on by myself here
Certainly Agnes I shall wish to encourage your laudable endeavours but I must say it was a most abominable shame in that Mrs Wilmot not to teach you satinstitch which after all is the only really ladylike way in which a young woman can assist in maintaining herself Just look at this collar Agnes the muslin did not cost sixpence certainly not more than sixpence and Id venture to say that I could not get the fellow of it in any shop in Exeter for two guineas It is long before French or Italian either will bring such a percentage as that Now listen to me Agnes before you setto upon your stupid books again Ill tell you what I am willing to do for you I hate teaching too much to attempt instructing you myself but I will pay a woman to come here to give you lessons if you will tell me truly and sincerely that you shall be able to learn it and to stick to it I am so fond of you Agnes so particularly fond of you that I should not at all mind keeping you on even when I am married if you will take fairly and honestly to this elegant and ladylike employment for I should never have any difficulty I dare say in disposing of what you did beyond what I might want for myself and children—that is provided you bring yourself to work in this sort of perfectly elegant style What dye say to it Agnes
You are very kind aunt replied the terrified girl blushing violently but indeed indeed I am afraid that as I have never begun yet I should find it quite impossible to bring my stubborn fingers to work as yours do I never was particularly clever in learning to work I believe and what you do is so very nice that I could never hope to do anything like it
Perhaps you are right my dear it is not every woman whose fingers can move as mine do replied Mrs Barnaby looking down complacently at the mincing paces of her needle but your hands are not clumsy Agnes rather the contrary I must say and I cant but think child that if you were to setto with hearty good will and practise morning noon and night it is very likely you might learn enough after a year or two of constant painstaking to enable you to give up all your wearisome books at once and for ever That is worth thinking of twice I promise you
Indeed indeed dear aunt I never should make anything of it exclaimed Agnes eagerly I am sure it is one of the things that people must begin early and I dont at all dislike books and I would rather go out to teach if you please than work muslin for I am quite quite sure that I never should do it well no not even decently
So much the worse for you child At any rate I have done my duty by offering to have you taught please to remember that
And may I begin then aunt with my books
And where are you to get books Miss Agnes It is of no use to expect I can buy them and that you will find I see already that Silverton is no rule for the rest of the world as to expense and that I shall have quite enough to do with my money without wasting it on trumpery so pray dont look to my buying books for you for most assuredly I shall do no such thing
Oh no aunt I do not think of it—there is not the least occasion for such extravagance you shall see how well I am provided And so saying she ran out of the room and in a few minutes returned with a small and very neat mahogany box which in travelling had been carefully covered by a leathern case and which her aunt had suffered to accompany her unchallenged because she presumed it to be the treasury of all her best things a species of female property for which the widow had neverfailing respect even when it did not belong to herself which was perhaps more than could be said respecting any other sort of property whatever
Agnes brought this box in with difficulty for though small it was heavy and when opened displayed to the somewhat surprised eyes of her aunt a collection of tiny volumes so neatly fitting their receptacle as to prove that they must have been made to suit each other
This was Mr Wilmots present to me aunt said Agnes taking out a volume to exhibit its pretty binding Was it not kind of him
It looks very extravagant I think for a man whose wife keeps school He must have been sadly puzzled to know what to do with his money
No aunt that was not the reason for Mr Wilmot is not extravagant at all but he told me that aunt Betsy instead of paying every half year like other people insisted upon giving him the five years stipend for me as well as the money for my clothes all at once and that he had always determined upon laying out the interest this sum had brought in a present for me I think it was very generous of him
And what in the world have you got there child All grammars and spellingbooks I suppose but its the most senseless quantity of school books that ever were got together for one person I think I see no generosity in anything so very silly
They are not school books aunt I assure you
Then what are they pray Why do you make such a mystery about it
Oh its no mystery but I did not know I will read you the titles if you please aunt Here are Shakspeare Milton Spencer and Gray these are all my English books
And what are these
Racine Corneille La Fontaine and Boileau
What useless trash And these
Dante Tasso and Petrarch and these six larger volumes are the componimenti lirici of various authors
Oh goodness child dont jabber your stupid school jargon to me There take them all away again I cant very well see how they are to help you make a governess of yourself grammars I should think and dictionaries would be more to the purpose for that sort of profitable usefulness
And I have got them too aunt in my clothes trunk and if you will but be pleased to let me give my time to it I am quite sure that I shall get on very well
Get on get on to what child
To reading both French and Italian with facility and perhaps to writing both with tolerable correctness
Well if it will enable you to get your bread one of these days I am sure that I dont wish to hinder it—so go to work as soon as you will—only pray dont let me hear any more about it for I quite hate the sort of thing—though of course my dear if I was in your situation I should know it was my duty to think differently But those whom Providence has blessed with wealth have a right to indulge their taste and my taste is altogether that of a lady
From this time the aching void in the heart and almost in the intellect of Agnes seemed supplied Her aunt when she did not want her as a walking companion suffered her to go on reading and scribbling to her hearts content and the more readily perhaps from its giving her the air of being still a child learning lessons which was exactly the footing on which she wished to keep her if possible for another year or two as she was by no means insensible to the inconvenience of having a grownup niece while still in the pride of beauty herself
In this manner the period allotted for their stay at Exeter wore away Mrs Barnabys wardrobe embroidery and all was quite ready for display Betty Jacks alias Jerningham had learned to look exceedingly like a disreputable young woman to run of errands and to iron out tumbled dresses the bright sun of June had succeeded the lovely temperature of a Devonshire spring and everything seemed to invite the adventurous widow to a wider field of display But before she made this onward movement from which she hoped so much it was necessary to apprize her sisterinlaw Mrs Peters of her affectionate intention of passing a few months at Clifton in order to become acquainted with her and her family The letter by which this intention was announced is too characteristic of my heroine to be omitted
My dearest Sister
Under the dreadful calamity that has fallen upon me no idea has suggested the slightest glimpse of comfort to my widowed heart but the hope of becoming acquainted with my lost Barnabys sister Beloved Margaret So let me call you for so have I been used to hear you called by HIM Beloved Margaret Let me hope that from you and your charming family I shall find the sympathy and affection I so greatly need
Your admirable brother my lost but nevertobeforgotten husband was as successful as he deserved to be in the profession of which he was the highest ornament and left an ample fortune—the whole of which as you know he bequeathed to me with a confidence and liberality well befitting the perfect the matchless love which united us But alas my sister Providence denied us a pledge of this tender love and where then can I so naturally look for the ultimate possessors of his noble fortune as amongst your family I have one young niece still almost a child whom I shall bring with me to Clifton But though I am passionately attached to her my sense of justice is too strong to permit my ever suffering her claims to interfere with those more justly founded When we become better acquainted my dearest Margaret you will find that this sense of what is right is the rule and guide of all my actions and I trust you will feel it to be a proof of this that my style and manner of living are greatly within my means In fact I never cease to remember dear sister that though the widow of my poor Barnaby I am the daughter of the wellborn but most unfortunate clergyman of Silverton who was obliged to sell his longdescended estate in consequence of the treachery of a friend who ruined him Thus while the high blood which flows in my veins teaches me to do what is honourable the unexpected poverty which fell upon my own family makes me feel that there is more real dignity in living with economy than in spending what my confiding husband left at my disposal and thus putting it out of my power to increase it for the benefit of his natural heirs
This will I hope explain to you satisfactorily my not travelling with my own carriage and my having no other retinue than one ladysmaid Alas it is not in pomp or parade that a truly widowed heart can find consolation
Let me hear from you my dear sister and have the kindness to tell me where you think I had better drive on arriving at Clifton With most affectionate love to Mr Peters and the blessing of a fond aunt to all your dear children I remain dearest Margaret
Your ever devoted sister
Martha Barnaby
This letter was received by Mrs Peters at the breakfasttable round which were assembled three daughters one son and her husband The lady read it through in silence cast her eyes rapidly over it a second time and then handed it over to her spouse with an air of some solemnity though something very like a smile passed across her features at the same moment
Mr Peters also read the letter but not like his lady in silence
Very kind of her indeed Poor dear lady a true mourner thats plain enough to be seen She must be an excellent good woman my dear this widow of poor Barnaby and Im heartily glad she is coming among us Your aunt Barnabys coming girls and I hope youll all behave so as to make her love you Is there any objection Margaret to the childrens seeing this letter
None at all replied the lady excepting
Excepting what my dear I am sure it is a letter that would do her honour anywhere and I should be proud to read it on the exchange What do you mean by excepting
It is no matter The girls and I can talk about it afterwards and James I think will understand it very clearly at once
Understand it to be sure he will I never read a better letter or one more easily understood in my life—Here James read it aloud to your sisters
The young man obeyed and read it very demurely to the end though more than once his laughing blue eye sent a glance to his mother that satisfied her she was right in her estimate of his acuteness
Thats an aunt worth having isnt it said old Peters standing up and taking his favourite station on the hearthrug with his back to the grate though no fire was in it Now I hope we shall have no airs and graces because she comes from a remote part of the country but that you will one and all do your best to make her see that you are worthy of her favour
I will do all I can to shew myself a dutiful and observant nephew But dont you think sir that the lady doth protest too much
Oh but shell keep her word replied his mother laughing
Keep her word to be sure she will poor lady She is brokenhearted and brokenspirited as its easy to see by her letter observed the worthy Mr Peters and I do hope wife that you will be very kind to her
And where shall I tell her to drive Mr Peters
To the York hotel my dear I should think
Do you know that I rather fancy she expects we should ask her to come here
No Well that did not strike me Let me see the letter again But its no matter whether she does or does not it may be quite as well to do it and she says she likes to save her money poor thing
The father and son then set off to walk to Bristol and Mrs Peters and her three daughters were left to sit in judgment on the letter and then to answer it
I see what you think mamma said the eldest girl as the door closed after them you have no faith in this widowed aunts lachrymals
Not so much Mary as I might have perhaps if she said less about her sorrows
And her generous intentions in our favour mamma said the youngest perhaps you have no faith in them either
Not so much Lucy said the lady repeating her words as I might have perhaps if she said less about it
I hope you are deceived all of you said Elizabeth the second girl very solemnly and I must say I think it is very shocking to put such dreadful constructions upon the conduct of a person you know so little about
I am sure I put no constructions replied Mary I only ventured to guess at mammas
And I beg to declare that my sins against this generous new relative have gone no farther said Lucy
Well well we shall see girls said the lively mother Let us all start fair for the loaves and fishes and now Elizabeth ring the bell let the breakfast be removed and you will see that I shall reply in a very sober and proper way to this pathetic communication
The letter Mrs Peters composed and read to her daughters was approved even by the soberminded and conscientious Elizabeth it contained an obliging offer of accommodation at their house in Rodney Place till Mrs Barnaby should have found lodgings to suit her and ended with kind regards from all the family and I beg you to believe me your affectionate sister Margaret Peters
So far everything prospered with our widow This invitation was exactly what she wished and having answered accepted and fixed the day and probable hour at which it was to begin Mrs Barnaby once more enjoyed the delight of preparing herself for a journey that was to lead her another step towards the goal she had in view
CHAPTER XV
THE ENTRÉE OF MRS BARNABY IN MRS PETERSS DRAWINGROOM—FAMILY CONSULTATIONS—ARRANGEMENTS FOR MISS WILLOUGHBYS DRESS FOR SOME TIME TO COME
In one respect Mrs Barnaby was considerably more fortunate than she had ventured to hope for the clothier and the clothiers family held a much higher station in society than she had anticipated Mr Peters had for many years been an active and prosperous manufacturer neither above his business nor below enjoying the ample fortune acquired by it his wife was a lively agreeable ladylike woman formed to be well received by any society that the chances of commerce might have thrown her into being sufficiently well educated and sufficiently gifted to do credit to the highest and without any pretensions which might have caused her either to give or receive pain had the chances been against her and she had become the wife of a poor instead of a rich manufacturer The eldest son who was excellently well calculated to follow the steps of his lucky father was already married and settled at Frome with a share of the business of which he was now the most efficient support the younger son who was intended for the church was at present at home for a few months previous to his commencing termkeeping at Oxford and the three daughters from appearance education and manners were perfectly well qualified to fill the situation of firstrate belles in the Clifton ballroom Their house and its furniture their carriage and establishment were all equally beyond the widows expectations so that in short a very agreeable surprise awaited her arrival at Clifton
It was a lovely evening of the last week in June that a Bristol hackneycoach deposited Mrs Barnaby her niece her Jerningham and her trunks at No 4 Rodney Place The ladies of the Peters family had just left the dinnertable and were awaiting their relative in the drawingroom Let it not be supposed that the interesting widow made her entrée among them in the dress she had indulged in during her residence at Exeter she was not so thoughtless and so well had poor Agnes already learned to know her that she felt little surprise when she saw her the day before they left that city draw forth every melancholy article that she had discarded and heard her say—
My life passes Agnes in a constant watchfulness of the feelings of others It was for your sake dear girl that I so early put off this sad attire and the fear of wounding the feelings of my dear sisterinlaw now induces me to resume it for a few days at least that she may feel I come to find my first consolation from her
So the next morning Mrs Barnaby stepped into the stagecoach that was to convey her to Bristol with her lilacs her greys and her pink whites all carefully shrouded from sight in bandboxes and herself a perfect model of conjugal woe
Shew me to my sister said the widow as soon as she had counted all her own packages and with a cambric handkerchief without an atom of embroidery in her hand her voice ready to falter her knees to tremble and her tears to flow she followed the servant up stairs
Mrs Peters came very decorously forward to meet her but she was perhaps hardly prepared for the very long embrace in which her unknown sister held her Mrs Peters was a very little woman and was almost lost to sight in the arms and the draperies of the widow but when at last she was permitted to emerge Agnes was cheered and greatly comforted by the pleasing reception she gave her while the young ladies in their turn with the exception of the grave and reasonable Elizabeth perhaps submitted rather impatiently to the lingering and sobbing embraces of their new aunt as they had by no means gazed their fill on the lovely creature she brought with her
Though there was certainly no reason in the world why the niece of Mrs Barnaby should not be beautiful both Mrs Peters and her daughters gazed on her with something like astonishment It seemed as if it were strange that they had not heard before of what was so very much out of the common way and so great was the effect her appearance produced and so engrossing the attention she drew that Mrs Barnaby passed almost uncriticised and when the ladies of the family met afterwards a female committee in Mrs Peterss dressingroom and asked each other what they thought of their new relation no one seemed prepared to say more of her than Oh she has been handsome certainly only she rouges and is a great deal too tall But did you ever see so beautiful so elegant a creature as her niece Such with a few variations according to the temper of the speaker was the judgment of all
Before this judgment was passed upon the new arrivals in the dressingroom the aunt and niece had also undergone the scrutiny of both father and son who had joined them at the teatable
They too had held their secret committee and freely enough exchanged opinions on the subject
Upon my word James she is an extremely fine woman and I really never saw any person conduct herself better upon such an occasion All strangers you know and she poor soul with her heart breaking to think what she has lost I really cannot but admire her and I flatter myself we shall all find means to make her like us too I hope you agree with me James in my notions about her
Oh dear yes I am sure I do a very excellent person—indeed I have no doubt of it But did you ever sir see such a creature as her niece She seemed to me something more like a vision—an emanation—than a reality
A what James
I beg your pardon my dear sir but I believe I have lost my senses already Dont you think father I had better set off for Oxford tomorrow morning
Good gracious no James Why should you go away just as your aunt Barnaby is come and she having such kind intentions towards you all
Very well sir replied the gayhearted youth if such be your pleasure I will brave the danger and trust to Providence But good night father I must say one word to my sisters before they go to bed And the privileged intruder entered his mothers dressingroom while the party were still discussing the merits of the newcomers
Oh here comes James exclaimed Lucy making room for him on the sofa where she was seated Thats delightful Come mamma sit down again let us hear what this accomplished squire of dames says of her Do you think now James that Kattie MGee is the prettiest girl you ever saw
Prettiest—why yes prettiest as contradistinguished from most beautiful—perhaps I do replied the young man with an excathedra sort of air but if you mean to ask who I think the very loveliest creation ever permitted to consecrate the earth by setting her heavenborn feet upon it I reply Miss Agnes Willoughby
Bravo That will do replied Lucy I thought how it would fare with the puir Scottish lassie the moment I beheld this new divinity
Poor James I am really sorry for you this time said his mother for I cannot give you much hope of a cure from the process that has hitherto proved so successful I see no chance whatever of a fairer she coming to cauterize by a new flame the wound inflicted by this marvellous Miss Willoughby
They jest at scars who never felt a wound exclaimed the young man fervently Mary Elizabeth have you none of you a feeling of pity for me Oh how I envy you all for you can gaze and bask in safety in the beams of this glorious brightness while I as my mother says am doomed to be scorched incurably
If you have any discretion James you will run away said his eldest sister Her generous aunt you know has declared that she shall never have any of uncle Barnabys money and if you stay you may depend upon it that while you are making love to the niece I shall be winning the heart of the aunt and contrive by my amiable cajoleries to get your share and my own too of all she so nobly means to bestow upon us
Nonsense Mary Dont believe her James cried the worthy matterof-fact Elizabeth If you are really in love with her already I think it would be a very good scheme indeed for you to marry her because then Mrs Barnaby could be doing her duty to you both at once
Very true Elizabeth said the mother but you none of you recollect that while you have been regaling yourselves with the charms of the young lady I have been worn to a thread by listening to the noble sentiments of the old old mercy on me the elder one Pray offer to set off with them James in quest of lodgings as soon as breakfast is over tomorrow for I foresee that I cannot stand it long And now go away all of you for I am tired to death Good night Good night
And now let us see the impression made on the aunt and niece by their reception for though separate rooms were prepared for them Mrs Barnaby did not permit the weary Agnes to enjoy the supreme luxury of this solitary apartment till she had indulged herself with a little gossip
Mrs Peters had herself shewn Mrs Barnaby to her room at the door of which she was preparing to utter a final good night but was not permitted to escape without another sisterly embrace and being held by the hand for some minutes while the widow said—
You know not how soothing it is to my feelings dearest Margaret you must allow me to call you Margaret you know not how soothing how delightful it is to my feelings to lay my head and poor aching heart to rest under the roof of my dear Barnabys sister Alas none but those who have suffered as I have done can fully understand this And yet I so much wish you to understand me dearest sister I so long to have my heart appreciated by you Step in for one moment will you And the request was seconded by a gentle pulling which sufficed to bring the imprisoned Mrs Peters safely within the door I cannot part with you till I have explained a movement a rush of sentiment I may call it—that has come upon me since I entered this dear dwelling The time is come is fully come you know when fashion dictates the laying aside this garb of woe and as my excellent mother brought me up in all things respectfully to follow the usages of society I have been struggling to do so in the present instance and have actually already furnished myself with a needful change of apparel never yet however dearest Margaret—and here she pressed her handkerchief to her eyes—never yet have I had the courage to wear it But thank Heaven I now feel strengthened and when we meet tomorrow you shall see the influence the sight of you and your dear family has had upon me And now good night my sister I will detain you no longer but do explain to your charming family dear Margaret how this sudden change in my appearance has been wrought Good night But where is Agnes Poor love she will not sleep even in your elegant mansion till she has received my parting kiss She perfectly dotes upon me Will you have the kindness to let her be sent to me
In the happiest state of spirits from the conscious skill with which she had managed this instantaneous change of garments delighted with the unexpected elegance of the house and all within it with her reception and above all else with the recollection of the able manner in which she had propitiated the favour of these important relatives by her letter the widow rang the bell for her Jerningham and anxiously awaited her arrival and that of her niece that she might indulge a little in the happy boastful vein that swelled her bosom
Well my dear she broke out the instant Agnes entered I hope you like my brother and sister and my nieces and my nephew Upon my word Agnes you are the luckiest girl in the world What a family for you to be introduced to on a footing of the greatest intimacy too and that on your very first introduction into life They must be exceedingly wealthy there can be no doubt of it I suppose you have seen a great many servants Jerningham
Oh my—sure enough maam Theres the footman and the boy and the coachman
A coachman interrupted Mrs Barnaby they keep a carriage then I really had no idea of it My dear Barnaby never told me that I wonder at it And well Jerningham how many maids are there
Oh lor maam I hardly can tell for I was tooked to sit in one room and there was one and maybe two maids as bided in another that was the kitchen I sem maam and everything was so elegant maam
I dare say it was Jerningham and you must be very careful to keep up your own consequence and mine too in such a house as this You understand me Jerningham I have already you remember given you some hints You have not forgotten I hope
No that I havent maam replied the girl and I mean to tell em but looking at Agnes she stopped short as it seemed because she was there
Very well thats quite right and Ill give you these gloves of mine Mend them neatly tomorrow morning and never be seen to go out without gloves Jerningham And now unpack my nightbag and you had better just open my trunk too Remember to learn the hour of breakfast and come to me exactly an hour and a half before I shall put on my black satin tomorrow and my lavender trimmings You know where to find them all dont you
Yes maam
Very well forget nothing and I will give you that cap with the lilac bows that I dirtiedout at Exeter Mercy on me Agnes how you are yawning
I am very tired aunt and I will wish you good night now if you please
What without one word of all you have seen Well you are a stupid girl Agnes and thats the fact You find nothing I suppose to like or admire in my sisters house or in those delightful fashionablelooking young people
Yes indeed I do aunt only I think I am too sleepy to do justice to them They are very agreeable and I like them very much indeed
I am glad to hear it child and I hope you will do your best to make yourself agreeable to them in return If you were not such a baby that young man would make a capital match for you I dare say But we must not think about that I suppose And now you may go but stay one minute Observe Agnes I have explained to my sister all my feelings about my mourning and you must take care to let the young people understand that you keep on with crape and bombasin some time longer because you like it best And by the by I may as well tell you at once my dear that as you look so particularly well in deep mourning and are so fond of wearing it you had better not think of a change for some time to come I am sorry to tell you my dear that I find everything as I come up the country a vast deal indeed dearer than I expected and therefore it will be absolutely necessary to save every penny I can Now the fact is that my mourning has been taken so much care of and altogether so little worn that the best gown is very nearly as good as new and the worst has still a deal of wear left in it So I think the best thing we can do Agnes is to have both of them made up to fit you that is when your own are quite wornout and my bonnets too if I can teach Jerningham to wash the crape nicely in a little small beer they will come out looking quite like new and they are so becoming to you and in this way you see my dear a great many pounds may be saved
Thank you aunt meekly replied Agnes
Well theres a good girl go to bed now and be sure to make the young ladies understand that you go on with crape and bombasin because you like it
CHAPTER XVI
MRS PETERS BECOMES UNEASY BUT CONTRIVES TO ATTAIN HER OBJECT—A PLEASANT WALK DISCOVERED TO BE A GOOD MEANS OF MAKING A PARTY OF YOUNG PEOPLE ACQUAINTED WITH EACH OTHER—MRS PETERS SHEWS MUCH PROMPTITUDE AND EXPERIENCE IN TAKING LODGINGS—SHE ALSO DISCOVERS THE BEST MODE OF LIONIZING A LADY WHO IS TOO BEAUTIFUL—ANOTHER COUNTRY WALK IMPROVES THE INTIMACY BETWEEN THE YOUNG LADIES
The impressions mutually received overnight were not greatly changed when the parties met again on the following morning excepting indeed that Mr Peters was rather surprised at seeing the widow looking so very smart and so very much handsomer
The young people could hardly admire Agnes more than they had done before though they confessed that they were not fully aware of the particular beauty of her hair or of the perfect symmetry of her person till they had seen her by daylight but Mrs Peters pleaded guilty to disliking her affectionate sister quite as much on Tuesday morning as she had done on Monday night and as the sun shone brightly she took advantage of this to introduce the subject that was decidedly next her heart
You must take care to put this beautiful day to profit Mrs Barnaby said she Of course you have heard of our rocks and our downs Miss Willoughby and you could not look at them through a more favourable atmosphere We shall have time to take you to our famous windmill and to shew you some lodgings too Mrs Barnaby for we Bristol people never sacrifice business to pleasure I thought of you yesterday morning when I saw a bill up at Sion Row some of the prettiest lodgings in Clifton and it will be dangerous to put off looking at them they are so very likely to be taken
The goodnatured Mr Peters felt a great inclination to say that there could be no need of hurry in looking out for lodgings as he should be so very glad to keep the ladies where they were but though the most perfect harmony real harmony and good feeling existed between Mr Peters and his wife a very salutary understanding also existed that whenever she said anything that he did not quite comprehend which not unfrequently happened he was neither to contradict nor observe upon it till the matter had been inquired into between them when they were têteàtête upon which occasions he always found her as ready to hear as to render reasons and it was rare indeed that the conference broke up without their being of the same mind
In conformity to this excellent rule the good man suffered this lodginghunting expedition to be arranged without offering any objection and set off on his daily walk to the Bristol exchange with no other observation than that he should leave James to escort them as he did not think he should find him a very gay companion if he took him away
The ladies then immediately dispersed to bonnet and cloak themselves and in a few minutes the whole party amounting to seven all turned out upon the broad flagstones of Rodney Place and dividing into three couples with James hanging on upon that of which Agnes was one proceeded headed by Mrs Barnaby and Mrs Peters towards Sion Row
Before they reached it however James called a council with his eldest sister and Miss Willoughby upon the necessity of so very large a party all going to look for lodgings
Would it not be better Mary said the young man for us to take Miss Willoughby to the down The others can follow if they like it you know and we shall be sure to meet them coming back
Very well then tell mamma so will you replied the young lady turning off in the direction indicated
The message caused the elder ladies to stop Mrs Peters looked very much as if she did not like her share in the division but after a moments hesitation she goodhumouredly nodded assent and walked on Elizabeth who in her heart believed Mrs Barnaby was the kindest person in the world because she said so joining the elder ladies and the four others striking off towards the beautiful rising ground on the right
There is a sort of freemasonry among young people which is never brought into action till the elders are out of the way and it was probably for this reason that Agnes felt better acquainted with her companions before they had pursued their walk for half an hour than all the talk of the preceding evening or that of the breakfasttable had enabled her to become Something too might have been effected in the way of familiarity by an accident arising from the nature of the scenery upon which they paused to gaze On reaching the windmill and looking down upon the course of the Avon winding its snakelike path at their feet with the woods of Leigh rich in their midsummer foliage feathering down on one side and rocks of limestone bright in their veins of red and grey freshly opened by the quarrying rising beautifully bold on the other Agnes stood wrapt in ecstasy All she had yet seen of Nature had been the flowery meads and blooming apple orchards of the least romantic part of Devonshire and though there was beauty enough in this to awaken that love of landscape which is always one of the strongest feelings in a finelyorganized mind she was quite unprepared for the sort of emotion the scene she now beheld occasioned her She pressed forward before her companions and utterly unmindful of danger leaned over the verge of the giddy precipice till young Peters really alarmed seized her by the arm and drew her back again Tears were in her eyes and her face was as pale as marble
My dear Miss Willoughby said Mary kindly the precipice has made you giddy I do believe if James had not seized you that you would have fallen
Oh no no replied Agnes shaking her head while a bright flush instantly chased the paleness I do assure you I was not in any danger at all only I never saw anything so beautiful before
Let us sit down said Lucy There is no dampness whatever It is almost the first day of real summer and the air is delicious Is it not beautiful here Agnes
A look of gratitude and almost of affection was the answer and as the little party sat together inhaling that most delicious of essences which the sun draws forth when herbs and flowers are what he shines upon with a lovely landscape around and each others fair young faces and blithe voices beside them was it wonderful that the recent date of their acquaintance should be forgotten or that they laughed and chatted and looked about and enjoyed themselves with as much gaiety and as little restraint as if they had known each other for years
They were all very happy and a full hour passed unheeded as they amused themselves sometimes with idle talk sometimes with listening to the reverberating thunder that arose from the blasting of the rocks below them and sometimes by sitting silent for a whole minute together pulling up handfuls of the fragrant thyme with which their couch was strewed They were all very happy but none of the party had any notion of the happiness of Agnes It was the first moment of real positive enjoyment she had tasted since she left Empton and a feeling like renewed life seemed to seize upon her senses Without reasoning about it she had felt during the last few months as if it were her fate to be unhappy and that all she had to do was to submit but to her equal delight and astonishment she now found that nobody ever was so much mistaken for that she was one of the most particularly happy people in the world wanting nothing but sun sweet air and a lovely landscape to make her forget that such a thing as sorrow existed and the only thought that threw a shadow upon the brightness of her spirit was that which suggested that she must have been very wicked to have doubted for a moment the goodness of God who had formed this beautiful world on purpose to make people happy
But though every moment of such an hour as this seems to leave its own sweet and lasting impression on the memory the whole is soon gone and when Mary with the wisdom called for by being the eldest of the party jumped up exclaiming that they had quite forgotten their appointment to meet her mother on the down Agnes roused herself with a sigh as if she had passed through a momentary trance
They met the rest of their party however though the order of the meeting was changed for it was our young set who encountered the others on their return after a ramble of half a mile or so towards the turnpike which it is probable had not been enlivened by any such raptures as those felt by Agnes
The two parties now joined and the conversation was general not very lively perhaps but by no means devoid of interest to Agnes who had fallen so heartily in love with St Vincents rocks as to make her hear of being fixed for some time in their neighbourhood with the greatest delight
Well maam have you seen any lodgings that you liked said the eldest Miss Peters to Mrs Barnaby
Yes my dear Mary I have indeed replied the widow thanks to your dear kind mamma who has really been indefatigable Clifton seems exceedingly full I think and I am not sorry for it for my poor dear Agnes really wants a little change to rouse her spirits That mourning habit that she so delights in is I am sorry to say but too just a type of her disposition
The brother and sisters who had so lately shared in the gay hilarity of Agness laughter exchanged glances but said nothing while she herself blushing and half laughing again at the same recollection changed the subject by saying—
And have you taken lodgings aunt
Yes my dear I have small but very delightful lodgings in Sion Row the very Row Agnes that you heard my dear sister mention this morning as so desirable and which we quite despaired of getting at first for there appeared to be all sorts of difficulties But turning to Mrs Peters you seem to understand all these things Margaret so admirably well You made the good woman do exactly what you pleased So clever and so like your poor dear brother
My poor dear brother must have been wonderfully changed if he ever shewed himself half so selfwilled thought the conscious Mrs Peters who had certainly used something like bribery and corruption to remove all difficulties in procuring for her sisterinlaw apartments which must by agreement be entered upon the following day
But you have got them aunt at last I am so glad of it for I think Clifton the most beautiful place I ever saw in my life
Falling in love with the young man that is quite clear thought the activeminded widow
A fresh return of happiness awaited Agnes on reentering the house Lucy threw her wraps aside and sat down to the pianoforte she played prettily and sang too well enough to delight the thirsty ears of Agnes who had never heard a note excepting at the cathedral at Exeter since she had left her school The evident pleasure which her performance gave to her young auditor encouraged the goodnatured Lucy to proceed and excepting during an interval occupied by eating sandwiches for luncheon she continued to play and sing till three oclock
Though by no means one of those performers who like to keep the instrument wholly to themselves it never occurred to her to ask Agnes to play There was something so childishly eager in the delight with which she listened that Lucy fancied it was the novelty of the thing that so captivated her attention and with something of that feeling perhaps against which her father had warned them all and which leads young ladies at Clifton to fancy that young ladies in Devonshire must be greatly behindhand in all things she somehow or other took it for granted that it was very unlikely Agnes Willoughby should have learned to play or sing
When the timepiece on the chimney struck three there seemed to be a general movement among the Peters family indicative of another sortie
I suppose you walk again mother said the young man
I suppose so James I dare say Mrs Barnaby will like to go to the library and put her name down at the rooms
Oh yes I shall indeed for poor Agness sake
Very well that is all quite right You and I are smart enough Mrs Barnaby but I suppose the girls will choose to change their walking bonnets for bonnets for the walk and we must wait for them Here are all the annuals I believe and I am deep in this review
So saying Mrs Peters threw aside her shawl seated herself in a low beehive that just fitted her little person and happified herself with a biting article in the Quarterly
Mrs Barnaby smilingly turned to the piles of pretty books that decorated the lootable but hardly had the young ladies disappeared and Mrs Peters occupied herself than she rose and silently glided out of the room
Agnes had no better bonnet to put on than the one she had already displayed but she ran up stairs with the other girls because one of them had put out a hand inviting her to do so and it was therefore to one of their rooms she went instead of her own another step this and a very considerable one too towards intimacy between young ladies for few things produce a more genial flow of talk than the being surrounded by a variety of objects in which all parties take a common interest
Had Mrs Barnaby been upon this occasion a little less humbleminded in her estimate of her own charms it would have been better for her but unfortunately a restless spirit within whispered to her that she was not quite beautiful enough for the walk and the library and the rooms and it was to refresh her rouge a little that she followed the young ladies up stairs
Now her rouge had been decidedly sufficient before and moreover after she had touched up her bloom to the point she deemed to be the most advantageous it struck her that her lavender and black bonnet and plumes looked sombre and would be rendered infinitely more becoming by introducing among the blonde beneath a few bright blossoms of various colours so that when she reentered the drawingroom she looked precisely like a clever caricature of what she had been when she left it—the likeness not lost but all that touched upon the ridiculous or outré brought out and exaggerated
Mrs Peters looked up as she entered and gave her one steady glance then rose from her chair and rang the bell
The young people were all seated in array waiting for the widows reappearance as a signal to depart and all rose together as she entered but they had yet longer to wait for Mrs Peters after ringing the bell quietly reseated herself and prepared to resume her book saying—
Upon second thoughts dear friends I think we shall do better if we order the carriage and take Mrs Barnaby and Miss Willoughby to Bristol The library and all that will be within five minutes walk of their lodgings and as they leave us tomorrow it will be making better use of our time to go to Bristol today At this moment a servant entered and the determined little lady without waiting to hear any opinions on her proposal desired to know if the coachman was in the house
Yes maam was the reply
Then tell him to bring the carriage round as quickly as he can You may give Miss Willoughby another song Lucy in the interval I want you Mary in my room for a moment And Mrs Peters left the room followed by her eldest daughter
Have I puzzled you Mary said she laughing and closing the door of the dressingroom as soon as they had entered it Dont think me whimsical child but upon my word I cannot undertake to parade that painted and plumaged giantess through Clifton I will sacrifice myself for a two hours purgatory and listen with the patience of a martyr to the record of her graces her virtues and her dignity but it must be in the close carriage I always prefer performing my penances in private Elizabeth evidently believes in her and I really think admires her beauty into the bargain so she had better go with us for I presume Mary you have no wish to be of the party
Oh yes I will certainly go if Agnes does But mamma I hope you wont take a fancy against our being a great deal with Miss Willoughby I will agree in all you may choose to say against this overwhelming aunt Barnaby but it would grieve me to be rude to her charming niece She is I do assure you the very sweetest creature I ever made acquaintance with
It is evident that you have taken a great fancy for her and upon the whole it is a fancy that does you honour for it clearly proves you to be exempt from the littleness of fearing a rival There is not a single girl in the neighbourhood that can be compared to her in beauty—I am quite ready to acknowledge that but you must excuse me Mary if I doubt the possibility of my sympathizing with you in your general and unqualified admiration of a young lady brought up by my portentous sister Barnaby
But Agnes Willoughby was not brought up by her mamma quite the contrary You laugh mamma but I do assure you
I laugh at your quite the contrary which means I suppose that she has been brought down by her and you will be brought down too my dear if you suffer yourself to be identified with her and her rouge in public
Identified with Mrs Barnaby I am quite sure that I do not like her at all better than you do and I will make myself into a porcupine and set up my quills at her whenever she comes near me if you wish it but then on your side you must promise and the young lady took her mothers hand very coaxingly you must promise to take the trouble of talking a little to Agnes will you
Yes I will if I have an opportunity and I am sure if she is good for anything I pity her Now then let us go down again and you shall see how well I will behave
Before they reached the drawingroom however Mary Peters had conceived a project of her own She knew what sort of a drive it would be when her mother was behaving well to a person she disliked and she instantly addressed a whispered request to Agnes that she would stay at home and chat instead of going to Bristol
If I may replied Agnes colouring with pleasure at the proposal but the yoke upon her young neck was far from being as easy a one as that by which Mrs Peters guided her daughters and she felt so much doubt of obtaining permission if she asked it herself that she added Will you ask for me
Mrs Barnaby said her courageous friend you must do without your niece during your drive if you please for she is going to look over my portfolios
You are excessively kind my dear Mary replied the benign Mrs Barnaby too well satisfied at displaying herself in her beloved sisters carriage to care three straws what became of her niece the while I am sure Agnes can never be sufficiently grateful for all your kindness
The delighted Agnes instantly disembarrassed herself of all outofdoor appurtenances and Lucy without saying a word about it quietly did the same The carriage was announced the radiant widow stalked forth Mrs Peters took Elizabeth by the arm and followed her shaking her head reproachfully at Lucy as she passed her and the young man escorted them down stairs but having placed them in the carriage he declined following them saying—
I dare say my father will be glad of the drive home for it is quite hot today—You will be sure to find him at the Exchange Coffeehouse if you get there by halfpast four A pleasant ride Good morning and the next moment he joined the happy trio in the drawingroom
And what shall we do with ourselves said he Would Miss Willoughby like to promenade among the beaux and belles Or will she let us keep her all to ourselves and take another delightful country walk with us Which do you vote for Miss Willoughby
For the country walk decidedly she replied
Then let us go down by the zigzag and walk under the rocks said Lucy and in another minute they were en route for that singular and despite the vile colour of the water most beautiful riverpath
The enjoyment of this second ramble was not less to Agnes than that of the first for if the newness of the scenery was past the newness of her companions was past too and she suffered herself to talk with all the open freedom of youth and innocence of her past life upon which Mary with very friendly skill contrived to question her for she was greatly bent upon discovering the source and cause of the widely different tone of mind which her acuteness had discovered between Mrs Barnaby and her protegée This walk fully sufficed to explain it for though Agnes would have shrunk into impenetrable reserve had she been questioned about her aunt Barnaby she opened her heart joyfully to all inquiries respecting Empton and the beloved Wilmots nor was she averse when asked if Mrs Barnaby had placed her with these very delightful people to expatiate upon the eccentric character of her halfknown aunt Betsy On the contrary this was a subject upon which she loved to dwell because it puzzled her The one single visit she had made to Miss Compton in her bower with the simple but delicious repast which followed it the old ladys marked kindness to herself her mysteriously rude manner to her aunt Martha the beauty of her bower the prettiness of her little parlour had all left a sort of vague and romantic impression upon her mind which no subsequent interviews had tended to render more intelligible And all this she told and with it the fact that it was this same dear strange variable aunt Compton who had placed her in the care of Mrs Wilmot
Miss Compton of Compton Basett repeated Mary that is a mighty pretty aristocratic designation Your aunt Betsy is an old spinster of large fortune I presume
Why no I dont believe she is indeed my aunt Barnaby says she is very poor but that she might have been a great deal richer had she not given so much of her property to the poor but I wish I knew something more of her I cannot help thinking that with all her oddities I should like her very much There is one thing very strange about her she added musingly she is quite deformed quite crooked and yet I think she is one of the most agreeablelooking persons I ever saw in my life
She has a handsome face perhaps said Lucy
No I believe not She is very pale and her face is small and there is nothing very particular in her features but yet somehow or other I love dearly to look at her
The force of contrast perhaps whispered James to his eldest sister
No doubt of it she replied
And thus they walked and talked till it was quite time to turn back and though their pace was somewhat accelerated it was as much as they could do to get home in time to dress for their six oclock dinner
But the walk was not only agreeable but profitable to Agnes for at the end of it Miss Peters felt fully prepared to give a reason for her confidence relative to the cause of the dissimilarity between Mrs Barnaby and her niece
CHAPTER XVII
MRS BARNABY TAKES POSSESSION OF HER LODGINGS AND SETS ABOUT MAKING HERSELF COMFORTABLE—SHE OPENS HER PLANS A LITTLE TO AGNES AND GIVES HER SOME EXCELLENT ADVICE—THE COMFORT OF A MIDSUMMER FIRE—THE APARTMENT OF AGNES SET IN ORDER—A LECTURE ON USEFULNESS—VIRTUOUS INDIGNATION
The following morning Mrs Peters took care without being particularly rude that a movement of some activity to speed the parting guest should be perceptible in her household Mr Peters took a very kind leave of both ladies at breakfast and expressed a very friendly wish of being useful to them as long as they should remain at Clifton but his judicious lady who generally knew without any discourtesy how to make him perceive that his first impressions were somewhat less acute than her own had pointed out to him a few peculiarities in Mrs Barnaby which he certainly did not approve The principal of these perhaps was that of her rouging which for some time he steadfastly refused to believe declaring that her complexion was the most beautiful he ever saw but when his examination being sharpened he could withhold his belief no longer he ingenuously confessed he did not like it and allowed that though he thought it would be great folly to lose the fine fortune she had promised them on that account he certainly thought he should feel more comfortable when the rouge pots were all gone into lodgings because they were articles he did not wish to put in the way of his girls
As soon as Mr Peters had taken his leave the footman was very audibly instructed to order a porter to come for Mrs Barnabys luggage And let it be before the hall dinner Stephen that William may be able to walk beside the things and see that none of them are dropped by the way
And then Mrs Barnaby was very kindly asked if she would not like to send her maid to see that a fire was lighted in the drawingroom and that anything she wanted for dinner might be ordered in And then the thoughtful Mrs Peters proposed after Betty Jacks had been gone about an hour that James should go to the lodgings and that they should not set off themselves till he came back and gave notice that everything was ready and comfortable
In short Mrs Barnaby her niece her maid and all their travelling baggage were safely deposited at No 1 Sion Row before the clock struck three
The widow looked about her when she first got into her own drawingroom very much as if she did not know how she got there She was puzzled and mystified by the tactics of Mrs Peters Delighted beyond all bounds of moderation in finding the family so infinitely higher in station than she had anticipated her first idea on perceiving what a land of milk and honey she had fallen into was to exert all her fascinating talents to enable her to stay there as long as possible But the conviction that this scheme would not take came upon her she hardly knew how She had not the slightest inclination to persuade herself that the dear Margaret was otherwise than civil to her yet she felt as if she was to be kept in order and neither go nor stay except as she might receive permission but finally she contrived to heal the wound her vanity had thus received by believing that Mrs Peterss high fashion and superior knowledge of life naturally rendered her manners unlike any she had hitherto been acquainted with and consequently that she might occasionally mistake her meaning
Upon the whole however she began her Clifton campaign in very good spirits The Peterses must be extremely useful acquaintance and might be safely boasted of anywhere as dear and near relations This was very different from arriving as she had done at Exeter without a chance of making a single acquaintance besides her dressmaker Moreover she had got through the difficulty of throwing off her weeds admirably she had managed matters so that the dress of Agnes should be perfectly respectable and yet cost her nothing for a twelvemonth she had just received a quarters income without any deduction and to crown all she never was in better looks in her life
Short then was the interval of discomfort that kept her inactive on first entering her lodgings It was not quite such a drawingroom as that of Mrs Peters to be sure but it was the most fashionable part of Clifton and with her management and admirable ways of contriving things she should soon make it extremely ladylike
Well now then we must set to work Agnes she said drawing off her gloves Come Jerningham you must not stand looking out of the window child there is an immense deal to do before we can be comfortable And the first thing will be to get all the trunks up those that came by the waggon and those that came with us
Then Im sure maam replied the waitingmaid I dont know where youll find room to put em
They must all be brought in here Jerningham to begin and when I have got all my own things unpacked we must see how we shall be off about drawers and closets and pegs and all that and then the empty trunks and boxes must be carried into your garret Jerningham or into that little room inside mine that I mean to give up to Agnes
To me aunt How very kind exclaimed her niece delighted beyond measure at the idea of some place no matter what where she might be alone
Yes my dear You have not seen the rooms yet come with me Agnes while Jerningham goes down about the trunks and I will shew you our apartments
But what am I to do then maam about the trunks said Betty Jacks in a fit of despair Im sure I cant carry em up any how
Then ask the people of the house to help you
Why theres only the old lady and one maid maam and Im sure they cant and they wont
Mrs Barnaby meditated for a moment and then drew out her purse Here is sixpence Jerningham go to the next publichouse and hire a man to bring up my boxes It is immensely expensive Agnes this moving about and we really must be very careful Of course my dear you do not want any dinner after the Rodney Place luncheon I took care to take a couple of glasses of wine on purpose and you should remember my dear that I have every earthly thing to pay for you and never neglect an opportunity of sparing me when you can After we have done our unpacking we can dress and go out to the pastrycooks—there is hardly anything I like better than cakes—and you can have a biscuit you know if you should want anything before tea
The majestic lady then led the way to their apartments which consisted of a small bedroom behind the drawingroom and a very small closet with a little campbed behind that
Here my dear is the room I intend for you It is I believe generally used for a servant but I have been at the expense of hiring a garret for Jerningham on purpose that you might have the comfort of this In fact that bed of mine is not larger than I like for myself and the drawers and all that are not at all more than I shall want so remember if you please not to let any single article of yours great or small be ever seen in my room I shall be puzzled enough I am sure as it is to find room for my own things You have a great advantage over me there Agnes that fancy of yours for keeping yourself in deep mourning makes it so easy for you to find space enough for everything
Oh yes replied Agnes joyfully everything shall be put into the closet What very pleasant lodgings these are aunt so much better than those at Exeter It is such a nice closet this and I am so much obliged to you for giving it up to me
I shall be always ready to make sacrifices for you Agnes so long as you continue to behave well Here come some of the boxes now then you must kneel down and help to unpack them
It was a long and a wearisome task that unpacking and often did Agnes as the sun shone in upon them while they performed it think of her pleasant walks with her new friends and long to breathe again the air that blew upon her as she stood on the top of St Vincents rocks
Mrs Barnaby on the contrary was wholly present to the work before her and though she waxed weary and warm before it was completed her spirits never flagged but appeared to revive within her at every fresh deposit of finery that she came upon and again and again did she call upon Agnes and Jerningham to admire the skill with which she had stowed them
At length the work was done and every disposable corner of her room filled under the bed over the bed in the drawers and upon the drawers not an inch remained unoccupied by some of the widows personalities
It was by this time so late that the cake scheme was given up and the drawingroom being restored to order the two ladies sat down to tea It was then that Mrs Barnabys genius displayed itself in sketching plans for the future she had learned from Mrs Peters and the simpleminded Elizabeth during their drive to and from Bristol all particulars respecting the Clifton balls and moreover that the Peters family seldom failed to attend them
This will be quite enough to set us going respectably people that come in their own carriage must have influence I trust that those stupid humdrums the Wilmots gave you some dancing lessons Agnes
Yes aunt
You are always so short in your answers you never tell me anything Do you think you could get through a quadrille without blundering
Yes I hope so aunt
Remember if you cant I shall be most dreadfully angry for it would destroy all my plans entirely—I mean Agnes that you shall dance as much as possible—nothing extends ones acquaintance among young men so much I am not quite sure myself about dancing I dont think I shall do it here on account of dear Margaret perhaps she might think it too soon I shall probably take to cards thats not a bad way of making acquaintance either but in all things remember that you play into my hands and whenever you have a new partner remember that you always say to him You must give me leave to introduce you to my aunt Do you hear me Agnes
Yes aunt replied the poor girl with an involuntary sigh
What a poor stupid creature you are to be sure returned Mrs Barnaby in a tone of much displeasure What in the world can you sigh for now just at the very moment that I am talking to you of balls and dancing I wish to Heaven you were a little more like what I was at your age Agnes Be so good as to tell me what you are sighing for
I dont know aunt I believe I am tired
Tired and of what I should like to know Come come let us have no fine lady airs if you please and dont look as if you were going to cry whatever you do There is nothing on earth I dislike so much as gloom I am of a very cheerful happy temper myself and its perfect misery to me to see anybody look melancholy I declare Agnes I am as hungry as a hound I dont like to ring for Jerningham again she looked so horridly cross and I wish my dear you would just toast this round of bread for me Mrs Peters was quite right about the fire it is such a comfort and coals are so cheap here Let me stir it up a little there now its as bright as a furnace you can just kneel down in the middle here upon the rug
Agnes obeyed and after some minutes assiduous application to the labour imposed she presented the toasted bread her own fair face scarcely less changed in tint by the operation
Gracious me child what a fright you have made of yourself you should have held the other hand up before your face You are but a clumsy person I am afraid at most things as well as at satinstitch Will you have some more tea my dear draining as was her habit the last drop into her own cup before she asked the question and then extending her hand to that genial source of hospitality the tepid urn
No more thank you aunt I will go now if you please and take all my things out of your way and I shall make my closet so comfortable
I dare say you will But stay a moment Agnes if you find you have more room than you want do put my two best bonnetboxes somewhere or other among your things so that I can get at them so that Jerningham can get at them I mean easily
I will if I can aunt but I am afraid there will hardly be room for my chair However you shall come and see if you please yourself and then you will be the best judge but I will go first and get everything in order
Very well then Agnes you may tell Jerningham to separate everything like mourning from my things and give it all to you And you must contrive my dear to cut and make up everything to fit yourself for I really can be at no expense about it It is perfectly incredible how money goes in this part of the country so different from our dear Silverton However I will not grumble about it for I consider it quite my duty to bring you out into the world and I knew well enough before I set out that it could not be done for nothing But it is a sort of self-devotion I shall never complain of if you do but turn out well
Agnes was standing while this affectionate speech was spoken and having quietly waited for its conclusion again uttered her gentle thank you aunt and retired to arrange the longedfor paradise of her little closet
Darkness overtook her before she had fully completed her task but perhaps she wilfully lingered over it for it kept her alone and permitted her bright and innocent spirit to indulge itself by recalling all the delight she had felt in looking down upon the bold and beautiful scenery of the Avon and she blessed Heaven for the fund of happiness she was now conscious existed within her since the power of looking out upon Nature seemed sufficient to produce a joy great enough to make her forget aunt Barnaby and everything else that gave her pain A part too of her hours of light was spent in opening more than one of her dear little volumes to seek for some remembered description of scenery which she thought would be more intelligible to her now than heretofore and as Spencer happened to fall into her hands it was no great wonder if his flowery meads and forests drear tempted her onwards till she almost lost herself among them
At length however she had done all that she thought she could do towards giving a closet the appearance of a room and having stowed her tiny lookingglass out of the way and placed pens ink and a book or two on the rickety little table in its stead she looked round in the dusky twilight with infinite satisfaction and thought that were she quite sure of taking a long country walk about three times a week with the Peterses she should be very very happy let everything else go on as it might
Having come to this satisfactory conclusion for a walk three times a week was an indulgence she might reasonably hope for she cast one fond look round upon her dark but dear solitude and then went to rejoin her aunt in the drawingroom and announce its state of perfection to her She found her seated at the open window
What have you been about Agnes all this time she said It is lucky that my cheerful happy temper does not make solitude as dreadful to me as it is to most people or I should be badly off living with you You are but a stupid moping sort of a body my dear I must say or you would have guessed that there was more to see at the front of the house than at the back of it I declare I never saw such a delightful window as this in my life You would never believe what a mall there has been here from the moment I took my place till just now that its got almost dark and even now Agnes if you will come here she added in a whisper but dont speak you may see one couple left and lovers they are Ill be bound for them Here stand here by me
No thank you aunt said Agnes retreating I dont want to see them and I think it is more comfortable by the fire
You dont choose to spoil sport I suppose but dont be such a fool and pretend to be wiser than your betters Come here I say you shall take one peep I am determined
And as this determination was enforced by a tolerably strong pull Agnes yielded and found herself greatly against her inclination standing at the open window with her head obligingly thrust out of it by her resolute aunt
The lamps were by this time lighted and at that moment a remarkably tall gentlemanlike looking personage passed beneath one that stood almost immediately below the window receiving its full glare upon his features Beside him was a lady and a young one slight tall and elegantlooking who more than leaned upon his arm for her head almost reclined upon his shoulder and as they passed Agnes saw his hand raised to her face and he seemed to be playing with her ringlets
Agnes forcibly withdrew her head while Mrs Barnaby threw herself half out of the window for a minute then drew back laughing heartily and shut down the sash
Thats capital she cried they fancied themselves so very snug But wasnt he a fine figure of a man Agnes I never saw a finer fellow in my life Hes taller than Tate by half a head I am sure But youre right about the fire too for the wind comes over that down uncommonly cold I shall go to work for an hour and then have a little bread and cheese and a pint of beer
Mrs Barnaby suited the action to the word and unlocked her workbox in which she found ready to her hand good store of work prepared for her beloved needle
Now only see Agnes what a thing it would have been for you if you had learned to work satinstitch she said Here am I happy and amused and before I go to bed I dare say I shall have done a good inch of this beautiful collar And only look at yourself What earthly use are you of to anybody I wonder you are not ashamed to sit idle in that way while you see me hard at work
May I get a book aunt
Books books books If there is one thing more completely full of idleness than another it is reading—just spelling along one line after another And what comes of it Now heres a leaf done already and wait a minute and youll see a whole bunch of grapes done in spotting There is some sense in that but poring over a lot of rubbishly words is an absolute sin for it is wasting the time that Heaven gives us and doing no good to our fellowcreatures
And the grapes thought Agnes but she said nothing
Why dont you answer when I speak to you child Did that stupid Mrs Wilmot never tell you to speak when you were spoken to What a different creature you would have been if I had had the placing you instead of that crooked frumpish old maid But I am sadly afraid it is too late now to hope that you will ever be good for much
I should be very glad to try to make myself competent for the situation of a governess aunt as you once mentioned to me replied Agnes
Oh by the by I want to speak to you about that You are not to say one word on that subject here remember nor indeed anywhere till at such time as I shall give you leave It will be cruelly hard for me to have the monstrous expense of maintaining you exactly as if you were my own child and not have the credit of it And besides I dont feel quite sure that I shall send you out as a governess it must depend upon circumstances Perhaps I shall get you married and that might suit me just as well All you have to do is to keep yourself always ready to go out at a minutes warning if I say the word but you need mention it to nobody and particularly not to my relations here
Very well aunt I will say nothing about it But in order to be ready when you say the word I think I ought to study a good deal and I am willing to do it if you will give me leave
How you do plague me child about your learning Push the candles this way cant you and snuff them when you see me straining my poor eyes with this fine work And do you know miss I think its very likely those books you are so mighty fond of are nothing in the world but trumpery storybooks for I dont believe youd hanker after them so if they were really in the teaching line For after all Agnes if I must speak the truth I dont believe you ever did pay attention to any single thing that could be really useful in the way of governessing Now music for instance nobody ever heard you say a word about that and you ought to sing too if you wernt more stupid than anything ever was for both your father and mother sang like angels
I can sing a little aunt said Agnes
There now isnt it as plain as possible that you take no pleasure in it though everybody said your poor dear mother could have made her fortune by singing But you care for nothing but books books books and what profit I should like to know will ever come of that
But I do care very much indeed for music aunt said Agnes eagerly only I did not talk about it because I thought it might not be convenient for you to have an instrument for me But I believe I could learn to get my bread by music if I had a pianoforte to study with
Grant me patience And you really want me to go and get you a pianoforte which is just the most expensive thing in the world And that after I had so kindly opened my heart to you about my fears of not having money enough I do think that passes anything I ever heard in my life
Indeed aunt I never would have said a word about it if
If if what I should like to know Heaven knows it is seldom I lose my temper about anything but it is almost too much to hear you ask me to my face to ruin myself in that way and you without a chance of ever having a penny to repay me
Pray forget it aunt Indeed I do not wish to be an expense to you and will very gladly try to labour for my own living if you will let me
Mighty fine to be sure Much youre good for arnt you I wish youd get along to bed My temper is too good to bear malice and I shall forget all about it tomorrow perhaps but I cant abide to look at you tonight after such a speech as that theres the truth so get to bed thats a good girl as fast as you can There are some things too much even for an angel to bear
Agnes crept to her little bed and soon cried herself to sleep
CHAPTER XVIII
CONDITIONS OF AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN MRS PETERS AND HER DAUGHTERS—MRS BARNABY BEGINS HER FASHIONABLE CAREER UNDER THE PROTECTION OF MISS ELIZABETH—SHE REHEARSES A BALL IN HER HEART AS SHE EXAMINES THE ROOM—THE LIBRARY
Mrs Barnaby was quite right in thinking that the Peters family would be very useful acquaintance for prodigiously as Mrs Peters disliked her sisterinlaw she no sooner ceased to be galled by her unwelcome presence in her house than she recovered her goodhumour and felt as much aware as any reasonable person could desire of the claim her brothers widow really had upon her and her family These excellent dispositions were assiduously fostered by her daughters to whose wishes she never turned a deaf ear She found the eldest and the youngest very seriously interested in Agnes and earnest in their desire to see more of her while Elizabeth persevered in her belief that poor Mrs Barnaby was one of the very besthearted women in the world and very much to be pitied because nobody seemed to like her though she did mean to divide her fortune so generously amongst them
I hope mamma said the eldest Miss Peters when the ladies of the family were sitting round the drawingroom fire after dinner I hope that you will overcome your terror of Mrs Barnaby and her rouge sufficiently before Tuesday night to permit her joining our party in the ballroom for I would not forsake that sweet Agnes upon such an occasion for more than I will say
Why I do feel my spirits revive Mary considerably since I have felt quite certain that none of my dear sisters amiable feelings were likely to involve me in the necessity of enduring her presence in my house for evermore You may fancy you exaggerate perhaps when you talk of my terrors but no such thing believe me It was terror she inspired and nothing short of it
And Agnes mamma what did she inspire said Mary
Pity and admiration replied her mother
Very well then returned the petted girl kissing her we shall not quarrel this time but I was half afraid of it It would in truth have been very foolish and very unlike you mamma who understand the sort of thing better than most people I believe if we had lost the great pleasure of being kind to Miss Willoughby and behaved extremely ill to uncle Barnabys widow into the bargain solely because you dont like tall massive ladies with large black eyes who wear rouge and talk fine for you must confess if you will be quite honest and speak the truth that Mrs Peters is rather too wellestablished a person at Clifton to fear losing caste by being seen with a Mrs Barnaby even had the association not been redeemed by the matchless elegance of her beautiful niece
Did any one ever hear a mamma better scolded said Mrs Peters turning to the younger girls
Mary is quite right mamma said Lucy Depend upon it we should have broken into open rebellion had you persevered in threatening to cut the Barnaby connexion
Indeed I must say added Elizabeth that I have thought you very severe upon our poor aunt mamma Think of her kindness
Our aunt sighed Mrs Peters Is it absolutely necessary beloveds that she should be addressed in public by that tender title
Not absolutely perhaps replied Mary laughing and I dare say Elizabeth will make a bargain with you mamma never to call her aunt again provided you promise never to forget that she is our aunt though we may not call her so
And what must I do young ladies to prove my eternal recollection of this agreeable tact
You must be very civil to Agnes and let them both join our party at tea and at all the balls and never object to our calling upon the Barnaby for the sake of getting at the Willoughby and now dont start and turn restive mamma you must ask them whenever we have an evening party here with young people that might be likely to give Agnes pleasure
And must I embrace Mrs Barnaby every time she comes into my presence and every time she leaves it
No unless you have done something so very outrageously rude before as to render such a penitentiary amende necessary
Come here Mary said the gay mother and let me box your ears immediately
The young lady placed herself very obediently on the footstool at Mrs Peterss feet who having patted each pretty cheek said Now tell me Mary if you can what it is that has thus fascinated your affections hoodwinked your judgment perverted your taste and extinguished your pride
If you will let me turn your questions my own way mother replied the daughter I will answer them all My affection is fascinated or I would rather say won by the most remarkable combination of beauty grace talent gentleness and utter unconsciousness of it all that it has ever been my hap to meet with And instead of being hoodwinked my judgment my power of judging seem newly roused and awakened by having so very fine a subject on which to exercise themselves I never before felt as I did when listening to Agnes as she innocently answered my prying questions concerning her past life the enormous difference there might be between one human mind and another It was like opening the pages of some holy book and learning thence what truth innocence and sweet temper could make of us If admiring the uncommon loveliness of this sweet girl with something of the enthusiasm with which one contemplates a choice picture be perversion of taste I plead guilty for it is with difficulty that I keep my eyes away from her and for my pride mamma if any feeling of the kind ever so poisoned my heart as to make me turn from what was good in the fear that it might lead me into contact with what was ungenteel be thankful with me that this sweet light from heaven has crossed my path and enabled me to see the error of my ways
Mary spoke with great animation and her mother listened to her till tears dimmed her laughing blue eyes
You are not a missish miss Mary that is certain said she kissing her and assuredly I thank Heaven for that This pretty creature does indeed seem by your account to be a pearl of price but par malheur she has got into the shell of the very vilest great big coarse hateful oyster that ever was fished up Fear nothing more however from me You are dear good girls for feeling as you do about this pretty Agnes and I give you carte blanche to do what you will with her and for her
The consequence of this was an early call made on the following morning at Mrs Barnabys lodgings by the three Misses Peters There were not many subjects on which the aunt and niece thought or felt in common but it would be difficult to say which of the two was most pleased when their visiters were announced
We are come—that is Lucy and I—to make you take a prodigious long walk with us Agnes said Miss Peters and Elizabeth who is not quite so stout a pedestrian as we are is come with us to offer her services to you Mrs Barnaby for a home circuit if you like to make one And pray do not forget that Tuesday is the ball night and that we shall expect you to go and join our party in the room
Dearest Mary dearest Elizabeth dearest Lucy How good of you all Agnes put on your bonnet my dear instantly and never forget the kindness of these dear girls I shall indeed be thankful to you Elizabeth if you will put me in the way of getting a few trifles that will be necessary for Tuesday Are your balls large Are there plenty of gentlemen c c
And where was Agness heavy sense of sadness now The birds whose cheerful songs seemed to call her out were not more light of heart than herself as she followed her friends down the stairs and sprung through the door to meet the fresh breeze from the down with a foot almost as elastic as their own glad wings We must leave the young ladies to pursue their way being joined at no great distance from the door by James Peters through a long and delightful ramble that took them along the wall that forms the garde fou to the most beautiful point of Durdham Down and so on amidst fields and villas that appeared to Agnes like so many palaces in fairyland and while thus they charm away the morning we must follow Mrs Barnaby and the goodnatured Elizabeth through their much more important progress among the fashionable resorts of the Clifton beau monde
And about tickets my dear Elizabeth said the widow as she offered her substantial arm to her slight companion what is it the fashion to do To subscribe for the season or pay at the door
You may do either Mrs Barnaby but if you wish your arrival to be known I believe you had better put your name on the book
You are quite right my dear Where is the place to do this Cannot you take me at once
Yes I could take you certainly for it is almost close by but perhaps papa had better save you the trouble Mrs Barnaby
By no means my dear His time is more valuable than mine Let us go at once I shall like it best
Elizabeth though a little frightened led the way and as Mrs Barnaby entered the establishment that at its very threshold seemed to her redolent of waxlights fiddles and fine clothes such a delightful flutter of spirits came upon her as drove from her memory the last fifteen or sixteen years of her life and made her feel as if she were still one of the lightest and loveliest nymphs in the world She insisted upon seeing the ballroom and paced up and down its ample extent with a step that seemed with difficulty restrained from dancing she examined the arrangement for the music looked up with exultation at the chandeliers and triumphed in anticipation at their favourable influence upon rouge eyes feathers and flowers Had there been any other man present beside the waiter she would hardly have restrained her desire to make a tour de waltz and as it was she could not help turning to the quiet young man and saying with a condescending smile The company must look very well in this room sir
As they passed in their way out through the room in which the subscriptionbooks were kept they met a gentleman whose apparent age wavered between thirtyfive and forty tall stout gaily dressed fully moustached and with an eye that looked as if accustomed to active service in reconnoitring all things He took off his hat and bowed profoundly to Miss Peters bestowing at the same time a very satisfactory stare on the widow
Who is that my dear said the wellpleased lady
That is Major Allen replied Elizabeth
Upon my word he is a very fine fashionablelooking man Is he intimate with your family
Oh no We only know him from meeting him sometimes at parties and always at the balls
Is he a man of fortune
I am sure I dont know He has got a smart horse and groom and goes a great deal into company
Then of course he cannot be a poor man my dear Is he a dancer
No I believe he always plays cards
And where shall we go now dearest I want you to take me Elizabeth to all the smartest shops you know
Some of the best shops are at Bristol but we have a very good milliner here
Then let us go there dear And did not your mamma say something about a library
Yes theres the library and almost everybody goes there almost every morning
Then there of course I shall go I consider it as so completely a duty my dear Elizabeth to do all these sort of things for the sake of my niece My fortune is a very good one and the doing as other people of fortune do must be an advantage to poor dear Agnes as long as she is with me but I dont scruple to say to you my dear that the fortune I received from your dear uncle will return to his family in case I die without children And a truly widowed heart my dear girl does not easily match itself again But the more you know of me Elizabeth the more you will find that I have many notions peculiar to myself Many people if they were mistress of my fortune would spend three times as much as I do but I always say to myself Poor dear Mr Barnaby though he loved me better than anything else on earth loved his own dear sister and her children next best and therefore as he left all to me and a very fine fortune he made I assure you I hold myself in duty bound as I spend a great deal of money with one hand upon my own niece to save a great deal with the other for his
I am sure you seem to be very kind and good to everybody replied the grateful young lady
That is what I would wish to be my dear for it is only so that we can do our duty Not that I would ever pledge myself never to marry again my dear Elizabeth I dont at all approve people making promises that it may be the will of Heaven they should break afterwards and those people are not the most likely to keep a resolution who vow and swear about it But I hope you will never think me stingy my dear nor let anybody else think me so for not spending above a third of my income or perhaps not quite so much for now you know my motives you must feel that it would be very ungenerous particularly in your family to blame me for it
It would indeed Mrs Barnaby and it is what I am sure that I for one should never think of doing But this is the milliners Shall we go in
Oh yes A very pretty shop indeed quite in good style What a sweet turban If it was not for the reasons that I tell you I should certainly be tempted Elizabeth Pray maam what is the price of this scarlet turban
Four guineas and a half maam with the bird and two guineas without it
It is a perfect gem Pray maam do you ever make up ladies own materials
No maam never replied the decisive artiste
Do you never fasten in feathers I should not mind paying for it as I see your style is quite firstrate
For our customers maam and whenever the feathers or the coiffure have been furnished in the first instance by ourselves
You are a customer Elizabeth are you not
Mamma is replied the young lady You know Mrs Peters of Rodney Place Mrs Duval
Oh yes I beg your pardon Miss Peters Is this lady a friend of yours
Mrs Peters is my sisterinlaw Mrs Duval and I hope that will induce you to treat me as if I had already been a customer I should like to have some feathers that I mean to wear at the ball on Tuesday fastened into my toque like these in this blue one here Will you do this for me
Yes maam certainly if you will favour us with your name on our books
Thats very obliging and I will send my own maid with it as soon as I get home
Is there anything else I can have the pleasure of shewing you ladies
I want some long white gloves if you please and something light and elegant in the way of a scarf
The modiste was instantly on the alert and the counter became as a sea of manycoloured waves
Coloured scarves are sometimes worn in slight mourning I believe are they not
Oh yes maam always
What do you say to this one Elizabeth said the widow selecting one of a brilliant geranium tint
For yourself Mrs Barnaby
Yes my dear My dress will be black satin you know
I should think white would look better said Elizabeth recollecting her mothers aversion to fine colours and recollecting also the recent weeds of her widowed aunt
Well perhaps it might Let me see some white if you please
Perhaps you would like blonde maam said the milliner opening a box and displaying some tempting specimens
Beautiful indeed very What is the price of this one
A mere trifle maam Give me leave to begin your account with this
Well I really think I must I know they clean as good as new
What is Agnes to wear inquired Elizabeth
There is one of my troubles my dear she will wear nothing but the deepest mourning Between you and me Elizabeth I suspect it is some feeling about her poor mother or else for her father who has never been heard of for years but whom we all suppose to have died abroad—I suspect it is some feeling of this sort that makes her so very obstinate about it But she cant bear to have it talked of so dont say a word to her on the subject or she will be out of sorts for a week and will think it very cruel of me to have named it to you I perfectly dote upon that girl Elizabeth though to be sure I have my trials with her But we have all our trials Elizabeth and thank Heaven I have a happy temper and bear mine I believe as well as most people But about that strange whim that Agnes has of always wearing crape and bombasin you may as well just mention it to your mamma and sisters to prevent their taking any notice of it to her for if they did you may depend upon it she would not go to the ball at all Oh you have no idea of the obstinacy of that darling girl These gloves will do at last I think Your gloves are all so remarkably small Mrs Duval And thats all for this morning
Where shall I send them maam and to what name
To Mrs Barnaby No 1 Sion Row
Thank you maam They shall be sent immediately
Now then Elizabeth for the library said the widow with an expressive flourish of the hand
And to the library they went which to Mrs Barnabys great satisfaction was full of smart people and amongst others she had to make her way past the moustached Major Allen in order to reach the table on which the subscriptionbook was laid
I beg your pardon madam a thousand times said the Major I am afraid I trod on your foot
Dont mention it it is of no consequence in the world The shop is so full it is almost impossible to avoid it
The Major in return for this civil speech again fixed his broad wide open eyes upon the widow and she had again the satisfaction of believing that he thought her particularly handsome
Miss Peters found many of her acquaintance among the crowd with whom she conversed while Mrs Barnaby seated herself at the table and turned over page after page of autographs with the air of a person deeply interested by the hope of finding the names of friends and acquaintance among them whereas it would have been a circumstance little short of a miracle had she found there that of any individual whom she had ever seen in her life but she performed her part admirably smiling from time to time as if delighted at an unexpected recognition Meanwhile many an eye as she well knew was fixed upon her for her appearance was in truth sufficiently striking She was tall considerably above the average height and large though not to corpulency in short her figure was what many people like Mr Peters would call that of a fine woman and many others like Mrs Peters would declare to be large ungainly and vulgar Her features were decidedly handsome her eyes and teeth fine and her nose high and wellformed but all this was exaggerated into great coarseness by the quantity of rouge she wore and the redundance of harshlooking coalblack ringlets which depended heavily down each side of her large face so as still to give a striking resemblance as Agnes it may be remembered discovered several years before to the wax heads in a hairdressers shop This sort of face and figure which were of themselves likely enough to draw attention were rendered still more conspicuous by her dress which though like herself really handsome was rendered unpleasing by its glaring purpose of producing effect A bonnet of bright lavender satin extravagantly large and fearfully thrown back displayed a vast quantity of blonde quilling fully planted with flowers of every hue while a prodigious plume of drooping feathers tossed themselves to and fro with every motion of her head and occasionally reposed themselves on her shoulder Her dress was of black silk but ingeniously relieved by the introduction of as many settings off of the same colour with her bonnet as it was well possible to contrive so that although in mourning her general appearance was exceedingly shewy and gay
Who is your friend Elizabeth said a young lady who seemed to have the privilege of questioning freely
It is Mrs Barnaby replied Miss Peters in a whisper
And who is Mrs Barnaby my dear She has quite the air of a personage
She is the widow of mammas brother Mr Barnaby of Silverton
Silverton Thats the name of her place is it She is a lady of large fortune I presume
Yes she is Miss Maddox replied Elizabeth somewhat scandalized by the freedom of these inquiries but I really wish you would not speak so loud for she must hear you
Oh no You see she is very busy looking for her friends Good morning Major said the same fair lady turning to Major Allen who stood close beside her listening to all her inquiries and to the answers they received Are we to have a good ball on Tuesday
If all the world can be made to know that Miss Maddox will be there all the world will assuredly be there to meet her replied the gentleman
Then I commission you to spread the tidings far and near I wonder if there will be many strangers
Some of the Stephenson and Hubert party I hear—that is Colonel Hubert and young Frederick Stephenson—they are the only ones left The bridal party set off from the Mall this morning at eleven oclock Lady Stephenson looked more beautiful than ever
Lady Stephenson Oh Emily Hubert Yes she is very handsome and her brother is vastly like her
Do you think so He is so thin and weatherbeaten so very like an old soldier
I dont like him the worse for that replied the lady He looks as if he had seen service and were the better for it He is decidedly the handsomest man at Clifton
The Major smiled and turned on his heel which brought him exactly visàvis to Miss Elizabeth Peters
Your party mean to honour the ball on Tuesday I hope Miss Peters
I believe so Major Allen It is seldom that we are not some of us there
Shall you bring us the accession of any strangers inquired the Major
Mrs Barnaby and her niece will be with us I think
I flatter myself that altogether we shall muster strong Good morning and with another sidelong glance at the widow Major Allen walked out of the shop
Not a word of all this had been lost upon Mrs Barnaby She had thought from the very first that Elizabeth Peters must be selected as her particular friend and now she was convinced that she would be invaluable in that capacity It was quite impossible that any one could have answered better to questions than she had done It was impossible too that anything could be more fascinating than the general appearance of Major Allen and if upon farther inquiry it should prove that he was indeed as he appeared to be a man of fashion and fortune the whole world could not offer her a lover she should so passionately desire to captivate
Such were the meditations of Mrs Barnaby as she somewhat pensively sat at her drawingroom window awaiting the return of Agnes to dinner on that day and such were very frequently her meditations afterwards
THE WIDOW BARNABY
BY FRANCES TROLLOPE
AUTHOR OF THE VICAR OF WREXHILL A ROMANCE OF VIENNA ETC
IN THREE VOLUMES
VOL II
LONDON
RICHARD BENTLEY NEW BURLINGTON STREET
1839
LONDON
PRINTED BY SAMUEL BENTLEY
Dorset Street Fleet Street
CONTENTS
CHAPTER I
CHAPTER II
CHAPTER III
CHAPTER IV
CHAPTER V
CHAPTER VI
CHAPTER VII
CHAPTER VIII
CHAPTER IX
CHAPTER X
CHAPTER XI
CHAPTER XII
CHAPTER XIII
CHAPTER XIV
CHAPTER XV
THE WIDOW BARNABY
CHAPTER I
DIFFICULTIES ATTENDING A YOUNG LADYS APPEARANCE AT A BALL—A WET SUNDAY—DIFFERENCE OF TASTE
Though it was two minutes and a half past the time named for dinner when Agnes made her appearance she found her aunts temper very slightly acerbated by the delay for the delightful recollections of her morning expedition still endured and she was more inclined to boast than to scold
Well Agnes I hope at last I have some news that will please you she said What think you of my having subscribed for us both for six weeks
Subscribed for what aunt to the library
Yes I have subscribed there too for a month and we must go every day rain or shine to make it answer But I have done a good deal more than that for you my dear I have subscribed to the balls entirely for your sake Agnes and whatever becomes of you in future life I trust you will never forget all I have done for you now
But I am afraid aunt it will cost you a great deal of money to take me with you to the balls and as I have never been yet I cannot know anything about it you know and I do assure you that I shall not at all mind being left at home
And a pretty story that would make wouldnt it I tell you child I have paid the money already and here are the cutlets so sit down and be thankful for all my kindness to you Is my beer come Jerningham
Agnes sat down and began eating her cutlet but it was thoughtfully for there were cares that rested heavily upon her heart and though they were certainly of a minor species she must be forgiven if at sixteen and a half they were sufficient to perplex her sorely She had neither shoes nor gloves fit to appear at a ball She dared not ask for them she dared not go without them and she dared not refuse to go at all
This certainly is the most beautiful place I ever saw in my life said the widow while renewing her attack upon the dish of cutlets such shops such a milliner and as for the library its perfectly like going into public What an advantage it is every morning of ones life to be able to go to such a place as that Elizabeth Peters seemed to know everybody and I heard them talking of people of the highest fashion as some of those we are sure to meet at the ball What an immense advantage it is for you Agnes to be introduced in such a manner at such a place as this
It is indeed a most beautiful place aunt and the Peterses are most kind and charming people
Then for once in your life child you are pleased thats a comfort And I have got something to shew you Agnes such a scarf real French blonde its monstrous expensive Im afraid but everybody says that the respectability of a girl depends entirely upon the style of her chaperon Im sure I would no more let my poor dear sisters child go out with me if I was shabbily dressed than I would fly I wonder Mrs Duval does not send home my things but perhaps she waits for me to send my turban Shes going to put my feathers in for me Agnes—quite a favour I assure you but she was so respectful in her manner to Elizabeth Peters I am sure if I had had any notion what sort of people they were I should have made Barnaby leave his business to Mr Dobbs for a little while that he might have brought me to see them long ago
It is indeed a pleasure to meet with such friends said Agnes and perhaps
Perhaps what child
If either of the three girls stay away from the ball perhaps aunt you would be so kind as to let me stay away too and we should pass the evening so delightfully together
God give me patience Agnes for Im sure you are enough to drive one wild Here have I been subscribing to the balls and actually paying down ready money beforehand for your tickets and now ungrateful creature that you are you tell me you wont go I only wish the Peterses could hear you and then theyd know what you are
My only objection to going to the ball aunt said Agnes with desperate courage is the fear that you would be obliged to get gloves and shoes for me
Gloves and shoes why thats just the advantage of mourning Youll have my black silk stockings you know all except a pair or two of the best—and with black stockings I dont suppose you would choose to put on white shoes That would be rather too much in the magpie style I suppose wouldnt it And for gloves I dont see how in such very deep mourning you would wear anything but black gloves too and there are two pair of mine that you may have I could lend you an old pair of my black satin shoes too only your feet and your hands are so frightfully out of proportion to your height I was always reckoned to be most perfectly in proportion every part of my figure but your hands and feet are absolutely ridiculous from their smallness you take after your father in that and a great misfortune it is for it will prevent your ever profiting by my shoes or my gloves either unless you are clever enough to take them in—and that I dont believe you are—not fingers and all
May I wear long sleeves then aunt said Agnes with considerable animation from having suddenly conceived a project by means of which she thought she might render herself and her sables presentable
Because you have got no long gloves I suppose Why yes child I see no objection in such very deep mourning as yours It is a strange whim you have taken Agnes but it is certainly very convenient
And will you give me leave aunt to use all the black you have been so kind as to give me
Use it use all of it Yes I dont want to have any of it again the great desire of my life is to be liberal and generous to you in all ways Agnes But I dont know what you mean about using it all—you cant mean all the things at once
No aunt replied Agnes laughing I dont mean that but if I may use the crape that covers nearly the whole of your best gown I think I could make my own frock look very well for I would make it the same as one I saw last year at Empton May I
Yes if you will child but to say the truth I have no great faith in your mantuamaking talents However I am glad to see that you have got such a notion in your head and if it turns out well I may set you to work for me perhaps one of these days I have a great deal of taste in that way but with my fortune it would be ridiculous if I did much beside ornamental work There Take away Jerningham and bring the two cheesecakes Agnes do you wish for one
No thank you aunt
What an odd girl you are You never seem to care about what you eat I must say that I am a little more dainty and know what is nice and like it too But poor dear Barnaby spoilt me in that way and if ever you should be lucky enough to be the idol of a husband as I was you will learn to like nice eating too Agnes for it is a thing that grows upon one I believe But I dare say at the outoftheway place your aunt Betsy put you to there was no great chance of your being overindulged that way That will do Jerningham give me that drop of beer and now eat up your own dinner as fast as you can and ask little Kitty to shew you the way to Mrs Duvals the milliner and take with you very carefully mind the hatbox that you will find ready tied up on my bed and bring back with you my new scarf and gloves I long to shew you my scarf Agnes You shall not be ashamed of your chaperon—thats a point Im resolved upon
It was Saturday night and the important ball was to be on the following Tuesday so Agnes as soon as the dinner was ended hastened to set about her work a general idea of which she had very clearly in her little head but felt some misgivings about her skill in the detail
Hardly however had she brought forth her needle and her shears when her aunt exclaimed—
Good gracious child you are not going to set to work now Why it is the pleasantest part of the day and I mean to take you out to walk with me under the windows where we saw all the smart people last night—Just look out and you will see they are beginning to come already Put on your things my dear and put your bonnet a little back and try to look as smart as you can You are certainly very pretty but you are a terrible dowdy in your way of putting on your things You have nothing jaunty and taking about you as I used to have at your age Agnes and Im sure I dont know what to do to improve you I suspect that your aunt will get more eyes upon her now than you will with all your youth—and thats a shame But I always was famous for putting on my things well
Agnes retired to her little room but her quiet bonnet was put on much as usual when she came out from it and Mrs Barnaby might have been discouraged at seeing the very undashing appearance of her companion had she not been conscious that the manner in which she had repaired her own charms and the general style of her dress and person were such as might well atone for it
Nor was she disappointed as to the degree of attention she expected to draw not a party passed them without giving her a decided stare and many indulged their curiosity by a very pertinacious look over the shoulder after them
This was very delightful but it was not all ere they had taken half a dozen turns the widelyroaming eyes of Mrs Barnaby descried two additional gentlemen decidedly the most distinguishedlooking personages she had seen approaching from the further end of the walk
That tall one is the man we watched last night Agnes I should know him amongst a thousand
Agnes looked up and felt equally convinced of the fact
The two gentlemen approached and Mrs Barnaby herself could not have wished for a look of more marked examination than the tall individual bestowed upon her as he went by but satisfactory as this was and greatly as it occupied her attention she was aware also that his companion looked with equal attention at Agnes
For goodness sake Agnes throw back that abominable veil it is getting quite dark already and Im sure you cannot see
I can see very well thank you aunt replied Agnes
Fool muttered Mrs Barnaby but she would not spoil her features by a frown and continued to enjoy for three turns more the repeated gaze of the tall gentleman
The following day being Sunday was one of great importance to strangers about to be initiated into the society of the place and Mrs Barnaby had fondly flattered herself that Mrs Peters or at least the young ladies would upon such an occasion have extended their patronage both to help them to a seat and to tell them who was who But in this she was disappointed in fact a compact had been entered into between Mrs Peters and her son and daughters by which it was agreed that on condition of her permitting them to join her party at the balls she was always to be allowed to go to church in peace This was so reasonable that even the petted Mary submitted to it without a murmur and the consequence was that Mrs Barnaby found herself left to her own devices as to the manner in which she should make the most of the Sabbathday
Fortunately for the tranquillity of Mrs Peters the landlady of the lodgings on being questioned gave it as her opinion that the chapel at the Hot Wells which was within a very pleasant walk would be more likely to offer accommodation to strangers than the parish church that being always crowded by the resident families so to the chapel at the Hot Wells Mrs Barnaby resolved to go and the teaurn was ordered half an hour earlier than usual that time enough might be allowed to get ready
Now do make the best of yourself Agnes today will you I am sure those men are not Bristol people So different they looked—didnt they—from all the rest Of course you will put on your best crape bonnet and one of my nicest broadhemmed white crape collars there is one I have quite clean I have no doubt in the world we shall see them
Having finished her breakfast and reiterated these orders Mrs Barnaby turned her attention to her own toilet and a most elaborate one it was taking so long a time as to leave scarcely sufficient for the walk but proving at length so perfectly satisfactory as to make her indifferent to that or almost any other contretems
On this occasion she came forth in a new dress of light grey grosdeNaples with a gay bonnet of paille de riz decorated with poppy blossoms both within and without a ladylike profusion of her own embroidery on cuffs collar and pockethandkerchief her welloiled ringlets half hiding her large coarse handsome face her eyes set off by a suffusion of carmine and her whole person redolent of musk
This was the figure beside which Agnes was doomed to make her first appearance at the crowded chapel of the Hot Wells Had she thought about herself the contrast its expansive splendour offered to her own slight figure her delicate fair face seen but by stealth through her thick veil and the sad decorum of her sable robe might have struck her as being favourable instead of that however it was another contrast that occurred to her for as she looked at Mrs Barnaby she suddenly recollected the general look and air of her aunt Compton just at the moment when the widow attacked her so violently on the meanness of her apparel during their terrible encounter at the village school and she could not quite restrain a sigh as she thought how greatly she should have preferred entering a crowded and fashionable chapel with her
But no sighing could effect the change and they set forth together as strangely a matched pair in appearance as can well be imagined They entered the crowded building just as the Psalms concluded and were stared at and scrutinised with quite as much attention as was consistent with the solemnity of the place moreover seats were after some time offered to them and there was no reason in the world to believe that they were in any way overlooked Nevertheless Mrs Barnaby was disappointed Neither the tall gentleman nor his companion were there nor did Major Allen or any one like him appear to reward her labour and her skill
Long and wearisome did the steep uphill walk back to her lodgings appear after this unpropitious act of devotion and sadly passed the remainder of the day for it rained hard no strollers not even an idle endimanché came to awaken the musical echo she loved to listen to from the pavement under the windows In short it was a day of existence lost save that she found out one or two new defects in Agnes and ended at last by very nearly convincing herself that it was in some way or other her fault that it rained
But happily nothing lasts for ever in this world and Agnes found herself quietly in bed at last
The next morning rose bright in sunshine and the widow rose too and blessed the useful light which she determined should see her exactly at the fashionable hour take her way to the library and the pastrycooks or wherever else she was most likely to be seen but fortunately for the refacimento upon which Agnes desired to employ herself this fashionable hour was not early and her sable draperies had made great progress before her aunt gave notice that she must get ready to go out with her To have a voice upon any question of this kind had fortunately never yet occurred to Agnes as a thing possible and once more like a Bella Donna beside a Hollyhock she appeared with all the effect of the strongest contrast in the gayest part of Clifton
This day seemed sent by fate to make up for the misfortunes of the last On entering the library Mrs Barnaby immediately placed herself before the authographic volume in which she took such particular interest and hardly had she done so when the tall and the short gentlemen entered the shop Again it was decidedly evident that the tall one fixed his eyes on the widow and the shorter one on her companion The widows heart beat Never had she forgotten the evident admiration her own face and manner produced on her fellow traveller from Silverton or the chilling effect that followed the display of the calm features of her delicate niece She knew that Agnes was younger and perhaps even handsomer than herself but this only tended to confirm her conviction that an animated expression of countenance and great vivacity of manner would do more towards turning a young mans head than all the mere beauty in the world
What would she have given at that moment for some one with whom she might have conversed with laughing gaiety to whom she might have displayed her large white teeth and on whom she might have turned the flashings of her lustrous eyes
It was in vain to look to Agnes at such a moment as this for she well knew that nothing she could utter would elicit any better excuse for laughter than might be found in Yes aunt or No aunt So nothing was to be done but to raise a glass recently purchased to her eye in order to recognize the unknown passersby but in doing this she contrived to make le petit doigt show off her rings and now and then cast such a glance at the strangers as none but a Mrs Barnaby can give
After this dumb show had lasted for some minutes the two gentlemen each threw down the newspaper they had affected to read and departed Mrs Barnabys interest in the subscriptionbook departed likewise and after looking at the backs of one or two volumes that lay scattered about the counter she too left the shop and proceeded with a dignified and leisurely step along the pavement The next moment was one of the happiest of her life for on turning her head to reconnoitre a richlytrimmed mantilla that had passed her she perceived the same pair of gentlemen at the distance of two paces behind them
This indeed was an adventure and to the widows unspeakable delight it was made more piquant still by what followed Near the end of the street was the wellfrequented shop of a fashionable pastrycook—an establishment by the way which Mrs Barnaby had not yet lived long enough to pass with indifference for the twofold reason that it ever recalled the dear rencontres of her youth when the disbursement of one penny was sure to secure a whole half hour of regimental flirting and also because her genuine love for cakes and tarts was unextinguishable There was now again a double reason for entering this inviting museum for in the first place it would prevent the necessity of turning round as soon as they had walked up the street in order to walk down it again thereby proving that they had no engagements at all and secondly it would give the two uncommonly handsome men an opportunity of following them in if they liked it
And it so happened that they did like it Happy Mrs Barnaby No sooner had she seated herself beside the counter with a plate of queen cakes and Bath buns beside her than the light from the door ceased to pour its unbroken splendour upon her elegant dress and on looking up her eye again met the gaze first of the one and then of the other stranger as they entered the shop together
Agnes was standing behind her with her face rather unmeaningly turned towards the counter for when a plate with various specimens of pastry delicacies was offered to her by one of the shopwomen she declined to take anything by a silent bow
The two gentlemen passed her and established themselves at a little table just beyond desiring that ices might be brought to them
You have ices have you said Mrs Barnaby delighted at an opportunity of speaking bring me one if you please And then trusting to her nieces well known discretion she turned her chair so as to front both Agnes and the two gentlemen and said with great kindness of accent Agnes love will you have an ice
No thank you aunt the anticipated reply followed
Then sit down dearest will you while I take mine
The younger of the two gentlemen instantly sprang from his chair and presented it to her Agnes bowed civilly but passed on to a bench which flanked the narrow shop on the other side but Mrs Barnaby smiled upon him most graciously and said bowing low as she sat—
Thank you sir very much you are extremely obliging
The young man bowed again reseated himself and finished his ice in silence when his companion having done the same each laid a sixpence on the counter and walked off
Who are those gentlemen pray do you know their names said Mrs Barnaby eagerly to the shopgirl
The tall gentleman is Colonel Hubert maam and the other young Mr Stephenson
Stephenson musingly repeated the widow—Stephenson and Hubert I am sure I have heard the names before
Sir Edward Stephenson was married on Saturday to Colonel Huberts sister maam said the girl and it is most likely that you heard of it
Oh to be sure I did I remember now all about it They said he was the handsomest man in the world—Colonel Hubert I mean and so he certainly is handsomer certainly than even Major Allen dont you think so Agnes
I dont know Major Allen aunt
Not know Major Allen child Oh I remember no more you do my dear come get up I have done The young man Agnes she said turning to her niece as they left the shop seemed I thought a good deal struck by you I wish to goodness child you would not always keep that thick veil over your face so It is a very handsome veil I know and certainly makes your mourning look very elegant but it is only in some particular lights that one can see your face under it at all
I dont think that signifies much aunt and it makes me feel so much more comfortable
Comfortable very well child poke along and be comfortable your own way but you certainly have a little spice of the mule in you
The widow was perhaps rather disappointed at seeing no more of the two strangers they had turned off just beyond the pastrycooks shop and were no longer visible but while she follows in gentle musings her walk home we will pursue the two gentlemen who had so captivated her attention
The only resemblance between them was in the decided air of bon ton that distinguished both in every other respect they were perfectly dissimilar Mr Stephenson the shorter and younger of the two had by far the more regular set of features and was indeed remarkably handsome Colonel Hubert his companion appeared to be at least ten years his senior and looked bronzed by the effect of various climates He had perhaps no peculiar beauty of feature except his fine teeth and the noble expression of his forehead from which however the hair had already somewhat retired though it still clustered in close brown curls round his wellturned head But his form and stature were magnificent and his general appearance so completely that of a soldier and a gentleman that it was impossible let him appear where he would that he should pass unnoticed which perhaps to the gentleminded may be considered as some excuse for Mrs Barnabys enthusiastic admiration
For Heavens sake Hubert said the junior to the senior as they paced onwards do give me leave to know a pretty girl when I see one In my life I never beheld so beautiful a creature Her form her feet her movement—and what a voice
Assuredly said Colonel Hubert in reply to this tirade the sweet variety of tone and the charming change of her ever musical cadences must naturally excite your admiration No thank you aunt it was inimitable You are quite right Frederick such words could not be listened to with indifference
You are an odious carping old fusty musty bachelor and I hate you with all my heart and soul exclaimed the young man Upon my honour Hubert I shudder to think that some ten or a dozen years hence I may be as hard cold and insensible as you are now Tell me honestly can you at all recollect what your feelings were at twoandtwenty on seeing such a being as that sable angel from whom you have just dragged me
Perhaps not exactly and besides black angels were never the objects of my idolatry But dont stamp your foot at me and I will answer you seriously I do not think that from the blissful time when I was sixteen up to my present solemn fiveandthirty I could ever have been tempted to look a second time at any miss under the chaperonship of such a dame as that feather and furbelow lady
Then why in the name of common sense did you gaze so earnestly at the furbelow lady herself
To answer that truly Frederick would involve the confession of a peculiar family weakness
A family weakness Pray be confidential I will promise to be discreet and indeed as my brother has just made as the newspapers say a lovely bride of your sister I have some right to a participation in the family secrets Come disclose What family reason have you for choosing to gaze upon a great vulgar woman verging towards forty and refusing to look at a young creature as beautiful as a houri who happens to be in her company
I suspect it is because I am near of kin to my mothers sister Did you never hear of the peculiarity that attaches to my respected aunt Lady Elizabeth Norris She scruples not to avow that she prefers the society of people who amuse her by their absurdities to every other
Oh yes I have heard all that from Edward who has I can tell you been occasionally somewhat horrified at what the queer old lady calls her soirées antíthèstiques But you dont mean to tell me Hubert that you ever take the fancy of surrounding yourself with all the greatest quizzes you can find in compliment to your old aunt
Why no I do not go so far as that yet and perhaps I sometimes wish that she did not either for occasionally she carries the whim rather too far yet I believe truly that I am more likely to gaze with attention at a particularly ridiculouslooking woman than at any young nymph under her protection or possessing the awful privilege of calling her AUNT
A young nymph what a hateful phrase Elegant delicate creature I swear to you Colonel Hubert that you have lowered yourself very materially in my estimation by your want of tact in not immediately perceiving that although a nepotine connexion unhappily exists between them by marriage probably or by the half blood there must still be something very peculiar in the circumstances which have brought so incongruous a pair together
Well Frederick you may be right and perhaps my friend my eyes begin to fail me for to tell you the truth your adorables crape veil was too thick for me to see anything through it
To be sure it was cried Stephenson quite delighted at the amende I thought it was impossible you could underrate such a face as that
It is a great blessing to have young eyes rejoined the Colonel relapsing into his bantering tone
What At it again thou crusty old Mars Then I leave you
Au revoir my Corydon and so they parted
CHAPTER II
THE BALL
The evening of the ball so much dreaded by the niece and so much longed for by the aunt arrived at last and by a chance not over common in the affairs of mortals while the hopes of the one lady were more than realised the fears of the other were proved to be altogether groundless Many favourable accidents indeed concurred to lessen the difficulties anticipated by Agnes In the first place her almost funereal robes for which if the truth be spoken it must be avowed she had not the slightest partiality assumed an appearance under her tasteful fancy which surprised even herself for though when she set about it she had a sort of beau ideal of a black crape robe floating in her imagination her hopes of giving it form and substance by her own ingenuity were not very sanguine Mrs Barnaby either from the depth of her sorrow or the height of her elegance had commanded when she ordered her widows mourning that one dress should touch the heart of every beholder by having a basement of sable crape one yard in breadth around it This doleful dress was costly and had been rarely worn at Silverton that it might come forth in greater splendour at Exeter But at Exeter as we have seen the widows feelings so completely overpowered her that she could not wear it at all and thus it came under the fingers of Agnes in very respectable condition Of these circumambulatory ells of crape the young artificer contrived to fabricate a dress that was anything but unbecoming The enormous crape gigots for those were the days of gigots which made part of her black treasure hung from her delicate fair arms like transparent clouds upon the silvery brightness of the moon so at least would Frederick Stephenson have described it while the simple corsage drawn à la vierge rather higher than fashion demanded round her beautiful bust gave a delicate and sober dignity to her appearance that even those who would have deemed it a pity to be so covered up themselves could not but allow was exceedingly becoming
As soon as her labour was ended she prudently made an experiment of its effect and then in trembling hope of her aunts approval made her appearance before her Her success here perfectly astonished her
Mercy on me child—What an elegant dress—Where on earth did you get it from
From your gown aunt
Oh to be sure—I understand It is not many people that would give away such a dress as that Agnes—perfectly new and so extremely elegant I hope it wont turn your brain my dear and that you will never forget who gave it to you Certainly I never thought you so handsome before and if you will but study my manner a little and smile and show your fine teeth I do really think I may be able to get a husband for you which would certainly be more creditable than going out as a governess So you can work Agnes I see and a good thing too considering your poverty It does not look amiss upon the whole I must say though I dont see any reason for your covering yourself up so I am sure your neck is white enough to be seen and it would be odd if it wasnt considering who your mother was for both she and I were noted far and near for that beauty but I cant say I ever hid myself up in that way And what shoes child have you got to wear with it
These aunt said Agnes putting out her little foot incased in leather with a sole of very respectable thickness
Well upon my word thats a pity it spoils all and I dont think you could dance in them if you did get a partner What would you say Agnes if I bought you a thin pair of prunella pumps on purpose
I should be very much obliged to you aunt
Well then for once I must be extravagant I believe so get on your other gown child as quick as you can and your bonnet and shawl and let us go to the shop round the corner I did not mean to stir out today there is wind enough to make ones eyes perfectly bloodshot However the shops close by Only if you do marry well I hope you will never forget what you owe me
Agnes had been too hard at work to take any long walk though invited to do it but her friend Mary called upon her both Monday and Tuesday and having found her way into the closet seemed to think as she pulled over Agness books and chatted with her concerning their contents that they might often enjoy themselves têteàtête there
Shall you like it Agnes she added after sketching such a scheme to her
I think Mary you could make me like anything but can I really make you like sitting in this cupboard instead of your own elegant drawingroom
If you will sit with me here my new friend answered Miss Peters with an air of great sincerity
Then must I not be wicked if I ever think myself unhappy again at least as long as we stay at Clifton
Dear girl you should not be so if I could help it But I must go nine oclock this evening remember and wait for us in the outer room if you do not find us already there
These instructions Agnes repeated to her aunt but that ladys ardent temper induced her to order a fly to be at her door at halfpast eight precisely and when it arrived she was for at least the fourth time putting the last finishing touch to her blonde and her feathers and her ringlets and her rouge and therefore it took her not more than five minutes for a last general survey before she declared herself ready and Jerningham received orders to precede her down the stairs with a candle
If the former descriptions of the widows appearance have not been wholly in vain the reader will easily conceive the increased splendour of her charms when elaborately attired for a ball without my entering into any minutiæ concerning them Suffice it to say that if the corsage of the delicate Agnes might have been deemed by some too high that of Mrs Barnaby might have been thought by others too low and that taken all together she looked exceedingly like one of the supplementary dames brought forth to do honour to the banquet scene in Macbeth
Arriving half an hour before the time appointed they of course did not find the Peters family nor did this latter party make their appearance before the patience of Mrs Barnaby had given way and she had insisted much to the vexation of Agnes upon going on to the ballroom without them
There the atmosphere was already in some degree congenial to her The lustres were blazing the orchestra tuning and a few individuals as impatient as herself walking up and down the room and appearing greatly delighted at having something new to stare at
This parade was beginning to realize all the worst fears of Agnes for the room was filling fast and Mrs Barnaby would not hear of sitting down when she descried Mrs Peters her son her three daughters and two other gentlemen enter the room
Mrs Barnaby saw them too and instantly began to stride towards them but timidity now made Agnes bold and she held back still courageously retaining her aunts arm and exclaiming eagerly—
Oh let them come to us aunt
Nonsense child Dont hold me so Agnes it will be exceedingly rude if we do not join them immediately according to our engagement
The pain of violently seizing upon Mrs Peters was however spared her by the watchful kindness of Mary who caught sight of them immediately and together with Elizabeth hastened forward to meet them
Miss Peters gave a glance of approbation and pleasure at the appearance of Agnes who did not look the less beautiful perhaps from the deep blush that dyed her cheeks as she marked the expression of Mrs Peters countenance as she approached with her eyes fixed upon her aunt That lady however let her have felt what she might at sight of her remarkablelooking sisterinlaw very honourably performed her part of the compact entered into with her daughters smiling very graciously in return for her affectionate relatives raptures at seeing her and shewing no symptom of anything she felt on the occasion excepting immediately retiring to the remotest corner of the room where she very nearly hid herself behind a pillar
Mrs Barnaby of course followed her with the young ladies to the seat she had chosen but her active genius was instantly set to work to discover how she might escape from it for the feelings produced by such an eclipse were perfectly intolerable
I must pretend that I see some person whom I know thought she and so make one of the girls walk across the room with me but at the instant she was about to put this project into execution James Peters came up to the party and very civilly addressed her This was something for the young man was handsome and welldressed but better still was what happened next for she immediately felt at once that she was about to become the heroine of an adventure Major Allen whose appearance altogether including moustaches favouris collier grec embroidered waistcoat and all was very nearly as remarkable as her own entered the room looked round it fixed his eyes upon her spangled turban and very decisively turned off from the throng in order to pay his compliments to the Peters party distinguishing her by a bow that spake the profoundest admiration and respect
Elizabeth was the last of the row her mother with Mrs Barnaby next her being at the other end of it and close to Elizabeth the dashing Major placed himself immediately entering into a whispered conversation with her which obliged her to turn herself round from the rest in such a manner that not even Lucy who came next in order could overhear much of what passed Nevertheless the widow felt as certain as if she could have followed every word of it that this earnest conversation was about her
Nor was she mistaken for thus it ran
Good evening Miss Elizabeth You are just arrived I presume An excellent ball is it not I told you it would be What an exceedingly fine woman your aunt is Miss Peters It is your aunt I think
Yes our aunt certainly the widow of my mothers brother Major Allen
Ay I understood she was your aunt She is a woman of large fortune I hear
Yes very large fortune
But she is in lodgings is she not She does not seem to have taken the whole house
Oh no only quite small lodgings but she does not spend the third of her income nor near it
Really then I suppose handsome as she is that she is a little in the skinflint line eh and here the Major shewed his horselike teeth by a laugh
Not that at all I assure you replied the young lady amiably anxious to exonerate her aunt from so vile an aspersion indeed I should say quite the contrary for she has very generous and noble ideas about money and the use a widow ought to make of a fortune left by her husband in case she does not happen to marry again I am sure I hope people wont be so illnatured as to say she is stingy because she does not choose to spend all her income—it will be abominable if they do because her motives are so very noble
I am sure she has a most charming advocate in you And what then may I ask for what is noble should never be concealed what can be the reason of economy so unnecessary
She does not think it is unnecessary Major Allen for she has an orphan niece who is left quite dependent upon her and what she is saving will be for her
Amiable indeed Then her property is only income I presume Really that is a pity considering how remarkably well such a disposition would employ the capital
Oh no that is not so neither my uncle Barnaby left everything entirely at her own disposal only she thinks and here the silly and loquacious Elizabeth stopped short for the idea suddenly occurred to her that it was not right to talk so much of her aunts concerns to so slight an acquaintance as Major Allen and not exactly knowing how to end her sentence she permitted a sudden thought to strike her and exclaimed I wonder when they will begin dancing
But the Major had heard enough
He resumed the conversation however but very discreetly by saying That young lady in mourning is her niece I suppose and a beautiful creature she is But how comes she to be in such deep mourning when that of her aunt is so slight
Had the simple Elizabeth understood the principle of vicarial mourning upon which these habiliments had been transferred from the widow to her niece she would doubtless from the talkative frankness of her nature have disclosed it but as her confidential conversation with her new relative had left her ignorant of this she answered with rather a confused recollection of Mrs Barnabys explanation I believe it is because she wears it out of romantic sorrow for her own papa though he has been dead for years and years
Will you ask your brother Miss Peters to introduce me to Mrs Barnaby
Certainly Major Allen if you wish it James added the young lady stretching out her fan to draw his attention from Agnes with whom he was talking James step here Major Allen wishes you to introduce him to Mrs Barnaby
The Major rose at the moment and strengthened the request by adding Will you do me that honour Mr Peters
The young man bowed slightly and without answering moved to the front of the happy widow followed by the obsequious Major and said Major Allen wishes to be introduced to you Mrs Barnaby Major Allen Mrs Barnaby
It was not without an effort that this consummation of her dearest hopes was received with some tolerable appearance of external composure by the lady but she felt that the moment was an important one and called up all her energy to support her under it Perhaps she blushed but that for obvious reasons was not perceptible but she cast down her eyes upon her fan and then raised them again to the face of the bending Major with a look that really said a great deal
The established questions and answers in use on such occasions were going on with great zeal and animation on both sides when a fresh source of gratification presented itself to the widow in the approach of Mr Frederick Stephenson to Agnes in a manner as flatteringly decided as that of the Major to herself but being quite a stranger to the Peters family he was preceded by the master of the ceremonies who whispered his name and family to Mrs Peters asking permission to present him to the young lady in mourning who appeared to be of her party
This was of course readily accorded when the introduction took place and was followed by a petition from the young man for the honour of dancing with her
Agnes looked a vast deal more beautiful than he had ever dared to believe possible through her veil as she answered I am engaged
Then the next said Mr Stephenson eagerly
Agnes bowed her blushing assent and the young man continued to stand before her going through pretty nearly the same process as the Major
This lasted till the quadrilles began to form when James Peters claimed her hand for the dance
Two of the Miss Peters soon followed when Major Allen said As the young ladies are forsaking you madam may you not be induced to make a party at whist
I should have no objection whatever Major replied Mrs Barnaby provided there was room at a table where they did not play high
Of course if I have the honour of making a table for you my dear madam the stakes will be of your own naming Will you permit me to go and see what can be done
You are excessively kind I shall be greatly obliged
The active Mars departed instantly with a step if not as light at least as zealous in its speed as that of Mercury when bent upon one of his most roguish errands and in a wonderfully short space of time he returned with the intelligence that a table was waiting for her He then presented his arm which she took with condescending dignity and led her off
Ah sure a pair were never seen
So justly formed to meet by nature
exclaimed Mrs Peters to Lucy as they walked away and greatly relieved she rose and taking her daughter by the arm joined a party of her friends in a more busy part of the room
Meanwhile the quadrilles proceeded and Agnes notwithstanding the heartbeating shyness inevitably attending a first appearance did not lose her look of sweet composure or her graceful ease James Peters was an attentive and encouraging partner and she would probably soon have forgotten that this was the first time she had ever danced except at school had she not when the dance was about half over perceived herself to be an object of more attention to one of the standersby than any girl so very new can be conscious of without embarrassment The eyes which thus annoyed her were those of Colonel Hubert His remarkable height made him conspicuous among the throng which was rendered more dense than usual by a wish every moment increasing to look at the beautiful girl in deep mourning and perhaps her happening to know who he was made her fancy that it was more embarrassing to be looked at by him than by any one else The annoyance however did not last long for he disappeared
Colonel Hubert left the place where he had stood and the study in which he had certainly found some interest for the purpose of looking for his friend Stephenson He found him in the doorway
Frederick I want you said the Colonel Come with me my good fellow and I will prove to you that notwithstanding my age and infirmities I still retain my faculties sufficiently to find out what is truly and really lovely as ably as yourself Come on suffer yourself to be led and I will show you what I call a beautiful girl
Stephenson quietly suffered himself to be led captive and half a dozen paces placed him immediately opposite to Agnes Willoughby
Look at that girl said Colonel Hubert in a whisper and tell me what you think of her
The angel in black
Yes Frederick
This is glorious by Heaven Why Hubert it is my own black angel
You do not mean to tell me that the girl we saw with that horribly vulgar woman and this epitome of all elegance are the same
But upon my soul I do sir And now what do you say to the advantage of being able to see through a thick veil
I cannot believe it Stephenson replied Colonel Hubert again fixing his eyes in an earnest gaze upon Agnes
Then die in your unbelief and much good may it do you Why I have been introduced to her man her name is Willoughby and I am to dance the next quadrille with her
If this be so peccavi said the Colonel turning abruptly away
I think so replied his friend following and relinquishing even the pleasure of looking at Agnes for that of enjoying his triumph over Hubert Wont this make a good story And dont you think Colonel that for a few years longer at least it may be as well to postpone the adoption of your lady aunts system and when you see two females together look at both to ascertain whether one of them may not be the loveliest creature in the universe before you give up your whole soul to the amiable occupation of quizzing the other
You think this is a very good jest Frederick but to me I assure you it seems very much the contrary
Because it is so melancholy for a man of fiveandthirty to lose his eyesight
Because Stephenson it is so melancholy to know that such a being as that fair girl is in the hands of a woman whose appearance speaks her to be so utterly vulgar to say the very least of it
Take care my venerable philosopher that you do not blunder about the old lady as egregiously as you before did about the young one When I got the master of the ceremonies to perform for me the precious service of an introduction I inquired about the party that she and the furbelow aunt were with and learned that they were among the most respectable resident inhabitants of Clifton
I am heartily glad of it Frederick and yet if their party consisted of the noblest in the land I should still feel this aunt to be a greater spot upon her beauty than any wart or mole that ever disfigured a fair cheek at least it would I think be quite sufficient to keep my heart safe if I thought this uncommonlooking creature still more beautiful than I do which I confess would not be easy
I wish your heart joy of its security returned Stephenson And now be off and leave me to my happiness for see the set breaks up and I may follow her to her place and again present myself Come tell me honestly do you not envy me
I never dance you know
So much the worse for you mon cher and the gay young man turned off to follow the way that he saw Agnes lead This was to the quarter where she had left her aunt and Mrs Peters but she found neither
Dont be frightened said her goodnatured partner we shall find my mother in a moment And when they did find her she received Agnes with a smiling welcome which contrasted pretty strongly with the stately and almost forbidding aspect with which she ever regarded Mrs Barnaby
Young Stephenson saw this reception and saw also the empressement with which the pretty elegant Mary Peters seemed to cling to her More than ever persuaded that he was right and his friend wrong he suddenly determined on a measure that he thought might ensure a more permanent acquaintance than merely being a partner of a dance and before presenting himself to claim her hand he again addressed the master of the ceremonies with a request that he would present him to Mrs Peters
That obliging functionary made not the least objection indeed he knew that there was not a lady in the room either young or old who would not thank him for an introduction to Sir Edward Stephensons handsome brother himself a Comet in the Blues and the inheritor of his mothers noble estate in Worcestershire which made him considerably a richer man than his elder brother All this was known to everybody for the beautiful Miss Hubert and her lover Sir Edward had been for a week or two the lions of Clifton and though they had mixed very little in its society there was nobody who could be considered as anybody who would not have been well pleased at making the acquaintance of Frederick Stephenson The young man too knew well how to make the most of the ten minutes that preceded the second dance and Mrs Peters smiled to think as she watched him leading Agnes to join the set how justly her keeping faith had been rewarded by this introduction of the most desiré partner in the room
Meanwhile Mrs Barnaby was led to the cardroom by Major Allen but he led her slowly and more than once found himself obliged to stop for a minute or two that she might not be incommoded by pressing too quickly through the crowd And thus it was they talked as they gently won their way
And what may be the stake Mrs Barnaby permits herself said the Major bending forward to look into the widows eyes
Very low I assure you Major replied the lady with a wave of the head that sent her plumes to brush the hirsute magnificence of his face
Shorts and crown points perhaps rejoined the Major agreeably refreshed by the delicate fanning he had received
Oh fie Major how can you suspect me of such extravagance No believe me I know too well how to use the blessings of wealth to abuse them by playing so high as that but I believe gentlemen think that nothing
Why no my dear madam I cannot say that men that is men of a certain fashion and fortune think much of crown points For my own part I detest gambling though I love whist and never care how low I play though occasionally when I get into a certain set I am obliged to give way a little but I never exceed five pound points and twenty on the rubber and that you know unless the cards run extravagantly high cannot amount to anything very alarming especially as I play tolerably well and in fact never play so high if I can help it
But Major said the lady stopping short in their progress I really am afraid that I must decline playing at your table the amount of what I could lose might not perhaps be a great object to me any more than to you but it is a matter of principle with me and when that is the case I never swerve so take me back again will you to my sister Peters and my party
This was said with a sort of clinging helplessness and delicate timidity that was very touching
Good heavens exclaimed the Major with great animation how very little you know me I would take you charming Mrs Barnaby to the worlds end if you would consent to go with me but think not that I would sit down at one table though I might sweep from it stakes amounting to thousands when I could play with you for straws at another
Remember reader that she to whom this was said had been Miss Martha Compton of Silverton but six short years before and then judge with what feelings she listened to it They were such that for a moment no power of speech was left to her but she abandoned her purpose of retreat and when at length they stood before the table at which two sportinglooking gentlemen were waiting to receive them she gently seated herself murmuring at the same time in the Majors ear Not higher than halfcrowns if you please
He pressed her hand as he resigned the arm with which she had favoured him and as he did so replied Depend upon me
Before the arrangements for playing were finally settled the friendly Major Allen took the two gentlemen a pace or two apart and communicated in a few words what brought them back to the table perfectly contented with the halfcrown and gallantly anxious to have the honour of cutting highest that they might have the happiness of winning the lady as a partner if they won nothing else
But this happiness fell to the Major as well as most others during the three or four rubbers that followed for he and his fair partner played with great luck which helped to produce between them that amicable state of spirits which tends to make every word appear a pleasantry and every look a charm
In the midst of this very agreeable game in the course of which both the eyes and the voice of the widow proclaimed how very greatly she enjoyed it Colonel Hubert wandered into the room and having given a glance at one or two other tables as he passed them stationed himself on a sofa from whence he commanded a full view of that at which Mrs Barnaby was engaged His recent examination of her niece gave him a feeling of interest in this aunt that nearly superseded the amusement he might otherwise have derived from her appearance and manner That both were likely to be affected by the intense interest and pleasure she took in her occupation as well as in the partner who shared it with her may be easily conceived when it is stated that not even the entrance of the magnificent Colonel was perceived by her
Her vivacity her enjouement became more striking every moment her words were full of piquant and agreeable meaning which her eyes scrupled not to second while the Major assumed more and more the air and manner of a man enchanted and enamoured beyond the power of concealment But it was not the spirit of quizzing that sat upon Colonel Huberts brow as he contemplated this scene on the contrary his fine countenance spoke first disgust and then a degree of melancholy that might have seemed ill befitting the occasion and in a few minutes he walked away and reentered the ballroom
Whether intentionally or not may be doubted but he soon again found himself opposite to the place which Agnes occupied in the quadrille and being there watched her with a degree of attention that seemed equally made up of curiosity and admiration It is strange thought he that the most repulsive and the most attractive women I ever remember to have seen should be so closely linked together
In a few minutes the quadrille ended when Mr Stephenson who had danced it with the eldest Miss Peters said to his friend as he passed him We are now going to tea and if you will come with us I will introduce you
Colonel Hubert followed almost mechanically yet not without a feeling somewhat allied to selfreproach at permitting himself to join the party of a Mrs Barnaby
This obnoxious individual was however nearly or rather wholly forgotten within a very few minutes after the introduction took place Mrs Peterss manners were as we know particularly ladylike and pleasing her daughters all prettylooking and one of them at least singularly animated and agreeable her son and the other gentlemen of her party perfectly comme il faut and Agnes what was Agnes in the estimation of the fastidious highminded and highborn Colonel Hubert He would have been totally unable to answer this question satisfactorily himself nor would it be just that a precise answer to it should be expected from the historian This interval of conversation and repose lasted rather longer than usual for the whole party each for some reason or other of their own enjoyed it or at any rate betrayed no wish to bring it to a conclusion Had Colonel Hubert indeed been told that he enjoyed it he would strenuously and sincerely have denied the statement He looked at Agnes with wonder and compassion strongly blended—he listened to the gay and artless tone of her conversation with Mary Peters and young Stephenson without being able to deny that whether she had fallen from the stars or been raised and wholly educated by that terrible incarnation of all he most detested her vulgar aunt every word she uttered bore the stamp of wellbred association right feeling and bright intelligence he allowed all this and he allowed too that never through all the varieties of his campaigning life had he seen in any rank or in any clime a loveliness so perfect yet he almost trembled as he watched the passionate devotion with which his friend gazed at and listened to her
Colonel Hubert knew the character of Stephenson well it was generous ardent and affectionate in the highest degree but passionate withal selfwilled and only amenable to control when it came in the shape of influence exercised by friendship unmixed with authority of any kind
He was just threeandtwenty and had been in possession of a noble property from the day he attained the age of twentyone Singularly free from vice of any kind his friends in seeing him take the management of his estates into his own hands had but one fear for him It was not racing gambling debauchery or extravagance they dreaded had he already passed fifty years of sober life exempt from all these they would scarcely have felt more secure of his being safe from them but it was in the important affair of marriage that they dreaded his precipitancy More than once already his distinguished and highly connected family had been terrified by the idea that some irremediable misfortune in this respect was about to fall upon them and earnestly did they wish that he should speedily form such a connexion as they could approve and had a right to expect Unfortunately this wish had been too evident and the idea of being disposed of in marriage by his brother and sisters had become a bugbear from which the young man shrank with equal indignation and contempt The marriage of his elder brother with Miss Hubert had naturally led to great intimacy between the families and of all the acquaintance he had ever made Colonel Hubert was the one for whom Frederick Stephenson felt the warmest admiration and esteem and certainly he was more proud of the affectionate partiality that distinguished individual had shewn him than of any other advantage he possessed Sir Edward Stephenson observed this and had told his betrothed Emma that he drew the best possible augury from it for his brothers safety He is so proud of Montagues friendship said he that it must be a most outrageous lovefit which would make him hazard it by forming a connexion unworthy in any way So jealously does he deprecate the interference of his own family on this subject that I have long determined never more to let him see how near it is to my heart and I will not even mention the subject to your brother lest par impossible he might ever discover that I had done so but I wish you love would say a word to him before we leave Clifton Tell him that Frederick has still a great propensity to fall in love at first sight and that we shall all bless him everlastingly if he will prescribe change of air whenever he may happen to see the fit seize him
The fair Emma promised and kept her word and such was the theme on which their discourse turned the night before the wedding when Sir Edward being engaged with the lawyer who had just arrived from London with the settlements the brother and sister took that stroll upon the pavement of Sion Row which had first exhibited the stately figure of Colonel Hubert to Mrs Barnabys admiration Little did Agnes think when her head was made to obtrude itself through the window upon that occasion that her ears caught some words of a conversation destined to prove so important to her future happiness
That the falling in love at first sight had already taken place Colonel Hubert could not doubt as he watched his enthusiastic friends look and manner while conversing with Agnes and gravely and sorrowfully did he ponder on the words of his sister in their last têteàtête
Save him dearest Montague if you can said she from any folly of this sort for I really think Sir Edward would never be happy again if Frederick formed any disgraceful marriage
And a disgraceful marriage it would and must be thought he neither her surpassing beauty nor her modest elegance either can make it otherwise
As if sent by fate to confirm him in this conviction the widow at this moment approached the party leaning on the arm of the Major Having finished her fifth rubber and pocketed her sixteen halfcrowns Major Allens two friends pleaded an engagement elsewhere and Mrs Barnaby accepted his offered escort to the teatable
A look of happiness is very becoming to many faces it will often indeed lend a charm to features that in sorrow can boast of none but there are others on which this genial and expansive emotion produces a different effect and Mrs Barnaby was one of them Her eyes did not only sparkle they perfectly glared with triumph and delight She shook her curls and her feathers with the vivacity of a Bacchante when tossing her cymbals in the air and her joyous laugh and her conscious whisper as each in turn attracted attention from all around were exactly calculated to produce just such an effect as the luckless Agnes would have lived in silence and solitude for ever to avoid witnessing
The habile Major descried the party the instant he entered the room and led the lady directly to it But the table was fully occupied and for a moment no one stirred but Agnes who pale and positively trembling with distress stood up though without saying a word
Mrs Peters coloured and for a second looked doubtful what to do but when she saw Major Allen address himself with the manner of an old acquaintance to Elizabeth she rose and slightly saying I am sorry you are too late for tea Mrs Barnaby moved off followed of course by her daughters and the gentlemen attending on them
I dare say we shall find a cup that will do never mind us Agnes dont you go but try that pot will you at the bottom of the table this is as dry as hay
The Major was immediately on the alert and seizing on the teapot seized the hand of Agnes with it Neck cheeks and brow were crimson in an instant and as she withdrew her hand from his audacious touch her eye caught that of Colonel Hubert fixed upon her Shame vexation and something almost approaching to terror brought tears into that beautiful eye and for a moment the gallant soldier forgot everything in an ardent longing to seize by the collar and fling from the chamber the man who had thus dared to offend her But Frederick Stephenson who also saw the action quitted the side of his partner contrary to all the laws of etiquette and quickly placing himself beside Agnes bestowed such a glance on the Major as immediately turned the attention of that judicious personage to the teapot and Mrs Barnaby
You dance with me now Miss Willoughby said young Stephenson which as he had enjoyed that honour twice before he had been too discreet to hint at till the arrival of the widow and the Major had rendered her being immediately occupied so particularly desirable Agnes perfectly understood his motive and though her cheeks again tingled as she remembered how impossible it was for her to run effectually from the annoyance that so cruelly beset her she felt touched and grateful for his kindness and the smile with which she accepted it would have sufficed to subdue the heart of Frederick had an atom of it been unsubdued before
CHAPTER III
MELANCHOLY MEDITATIONS—AN EVENTFUL WALK—A PLEASANT BREAKFAST—A COMFORTABLE CONVERSATION IN A CLOSET
The slumbers of Agnes that night were not heavy for she waked while the birds were still singing their morning hymn to the sun which poured its beams full upon her face through her uncurtained window She turned restlessly upon her little bed and tried to sleep again but it would not do and as she listened to the twittering without so strong a desire seized her to leave the narrow boundary of her little closet and breathe the air of heaven that after the hesitation and struggle of a few moments she yielded and noiselessly creeping out of bed and performing the business of her toilet with the greatest caution ventured to open the door communicating with her aunts chamber when she had the great satisfaction of hearing her snore loud enough to mask any sound she might herself make in passing through the room
In like manner she successfully made her way down stairs and out of the house and her heart beat with something like pleasure as she felt the sweet morning breeze blow from the downs upon her cheek She walked towards the beautiful point on which the windmill stands but alas she was no longer happy enough to feel that the landscape it commanded could confer that sort of perfect felicity which she had before thought belonged to it She sat down again on the same spot where Mary Lucy James and herself had sat before but with how different a feeling and yet it wanted one whole day of a week since that time What new sorrow was it that weighed thus upon her spirits The goodhumoured liking that her new acquaintance then testified towards her had since ripened into friendship at the ball of the preceding evening she had in fashionable phrase met with the most brilliant success she had danced every dance and three of them with the partner that every lady in the room would best have liked to dance with and yet there was a feeling of depression at her heart greater than she had ever been conscious of before How was this Could Agnes herself tell the cause of it Yes if she had asked herself she could have answered and have answered truly that it was because she now knew that the better the more estimable the more amiable the society around her might be the more earnestly she ought to endeavour to withdraw from it This conviction was enough to make her feel sad and there was no need to seek farther in order to discover other sources of sadness if any such there were within her bosom
And thus she sat again pulling thyme from the hillside but it was no longer so sweet as before and she threw it from her like a child who has broken its toy and just reached the sage conviction that its gaudy colouring was good for nothing While indulging in this most unsatisfactory fit of musing the sound of a horses feet almost close behind startled her but instead of turning her head to see whom it might be she started up and walked onward The horseman however was perhaps more curious than herself for he immediately rode past her nor scrupled to turn his head as he did so to ascertain who the early wanderer might be
But even before he had done so Agnes knew by a moments glance at his figure as he passed her that it was Colonel Hubert
He checked his horse and touched his hat and for half an instant Agnes thought he was going to speak to her perhaps he thought so too but if he did he changed his mind for looking about in the distance as if reconnoitring his position he pressed the sides of his horse and galloped on a groom presently following
Agnes breathed more freely Thank God he did not speak to me she exclaimed If he had I should have wanted power to answer him Never no never can I forget were I to see him every day to the end of my life I should never forget the expression of his face as my aunt Barnaby and that dreadful man walked up the room towards the teatable no nor the glance he gave so full of vexation and regret when his kindhearted sweettempered friend asked me again to dance with him Proud disdainful man I hope and trust that I never may behold him more It is he who first taught me to know and feel how miserable is the future that awaits me This soliloquy partly muttered and partly thought was here interrupted by her once more hearing the sound of a horses feet on the turf close behind her
He has turned back thought she though I did not see him pass me Oh if he speaks to me how shall I answer him
But again the horseman rode past and another rapid glance showed her that this time it was not Colonel Hubert nor did she trouble herself to think whom else it might be and if she had the labour would have been thrown away for in this case as before the rider looked back and displayed to her view the features of Major Allen
He instantly stopped his horse and jumped to the ground then skilfully wheeling the animal round placed himself between it and the terrified Agnes and began walking beside her
Her first impulse was to stand still and ask him wherefore he thus approached her but when she turned towards him to speak the expression of his broad audacious countenance struck her with dismay and she suddenly turned round and walked rapidly and in silence back towards the windmill and the buildings beyond it
Are you afraid of me my charming young lady said the Major with a chuckle again wheeling his charger so as to place himself beside Agnes No reason upon my soul How is your adorable aunt Tell her I inquired for her and tell her too upon the honour of an officer and a gentleman that I consider her as by far the finest woman I ever saw But why do you run on so swiftly my pretty little fawn Your charming aunt will thank me I am sure for not letting you put yourself in a fever and so saying his huge hand grasped the elbow of Agnes and he held her forcibly back
A feeling of terror greater than the occasion called for perhaps induced Agnes to utter a cry at again feeling this hateful gripe which seemed as if by magic to bring her relief for at the same moment Colonel Hubert was on the other side of her Agnes looked up in his face with an undisguised expression of delight and on his offering his arm she took it instantly but without either of them having uttered a word
There was something in the arrangement of the trio that Major Allen did not appear to approve for having taken about three steps in advance he suddenly stopped and saying in a sort of blustering mutter You will be pleased to give my best compliments to your aunt he sprung upon his horse so heedlessly as to render it probable both lady and gentleman might get a kick from the animal and making it bound forward darted off across the down
Agnes gently withdrew her arm and said but in a voice not over steady Indeed sir I am very much obliged to you
I am glad to have been near you Miss Willoughby when that very insolent person addressed you said Colonel Hubert but without making any second offer of his arm And a moment after he added Excuse me for telling you that you are imprudent in walking thus early and alone Though Clifton on this side appears a rural sort of residence it is not without some of the disagreeable features of a wateringplace
I have lived always in the country I had no idea there was any danger said Agnes shocked to think how much her own childish imprudence must have strengthened Colonel Huberts worst opinion of her and her connexions
Nor is there perhaps any actual danger replied the Colonel but there are many things that may not exactly warrant that name which nevertheless
Would be very improper for me Oh it was great ignorance—great folly interrupted Agnes eagerly and never never again will I put myself in need of such kindness
Has your aunt always lived with you in the country was a question which Colonel Hubert felt greatly disposed to ask but instead of it he said turning down from the windmill hill You reside at Rodney Place I believe and if I mistake not this is the way
No sir we lodge in Sion Row It is here close by Do not let me delay your ride any more I am very much obliged to you and without waiting for an answer Agnes stepped rapidly down the steep side of the hill and was halfway towards Sion Row before the Colonel felt quite sure of what he had intended to say in return
But it is no matter She is gone thought he and taking his reins from the hand of his groom he remounted and resumed his morning ride
Mrs Barnaby had not quitted her bed when Agnes returned but she was awake and hearing some one enter the drawingroom called out Whos there
It is I aunt said Agnes opening the door with flushed cheeks and out of breath partly perhaps from the agitation occasioned by her adventure and partly from the speed with which she had walked from the windmill home
And where on earth have you been already child Mercy on me what a colour you have got The ball has done you good as well as me I think There get in and take your things off and then come back and talk to me while I dress myself
Agnes went into her little room and shut the door She really was very much afraid of her aunt and in general obeyed her commands with the prompt obedience of a child who fears to be scolded if he make a moments delay But at this moment a feeling stronger than fear kept her within the blessed sanctuary of her solitary closet She seemed gasping for want of air her aunts room felt close after coming from the fresh breeze of the hill and it was therefore as Agnes thought that the sitting down alone beside her own open window seemed a luxury for which it was worth while to risk the sharpest reprimand that ever aunt gave But why while she enjoyed it did big tears chase each other down her cheeks
Whatever the cause the effect was salutary She became composed she recovered her breath and her complexion faded to its usual delicate tint or perhaps to a shade paler and then she began to think that it was not wise to do anything for which she knew she should be reproached if she could help it and now she could help it so she smoothed her chestnut tresses bathed her eyes in water and giving one deep sigh at leaving her own side of the door for that which belonged to her aunt she came forth determined to bear very patiently whatever might be said to her
Fortunately for Agnes Mrs Barnaby had just approached that critical moment of her toilet business when it was her especial will and pleasure to be alone so merely saying in a snappish accent What in the world have you been about so long she added Now get along into the drawingroom and take care that the toast and my muffin are ready for me and kept hot before the fire—its almost too hot for fire but I must have my breakfast warm and comfortable and we can let it out afterwards
Agnes most joyfully obeyed It was a great relief and she was meekly thankful for it but she very nearly forgot the muffins and the toast for the windows of the room were open and looked out upon the windmill and the down a view so pleasant that it was several minutes before she recollected the duties she had to perform At last however she did recollect them and made such good use of the time that remained that when her aunt entered bright in carmine and lilac ribbons everything was as it should be and she had only to sit and listen to her ecstatic encomiums on the ball warm each successive piece of muffin at the end of a fork and answer properly to the ten times repeated question—
Havnt you got a good aunt Agnes to take you to such a ball as that
At length however the tedious meal was ended and Mrs Barnaby busied herself considerably more than usual in setting the little apartment in order She made Jerningham carefully brush away the crumbs—a ceremony sometimes neglected—set out her own best pinklined workbox in state placed the table agreeably at one of the windows with two or three chairs round it and then told Agnes that if she had any of her lessonbook work to do she might sit in her own room for she did not want her
Gladly was the mandate obeyed and willingly did she aid Betty Jacks in putting her tiny premises in order for she was not without hope that her friend Mary would pay her a visit there to talk over the events of the evening an occupation for which to say the truth she felt considerably more inclined than for any lessonbook work whatever
Nor was she disappointed hardly did she feel ready to receive her before her friend arrived
And well Carina how fares it with you today Do you not feel almost too big for your little room after all the triumphs of last night was the gay address of Miss Peters as she seated herself upon one of Agness boxes But it was not answered in the same tone nay there was much of reproof as well as sadness in the accent with which Agnes uttered—
Triumphs Oh Mary what a word
You are the only one I believe who would quarrel with it Did ever a little country girl under seventeen make a more successful début
Did ever country girl of any age have more reason to feel that she never ought to make any début at all
My poor Agnes said Miss Peters more gravely it will not do for you to feel so deeply the follies that may and I fear ever will be committed by your aunt and my aunt Barnaby It is a sad vexing business beyond all doubt that you should have to go into company with a woman determined to make herself so outrageously absurd but it is not fair to remember that and nothing else you should at least recollect also that the most distinguished man in the room paid you the compliment of joining your party at tea
Paid me the compliment Oh Mary
And oh Agnes can you pretend to doubt that it was in compliment to you And in compliment to whom was it that he danced with you
He never danced with me Mary said Agnes colouring
My dear child what are you talking about Why he danced with you three times
Oh yes Mr Stephenson he is indeed the kindest most obliging
And the handsomest partner that you ever danced with Is it not so
That may easily be Mary if by partner you mean a gentleman partner for I never danced with any till last night and it is only saying that he is handsomer than your brother and Mr Osborne and I think he is
And I think so too therefore on that point we shall not quarrel But tell me how did you like the ball altogether Did it please you Were you amused Shall you be longing to go to another
Let me answer your last question first I hope never never never again to go to a ball with my aunt Barnaby But had it not been for the pain the shame the agony she caused me I should have liked it very much indeed particularly the teatime Mary How pleasant it was before she came with that horrid horrid man Shall you ever forget the sight as they came up the room towards us Oh how he looked at her
Agnes shuddered and pressed her hands to her eyes as if to shut out an object that she still saw
It was tremendous replied her friend but dont worry yourself by thinking Mr Stephenson looked at her just then for he really did not You know he was sitting at the corner of the table by me and his back was turned to her thank heaven But I will tell you who did look at her if Stephenson did not that magnificentlooking Colonel stared as if he had seen an apparition but I did not mind that half so much nor you either I suppose An old soldier like him must be used to such a variety of quizzes that nobody I imagine can appear so preposterous to him as they might do to his young friend By the by I think he is a very finelooking man for his age dont you
Who said Agnes innocently
Why Colonel Hubert His sister who is just married to Sir Edward Stephenson is nearly twenty years younger than he is they say
Twenty years said Agnes
Yes Must it not be strange to see them together as brother and sister he must seem so much more like her father
Her father said Agnes
Yes I should think so But you do not talk half as much about the ball as I expected Agnes I think you were disappointed and yet I do not know how that could be You dance beautifully and seem very fond of it you had the best partners in the room danced every dance and were declared on all sides to be the belle par excellence and yet you do not seem to have enjoyed it
Oh I did enjoy it all the time that she was out of the room playing cards I enjoyed it very very much indeed so much that I am surprised at myself to feel how soon all my painful shyness was forgotten But after all Mary though you call her your aunt Barnaby as if to comfort me by sharing my sufferings she is not really your aunt and still less is she your sole protector still less is she the being on whom you depend for your daily bread Alas my dear Mary is there not more cause for surprise in my having enjoyed the ball so much than in my not having enjoyed it more
My poor Agnes this is sad indeed said Mary all her gaiety vanishing at once for it is true Do not think me indifferent to your most just sorrow Would to Heaven I could do anything effectually to alleviate it But while you are here at least endeavour to think more of us and less of her Wherever you are known you will be respected for your own sake and that is worth all other respect depend upon it When you leave us indeed I shall be very anxious for you Tell me dear Agnes something more about your aunt Compton Is it quite impossible that you should be placed under her protection
Oh yes She would not hear of it She paid for my education and all my other expenses during five years and my aunt Barnaby says that when she undertook to do this she expressly said that it was all she could ever do for me They say that she has ruined her little fortune by lavish and indiscriminate charity to the poor and aunt Barnaby says that she believes she has hardly enough left to keep herself alive But I sometimes think Mary that I could be very happy if she would let me work for her and help her and perhaps give lessons in Silverton I know some things already well enough perhaps to teach in such a remote place as that when better masters cannot be procured and I should be so happy in doing this if aunt Compton would but let me live with her
Then why do you not tell her so Agnes
Because the last—the only time I have seen her for years though she kissed and embraced me for a moment she pushed me from her afterwards and said I was only more artful than aunt Barnaby and that I should never be either graced or disgraced by her those were her words I shall never forget them and she has the reputation of being immoveably obstinate in her resolves
That does not look very promising I must confess But wisdom tells us that the possibility of future sorrow should never prevent our enjoying present happiness Now I do think dear Agnes that just now you may enjoy yourself if you like us as well as we like you for we are all determined to endure aunt Barnaby for your sake and in return you must resolve to be happy in spite of her for ours And now adieu I want to have some talk with mamma this morning but I dare say you will hear from me or see me again before the end of the day Farewell And Miss Peters made a quiet exit from the closet and from the house for she had heard voices in the drawingroom as she came up the stairs and now heard voices in the drawingroom as she went down and having business in her head upon which she was exceedingly intent she was anxious to avoid being seen or heard by Mrs Barnaby lest she should be detained
CHAPTER IV
A TETEATETE IN A DRAWINGROOM—AUTOBIOGRAPHY—A REMARKABLE DISCOVERY CONCERNING THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON
The voices which alarmed Miss Peters were those of Mrs Barnaby and Major Allen The acquaintance between them had gone quite far enough on the preceding evening to justify the gentlemans aimable empressement to inquire for the ladys health besides he was somewhat curious to know if the pretty skittish young creature he had encountered in his mornings ride had recounted the adventure to her aunt It was his private opinion that she had not and if so he should know what to think of the sudden appearance and protecting demeanour of her tall friend It was thus he reasoned as he walked towards Sion Row as soon as he had finished his breakfast and yet though he had lost so little time he did not arrive till at least three minutes after the widow had begun to expect him
I need not ask my charming Mrs Barnaby how she rested after her ball eyes do not sparkle thus unless they have been blessed with sleep and the ladys hand was taken bowed upon and the tips of her fingers kissed before she had quite recovered the soft embarrassment his entrance had occasioned
You are very kind to call upon me Major Allen Do sit down I live as yet comparatively in great retirement for during Mr Barnabys lifetime we saw an immense deal of company—that oldfashioned sort of country visiting you know that never leaves ones house empty I could not stand it when I was left alone and that was the reason I left my beautiful place
Siverton or Silverton Park was it not I think I have heard of it
Yes Silverton And do you know Major that the remembrance of all that racket and gaiety was so oppressive to my nerves during the first months of my widowhood that I threw off everything that reminded me of it sold my carriages and horses let my place turned off all my servants and positively when I set off for this place in order to see my sister Peters and her family I knew not if I should ever have strength or spirits to enter into general society again
Thank God dearest madam that you have made the effort Though the hardened and warworn nature of man cannot melt with all the softness of yours there is yet within us a chord that may be made to vibrate in sympathy when words of true feeling reach it How well I understood your feelings and how difficult it is not to envy even in death the being who has left such a remembrance behind But we must not dwell on this Tell me dear Mrs Barnaby tell—as to a friend who understands and appreciates you—do you regret the having left your elegant retirement or do you feel as I trust you do that Providence has not gifted you so singularly for nothing do you feel that your fellowcreatures have a claim upon you and that it ought not to be in secret and in solitude that the hours of such a being should be spent Tell me do you feel this
Alas Major Allen there is so much weakness in the heart of a woman that she is hardly sure for many days together how she ought to feel We are all impulse all soul all sentiment and our destiny must ever depend upon the friends we meet in our passage through this thorny world
Beautiful idea Where is the poet that has more sweetly painted the female heart And what a study it offers when such a heart is thrown open to one Good God to see a creature so formed for enjoyment—so beaming with innocent cheerfulness—so rich in the power of conferring happiness wherever she deigns to smile to see such a being turn weeping and alone from her hospitable halls and from all the pomp and splendour that others cling to what a spectacle Have you no lingering regret dearest lady for having left your charming mansion
Perhaps there are moments or rather I should say perhaps there have been moments when something of the kind has crossed me But if I had not disposed of my place I should never have seen Clifton My spirits wanted the change and I feel already better in this delightful air But I confess I do regret having sold my beautiful greys I shall never meet any I like so well again
A set were they
Oh yes
Four greys and all well matched
Perfectly Poor Mr Barnaby took so much pains about it It was his delight to please me I ought not to have sold them
It was a pity said the kind Major with a sigh
Dont talk about it Major Allen and here one of the widows most curiously embroidered pockethandkerchiefs delightfully scented with musk was lightly and carefully applied to her eyes
Nay said the Major venturing gently to withdraw it you must not yield to this dangerous softness I cannot bear to have those eyes concealed it produces the chilling sensation of an eclipse at noonday I shall run away from you if you will not look at me
No do not said the widow making an effort to smile which was rewarded by a look of gratitude and a seemingly involuntary kiss bestowed upon the hand that had withdrawn the envious handkerchief
And that pretty little girl your niece Mrs Barnaby said the Major as if considerately changing the conversation how is she this morning
Oh quite well poor child and in my dressingroom going over her Italian and French lessons before she does them with me
Good Heaven Is it possible that you devote yourself thus Take care charming Mrs Barnaby take care that you do not permit your affectionate nature to form an attachment to that young person which may destroy all your future prospects in life At your age and with your exquisite beauty you ought to be looking forward to the renewal of the tender tie that has already made your happiness And who is there pardon me if I speak boldly who is there who would venture to give his whole heart his soul his entire existence to one who has no heart to give in return Think you Mrs Barnaby that it can be in the power of any niece in the world to atone to a woman of your exquisite sensibility for the loss of that ardent affection which can only exist between a husband and wife Tell me do you believe this
It is a question replied the widow casting her eyes upon the ground that I have never asked myself
Then neglect it no longer For Gods sake—for the sake of your future happiness which must be so inexpressibly dear to all who know you all who appreciate you justly for the sake of the young girl herself do not involve yourself by undertaking the duties of a mother towards one who from her age could never have stood to you in the relation of a child
Alas no said Mrs Barnaby I lost my only babe a few weeks before its father Had it lived it would this spring have been three years old You say true the age of Agnes must ever prevent my feeling for her as a child of my own My poor sister was indeed so much older than myself that I always rather looked upon her as an aunt or as a mother than as my sister
Of course you must have done so and interesting and inexpressibly touching as it is to witness your beautiful tenderness towards her child it is impossible not to feel that this tenderness carried too far will inevitably destroy the future happiness of your life Forgive I implore you a frankness that can only proceed from my deep interest in your welfare Is this young person entirely dependent upon you
At this moment she is but she will be provided for at the death of her greataunt Mrs Elizabeth Compton of Compton Basett and to say the truth Major Allen as you so kindly interest yourself in what concerns me I neither do nor ever shall consider myself bound to retain Agnes Willoughby in my family under any circumstances that should render her being so inconvenient
I delight in receiving such an assurance dear excellent Mrs Barnaby What a heart what an understanding what beauty what unequalled sweetness No wonder the late Mr Barnaby delighted as you say to please you Lives there the man as the immortal Byron says—Lives there the man with soul so dead as to be capable of doing otherwise But to return to the subject of this poor little girl she might be termed pretty perhaps in any society but yours Tell me is this Mrs Compton of Compton Basett wealthy Is she also a relation of yours
Yes she is immensely wealthy It is a magnificent estate She is a maiden sister of my fathers
Then Miss Willoughby will eventually be a great fortune How old is your aunt
My aunt is near sixty I believe but the provision intended for Agnes is only sufficient to maintain her like a gentlewoman The bulk of the property is settled on me and my heirs
I fear you will think me an unseasonable visitor said the fullysatisfied Major rising and I will go now lest you should refuse to admit me again
Do not go yet said the gentle widow playfully refusing the hand extended to take leave What in the world now have you got to do that should prevent your bestowing a little more time on me
It would be difficult Mrs Barnaby said the Major with an eloquent look to find any occupation sufficiently attractive to take me from you so long as I dared flatter myself that it was your wish I should remain
Well then sit down again Major Allen for do you know I want you to tell me all about yourself Where have you served—what dangers have you passed through You have no idea how much interest I should take in listening to the history of your past life
My sweet friend Never should I have entered upon such a subject unbidden yet with such an auditor how dear will the privilege become of talking of myself But you must check me if I push your gentle patience too far Tell me when you are weary of me or of my little narrative
I will I will depend upon it only do not stop till I do Major
Adorable sweetness Thus then I am to be my own biographer and to a listener whose opinion would in my estimation outweigh that of all the congregated world if placed in judgment on my actions It is probable my charming friend that my name as Ensign Allen may not be totally unknown to you It was while I still held that humble rank that I was first fortunate enough to distinguish myself In an affair of some importance in the Peninsula I turned what might have been a very disastrous defeat into a most complete victory and was immediately promoted to a company Shortly after this I chanced to shew the same sort of spirit which was I believe born with me in a transaction nowise professional but which nevertheless made me favourably mentioned and certainly contributed to bring me into the rather general notice with which Europe at present honours me Yet it was merely an affair with a party of brigands in which I put seven fellows hors de combat and thereby enabled that celebrated grandee the Duke dAlmafonte dAragona dAstrada to escape together with his beautiful daughter and all their jewels The service might have been I own of considerable importance to them but the gratitude it produced in the minds of both father and daughter greatly exceeded what was called for he offered me so widely separated as we now are there can be no indelicacy in my confiding the circumstance to you my dear Mrs Barnaby but the fact is he offered me his only daughter in marriage with an immense fortune But alas how capricious is the human will my hour my dear friend was not yet come I felt beautiful as Isabella dAlmafonte was accounted by all the world that I could not give her my heart and I performed the painful duty of refusing her hand Nothing however could be more noble than the subsequent conduct of the duke at the first painful moment he only said Captain Allen we must submit of course he said it in Spanish but it would look like affectation in such a narrative as this were I not to translate it Capitano Alleno bisogno submittajo nos were his words I am sure I shall never forget them for they touched me to the very heart I could not speak my feelings choked me and I left his palace in silence Five years had elapsed and I had perhaps too nearly forgotten the lovely but unfortunate Isabella dAlmafonte when I received a packet from a notary of Madrid informing me that her illustrious father was dead and had gratefully bequeathed me a legacy amounting in English money to thirty thousand pounds sterling I was by that time already in possession of the estates of my ancestors and such a sum might have appeared a very useless bagatelle had not an accident rendered it at that time of really important convenience
Good heaven how interesting exclaimed Mrs Barnaby And what dear Major became of the unfortunate Isabella
She took the veil Mrs Barnaby in the convent de Los Ceurores Dolentes within a few months of her noble fathers death Before this event she had not the power of disposing of herself as she wished but her excellent father never tortured her by the proposal of any other marriage
Admirable man cried Mrs Barnaby greatly touched Dear Major Allen she added in a voice that seemed to deprecate opposition you must indeed you must do me an immense favour When Mrs Peters took me to Bristol in her coach the other day I bought myself this album it has got nothing in it as yet but my own name now if you do not wish to break my heart you must write the name of Isabella dAlmafonte in this first page it will be an autograph inexpressibly interesting
The Major took the book and the pen that were offered by the two hands of Mrs Barnaby and said with a profound sigh—
Break your heart I should never have broken the heart of any woman if what she asked had been seconded by such eyes as those
A silence of some moments followed a part of which was employed by the Major in writing the name of Isabella dAlmafonte and a part in gazing on the downcast lids of the admired eyes opposite to him but this too trying interval ended at length by the ladys recovering herself enough to say And that accident Major Allen that made the dukes little legacy convenient to you what was it Do not have any reserve with one whom you have honoured by the name of friend
Reserve to you never While you continue to admit me to your presence all reserve on my part must be impossible The accident was this my friend and I am not sorry to name it as it gives me an opportunity of alluding to a subject that I would rather you heard mentioned by me than by any other After the battle of Waterloo—concerning which by the by I should like to tell you an anecdote—after the battle of Waterloo I became in common with nearly all the officers of the army an idle man and like too many others I was tempted to seek a substitute for the excitement produced by the military ardour in which I had lived by indulging in the pernicious agitations of the gamingtable It is very likely that if you speak of me in general society you will be told that I have played high My dear Mrs Barnaby this is true My large fortune gave me as I foolishly imagined a sort of right to play high if it amused me and for a little while I confess it did amuse me but I soon found that a gentleman was no match for those who made gambling a profession and I lost largely—so largely indeed that I must have saddled my acres with a mortgage had not the legacy of the Duke dAlmafonte dAragona dEstrada reached me just in time to prevent the necessity
I rejoice to hear it replied the widow kindly and you have never hazarded so largely since dear Major have you
Oh never In fact I never enter a room now where anything like high play is going on I cannot bear even to see it and I believe I have in this way offended many who still permit themselves this hateful indulgence offended them indeed to such a degree that they perfectly hate me and utter the most virulent abuse every time they hear my name mentioned but for this I care little I know I am right Mrs Barnaby and that what loses their friendship and esteem may be the means of gaining for me the regard of those perhaps on whom my whole happiness may depend during my future life
The same dangerous sort of silence as before seemed creeping on them but again the widow had the courage to break it by recalling to the memory of her musing and greatly preoccupied companion the anecdote respecting Waterloo which he had promised her
Waterloo said he rousing himself Ay dearest Mrs Barnaby I will tell you that though there are many reasons which render me very averse to speak of it lightly In the first place by those who know me not it might be thought to look like boasting and moreover if I alluded to it in any society capable of the baseness of repeating what I said it might bring upon me very active and indeed fatal proofs of the dislike—I may say hatred—already felt against me in a certain quarter
Gracious heaven Major be careful then I implore you before whom you speak There appear to be many strangers here of whose characters it is impossible to know anything If you have enemies they may be spies expressly sent to watch you
I sometimes think so I assure you I catch such singular looks occasionally as nothing else can account for and the enemy I allude to is one who has power as well as will to punish by evil reports if he cannot positively crush and ruin those who interfere with his ambition
Is it possible Thank heaven at least you can have no doubt of me So tell me I beseech you to tell me to whom is it that your alarming words refer
The Major drew his chair close to Mrs Barnaby took one of her hands between both of his and having gazed for a moment very earnestly in her face whispered—
The Duke of Wellington
Good God exclaimed the widow quite in an agony the Duke of Wellington Is the Duke of Wellington your enemy Major Allen
To the teeth my fairest to the teeth replied the Major firmly setting the instruments he mentioned and muttering through them with an appearance of concentrated rage the outward demonstration of which was increased by the firmness of the grasp in which he continued to hold her hand
But how can this be so faltered Mrs Barnaby So brave a man as you one too who had distinguished himself so early How can he be so base
How can he be otherwise my friend replied the Major with increasing agitation when and here he lowered his voice still more whispering almost in her very ear it is I—I—Ferdinand Alexander Allen who ought by right to be the Duke of Wellington instead of him who now wears the title
You astonish me more than I am able to express
Of course I do Such however, is the fact The battle of Waterloo would have been lost—was lost positively lost—till I disdaining in such a moment to receive orders from one whom I perceived to be incompetent rushed forward almost knocking the Duke off his horse as I did so sent back the French army like a flock of sheep before an advancing lion seized with my own hand on the cocked hat of Napoleon drew it from his head and actually flogged his horse with it till horse and rider together seemed well enough inclined to make the best of their way out of my reach God bless you my dearest lady the Duke of Wellington had no more to do in gaining the battle of Waterloo than you had I now leave you to judge what his feelings towards me are likely to be
Full of envy and hatred beyond all doubt solemnly replied Mrs Barnaby and I will not deny Major Allen that I think there is great danger in your situation A person of such influence may do great injury even to a man of your wellknown noble character But how extraordinary it is that no hint of this has ever transpired
I beg your pardon my dear madam this is very far from being the case At your peaceful residence beneath the shades of Silverton Park it is highly probable that you may have remained ignorant of the fact but in truth the Dukes reputation among the people of England has suffered greatly though no one indeed has yet proposed that his sword should be taken from him The wellknown circumstance of stones having been thrown at his windows a fact which probably has never reached you is quite sufficient to prove that the people must be aware that what the English army did at Waterloo was not done under his generalship No no England knows too well what she owed to that victory so to treat the general who achieved it and had they not felt doubts as to who that general was no stones would have been levelled at Apsley House Many of the common soldiers—fine fellows—have been bold enough to name me and it is this that has so enraged the Duke that there is nothing which he has not taught his emissaries to say against me I have been called swindler blackleg radical horsejockey and I know not what beside and I should not wonder my charming friend if sooner or later your friendship were put to the proof by having to listen to similar calumnies against me but now you will be able to understand them aright and know the source from whence they come
Well I never did hear anything so abominable in my life said Mrs Barnaby warmly Not content with taking credit to himself for all that was gained by your extraordinary bravery he has the baseness to attack your character It is too detestable and I only hope that when I get among my own connexions in town I shall not have the misfortune of meeting him often I am certain I should not be able to resist saying something to shew what I thought Oh if he were really the brave man that he has been fancied to be how he must have adored you for your undaunted courage And you really took Napoleons hat off his head How excessively brave I wish I could have seen it Major I am sure I should have worshipped you I do so doat upon bravery
Sweet creature That devoted love of courage is one of the loveliest propensities of the female mind Yes I am brave—I do not scruple to say so and the idea that this quality is dear to you will strengthen it in me fourfold But my dear my lovely friend I must bid you adieu I expect the steward of my property in Yorkshire today and I rather think he must be waiting for me now Soften then the pain of this parting by telling me that I may come again
I should be sorry indeed to think this was our last meeting Major Allen said the widow gently I am seldom out in the morning before the hour at which you called today
Farewell then said he kissing her hand with an air of mixed tenderness and respect farewell and remember that all I have breathed into your friendly ear must be sacred but I know it would be so without this injunction Mrs Barnabys majestic beauty conceals not the paltry spirit of a gossip
Indeed you are right indeed you are right To my feelings the communications of a friend are sweet solemn pledges of regard that it would be sacrilege to violate Farewell Major—farewell
CHAPTER V
A YOUNG LADYS PLOT—A CONSULTATION AND THE HAPPY RESULT OF IT—A TERRIBLE INTERRUPTION AND A DANGEROUS EXPEDITION—CONFIDENTIAL INTERCOURSE
Mary Peters left Agnes considerably earlier than she had intended in order to communicate to her mother a project which had entered her head during the short time they spent together Though the project however was formed during their interview the idea upon which it was founded had repeatedly occurred to her before short as the time had been that was given for its ripening This idea was suggested to her by the evident admiration of Mr Stephenson for her friend on which she had meditated as they drove from the Mall to Rodney Place as she brushed and papilloted her nutbrown curls before her glass and as she strolled the next morning from her own home to that of Agnes it might plainly have been expressed thus Frederick Stephenson is over head and ears in love with Agnes Willoughby
Such was the idea but the project was concerning a much more serious matter—namely that a marriage between the parties might easily be brought about and moreover that the effecting this would be one of the very best actions to which it could be possible to dedicate her endeavours
To do Miss Peters justice she was in general neither a busy body nor a matchmaker but she was deeply touched by the melancholy feeling Agnes had expressed respecting her own position she felt too both the justness of it and the utter helplessness of the poor girl herself either to change or amend it
Nothing but her marrying can do it thought Mary and why should she not marry this young man who is so evidently smitten with her Poor Agnes What a change—what a contrast it would be And if mamma will help me I am sure we may bring it about He is perfectly independent and violently in love already and she is a creature that appears more beautiful and more fascinating every time one sees her
It was exactly when her meditations reached this point that she discovered it to be necessary that she should go home directly and home she accordingly went luckily finding her mother alone in her dressingroom
I am delighted to find you by yourself mamma began Mary I have a great deal to say to you and then followed a rapid repetition of all Agnes had just said to her
Is it not a dreadful situation mamma she added
So dreadful Mary replied Mrs Peters that were not the youngest of you about three years older than herself I really think I should propose taking her as a finishing governess Poor little thing what can we do for her
Now listen mamma answered Mary raising her hand gravely as if to bespeak both silence and attention and do not I implore you mar the usefulness of what I am going to say by turning it into jest it is no jest mother Mr Stephenson the young man we saw last night is most certainly captivated by the beauty of Agnes in no common degree I was near enough to her all the evening to see plainly how things were going on and were she less miserable in her present condition I might think it a fair subject for a jest or a bet perhaps on the chances for and against his proposing to her But as it is—thinking of her as I do feeling for her as I do—I think mamma that it is my duty to endeavour by every means in my power to turn these chances in her favour Dearest mother will you help me
But what means have you my dear girl replied Mrs Peters gravely I believe I share both your admiration and your pity for Agnes as fully as you could desire but I really see not what there is that we can with propriety do to obtain the object you propose though I am quite aware of its value
I will ask you to do nothing my dearest mother in which you shall find a shadow of impropriety Would there be any in inviting this young man to your house should you chance to become better acquainted with him
No but I think we must take some strangely forward steps to lead to this better acquaintance
That will depend altogether upon his degree of inclination for it Should he prove ritroso I consent to draw off my forces instantly but if as I anticipate he should push himself upon us as an acquaintance I want you to promise that you will not on your part defeat his wishes—nay a little more perhaps I would wish you dear mother to feel with me that it would be right and righteous to promote them
I rather think it would Mary as you put the case Agnes Willoughby is by no means lowly born her father was a gentleman decidedly and I understood from my brother that the Comptons though for some centuries I believe rather an impoverished race derive their small property from ancestors of very great antiquity so there is nothing objectionable on that tender point And for herself pretty creature she would certainly be an ornament and a grace as head and chieftainess of the most aristocratic establishment in the world so as a matter of conscience I have really no scruples at all but as matter of convenance I can only promise not to check by any want of civility on my part whatever advances the gentleman may choose to make Will this content you my little plotter
Yes pretty well for I am not without hope that you will warm in the cause if it goes on at all and then perhaps I shall squeeze an invitation out of you and so on And by the way mamma when are we to have our little musical soirée I believe young De Lacy is not going to stay much longer and if he goes what are we to do for our bass
We shall be puzzled certainly You may write the cards directly Mary if you will
Mary rose at once to set about it but on opening a certain drawer in the commode and examining its contents she said We must send to the library mamma there are not half enough cards here besides I want you to walk with us and I want Agnes to join the party May I send her a note desiring her to come to take her luncheon here
I comprehend your tactics my dear Agnes is to walk with us just about three oclock when all the world are out and about We want invitation cards and may just as well when we are out go to the library for them ourselves There we shall be sure of seeing Mr Stephenson he will be very likely to join us etc etc etc Is not that your plan
And if it is mamma replied Mary laughing I see not that it contains anything beyond what has been agreed to by our compact
Very well Mademoiselle Talleyrand write your note
This was promptly done and promptly dispatched and reached Agnes about two minutes after Major Allen had taken his departure She was aware of his visit for Betty Jacks had obligingly opened her closetdoor to inform her of it and she now stood with the welcome note in her hand meditating on the best manner of forwarding the petition to her aunt not quite liking to send in the note itself doubtful of Bettys delivering a message on the subject so as to avoid giving offence but dreading beyond all else the idea of presenting herself before the Major
Major Allen is still there Jerningham is he not I have seen nothing of my aunt
No miss he is this moment gone and a beautiful sweet man he is too
Agnes hesitated no longer but with Marys note in her hand entered the drawingroom to ask leave to obey the summons it contained She found Mrs Barnaby in a state of considerable but very delightful agitation The album was open before her her two elbows rested on the table and her hands shaded her eyes which were fixed on the interesting name of Isabella dAlmafonte in a fit of deep abstraction
Agnes uttered her request but was obliged to repeat it twice before the faculties of the widow were sufficiently recalled to things present for her to be able to return a coherent answer When at length however she understood what was asked she granted her permission with quite as much pleasure as Agnes received it At that moment she could endure nothing but solitude or Major Allen and eagerly answered Oh yes my dear go go I do not want you at all
A liberated bird is not more quick in reaching the shelter of the desired wood than was Agnes in making her way from Sion Row to Rodney Place and so great was her joy at finding herself there that for the moment she forgot all her sorrows and talked of the ball as if she had not felt infinitely more pain than pleasure there As soon as the luncheon was ended Mrs Peters and Elizabeth Mary and Agnes set off upon their walk not over the hills and far away as heretofore but along the wellpaved ways that led most certainly to the resorts of their fellow mortals Lucy and James having heard that the evening for their music party was fixed at the distance only of one fortnight declared that it was absolutely necessary to devote the interval to practice and therefore they remained at home
If the plan of Mary Peters was such as her mother had described it nothing could have been more successful for even before they reached the library they met Mr Stephenson and Colonel Hubert The moment the former perceived them he stepped forward quitting the arm of his friend who certainly rather relaxed than accelerated his pace and having paid his compliments with the cordial air of an old acquaintance to Mrs Peters and Elizabeth passed them and took his station beside Agnes Both she and her friend received his eager salutation with smiles Mary as we know had her own motives for this and Agnes had by no means forgotten how seasonably he had led her off on the preceding evening from her aunt Major Allen and the forsaken teatable Her bright smile however soon faded as she marked the stiff bow by which Colonel Hubert returned Mrs Peterss civil recognition of him He too passed the first pair of ladies and joined himself to the second but though he bowed to both of them it seemed that he turned and again took the arm of Stephenson solely for the purpose of saying to him Are you going to give up your walk to the Wells Frederick
Most decidedly mon cher was the cavalier reply
Then I must wish you good morning I believe said Colonel Hubert attempting to withdraw his arm
No dont cried the gay young man goodhumouredly and retaining his arm with some show of violence I will not let you go without me you will find nothing there depend upon it to reward you on this occasion for your pertinacity of purpose
Colonel Hubert yielded himself to this wilfulness and passively as it seemed accompanied the party into the library Nothing could be more agreeable than the animated conversation of young Stephenson he talked to all the ladies in turn contrived to discover a multitude of articles of so interesting a kind that it was necessary they should examine and talk about them and finally bringing forward the book of names fairly beguiled Mrs Peters and her daughters into something very like a little gossip concerning some among them
It was while they were thus employed that Colonel Hubert approached Agnes who of course could take no part in it and said Are you going to remain long at Clifton Miss Willoughby
Agnes blushed deeply as he drew near and his simple question was answered in a voice so tremulous that he pitied the agitation resulting as he supposed from their meeting in the morning which she evinced and feeling perhaps that she was not to blame because his headstrong friend was determined to fall in love with her he spoke again and in a gentler voice said I hope you have forgiven me for the blunt advice I ventured to give you this morning
Forgiven repeated Agnes looking up at him and before her glance fell again it was dimmed by a tear I can never forget your kindness she added but so nearly in a whisper that he instantly became aware that her friends had not been made acquainted with the adventure and that it was not her wish they should be He therefore said no more on the subject but led by some impulse that seemed not certainly to proceed from either unkindness or contempt he continued to converse with her for several minutes and long enough indeed to make her very nearly forget the party of friends whose heads continued to be congregated round the librarians register of the Clifton beau monde
Frederick Stephenson meanwhile was very ably prosecuting the object he had in view namely to establish himself decidedly as an acquaintance of Mrs Peters and so perfectly comme il faut in all respects was the tone of herself and her daughters that he was rapidly forgetting such a being as Mrs Barnaby existed and solacing his spirit by the persuasion that the only girl he had ever seen whom he could really love was surrounded by connexions as elegant and agreeable as his exigeante family could possibly require Nor to say truth was his friend greatly behindhand in the degree of oblivion which he permitted to fall upon his faculties respecting this object of his horror and detestation It was not very easy indeed to remember Mrs Barnaby while Agnes awakened by a question as to what part of England it was in which she had enjoyed the rural liberty of which he had heard her speak poured forth all her ardent praise on the tranquil beauty of Empton
It is not said she beguiled by the attention with which he listened to her into forgetfulness of the awe he had hitherto inspired—it is not so majestic in its beauty as Clifton we have no mighty rocks at Empton—no winding river that quietly as it flows seems to have cut its own path amongst them but the parsonage is the very perfection of a soft tranquil flowery retreat where neither sorrow nor sin have any business whatever
And was Empton parsonage your home Miss Willoughby
Yes for five dear happy years replied Agnes in an accent from which all gaiety had fled
You were not born at Empton then
No I was only educated there but it was there at least that my heart and mind were born and I do not believe that I shall ever feel quite at home anywhere else
It is rather early for you to say that is it not said Colonel Hubert with a smile more calculated to increase her confidence than to renew her awe May I ask how old you are
I shall be seventeen in August replied Agnes blushing at being obliged to confess herself so very young
She might be my daughter thought Colonel Hubert while a shade of melancholy passed over his countenance which it puzzled Agnes to interpret But he asked her no more questions and the conversation seemed languishing when Frederick Stephenson beginning to think that it was his turn now to talk to Agnes and pretty well satisfied perhaps that he had made a favourable impression upon the Peters family left the counter and the subscriptionbook and crossed to the place where she had seated herself Colonel Hubert was still standing by her side but he instantly made way for his friend and had he at that moment spoken aloud the thoughts of his heart he might have been heard to say—There is nothing here to justify the rejection of any family she is perfect alike in person and in mind things must take their course I will urge his departure no further
Scarcely however had these thoughts made their rapid way across his brain before his ears were assailed by the sound of a laugh which he recognised in an instant to be that of Mrs Barnaby A flush of heightened colour mounted to his very eyes and he felt consciencestruck as if whatever might hereafter happen to Stephenson he should hold himself responsible for it because he had mentally given his consent to his remaining where the danger lay And well might the sound and sight of Mrs Barnaby overturn all such yielding thoughts She came more rouged more ringleted more bedizened with feathers and flowers and more loud in voice than ever She came too accompanied by Major Allen
No thundercloud sending forth its flashings before it ever threw a more destructive shadow over the tranquil brightness of a smiling landscape than did this entrée of the facetious pair over the happy vivacity of the party already in possession of the shop Mrs Peters turned very red Miss Willoughby turned very pale Mary stopped short in the middle of a sentence and remained as mute as if she had been shot even the goodnatured Elizabeth looked prim and the two gentlemen though in different ways betrayed an equally strong consciousness of the change that had come over them Mr Stephenson put on the hat which he had laid beside him on the counter and though he drew still nearer to Agnes than before it was without addressing a word to her Colonel Hubert immediately passed by them and left the shop
This last circumstance was the only one which could at that moment have afforded any relief to Agnes it at once restored her composure and presence of mind though it did not quite bring back the happy smiles with which she had been conversing five short minutes before
Ah my sister Peters and the children here cried Mrs Barnaby flouncing gaily towards them I thought we should meet you What beautiful weather isnt it How dye do sir to Mr Stephenson I think you were among our young ladies partners last night Charming ball wasnt it Dear Major Allen do look at these Bristol stones aint they as bright as diamonds Well Agnes you have had your luncheon I suppose with the dear girls and now you will be ready to go shopping with me We are going into Bristol and I will take you with us
Agnes listened to her doom in silence and no more thought of appealing from it than the poor criminal who listens to his sentence from the bench but Mr Stephenson turned an imploring look on Mrs Peters which spoke so well what he wished to express that she exerted herself so far as to say We had hoped Mrs Barnaby that you meant to have spared Agnes to us for the rest of the day and we shall be much obliged if you will leave her with us
You are always very kind dear Margaret returned the widow but I really want Agnes just now She shall come to you however some other time Goodbye goodbye—we have no time to lose Come Agnes lets be off
A silent look was all the leavetaking that passed between Agnes and her greatly annoyed friends Mrs Barnaby took her arm under her own and as soon as they quitted the shop bestowed the other on Major Allen she was in high spirits which found vent in a loud laugh as soon as they had turned the corner
What a stuckup fellow that great tall Colonel is Major Allen said she Do you know anything of him If I am not greatly mistaken he is as proud as Lucifer
I assure you if he is proud my dear madam it must be a pride of the very lowest and vilest kind merely derived from the paltry considerations of family and fortune for entre nous he is very far from having been a distinguished officer The Duke of Wellington indeed has always been most ridiculously partial to him but you lowering his voice you are a pretty tolerable judge of what his good opinion is worth
Yes yes Major I shall never be taken in there again Why Agnes how you drag child I shall be tired to death before I get to Bristol if you walk so
Will the young lady take my other arm said the Major
Thank you dear Major You are very kind Go round Agnes and take the Majors arm
No I thank you aunt I do not want any arm I will walk beside you if you please without taking hold of you at all
Nonsense child That will look too particular Major said the widow turning to him upon which without waiting further parley Major Allen dropped the arm he held and gaily placed himself between the two ladies saying Now then fair ladies I have an arm for each
Agnes felt the greatest possible longing to run away but whether it would have strengthened into a positive resolution to do so upon once more feeling the touch of the Majors hand which upon her retreating he very vigorously extended towards her it is impossible to say for at that moment the sound of a rapidlyadvancing pair of boots was heard on the pavement behind them and in the next Mr Stephenson was at her side He touched his hat to Mrs Barnaby and then addressing Agnes said If you are going to walk to Bristol I hope you will permit me to accompany you for I am going there too
Agnes very frankly replied Thank you and without a moments hesitation accepted the arm he offered
I am sure you are very obliging Mr Stephenson said Mrs Barnaby and we shall certainly be able to walk with much greater convenience I think you two had better go before and then we can see that you dont run off you know
This lively sally was followed by a gay little tittering on the part both of the Major and the lady as they stood still for Mr Stephenson and the suffering Agnes to pass them
The young man seemed to have lost all his vivacity he spoke very little and even that little had the air of being uttered because he felt obliged to say something Poor Agnes was certainly in no humour for conversation and would have rejoiced in his silence had it not made her feel that whatever might be the motive for his thus befriending her he derived no pleasure from it Ere they had walked a mile however an accident occurred which effectually roused him from the dejection that appeared to have fallen upon his spirits A herd of bullocks met them on the road one of which overdriven and irritated by a cur that worried him darted suddenly from the road up to the path and made towards them with its horns down and its tail in the air On seeing this the young man seized Agnes in his arms and sprang with her down the bank into the road The animal whose object was rather to leave an enemy behind him than to do battle with any other passed on towards the Major and his fair companion who were at a considerable distance behind leaving Agnes trembling indeed and somewhat confused but quite unhurt and full of gratitude for the prompt activity that had probably saved her As soon as she had in some degree recovered her composure she turned back to ascertain how her aunt had fared Mr Stephenson assiduously attending her and they presently came within sight of a spectacle that had any mirth been in them must have drawn it forth
Major Allen by no means approving the style in which the animal appeared inclined to charge them had instantly perceived as Mr Stephenson had done before that the only means of getting effectually out of its way was by jumping down the bank which at that point was considerably higher than it was a few hundred yards farther on nevertheless though neither very light nor very active he might have achieved the descent well enough had he been alone But what was he to do with Mrs Barnaby She uttered a piercing cry and threw herself directly upon his bosom exclaiming Save me Major—save me
In this dilemma the Major proved himself an old soldier To shake off the lady he felt in every sense of the word was quite impossible but there was no reason that she should stifle him and therefore grasping her with great ardour he half carried half pushed her towards the little precipice and skilfully placing himself so that if they fell she should fall first he cried out manfully Now spring And spring they did but in such a sort that the lady measured her length in the dust a circumstance that greatly broke the Majors fall for although he made a considerable effort to roll beyond her he finally pitched with his knees full upon her thus lessening his descent very materially
When the young people reached them they had both recovered their equilibrium but not their composure Major Allen was placed with one knee in the dust and on the other supporting Mrs Barnaby who with her head reclining on his shoulder seemed to have a very strong inclination to indulge herself with a fainting fit Her gay dress was lamentably covered with dust her feathers broken and hanging distressingly over her eyes and her whole appearance as well as that of the hero who supported her forlorn and dejected in the extreme
Are you hurt aunt said Agnes approaching her
Hurt am I hurt Gracious Heaven what a question If my life be spared I shall consider it little short of a miracle Oh Major Allen she continued with a burst of sobbing where should I have now been but for you
Trampled or tossed Mrs Barnaby trampled or tossed to death decidedly replied the Major not wishing to lessen her sense of obligation yet restrained by the presence of witnesses from expressing his feelings with all the ardour he might otherwise have shown
Most true—most true she replied Never shall I be able to express the gratitude I feel
Can you not stand up aunt said Agnes whose cheeks were crimsoned at the absurdity of the scene How will you be able to get home if you cannot stand
God knows child God only knows what is yet to become of me Oh Major I trust myself wholly to you
Poor Agnes uttered a sound not much unlike a groan upon which Stephenson on whom it fell like a spur urging him to save her from an exhibition so painfully ridiculous for it was quite evident that Mrs Barnaby was not really hurt proposed that he should escort Miss Willoughby with all possible speed back to Clifton and dispatch thence a carriage to bring Mrs Barnaby home
Major Allen who desired nothing more ardently than to get rid of him seconded the proposal vehemently
You are quite right sir it is the only thing to be done he said and if you will hasten to perform this I will endeavour so to place Mrs Barnaby as to prevent her suffering any great inconvenience while waiting till the carriage shall arrive
Ought I not to remain with my aunt said Agnes to Mr Stephenson but in a whisper that was heard only by himself
In my opinion you certainly ought not he replied in the same tone Believe me he added I have many reasons for saying so
Nothing but her earnest desire to do that whatever it might be which was the least improper for that as she truly felt was all that was left her could have induced Agnes to propose inflicting so terrible a penance on herself but strangely as she was obliged to choose her counsellor there was a grave seriousness in his manner which convinced her he had not answered her lightly and therefore as her aunt said not a word to detain her she set off on her return with as much speed as she could use saying as she departed Depend upon it aunt there shall be no delay
Mr Stephenson again offered her his arm but she now declined it and the young man for some time walked silently by her side wishing to speak to her yet honestly doubting his own power of doing so with the composure he desired
At length however the silence became embarrassing and he broke it by saying with something of abruptness—
Will you forgive me Miss Willoughby if I venture to forget for a moment how short a time it is since I have had the happiness of knowing you will you forgive me if I speak to you like a friend
Indeed I will and be very thankful too replied Agnes composedly for his manner had taught her to feel assured that she had no cause to fear him
You are very kind he resumed with some little embarrassment but I feel that it is taking an almost unwarrantable liberty and were it not that this walk offers an opportunity which I think I ought not to lose I might perhaps endeavour to say what I wish to Mrs Peters I allude to Major Allen Miss Willoughby I wish you could lead your aunt to understand that he is not a person fit for your society Though he is probably a stranger here he is well known elsewhere as a needy gambler and in short a most unprincipled character in every way
Good Heaven exclaimed Agnes what shall I do
Can you not venture to hint this to your aunt said he
She would probably be very angry replied Agnes with spontaneous frankness but what is worse than that she would I know insist upon my telling her where I heard it
Say that you heard it from me Miss Willoughby replied the young man
New as Agnes was to the world and its ways she felt that there was something very honourable and frank in this proceeding and it produced so great a degree of confidence in return that she answered in a tone of the most unembarrassed friendliness
Will you give me leave Mr Stephenson to repeat this to Mrs Peters and Mary They will know so much better than I do what use to make of it
Indeed I think you are right he replied eagerly and then the anger that you speak of will not fall on you
It will not in that case I think fall on any one said Agnes My aunt has fortunately a great respect for Mrs Peters and if anybody can have influence over her mind she may
Can it be wondered at if after this the conversation went on improving in its tone of ease and confidence It had begun on the side of the young man with a very sincere resolution not to suffer his admiration for his lovely companion to betray him into a serious attachment to one so unfortunately connected but before they reached Sion Row he had arrived at so perfect a conviction that he could nowhere find so pureminded and rightthinking a being to share his fortune and to bless his future life that he only refrained from telling her so from a genuine feeling of respect which perhaps the proudest peeress in the land might have failed to inspire
No thought he it is not now while she is compelled by accident to walk beside me that I will pour out my heart and all its love before her but the time shall come
Agnes ere they parted again appealed to him for his opinion whether she ought to go in the carriage sent to meet her aunt
No indeed I think not he replied Has she no maid Miss Willoughby who could go for her
Oh yes exclaimed Agnes greatly relieved I can send Jerningham
Sweet creature whispered the enamoured Frederick to his heart what a delicious task to advise to guide to cherish such a being as that
His respectful bow at parting the earnest silent lingering look he fixed upon her fair face ere he turned from the door that was opened to receive her might have said much to a heart on the qui vive to meet his half way but Agnes did not observe it she was looking up towards the windmill and thinking of her early morning walk and its termination
CHAPTER VI
THE READER IS LET INTO A SECRET AND THE YOUNG LADYS PLOT PROVED TO BE OF NO AVAIL—A JUDICIOUS MODE OF OBTAINING INFORMATION—A HAPPY AND VERY WELLTIMED MEETING
Well Mary I suppose you are wishing yourself joy on the success of your plottings and plannings said Mrs Peters to her daughter about ten days after this memorable walk on the Bristol road for during that interval much had occurred that seemed to promise success to her wishes In fact Frederick Stephenson had quietly become a regular visitor at Rodney Place and the power of Agnes to accept the constant invitations which brought her there likewise increased in exact proportion to the widows growing delight in the têteàtête visits of the Major The friendly hint of Mr Stephenson had produced no effect whatever excepting indeed that it tended greatly to increase the tone of friendly intercourse between the Peters family and himself He had released Agnes from the task of mentioning the matter at all and took an early opportunity of confiding to Mrs Peters his ideas on the subject She received the communication with the gratitude it really deserved but confessed that Mrs Barnaby was a person so every way disagreeable to her that the task of attempting to guide her would be extremely repugnant to her feelings
But Miss Willoughby said Frederick it is for her sake that one would wish to keep this odious woman from exposing herself to ruin and disgrace if possible
And for her sake I will do it answered Mrs Peters She is as deserving of all care as her aunt is unworthy of it
This reply convinced Mr Stephenson that Mrs Peters was one of the most discerning as well as most amiable women in the world but no other advantage arose from the praiseworthy determination of the dear Margaret for when that lady said to her gravely at the very first opportunity she could find—
Pray Mrs Barnaby do you know anything of that Major Allens private character The answer she received was—Yes Mrs Peters a great deal and more probably than any other person whatever at Clifton and I know too that there are agents—paid hired agents—employed in circulating the most atrocious lies against him
I am not one of them I assure you madam said Mrs Peters abruptly leaving her seat and determined never again to recur to the subject a comfortable resolution to which she reconciled her conscience by remembering the evident devotion of Mr Stephenson to Agnes the symptoms of which were daily becoming less and less equivocal
It was within a few hours after this short colloquy with the widow that Mrs Peters thus addressed her daughter Well Mary I suppose you are wishing yourself joy on the success of your plottings and plannings
Why yes replied Mary I think we are getting on pretty well and unless I greatly mistake it will be the fault of Agnes and of no one else if she suffers much more from being under the protection of our precious aunt Barnaby
Mrs Peters and Mary were perfectly right in their premises but utterly wrong in their conclusion Mr Stephenson was indeed passionately in love with Agnes and had already fully made up his mind to propose to her so soon as their acquaintance had lasted long enough to render such a step decently permissable which according to his calculations would be in about a fortnight after he had first danced with her In short he was determined to find a favourable opportunity on the evening of Mrs Peterss promised music party to declare his passion to her for he had already learned to know that few occasions offer in the ordinary intercourse of society more favourable for a têteàtête than a crowded concertroom
Thus far therefore the observations and reasonings of Agness watchful friends were perfectly correct But alas they saw only the surface of things There was an under current running the other way of which they never dreamed and of which even had it been laid open to their view they would neither have been able to comprehend or believe the power As to the heart of Agnes by some strange fatality they had never taken it into their consideration at all or at any rate had conceived it so beyond all doubt inclined the way they wished that no single word or thought amidst all their deliberations was ever bestowed upon it But the heart of Agnes was fixedly devotedly and for ever given to another
No wonder indeed that such an idea had never suggested itself to her friends for who could that other be Could it be James her first partner her first walking companion and very nearly the first young man she had ever spoken to in her life Assuredly not for had she been asked she could not have told whether his eyes were blue or black hardly whether he were short or tall and certainly not whether she had seen him twenty times or only twelve since their first meeting
Who then could it be There was but one other person whom the accidents of the last important fortnight had thrown constantly in her way and Mrs Peters and Mary would as soon have thought that the young Agnes had conceived a passion for the Pope as for the stately proud reserved Colonel Hubert
Yet she could an if she would have told her how far above all other mortals his noble head rose proudly she could have told that on his lofty brow her soul read volumes she could have told that in the colour of his thoughtful eye the hue of heaven seemed deepened into black by the rich lash that shaded it All this she could have told and moreover could have counted with most faithful arithmetic not only how many times she had seen him but how many times his eyes had turned towards her how many times he had addressed a word to her how many smiles had been permitted to cheer her heart how many frowns had chilled her spirit as they passed over his countenance Little could any one have guessed all this but so it was and Frederick Stephenson with all his wealth his comeliness and kind heart to boot had no more chance of being accepted as a husband by the poor dependant Agnes Willoughby than the lowest hind that ploughs the soil by the proudest lady that owns it
Meanwhile my real heroine the Widow Barnaby thought little of Agnes or any other lady but herself and less still perhaps of Mr Stephenson or any other gentleman but the Major The affair on the Bristol road though injurious to her dress and rather dusty and in some degree disagreeable at the time had wonderfully forced on the tender intimacy between them Yet Mrs Barnaby was not altogether so shortsighted as bystanders might suppose and though she freely permitted herself the pleasure of being made love to she determined to be very sure of the Majors rentroll before she bestowed herself and her fortune upon him for notwithstanding her flirting propensities the tender passion had ever been secondary in her heart to a passion for wealth and finery and not the bestbehaved and most discreet dowager that ever lived was more firmly determined to take care of herself and make a good bargain if ever she married again than was our flighty flirting Widow Barnaby
She was fully aware that many difficulties lay in the way of her getting the information she wanted In the first place she had no acquaintance except the Peterses who were his declared enemies and she loved both justice and the Major too well to let his happiness which was now avowedly dependant upon her accepting his hand rest on such doubtful testimony And secondly there was considerable caution required in the manner of asking questions so special as those she wished to propose lest they might reach the ears of her lover and it was necessary if the tender affair finally terminated in wedlock that it should be brought about without any appearance on her side of such sordid views lest a suspicion might arise on his that her own wealth was not quite so great as she wished him to believe Respecting settlements she had already decided upon what she should propose she would make over the whole of her fortune unconditionally to him provided he would make her a settlement of one poor thousand ayear for life in return
Some days passed away after the Major had actually proposed and been conditionally accepted in case a few weeks longer acquaintance confirmed their affection before Mrs Barnaby had discovered any method by which she might satisfy her anxious curiosity respecting the actual state of Major Allens affairs During this time she was willing to allow even to herself that her affections were very deeply engaged but yet she steadfastly adhered to her resolution of not bestowing upon him the blessing of her hand till she learned from some one besides himself that he was a man of large fortune
At length when almost in despair of meeting with any one whom she could trust on such a subject it occurred to her that Betty Jacks who had not only continued to grow till she was nearly as tall as her mistress but had made such proficiency in the ways of the world since she left Silverton as rendered her exceedingly acute might make acquaintance with Major Allens groom and learn from him what was generally considered to be the amount of his masters income The idea had hardly struck her before she determined to put it in execution and having rung the bell Betty after the usual interval that it took her to climb from the kitchen stood before her
Come in Jerningham said Mrs Barnaby and shut the door I have something particular that I wish to say to you
Betty anticipated a scolding and looked sulky
I am very well satisfied with you Jerningham resumed the lady and I called you up chiefly to say that you may have the cap with the pink ribbons that I put off yesterday morning
Thank you maam said Betty turning to go
Stay a moment Jerningham I have something I want to talk to you about
Betty advanced and took hold of the back of a chair to support her lengthy person a habit which she had fallen into from the frequent long confidential communications her lady was accustomed to hold with her
Pray Jerningham do you know Major Allens groom inquired Mrs Barnaby in a gentle voice
Lor no maam how should I come for to know his groom
Nay my good girl there would be no harm in it if you did I have remarked that he is a particularly smart respectablelooking servant and I must say I think it would be quite as well if such a goodlooking girl as you did make acquaintance with the servant of a gentleman like Major Allen it would give you a proper protector and companion Jerningham in a Sunday evening walk or anything of that kind and really it looks as if he did not think you worth noticing considering how intimate the two families are become
Oh for that maam I dont believe the young man would have any objection and I dont mean to say as how I never spoke to him replied Betty
Very well Jerningham that is just what I wanted to know because if you are sufficiently acquainted to speak such a sharp clever girl as you are would find it easy enough to improve the intimacy and thats what I want you to do Jerningham And then I want you some fine evening perhaps after I have had my tea to let him take a walk with you and when you are talking of one thing and the other I want you to find out whether his master is reckoned a rich gentleman or a poor one Do you understand Jerningham
Betty Jacks black eyes kindled into very keen intelligence at this question and she answered with very satisfactory vivacity Yes maam I understands
Well then set about it as soon as you can and remember Jerningham if he asks any questions about me that you make him understand my fortune is a great deal larger than it appears to be which it really is you know—only just now I am travelling quietly by way of a change If you do all this cleverly and well I will give you my old parasol which only wants a stitch or two to make it quite fit to use
Thankee maam I could find him in a minute at the beershop if you like it
Well then do so my good girl and you may say if you will that you could take a walk with him this evening
The arrangement was probably made without great difficulty for on the following morning Betty was ready with her report Any detailed account of the interview between the Majors man and the widows woman would be unnecessary as the girls account of it was what principally affected the interests of our widow and that shall be faithfully given
Betty Jacks made her appearance in the drawingroom as soon as Agnes had left it after breakfast with that look of smirking confidence which usually enlivens the countenance of a soubrette when she knows she has something to say worth listening to
Her anxious mistress instantly saw that the commission had not been in vain
Well Jerningham she cried with a deep respiration that was more like panting than sighing what news do you bring me
All that is best and honourablest for the Major maam His man William says that he is a noble gentleman every way with plenty of money to spend and plenty of spirit to spend it with and that happy will the lady be who wins his heart and comes to the glory and honour of being his wife
That is enough Jerningham said the happy Mrs Barnaby You seem to have behaved extremely well and with a great deal of cleverness and as I see I may trust to your good sense and prudent behaviour I will give you leave to go to the play at Bristol and will give you a gallery ticket any evening that the Majors worthy and faithful servant may like to take you Indeed I should not mind giving him a gallery ticket too and so you may tell him
Betty Jacks turned her head to look out of the window and a furtive sort of smile kindled in her eye for a moment but she thanked her mistress for her kindness and then made her exit with great decorum
It was just two days after this that Mrs Barnaby yielded to Major Allens request that she would taste the air of a delicious morning by taking a little turn with him in the Mall Twice had they enjoyed the sunny length of the pavement indulging in that sort of tender conversation which their now fully avowed mutual attachment rendered natural when in making their third progress they were met by a gentleman somewhat younger than the Major but with much his style of dress and whiskered fashion who the instant he saw Major Allen uttered a cry of joy ran towards him and caught his hand which he not only shook affectionately but even pressed to his heart with an air of the most touching friendship
My dearest Maintry exclaimed the Major what an unexpected pleasure is this When did you reach England What brings you here Then suddenly recollecting himself he turned to Mrs Barnaby and entreated her forgiveness for the liberty he had taken in thus stopping her
But I well know he added that your generous heart will find an excuse for me in its own warm feelings when I tell you that Captain Maintry is the oldest friend I have in the world—the oldest and the dearest We have served together Mrs Barnaby we have fought side by side through many a wellcontested field and since universal peace has sheathed our swords we have shared each others hospitality hunted on each others grounds studied nature and mankind together and in a word have lived and loved as brothers and yet we have now been parted for two years A large property has devolved to him from his mothers family in Westphalia and the necessity of attending to his farms and his signioral privileges has separated him thus long from his friend You will forgive me then my beloved Martha Maintry from thee I can hide nothing you have told me a thousand times that I should never be brought to resign my freedom to mortal woman Look here and tell me if you can wonder that such vaunting independence can attach to me no longer
Nothing could be more kind than Mrs Barnabys reply to this nothing more gracious than Captain Maintrys flattering answer and the next minute they were all walking on together as if already united by the tenderest ties Many interesting questions and answers passed between the two gentlemen concerning absent friends of high rank and great distinction as well as some goodnatured friendly questions on the part of Captain Maintry relative to many of the Majors principal tenants in Yorkshire as honourable to the kind feelings of the inquirer as to the good conduct and respectability of the worthy individuals inquired for
After all this had lasted most agreeably for some time Captain Maintry suddenly paused and said to his friend—
My dear Allen the pleasure of seeing you and the unexpected introduction to this honoured lady have together turned my brain I believe or I should have told you at once that I have brought letters from Prince Hursteinberg for you which require an immediate answer I never heard one man speak of another as he does of you Allen he declares you are the most noble character he ever met with in any country and that is no light thing for such a man as the Prince to say His letter is to ask whether you can spare him a hunting mare of your own breeding and three couple of those famous pointers for which your principal estate is so celebrated He made me promise that I would see that you sent off an answer by the first post for if you cannot oblige him in this he must apply elsewhere You know his passion for la chasse and he must not be disappointed Come my dear fellow tear yourself away from this attractive lady for one short hour and then the business will be done
Certainly not till I have seen Mrs Barnaby safely home replied the Major gravely
Then you will be too late for the post We have told Mrs Barnaby that we are brothers let her see you treat me as such Trust her to my care I will escort her to her own home while you go for an hour or so to yours I have left the packet with your faithful William By the by I am glad to see that you still retain that capital good fellow about you An honest servant is worth his weight in gold Mrs Barnaby There Allen you see I am in possession of the ladys arm so you may be off and I will join you as soon as I have escorted her to her quarters
Most cordially do I congratulate my friend madam said Captain Maintry as soon as Major Allen had taken his leave on the happy prospects that have opened before him To see you and not appreciate his felicity is impossible Friendship may conquer envy but it cannot render us blind Nor is it Major Allen alone whom I must congratulate permit me to indulge my feelings towards that longtried and dearlyvalued friend by telling you Mrs Barnaby that you are a very happy woman indeed Such worth such honour are rarely—alas too rarely—met with in man And then he has such a multitude of minor good qualities as I may call them such an absence of all ostentation nobody would believe from his manner of living that he possessed one of the finest estates in Yorkshire yet such is the fact His courage too is transcendently great and his temper the sweetest in the world Yet this man Mrs Barnaby great and good as he is has not been able to escape enemies You have no idea of the lies that have been put in circulation concerning him by those who envy his reputation and hate his noble qualities
I know it Captain Maintry but too well replied Mrs Barnaby but a woman who could be influenced by such idle and malevolent reports would be unworthy to become his wife and for myself I can assure you that far from its producing the desired effect upon me such malignity only binds me to him more closely
There spoke a heart worthy of him fervently exclaimed the Captain And I doubt not my dearest madam that these generous feelings will be put to the proof for I blush for my species as I say it there are many who when they hear of his approaching happiness will put every sort of wickedness in action to prevent it
This conversation with a few little amiable sentiments in addition from both parties brought them to the door of the widows home when Captain Maintry resisted her invitation to enter upon the plea that he must devote every moment he could command to his friend as unhappily he was obliged to return to Bath on business of the greatest importance with as little delay as possible
After this it was quite in vain that even the amiable softhearted Elizabeth—who had grown exceedingly ashamed by the by of her speaking acquaintance with Major Allen—it was in vain that even she ventured to hint that she believed Major Allen was no longer invited anywhere Mrs Barnaby knew all about it on better authority than any one else and she quietly made up her mind to leave Clifton and proceed to Cheltenham as speedily as possible in order that her marriage within seven months of her husbands death might not take place under the immediate observation of his nearest relations
CHAPTER VII
TRANSIENT HAPPINESS—AN ACCIDENT LEADING TO THE DISCOVERY OF AN UNKNOWN TALENT IN MISS WILLOUGHBY AND UNEXPECTED APPRECIATION OF IT IN COLONEL HUBERT—SOME REFLECTIONS ON THE PECULIARITIES OF THE FEMALE MIND
It must be remembered that all these interesting particulars respecting the affairs of Mrs Barnabys heart were perfectly unknown both to Agnes and her friends It had indeed been quite as much as the posthumous affection of Mrs Peters for her brother could achieve to endure with some appearance of civility the advances of his widow towards intimacy but to pursue her with attentions when she seemed desirous of escaping them was quite beyond her strength and courage so rejoicing in the effect without investigating the cause she permitted her to keep herself within the retirement of her own drawingroom without ever seeking the reason of her so doing
Treacherous as was this interval of calm it was productive of most exquisite happiness to poor Agnes while it lasted Delightful walks abundance of books lively conversation and a thousand flattering marks of kindness from everybody who came near her formed a wonderful contrast to the vulgar browbeating of her selfish aunt and even to the best joys of her solitary closet
But it was an interval delusive in every way Mrs Peters had no suspicion that her brothers widow within seven months after his death was on the eve of marriage with a pennyless swindler
Agnes had no suspicion that she was herself desperately in love with Colonel Hubert or that Mr Stephenson was desperately in love with her
Colonel Hubert began to think that as he saw Agnes constantly with the Peters family and no longer saw Mrs Barnaby at all the connexion between them was neither so permanent nor so injurious as he had supposed and therefore that he would act more prudently by letting matters take their course than by any further interference convinced that if Frederick did choose a wife for himself instead of permitting his friends to choose for him he would never find a woman more likely to do him honour than Miss Willoughby There were moreover some other delusions under which he laboured both as to his own feelings and those of others but for the present he was destined like the rest of the party among whom he lived to remain enveloped in a mist of error and misconception
Poor Stephenson more fatally deluded than all of them guessed not that he was standing on a pinnacle of hope from whence he was soon to be dashed a thousand fathom deep into the whirlpool of despair In short preparations for the music party went on very prosperously while
Malignant Fate sat by and smiled
at all that was to happen before that music party was over
Mrs Peters confessed after a little battling the point with her family that it would be impossible to avoid sending a card of invitation to Mrs Barnaby and sent it was when as she said herself her virtue was rewarded by receiving through Agnes a message in return expressing much regret that a previous engagement must prevent its being accepted
On the morning of the day fixed for this party Agnes remained in her closet at least one hour beyond the time at which it was now her daily custom to set off from Rodney Place some little preparation for her evening appearance requiring her attention When at length she arrived there she found a note desiring her to sit down and wait for the return of the ladies who after remaining at home till beyond her usual time of coming had all driven to Bristol to execute sundry errands of importance
On reading this note Agnes walked up stairs to the drawingroom which she found uncarpeted in preparation for the music of the evening and a grand pianoforte standing in the middle of it Now it so happened that notwithstanding the constant visits of Agnes in Rodney Place and the general love of music which reigned there she had never been asked if she could play or sing and had never by any chance done either There are some houses and very pleasant ones too in their way in which music is considered by the family as a sort of property belonging of right to them en portage with professors indeed but with which no one else can interfere—at least within their precincts without manifest impertinence The house of Mrs Peters was one of these James who as we have seen was an exceedingly amiable young man never did anything from morning to night if he could help it but practise on the violoncello and sing duets with his sister Lucy Miss Peters was the only one who shared not in the talent or the monopoly for Elizabeth played the harp and Lucy sang and accompanied herself on the piano during by far the greater part of every day Agnes was delighted by their performance and though she longed once more to touch the keys herself and perhaps to hear her own sweet voice again she had never found courage sufficient to enable her to ask permission to do so
When therefore she found herself perfectly alone with the tempting instrument before her and a large collection of music placed beside it she eagerly applied her hand to try if it were open it yielded to her touch and in a moment her hands were running over the keys with that species of ecstasy which a young enthusiast in the science always feels after having been long deprived of the use of an instrument
Agnes played correctly and with great taste and feeling but she could by no means compete with Lucy Peters as an accomplished pianiste she had enjoyed neither equal practice nor equal instruction But there was one branch of the gay science in which she excelled her far beyond the reach of comparison for Agnes had a voice but rarely equalled in any country Of the preeminence of her power she was herself profoundly ignorant and if she preferred hearing her own glorious notes to those of any other voice which had yet reached her she truly believed it was because there was such a very great pleasure in hearing onesself sing—an opinion that had been considerably strengthened by her observations on Lucy
It was with very great delight unquestionably that Agnes now listened to the sounds she made The size of the room the absence of the carpet the excellence and the isolation of the instrument were all advantages she had not enjoyed before and her pleasure was almost childish in its ecstasy She let her rich voice run like the larks into wanton playfulness of ornament and felt her own power with equal joy and surprise
But when this first outpouring of her youthful spirit was over she more soberly turned to the volumes beside her and hesitating a moment between the gratification of exploring new regions of harmony with an uncertain step and that of going through with all the advantages of her present accessaries what had so often enchanted her without them she chose the last and fixing upon a volume of Handel which had been the chief source from which the oldfashioned but classic taste of Mr Wilmot had made her master draw her subjects of study she more soberly set about indulging herself with one of his bestloved airs The notes of Angels ever bright and fair then swelled gloriously through the unpeopled room and Lord remember David followed After this she changed her hand and the sparkling music of Comus seemed to make the air glad as she carolled through its delicious melodies
Amidst all this luxury of sound it is not surprising that the knocker or the bell should give signal either of the return of the family or the approach of some visiter without the fair minstrels being aware of it This in fact occurred and with a result that had she been in the secret would have converted the clear notes of her happy song into inarticulate suspirations of forced breath
Colonel Hubert had promised his friend Frederick when they parted at the breakfasttable to join him at Rodney Place as he had often within the last few days done before for the purpose of joining the party in their usual morning walk But Frederick had arrived there so early that he had handed Mrs Peters and her daughters into their carriage when they set off for Bristol and then turned from the door in despair of seeing Agnes for some hours
Having sought his friend Hubert and missed him he betook himself to a gallop on the downs by way of beguiling the time till two oclock when he intended to make another attempt to meet her by joining the luncheon party on Mrs Peterss return Colonel Hubert meanwhile knocked at that ladys door exactly at the moment when the happy performer in the drawingroom was giving full license to her magnificent voice in a passage of which he had never before felt the power and majesty
Colonel Hubert stopped short in the midst of the message he was leaving and the butler who opened the door to him and who by this time knew him as one of the most honoured guests of the mansion stepped back smiling into the hall—a sort of invitation for him to enter which he had no inclination to refuse He accordingly stepped in and the door was closed behind him
Pray who is it that is singing inquired the Colonel as soon as the strain ended
I think sir it must be Miss Willoughby for I have let in nobody else since the ladies went replied the man
Miss Willoughby repeated Colonel Hubert unconsciously Miss Willoughby Impossible
I think sir by the sound rejoined the servant that one of the drawingroom doors must be open and if you would please to walk up Colonel you might hear it quite plain without disturbing her
If Colonel Hubert had a weakness it was his unbounded love for music though even here he had proved his power of conquering inclination when he thought it right to do so When quite a young man he had been tempted by this passion to give so much time to the study of the violin as to interfere materially with all other pursuits A friend greatly his senior and possessing his highest esteem pointed out to him very strongly the probable effect of this upon his future career The next time the beloved professor arrived to give Colonel Hubert a lesson he made him a present of his violin and gave up the pursuit for ever but not the love for it that Nature had implanted beyond the power of will to eradicate
In short this invitation from Mrs Peterss butler was too tempting to be resisted and nodding his approval of it to the man he walked softly up the stairs and found as that sagacious person had foreseen that the door of the back drawingroom was open Colonel Hubert entered very cautiously for the foldingdoors between the two apartments were partly open also but he was fortunate enough to glide unseen behind one of its large battants the rising hinges of which were in such a position as to permit him without any danger of being discovered to see as well as hear the unsuspicious Agnes
Poor girl could she have been conscious of this her agitation would have amounted to agony and yet no imaginable combination of circumstances could have been so favourable to the first the dearest the most secret wish of her heart which was that when she lost sight of him which she must soon do—as she well believed for ever—he might not think her too young too trifling too contemptible ever to recall her to his memory again
There was perhaps no great danger of this before but now it could neither be hoped nor feared that Colonel Hubert should ever forget what he during these short moments heard and saw There is perhaps no beautiful woman who sings well who would not appear to greater advantage if thus furtively looked at and listened to than when performing conscious of the observation of all around her But to Agnes this advantage was in the present instance great indeed for never before had he seen her beautiful countenance in the full play of bright intelligence and unrestrained enthusiasm and never had he imagined that she could sing at all She was lovely radiant inspired and Colonel Hubert was in a fair way of forgetting equally that she was the chosen of his friend the niece of Mrs Barnaby and that he was just twenty years her senior when the housedoor was assailed by the footmans authoritative rap and the moment after the ladies voices as they ran up the stairs effectually awakened him to the realities of his situation
He now for the first time felt conscious that this situation had been obtained by means not perfectly justifiable and that an apology was certainly called for and must be made He therefore retraced his steps but with less caution through the still open door and meeting Mrs Peters just as she reached the top of the stairs said in a voice perhaps somewhat less steady than usual—
Will you forgive me Mrs Peters and plead for my forgiveness elsewhere when I confess to you that I have stolen up stairs and hid myself for at least half an hour in your back drawingroom for the purpose of hearing Miss Willoughby sing She is herself quite ignorant of this délit and when you pronounce to her my guilt I hope at the same time you will recommend me to mercy
Miss Willoughby singing exclaimed Mrs Peters surely you must be mistaken Colonel Hubert Agnes never sang in her life
Agnes singing Oh no cried Lucy that is quite impossible I assure you
And what says the young lady herself replied Colonel Hubert as Agnes came forward to meet her friends
But she was assailed with such a clamorous chorus of questions that it was some time before she in the least understood what had happened To the reiterated Have you really been singing Agnes Do you really sing How is it possible we never found it out and the like she answered quietly enough I sing a little and I have been trying to amuse myself while waiting for you But when Mrs Peters laughingly added And do you know my dear that Colonel Hubert has been listening to you from the back drawingroom all the time all semblance of composure vanished She first coloured violently and then turned deadly pale and totally unable to answer sat down on the nearest chair instinctively to prevent herself from falling but with little or no consciousness of what she was about
Colonel Hubert watched her with an eye which seemed bent upon reading every secret of the heart that so involuntarily betrayed its own agitation but what he saw or thought he saw there seemed infectious for he too lost all presence of mind and quickly approaching her with heightened colour and a voice trembling from irrepressible feeling he said—
Have I offended you Forgive me oh forgive me
There was a world of eloquence in the look with which she met his eyes innocent unpractised unconscious as it was it raised a tumult in the noble soldiers breast which it cost many a days hard struggle afterwards to bring to order But nobody saw it—nobody guessed it The whole bevy of kindhearted ladies were filled from the crown to the toe with the hope and belief that Frederick Stephenson and Agnes Willoughby were born for each other and they explained all the agitation they now witnessed by saying—
Did any one ever see so shy a creature—How foolish you are to be frightened about it Agnes and Come my dear child get the better of this foolish terror and if you can sing let us have the pleasure of hearing you
Thats right mamma said Lucy laughing make her sing one song before we go down to luncheon It is not at all fair that Colonel Hubert should be the only person in the secret
Sing us a song at once—theres a dear girl said Mrs Peters seating herself upon a sofa
Indeed indeed maam I cannot sing replied Agnes clasping her hands as if begging for her life
Upon my word this is a very pretty mystery said Mary The gentleman declares that he has been listening to her singing this half hour and the lady protests that she cannot sing at all Permit me mamma to examine the parties face to face If I understand you rightly Colonel Hubert you stated positively that you heard Miss Willoughby sing Will you give me leave to ask you in what sort of manner she sang
In a manner Miss Peters replied Colonel Hubert endeavouring to recover his composure that I have seldom or never heard equalled in any country She sings most admirably
Good very good said Mary a perfectly clear and decisive evidence And now Miss Willoughby give me leave to question you If I mistake not you told us about five minutes ago that you possessed not the power of singing in any manner at all
Not at this moment Mary certainly replied Agnes rallying and infinitely relieved by perceiving that the overwhelming emotion under which she had very nearly fainted had neither been understood nor even remarked by any one
Then will you promise said Lucy with tant soit peu of newborn rivalry will you promise to sing for us tonight
You do not mean at your concert do you Lucy replied Agnes laughing
And why not said Lucy Colonel Hubert declares that you sing admirably
Colonel Hubert is very kind to say so answered Agnes while rather more than her usual delicate bloom returned to her cheeks but he would probably change his opinion were he to hear me sing before a large party
I am too hungry to battle the point now Agnes said Mrs Peters so let us come down to luncheon but remember my dear if you really can sing if it be only some easy trifling ballad I shall not take it well of you if you refuse for I am sorry to say there is a terrible falling off among our performers I find three excuses sent since I went out and I met Miss Roberts just now our prima donna after Lucy who says she is so hoarse that she doubts if she shall be able to sing a note
This was said as the party descended the stairs so that Agnes escaped without being obliged to answer at which she greatly rejoiced as refusal or acquiescence seemed alike impossible
Colonel Hubert stopped at the door of the diningroom wished the party good morning and persisted in making his retreat though much urged by Mrs Peters to join their meal But he was in no mood for it—he wanted to be alone—he wanted in solitude to question and if possible to understand his own feelings and with one short look at Agnes he left them slipped a crown into the hand of the butler who opened the door for him and set off for a long walk over Durdham Downs taking as it happened exactly the same path as that in which he had met Agnes a fortnight before
As soon as he was gone another rather clamorous assault was made on Agnes upon the subject of her having so long kept her power of singing a secret from them all
I cannot forgive you for not having at least told me of it said Mary
And what was there to tell my dearest Mary You that are used to such playing as that of Elizabeth and Lucy would have had fair cause to laugh at me had I volunteered to amuse you in their stead
I dont know how that may be said Lucy what Colonel Hubert talked about was your singing Do you think you can sing as well as me
It is a difficult question to answer Lucy replied Agnes with the most ingenuous innocence but perhaps I might one of these days if I were as well instructed as you are
Well my dear that is confessing something at any rate said Lucy slightly colouring I am sure I should be very happy to have you in a duet with me only I suppose you have not been taught to take a second
Oh yes I think I could sing second replied Agnes with great simplicity but I have not been much used to it because in all our duets Miss Wilmot always took the second part
And who is Miss Wilmot my dear said Mrs Peters
The daughter of the clergyman mamma where Agnes was educated replied Mary
Here comes Mr Stephenson exclaimed Mrs Peters gaily Now Agnes you positively must go up stairs again and let us hear what you can do I shall be quite delighted for Mr Stephenson to hear you sing if you really have a voice for I have repeatedly heard him speak with delight of his sister Lady Stephensons singing
Then I am sure that is a reason for never letting him hear mine said Agnes who was beginning to feel very restless and longing as ardently for the solitude of her closet in order to take a review of all the events of the morning as Colonel Hubert for the freedom of the Downs But the friends around her were much too kind and much too dear for any whims or wishes of her own to interfere with what they desired and when upon the entrance of Frederick they all joined in beseeching her to give them one song she yielded and followed meekly and obediently to the pianoforte
She certainly did not sing now as she had done before the fervour the enthusiasm was passed yet nevertheless the astonishment and delight of her auditors were unbounded Praises and reproaches were blended with the thanks of her female friends who forgetting that they had never invited her performance seemed to think her having so long concealed her talent a positive injury and injustice But in the raptures of Frederick Stephenson there was no mixture of reproach he seemed rapt in an ecstasy of admiration and love the exact amount of which was pretty fairly appreciated by every one who listened to him except herself A knavish speech sleeps not so surely in a foolish ear as a passionate rhapsody in one that is indifferent Our Agnes was by no means dull of apprehension on most occasions but the incapacity she shewed for understanding the real meaning of nineteen speeches out of every twenty addressed to her by Frederick was remarkable It is probable indeed that indifference alone would hardly have sufficed to constitute a defence so effectual against all the efforts he made to render his feelings both intelligible and acceptable preoccupation of heart and intellect may account for it better But whatever the cause of this insensibility it certainly existed and in such a degree as to render this enforced exhibition and all the vehement praises that followed it most exceedingly irksome A greater proof of this could hardly be given than by her putting a stop to it at last by saying—
If you really wish me to sing a song tonight my dear Mrs Peters you must please to let me go now or I think I shall be so hoarse as to make it impossible
This little stratagem answered perfectly and at once brought her near to the solitude for which she was pining
Wish you to sing tonight petite said Mrs Peters clapping her little hands with delight I rather think I shall I have had the terror of Mrs Armstrong before my eyes for the last fortnight and I think Mary that we have a novelty here that may save us from the faint praise usually accorded by her connoisseurship
I imagine we have mamma replied Mary who was in every way delighted by the discovery of this unknown talent in her favourite But Agnes is right she must really sing no more now You have had no walk today Agnes have you kindly adding if you like it I will put on my bonnet again and take a stroll with you
Agnes blushed when she replied—No I have not time to walk today I must go home now much as she might have done if instead of intending to take a ramble with her thoughts she had been about to enjoy a têteàtête promenade with the object of them
At least we will walk home with you replied her friend and accordingly the two eldest girls and Mr Stephenson accompanied her to Sion Row
Ungrateful Agnes It was with a feeling of joy that made her heart leap that she watched the departure of her kind friends and of him too who would have shed his blood for her with gladness in order that in silence and solitude she might live over again the moments she had passed with Hubert—moments which in her estimation outweighed in value whole years of life without him
Dear and precious was her little closet now There was nothing within it that ever tempted her aunt to enter her retreat therefore was secure and deeply did she enjoy the conviction that it was so It was not Petrarch it was not Shakspeare no nor Spencers fairyland in which when fancyfree she used to roam for hours of most sweet forgetfulness that now chained her to her solitary chair and kept her wholly unconscious of the narrow walls that hemmed her in But what a world of new and strange thoughts it was amidst which she soon lost herself Possibilities conjectures hopes such as had never before entered her head arose within her as with a singular mixture of distinctness of memory and confusion of feeling she lived again through every instant of the period during which Colonel Hubert had been in her presence and of that more thrilling still as she meditated upon it when she unconsciously had been in his How anxiously she recalled her attitude the careless disorder of her hair and the unmeasured burst of enjoyment to which she had yielded herself How every song she had sung passed in review before her Her graces her roulades her childish trials of what she could effect all seemed to rise in judgment against her and her cheeks tingled with the blushes they brought Yet in the midst of this perhaps
a sense of self-approving power
Mixed with her busy thought
and she felt that she was not sorry he had heard her sing
Then came the glowing picture of the few short moments that followed the discovery the look that she had seen fixed upon her the voice that trembled as he asked to be forgiven his flushed cheek the agitation—yes the agitation of his manner of the stately Huberts manner as he approached as he stood near as he looked at as he spoke to her It was so she knew it she had seen it she had felt it How strange is the constitution of the human mind and how mutually dependent are its faculties and feelings on each other The same girl who was so earthly dull as to be unable to perceive the undisguised adoration of Frederick Stephenson was now rapt in a delirium of happiness from having read what probably no other mortal eye could see in the involuntary workings of Colonel Huberts features for a few short instants while offering an apology which he could hardly avoid making
CHAPTER VIII
SOME FARTHER PARTICULARS RESPECTING THE STATE OF MRS BARNABYS HEART—TENDER DOUBTS AND FEARS ON THE PART OF THE MAJOR ALL SET TO REST BY THE GENTLE KINDNESS OF THE WIDOW—SOME ACCOUNT OF MRS PETERSS CONCERT AND OF THE TERRIBLE EVENTS WHICH FOLLOWED IT
We have left the Widow Barnaby too long and must hasten back to her There was altogether a strange mixture of worldly wisdom and of female folly in her character for first one and then the other preponderated as circumstances occurred Had a man richer than she believed the fascinating Major to be proposed to her even at the very tenderest climax of his courtship there is no doubt in the world but she would have accepted him but when all her pecuniary anxieties were lulled into a happy doze by the pleasing statements of Messrs William and Maintry her lovemaking propensities awoke she was again the Martha Compton of Silverton and became so exceedingly attached to the Majors society that neither Mrs Peterss concert nor any other engagement in which he did not share could have compensated for one of those delightful têteàtête evenings during which Agnes enjoyed the society of her friends
When Major Allen saw the invitation card from Rodney Place lying on the table he said—
Do you intend to go dearest
Have you a card Major was the reply and when the rejoinder produced a negative she added—Then most assuredly I shall not go a degree of fidelity that was very satisfactory to the Major who began to discover that his newness in the society of Clifton was wearing off and that he was eyed askance whenever he ventured to appear where gentlemen assembled
A thousand fond follies of course diversified these frequent têteàtêtes and upon one occasion the Major in a sudden burst of jealous tenderness declared that notwithstanding the many proofs of affection she had granted him there was one without which he could not be satisfied as his dreams perpetually tormented him with visions of rivals who succeeded in snatching her from him
Oh Major what folly exclaimed the lady Have you not yet learned to read my heart But what is there foolish as you are what is there that I could refuse to you that it was not inconsistent with my honour to grant
Your honour Beautiful Juno know you not that your honour is dearer to me than my own What I would ask my beloved Martha can attach no disgrace to you but in fact I shall not know a moments ease till you have given me a promise of marriage I know my love that you have relations here who will leave no stone unturned to prevent our union and the idea that they may succeed distracts me Will you forgive this weakness and grant what I implore
You know I will foolish man but I will have your promise in return or you will think my love less fervent than your own returned the widow playfully
To this the Major made no objection and so in merry sport these promises were signed and exchanged amidst many loverlike jestings on their own folly
This happened just three days before the eventful concert and in the interval Major Allen received a letter from his friend Maintry who was still at Bath requesting him to join him there in order to give him the advantage of his valuable advice on a matter of great importance It was of course with extreme reluctance that he tore himself away but it was a sacrifice demanded by friendship and he would make it as he told the widow on condition that she would rescind her refusal to Mrs Peters and pass the evening of his absence at her house She agreed to this and he left her only in time to enable her to dress for the party
The being accompanied by her aunt was a considerable drawback to any pleasure Agnes had anticipated from the evening and the stroke came upon her by surprise for Mrs Barnaby did not deem it necessary to stand on such ceremony with her sister as to ask leave to come after having been once invited
Mrs Peters looked vexed and disconcerted when she entered but perceiving the anxiety with which Agnes was watching to see how she bore it she recalled her smiles placed her prodigiously fine sisterinlaw on a sofa with two other dowagers desired Mr Peters to go and talk to her and then seizing upon Agnes led her among the party of amateurs who were indulging in gossip and tea at a snug table in the second drawingroom She was immediately introduced as a young friend who would prove a great acquisition and two or three songs in her own oldfashioned style were assigned pretty nearly without waiting for her consent to her performance but with an observation from Mrs Peters that she could not refuse because they were the very songs she had sung when Mr Stephenson was there in the morning
All this was said and done in a bustle and a hurry and Agnes carried off captive to the region where the business of the evening was already beginning with the tuning of instruments and the arrangement of desks before she well knew what she intended to do or say She would have felt the embarrassment more had her mind been fully present to the scene but it was not She knew that Mr Stephenson and his friend were expected and no spot of earth had much interest for her at that moment except the doorway
Her suspense lasted not long however for they soon entered together and then her heart bounded the colour varied on her cheek and her whole frame trembled Mr Stephenson was by her side in a moment but she was conscious of this only sufficiently to make her feel a pang because Colonel Hubert had not followed him Far from approaching her indeed he seemed to place himself studiously at a distance and instantly a deep gloom appeared in the eyes of Agnes to have fallen upon every object The lights were dim every instrument out of tune and the civilities of Mr Stephenson so extremely troublesome that she thought if they continued she must certainly leave the room
The overture began and she was desired to sit down in the place assigned her but this as she found left her open on one side to the pertinacious whisperings of Mr Stephenson and with a movement of irritation quite new to her she got up again with her cheeks burning to ask for a place in the very middle of a row of ladies who could not comply with her request without real difficulty
As soon as she had reached her new station she raised her eyes and looked towards the spot where she had seen Colonel Hubert place himself there he was still and moreover his eyes were evidently fixed upon her
Why will he not speak to me mentally exclaimed poor Agnes or why does he so look at me
It would not have been difficult for Colonel Hubert to have given an answer While they were taking coffee together half an hour before they set off Frederick Stephenson told his friend that his fate would that night be decided for he had made up his mind to propose to Miss Willoughby
Colonel Hubert started Of course Frederick you do not decide upon this without being pretty certain what the answer will be was the reply of Colonel Hubert
You know the definition Silvius gives of love returned Frederick It is to be all made of faith and service and so am I for Agnes Wherefore as my service is and shall be perfect so also shall be my faith nor will I ever submit myself to the misery of doubting Either she is mine at once or I fly where I can never see her more
After this Colonel Hubert very naturally preferred looking on from a distance to making any approach that might disturb the declared purpose of his friend
Bystanders see most is an old proverb and all such speak truly Frederick notwithstanding his perfect service was not by many a degree so near discovering the true state of Miss Willoughbys feelings as his friend not indeed that Colonel Hubert discovered anything relating to himself but he saw weariness and distaste in the movement of Agness head and the mournful expression of her face even before the decisive manœuvre by which she escaped from him who was only waiting for an opportunity of confessing himself to be all made of adoration duty and observance
An indescribable sensation of pleasure tingled through the veins of Colonel Hubert as he observed this but the next moment his heart reproached him with a bitter pang Am I then a traitor to him who has so frankly trusted me thought he No by Heaven Poor Frederick Angel as she is he well deserves her for from the very first he has thought of her and her only while I the study of her aunts absurdities I deemed the more attractive speculation of the two Agnes you are avenged
The goodhumoured Frederick mean time though foiled in his hope of engrossing her quickly found consolation in listening to Miss Peters who confided to him all her doubts and fears respecting the possibility of her friends finding courage to sing before so large an audience
For Gods sake do not plague her about it said he Though to be sure such a voice as hers would be enough to embellish any concert in the world
It is only on mammas account replied Mary that I am anxious for it she has been so disappointed about Miss Roberts I wish after Lucys next duet with James while Elizabeth is accompanying the violoncello that you would contrive to get near her where she is trying to keep out of the way poor thing and tell her that my mother wishes to speak to her
Frederick readily undertook the commission not ill pleased to be thus confirmed in his belief that she had not run away from him but for some other reason which he had not before understood Miss Peters was far from imagining what an effectual means she had hit upon for making her friend Agnes take a place among the performers She had continued to sit during the long duet triumphing in the clever management that had placed her out of the way of everybody and perfectly aware though she by no means appeared to watch him steadily that Colonel Hubert did not feel at all more gay or happy than herself But lo just at the moment indicated by Mary the smiling bowing handsome Frederick Stephenson contrived civilly and silently to make his way between crowded rows of fulldressed ladies to the place where Agnes fancied herself in such perfect security He delivered his message but not without endeavouring to make her understand how superlatively happy the commission had made him
This was too much To sit within the same room that held Colonel Hubert without his taking the slightest notice of her and that too after all the sweet delusive visions of the morning was quite dreadful enough without having to find answers for words she did not hear and dress her face in smiles when she was so very much disposed to weep I will sing every song they will let me thought she Ill or well it matters not now I will bear anything but being talked to
Giving the eager messenger nothing but a silent nod in return for all his trouble Agnes again rose and made her way to Mrs Peters
It chanced that Mary Lucy and one or two other ladies were in consultation with her at a part of the room exactly within sight of Mrs Barnaby who having found her neighbours civilly disposed to answer all her questions had thus far remained tolerably contented and quiet But the scene she now witnessed aroused her equally to jealousy and astonishment Mrs Peters—who from the moment she had deposited her on the sofa had never bestowed a single word upon her but on the contrary kept very carefully out of her way—had hitherto been supposed by her selfsatisfied sisterinlaw to be too much occupied in arranging the progress of the musical performance to have any time left to bestow upon her relations yet now she saw her in the centre of the room devoting her whole attention to Agnes evidently presenting her to one or two of the most elegantlooking among her company and finally taking her by the hand as if she had been the most important personage present and leading her with smiles and an air of the most flattering affection to the pianoforte
Who is that beautiful girl maam said one of Mrs Barnabys talkative neighbours thinking perhaps that she had a right in her turn to question a person who had so freely questioned her
What girl maam returned Mrs Barnaby for use so lessens marvel that she had become almost unconscious of the uncommon loveliness of her niece or at any rate was too constantly occupied by other concerns to pay much attention to it
That young lady in black crape whom Mrs Peters has just led to the instrument Upon my word I think she is the most beautiful person I ever saw
Oh thats my niece maam and Im sure I dont know what nonsense my sister Peters has got in her head about her I hope she is not going to pretend to play without asking my leave It is time I should look after her And so saying the indignant Mrs Barnaby arose determined upon sharing the notice at least if not the favour bestowed upon her dependant kinswoman But she was immediately compelled to reseat herself by the universal Hush that buzzed around her for at that moment the superb voice of Agnes burst upon the room and startled the dull ear of the least attentive listener in it
The effect was so wholly unlookedfor and so great that the demonstration of it might naturally have been expected to overpower so young a performer Miss Peters therefore the moment the song was over hastened to her friend expecting to find her agitated trembling and in want of an arm to support her but instead of this she found Agnes perfectly tranquil apparently unconscious of having produced any sensation at all in the company at large and in fact looking for the first time since she entered the room happy and at her ease
The cause of this could only be found where Miss Peters never thought of looking for it—namely in the position and countenance of Colonel Hubert He had not indeed yet spoken much to her but enough at least to convince her that he was not more indifferent than in the morning and in short enough to raise her from the miserable state of dejection and annoyance which made her fly with such irritated feelings from the attentions of Frederick to such a state of joyous hopefulness as made her almost giddily unmindful of every human being around her save one
Though Agnes had restlessly left the place whence she had first seen Colonel Hubert ensconce himself in a corner apparently as far from her as possible she chose another equally convenient for tormenting herself by watching him and for perceiving also that nothing save his own will and pleasure detained him from her From this as we have seen she was again driven by poor Frederick and forgetting her shyness and all other minor evils in the misery of being talked to when her heart was breaking she determined upon singing solely to get out of his way
Her false courage however faded fast as she approached the instrument She remembered with a keenness amounting almost to agony those songs of the morning that she had since been rehearsing in spirit in the dear belief that they had charmed away his stately reserve for ever and she was desperately meditating the best mode of making a precipitate retreat when on reaching the spot kept sacred to the performers and their musicdesks she perceived Colonel Hubert in the midst of them who immediately placed himself at her side where according to rule he had no business to be and asked her in a whisper if she meant to accompany herself
The revulsion of feeling produced by this most unexpected address was violent indeed Her whole being seemed changed in a moment Her heart beat her eyes sparkled with recovered happiness and she literally remembered nothing but that she was going to sing to him again In answer to his question she said with a smile that made him very nearly as forgetful of all around as herself Do you think I had better do it Or shall I ask Elizabeth
No no ask no one he replied
And what shall I sing again whispered Agnes
The last song you sang this morning was the reply
Orpheus was never inspired by a more powerful feeling than that which now animated the renovated spirit of Agnes and she performed as she never had performed before
The result was a burst of applause that ought selon les regles to have been overpowering to her feelings yet there she stood blushing a little certainly but looking as lighthearted and as happy as the Peri when readmitted into Paradise Just at this moment and exactly as Colonel Hubert was offering his arm to lead her back again to a place among the company Mrs Barnaby feathered rouged ringleted and desperately determined to share the honours of the hour made her way proud in the consciousness of attracting an hundred eyes up to the conspicuous place where Agnes stood She had already taken Colonel Huberts arm and for an instant he seemed disposed to attempt leading her off in the contrary direction but if he really meditated so bold a measure he was completely foiled for Mrs Barnaby laying her hand on his in a very friendly way exclaimed in her most fascinating style of vivacity—
No no Colonel you are vastly obliging but I must take care of my own niece if you please She sings just like her poor mother my dear Mary she added changing her tone to a sentimental whine I assure you it is almost too much for my feelings and as she said this she drew the unhappy Agnes away having thrown her arm round her waist while she kissed her affectedly on the forehead
Colonel Hubert hovered about her for a few minutes but whatever might be the fascinations that attracted him they were apparently not strong enough to resist another personal attack from Mrs Barnaby
What a crowd she exclaimed suddenly turning towards him Do Colonel give me your arm and we will go and eat some ice in the other room upon which he suddenly retreated among the throng and in two minutes had left the house It is true that at the moment the widow so audaciously asked for his arm Frederick Stephenson was just presenting his to Agnes which it is possible might have added impulse to the velocity of this sudden exit but whichever was the primary feeling both together were more than he could bear and accordingly like many other conquered heroes he sought safety in flight
Of what happened in that room during the rest of the evening poor Agnes could have given no account to sing again she assured her friends was quite beyond her power and she looked so very pale and so very miserable as she said this that they believed she had really overexerted herself and delighted by the brilliant success of her one song permitted her to remain unmolested by further solicitations
Frederick Stephenson also doubted not that the unusual effort she had made before so large a party was one cause of her evident dejection though he could not but feel that the appearance and manner of her aunt were likely enough to increase this but at all events it was no time to breathe into her ear the tale of love he had prepared for it so after asking Miss Peters if he should be likely to find her friend at Rodney Place on the following morning and receiving from her a cordial Oh yes certainly he also took his leave more in love than ever and though mortified by the disappointment this longexpected evening had brought him as sanguine as ever in his hopes for the morrow
Mrs Barnaby was one of the last guests that departed as next to the pleasure of being made love to the gratification of finding herself in a large party with the power of calling the giver of it her dear sister ranked highest in her present estimation Agnes was anxiously waiting for her signal to depart but no sooner was she shut up in the fly with her than she heartily wished herself back again for a torrent of scolding was poured forth upon her as unexpected as it was painful
And it is thus, ungrateful viper as you are that you reward my kindness Never have you deigned to tell me that you could sing no you wicked wicked creature you leave me to find it out by accident while your new friends or rather new strangers are made your confidants—while I am to sit by and look like a fool because I never heard of it before
It was only because there was a pianoforte there aunt I cannot sing without one
Ungrateful wretch reproaching me with not spending my last shilling in buying pianofortes But I will tell you miss what your fine singing shall end in You shall go upon the stage mark my words you shall go upon the stage Miss Willoughby and sing for your bread No husband of mine shall ever be taxed to maintain such a meanspirited ungrateful conceited upstart as you are
Agnes attempted no farther explanation and the silent tears these revilings drew were too well in accordance with her wornout spirits and sinking heart to be very painful She only longed for her closet and the unbroken stillness of night that she might shed them without fear of interruption But this was destined to be a night of disappointments for even this melancholy enjoyment was denied her
On arriving at their lodgings the door was opened by the servant of the house and when Mrs Barnaby imperiously demanded Where is my maid where is Jerningham she was told that Jerningham had gone out and was not yet returned
Now Jerningham was an especial favourite with her mistress being a gossip and a sycophant of the first order and the delinquency of not being come home at very nearly one oclock in the morning elicited no expression of anger but a good deal of alarm
Dear me what can have become of her Poor dear girl I fear she must have met with some accident What oclock was it when she went out Such questionings lasted till the stairs were mounted and the lady had entered her bedroom
But no sooner did she reach the commode and place her candle upon it than she uttered a tremendous scream followed by exclamations which speedily explained to Agnes and the servant the misfortune that had befallen her I am robbed—I am ruined Look here look here my box broken open and every farthing of money gone All my forks too all my spoons and my creamjug and my mustardpot I am ruined—I am robbed But you shall be answerable—the mistress of the house shall be answerable You must have let the thieves in you must for the housedoor was not broke open
The girl of the house looked exceedingly terrified and asked if she had not better call up her mistress
To be sure you had you fool Do you think I am going to sleep in a room where thieves have been suffered to enter while I was out How do I know but they may be lurking about still waiting to murder me
The worthy widow to whom the house belonged speedily joined the group in nightcap and bedgown and listened half awake to Mrs Barnabys clamorous account of her misfortune
As soon as she began to understand the statement which was a good deal encumbered by lamentations and threats the quiet little old woman without appearing to take the least offence at the repeated assertion that she must have let the thieves in herself turned to her servant and said—
Is the ladys maid come in Sally
No maam said Sally she has never come back since she went out with the gentlemans servant as comed to fetch her
Then you may depend upon it maam that tis your maid as have robbed you said the landlady
My maid What Jerningham Impossible She is the best girl in the world—an innocent creature that I had away from school Tis downright impossible and I never will believe it
Well maam said the widow let it be who it will it wont be possible to catch em tonight and I would advise you to go to bed for the poor young lady looks pale and frightened and tomorrow morning maam I would recommend your asking Mr Peters what is best to be done
And how am I to be sure that there are no thieves in the house now cried Mrs Barnaby Open the door of your closet Agnes and look under the beds and you Mrs Crocker you must go into the drawingroom and down stairs and up stairs and everywhere before I lay my poor dear head upon my pillow I dont choose to have my throat cut I promise you—Good Heavens What will Major Allen say
I dont think maam that we should any of us like to have our throats cut replied Mrs Crocker and luckily there is no great likelihood of it I fancy Good night ladies
And without waiting for any further discussion the sleepy mistress of the mansion crept back to bed her handmaiden followed her example and Agnes was left alone to receive upon her devoted head the torrent of lamentations by which the bereaved Mrs Barnaby gave vent to her sorrows during great part of the night
On the following morning the widow took Mrs Crockers very reasonable advice and repaired to Rodney Place in time to find Mr Peters before he set off on his daily walk to Bristol Agnes pale fatigued and heavyhearted accompanied her and so striking was the change in her appearance from what it had been the day before that those of the party round the breakfasttable who best loved her were much more pleased than pained when they learned that the cause of her bad night and consequent ill looks was her aunts having been robbed of nearly a hundred pounds and a few articles of plate
They were too judicious however to mention their satisfaction and the sorrows of the widow received from all the party a very suitable measure of condolence Mr Peters indeed did much more than condole with her for he cordially offered his assistance and it was soon settled by his advice that Mrs Barnaby should immediately accompany him to the mayor and afterwards proceed according to the instructions of a lawyer to whom he immediately dispatched a note requesting that he would meet them forthwith before the magistrate The carriage was then ordered Agnes by the advice of all parties was left at Rodney Place and Mrs Barnaby somewhat comforted but still in great tribulation set off in her dear sisters coach her best consolation to testify before the mayor of Bristol not only that she had been robbed but that there certainly was some reason to suppose her maid Jerningham the thief
Mr Peters found his lawyer ready to receive them who after hearing the ladys statement obtained a warrant for the apprehension of Elizabeth Jacks and of William —— surname unknown groom or valet or both to Major Allen lodging at Gloucester Row Clifton The widow had very considerable scruples concerning the implication of this latter individual but having allowed that she thought he must be the gentlemans servant spoken of by Mrs Crockers maid as having accompanied Jerningham when she left the house she was assured that it would be necessary to include him and she finally consented on its being made manifest to her that if he proved innocent there would be no difficulty whatever in obtaining his release Mrs Barnaby was then requested accurately to describe the persons of her maid and her supposed companion which she did very distinctly and with the less difficulty because the persons of both were remarkable
There wasnt another man likely to be in her company was there maam said a constable who was in attendance in the office
No replied Mrs Barnaby confidently I dont know any one at all likely to be with her I am almost sure that she had not any other acquaintance
But the man might observed another official
Thats true rejoined the first and therefore I strongly suspect that I saw the girl and the man too enter a house on the quay just fit for such sort of company but there was another fellow along with them
Then we will charge you with the warrant Miles said the magistrate If you can succeed in taking them into custody at once it is highly probable that you may be able to recover the property
This hint rendered the widow extremely urgent that no time should be lost and in case the constable should succeed in finding them at the place he had named she consented to remain in a room attached to the office that no time might be lost in identifying the parties
There will be no harm I suppose in taking the other fellow on suspicion if I find them still together said the constable adding I rather think I know something of that tother chap already He received authority to do this and then departed leaving Mrs Barnaby her faithful squire Mr Peters and the lawyer seated on three stools in a dismal sort of apartment within the office the lady at least being in a state of very nervous expectation This position was not a pleasant one but fortunately it did not last long for in considerably less than an hour they were requested to return into the office the three prisoners being arrived
Mr Peters gave the lady his arm and they entered by a door exactly facing the spot on which stood the three persons just brought in with the constable and two attendant officers behind them The group as expected consisted of two men and a girl which latter was indeed the tall and slender Betty Jacks and no other the man at her left hand was William the Majors civil groom and he at her right was no it was impossible yet she could not mistake it must be and in fact it was that pattern of faithful friendship Captain Maintry
Mrs Barnabys agitation was now beyond all suspicion of affectation very considerable and his worship obligingly ordered a glass of water and a chair which having been procured and profited by he asked her if she knew the prisoners
Yes she answered with a longdrawn sigh
Can you point them out by name
The girl is my maid Jer Betty Jacks that man is William Major Allens groom and that other
You had better stop there interrupted the self-styled captain or you may chance to say more than you know
You had better be silent I promise you said the magistrate Pray maam do you know that person Did you ever see him before
Yes I have seen him before replied Mrs Barnaby who was pale in spite of her rouge for the recollection of all the affectionate intimacy she had witnessed between this man and her affianced Major turned her very sick and it was quite as much as she could do to articulate
I should be sorry maam to trouble you with any unnecessary questions said the magistrate but I must beg you to tell me if you please where it is you have seen him and what he is called
I saw him in the Mall at Clifton sir replied Mrs Barnaby
And many an honest man besides me may have been seen in the Mall at Clifton said the soidisant Captain Maintry laughing
And you have never seen him anywhere else maam
No sir never
Pray was he then in company with that groom
No replied the widow faltering
Maintry laughed again
You cannot then swear that you suspect him of having robbed you
No sir
Here the constable whispered something in the ear of the magistrate who nodded and then resumed his examination
Did you hear this mans name mentioned madam when you saw him in the Mall
Yes sir I did
That has nothing to do with the present business interrupted Maintry and therefore you have no right to ask it
I suspect that you have called yourself in this city by more names than one replied the magistrate and I have a right to discover this if I can By what name did you hear him called when you saw him at Clifton maam
I heard him called Captain Maintry
Captain indeed These fellows are all captains and majors I think said the magistrate making a memorandum of the name Mrs Barnabys heart sunk within her She remembered the promise of marriage and that so acutely as almost to make her forget the business that brought her there
The magistrate and the lawyer however were less oblivious and proceeded in the usual manner to discover whether there were sufficient grounds of suspicion against any of the parties to justify committal The very first question addressed to Betty Jacks settled the business for she began crying and sobbing at a piteous rate and said If mistress will forgive me Ill tell her all about it and a great deal more too and twasnt my fault nor Williams neither half so much as Joe Purdhams for he set us on and she indicated Joe Purdham with a finger which as her lengthy arm reached within an inch of his nose could not be mistaken as to the person to whom it intended to act as index But had this been insufficient the search instituted on the persons of the trio would have supplied all the proof wanted Very nearly all the money was discovered within the lining of Purdhams hat the pockets of Betty were heavy with forks and spoons and the creamjug and mustardpot carelessly enveloped each in a pockethandkerchief were lodged upon the person of William
In a word the parties were satisfactorily identified and committed to prison the property of Mrs Barnaby was in a fair way of being restored and her very disagreeable business at Bristol done and over leaving nothing but a ride back in her sisters coach to be accomplished
Mr Peters offered his arm to lead her out and with a dash of honest triumph at having so ably managed matters said Well madam I hope you are pleased with the termination of this business
What a question for Mrs Barnaby to answer Pleased Was she pleased Pleased at having every reason in the world to believe that she had given a promise of marriage to the friend and associate of a common thief But the spirit of the widow did not forsake her and after one little hysterical gasp she replied by uttering a thousand thanks and a million assurances that nothing could possibly be more satisfactory
She was not however quite in a condition to meet the questionings which would probably await her at Rodney Place and as Mr Peters did not return in the carriage she ordered the man to set her down at Sion Row She could not refuse to Mrs Crocker the satisfaction of knowing that Jerningham was the thief that Jerningham was committed to prison and that she was bound over to prosecute but it was all uttered as briefly as possible and then she shut herself in her drawingroom to take counsel with herself as to what could be done to get her out of this terrible scrape without confessing either to Mr Peters or any one else that she had ever got into it
For the remainder of the day she might easily plead illness and fatigue to excuse her seeing anybody and as it was not till the day following that she expected the return of the Major she had still some hours to meditate upon the ways and means of extricating herself
Towards night she became more tranquil for she had made up her mind what to do She would meet him as fondly as ever and then so play her game as to oblige him to let her look at the promise she had given Once within reach of my hand thought she the danger will be over This scheme so effectually cheered her spirits that when Agnes returned home in the evening she had no reason whatever to suspect that her aunt had anything particularly disagreeable upon her mind for she only called her a fool twice and threatened to send her upon the stage three times
CHAPTER IX
MAJOR ALLEN PAYS A VISIT AT BATH PRODUCTIVE OF IMPORTANT RESULTS—SYMPATHY BETWEEN HIMSELF AND THE WIDOW BARNABY—EXCHANGE IS NO ROBBERY—VALEDICTORY COMPLIMENTS
The adventures of Major Allen have no connexion with this narrative excepting as far as the widow Barnaby is concerned and therefore with his business at Bath or anything he did there we have nothing to do beyond recording about ten minutes conversation which he chanced to have with one individual of a party with whom he passed the evening after his arrival
Among the many men of various ages who were accustomed to meet together wherever those who live by their wits were likely to prosper there was on this occasion one young man who had but recently evinced the bad ambition of belonging to the set Major Allen had never seen him before but hearing him named as a famous fine fellow who was likely to do them honour he scrupled not to converse with perfect freedom before him The most interesting thing he had to record since the party last met was the history of his engagement with the widow Barnaby whom he very complacently described as extremely handsome passionately in love with him and possessed of a noble fortune both in money and land
The Nestor of the party asked him with very friendly anxiety if he had been careful to ascertain what the property really was as it was no uncommon thing for handsome widows to appear richer than they were
Thank you for nothing most sage conjuror replied the gay Major age has not thinned my flowing hair but Im not such a greenhorn neither as to walk blindfold In the first place the lady is sisterinlaw to old Peters one of the wealthiest of turtleeaters and it was from one of his daughters that I learned the real state of her affairs—an authority that may be the better depended on because though they receive her as a sister and all that it is quite evident that they are by no means very fond of her In fact they are rather a stiffbacked generation whereas my widow is as gay as a lark
Is she a Bristol woman inquired one of the party
No she is from Devonshire was the reply The name of her place is Silverton Park
Silverton in Devonshire said the young stranger May I ask the ladys name sir
Her name is Barnaby replied Major Allen briskly do you happen to know anything about her
The widow Barnaby of Silverton Oh to be sure I do and a fine woman she is too—no doubt of it She is the widow of our apothecary
The widow of an apothecary No such thing sir you mistake altogether replied the Major Do you happen to know such a place as Silverton Park
I never heard of such a park sir but I know Silverton well enough said the young man and I know her house or what was her house as well as I know my own fathers which is at no great distance from it neither And I know the shop and the bowwindow belonging to it and a very pretty decent dwellinghouse it is
Major Allen grew fidgety he wanted to hear more but did not approve the publicity of the conversation and contrived at the moment to put a stop to it but contrived also to make an appointment with his new acquaintance to breakfast together on the following morning and before their allowance of tea and toast was dispatched Major Allen was not only fully disenchanted respecting Silverton Park and the four beautiful greys but quite au fait of the reputation for running up bills which his charmer had enjoyed previous to her marriage with the worthy apothecary
It was this latter portion of the discourse which completed the extinction of the Majors passion and this so entirely that he permitted himself not to inquire as he easily might have done into the actual state of the widows finances but feeling himself on the edge of a very frightful precipice he ran off in the contrary direction too fast to see if there were any safe mode of descending without a tumble It may indeed be doubted whether the snug little property actually in possession of his Juno would have been sufficient for his honourable ambition even had he been as sure of her having and holding it as she was herself for to say the truth he rated his own price in the matrimonial market rather highly—had great faith in the power of his height and fashionable tournure and confidence unbounded in his large eyes and collier Grec It is true indeed that he had failed more than once and that too when the fair cause of all his pain had given him great reason to believe that she admired him much nevertheless his selfapproval was in no degree lessened thereby nor was it likely to be so long as he could oil and trim his redundant whiskers without discovering a grey hair in them
In short what with his wellsustained value for himself and his much depreciated value for the widow he left Bath boiling with rage at the deception practised upon him and arrived at Clifton determined to trust to his skill for obtaining a peaceable restitution of the promise of marriage without driving his Juno to any measures that might draw upon them the observation of the public a tribunal before which he was by no means desirous of appearing
The state of Mrs Barnabys mind respecting this same promise of marriage has already been described wherefore it may be perceived that when Major Allen made his next morning visit at Sion Row a much greater degree of sympathy existed between himself and the widow than either imagined It was in the tactics of both however to meet without any appearance of diminished tenderness and when he entered with the smile that had so often gladdened her fond heart she stretched out a hand to welcome him with such softness of aspect as made the deluded gentleman tremble to think how difficult a task lay before him
Neither was Mrs Barnabys heart at all more at ease Who could doubt the sincerity of the ardent pressure with which that hand was held Who could have thought that while gazing upon her in silence that seemed to indicate feelings too strong for words he was occupied solely in meditating how best he could get rid of her for ever
The conversation was preluded by a pretty wellsustained passage of affectionate inquiries concerning the period of absence and then the Major ejaculated Yes my sweet friend I have been well in health but it is inconceivable what fancies a man truly in love finds to torment himself Whilst the widow mentally answered him Perhaps you were afraid I might see your friend Maintry stuck up in the pillory or peeping at me through the county prison windows but aloud she only said with a smile a little forced What fancies Major
I am almost afraid to tell you he replied you will think me so weak so capricious
This word capricious sounded pleasantly to the widows ears it seemed to hint at some change—some infidelity that might make her task an easier one than she expected and assuming an air of gaiety she said—
Nay if such be the case speak out without a shadow of reserve Major Allen for I assure you there is nothing in the world I admire so much as sincerity
Sincerity muttered the half entrapped fortune hunter aside Confound her sincerity and then replied aloud—Will you promise dear friend to forgive me if I confess to you a fond folly
Mrs Barnaby quaked all over she felt as if fresh grapplingirons had been thrown over her and that escape was impossible Nay really said she after a moments reflection I think fond follies are too young a joke for us Major they may do very well for Agnes perhaps but I think you and I ought to know better by this time If I can but make him quarrel with me thought she that would be better still
If I can but once more coax her to let me have my way thought he the business would be over in a moment
Beauty like yours is of no age he exclaimed it is immortal as the passion it inspires and when joined with such a heart and temper as you possess becomes
I do assure you Major said the widow interrupting him rather sharply you will do wrong if you reckon much upon my temper it never was particularly good and I cant say I think it grows better
Oh say not so for this very hour I am going to put it to the test I want you to
Pray Major do not ask me to do anything particularly obliging for to say the truth I am in no humour for it It has occurred to me more than once Major Allen since you set off so suddenly that it is likely enough there may be another lady in the case and that the promise you got out of me was perhaps for no other purpose in the world but to make fun of me by shewing it to her
Hell and furies growled the Major inwardly she will stick to me like a leech
Oh dream not of such villany he exclaimed it was concerning that dear promise that I wished to speak to you my sweet Martha Methinks that promise
I tell you what Major Allen cried the widow vehemently if you dont let me see that promise this very moment nothing on earth shall persuade me that you have not given it in jest to some other woman
Good Heaven he replied what a moment have you chosen for the expression of this cruel suspicion I was on the very verge of telling you that I deemed such a promise unworthy a love so pure—so perfect as ours and therefore if you would indulge my fond desire you would let each of us receive our promise back again
The Major was really and truly in a state of the most violent perturbation as he uttered these words fearing that the fond and jealous widow might suspect the truth and hold his pledge with a tenacity beyond his power to conquer He had however no sooner spoken than a smile of irrepressible delight banished the frowns in which she had dressed herself and she uttered in a voice of the most unaffected satisfaction If you will really do that Major Allen I cant suspect any longer you know that you have given mine to any one else
Assuredly not most beautiful angel cried the delighted lover thus then let us give back these paper ties and be bound only by
The widow stretched out her hand for the document which he had already taken from his pocketbook but to yield this though he had no wish to keep it was not the object nearest his heart holding it therefore playfully above his head he said Let not one of us dearest seem more ready than the other in this act of mutual confidence give mine with one hand as you receive your own with the other
Now then said Mrs Barnaby eagerly extending both her hands in order at once to give and take
Now then replied the Major joyously imitating her action and the next instant each had seized the paper held by the other with an avidity greatly resembling that with which a zealous player pounces upon the king when she has the ace in the hand at shorts
Now Mrs Barnaby I will wish you good morning said the gentleman bowing low as he tore the little document to atoms I have been fortunate enough since I last enjoyed the happiness of seeing you to discover the exact locality of Silverton Park and the precise pedigree of your beautiful greys
The equanimity of the widow was shaken for a moment but no longer she too had been doing her best to annihilate the precious morsel of paper and rising majestically she scattered the fragments on the ground saying in a tone at least as triumphant as his own And I Major Allen or whatever else your name may chance to be have since last I had the felicity of seeing you enjoyed the edifying spectacle of beholding your friend Captain Maintry alias Purdham in the hands of justice for assisting your faithful servant William in breaking open my boxes and robbing me Should the circumstance be still unknown to you I fear you may be disappointed to hear that both my money and plate have been recovered There may be some fanciful difference between Silverton Park and a snug property at Silverton but I rather suspect that of the two I have gained most by our mornings work Farewell sir If you will take my advice you will not continue much longer in Clifton I may feel myself called upon to hint to the magistrates that it might assist the ends of justice if you were taken up and examined as an accomplice in this affair
The lady had decidedly the best of it as ladies always should have for the crestfallen Major looked as if he must had he been poetically inclined have exclaimed in the words of Comus—
She fables not I feel that I do fear
and without any farther attempt to carry off the palm of victory he made his way down stairs and it is now many years since he has been heard of in the vicinity of Clifton
CHAPTER X
A DISAGREEABLE BREAKFASTTABLE—MR STEPHENSON GIVES HIS FRIEND COLONEL HUBERT WARNING TO DEPART—A PROPOSAL AND ITS CONSEQUENCES
Mrs Barnaby and Major Allen were not the only persons to whom that twentysixth of April proved an eventful day
Colonel Hubert and his friend Stephenson met as usual at the breakfasttable and it would be difficult to say which of them was the most preoccupied and the most unfit for ordinary conversation Stephenson however though vexed at not being already the betrothed husband of his lovely Agnes was full of hopeful anticipation and his unfitness for conversation arose rather from the fulness of his heart than the depression of his spirits
Not so Colonel Hubert it was hardly possible to suffer from a greater feeling of melancholy dissatisfaction with all things than he did on the morning after Mrs Peterss concert
That the despised Agnes the niece of the hateful Mrs Barnaby had risen in his estimation to be considered as the best the first the loveliest of created beings was not the worst misfortune that had fallen upon him
There was indeed a degree of perversity in the case that almost justified his thinking himself the most unfortunate of mortals After having attained the sober age of thirtyseven years if not untouched at least uninjured by all the reiterated volleys which he had stood from Cupids quiver it was certainly rather provoking to find himself falling distractedly in love with a little obscure girl young enough to be his daughter and perhaps from the unhappy circumstance of her dependence upon such a relative as Mrs Barnaby the very last person in the world with whom he would have wished to connect himself This was bad enough but even this was not all With the airs of a senior and a Mentor he had taken upon himself to lecture his friend upon the preposterous absurdity of giving way to such an attachment thus rendering it almost morally impossible for him under any imaginable circumstances to ask the love of Agnes even though something in his inmost heart whispered to him that he should not ask in vain Nor did the catalogue of his embarrassments end here for he was placed visàvis to his openhearted friend who he was quite certain would within five minutes begin again the oftrepeated confidential avowal of his love accompanied probably with renewed assurances of his intentions to make proposals which Colonel Hubert from what he had seen last night fancied himself quite sure would never be accepted
What a wretched what a hopeless dilemma was he placed in Was he to see the man he professed to love expose himself to the misery of offering his hand in defiance of a thousand obstacles to a woman who he felt almost sure would reject him Or could he interfere to prevent it at the very moment that his heart told him nothing but the pretensions of Frederick could prevent his proposing to her himself
Colonel Hubert sat stirring his coffee in moody silence and dreading to hear Frederick open his lips but his worst fears as to what he might utter were soon realized by Stephensons exclaiming—
Well Hubert it is still to do I was defeated last night but it shall not be my fault if I go to rest this without receiving her promise to become my wife Her aunt is a horror—a monster—anything everything you may please to call her but Agnes is an angel and Agnes must be mine
Colonel Hubert looked more gloomy still but he continued to stir his coffee and said nothing
How can you treat me thus Hubert said the young man reproachfully There is a proud superiority in this affected silence a thousand times more mortifying than anything you could say Begin again to revile me as heretofore for my base endurance of a Barnaby describe the vexation of my brother the indignation of my sisters this would be infinitely more endurable than such contemptuous silence
My dear dear Frederick I know not what to say replied the agitated Hubert Had my words the power to make you leave this place within the hour I would use my last breath to speak them for certain am I Frederick—I am most surely certain—that this suit can bring you nothing but misery and disappointment Let me acknowledge that the young lady herself is worthy of all love admiration and reverence I truly think so I believe it I am sure of it but and here Colonel Hubert stopped short resumed his coffeecup and said no more
This is intolerable sir said the vexed Frederick Go on if you please say all you have to say but stop not thus at unshaped insinuations more injurious more insulting far than anything your eloquence could find the power to utter
Frederick you mistake me I insinuate nothing I believe in my inmost soul that Agnes Willoughby is one of the most faultless beings upon earth But this will not prevent your suit to her from being a most unhappy one Forget her Frederick travel awhile my dear friend leave her Stephenson and your future years will be the happier
Colonel Hubert the difference in our ages is your only excuse for the unnatural counsel you so coldly give You are no longer a young man sir You no longer are capable of judging for one who is and I confess to you that for the present I think our mutual enjoyment would rather be increased than lessened were we to separate If I remember rightly you purposed when we came here to stay only till your sisters marriage was over It is now a fortnight since that event took place and it is probably solely out of compliment to me that you remain here If so let me release you In future times I hope we may meet with pleasanter feelings than any we can share at present and besides my stay here—which which for aught I know may be prolonged for months—will under probable circumstances throw me a good deal into intimacy and intercourse with your detested Mrs Barnaby wherein I certainly cannot wish or desire that you should follow me and therefore all things considered you must hold me excused if I say that I should hear of your departure from Clifton with pleasure
Colonel Hubert rose from his seat and walked about the room He felt that his heart was softer at that moment than befitted the age with which Frederick reproached him He was desired to absent himself by one for whose warmhearted young love he had perhaps neglected the soberer friendships of superior men and that too at a moment when he felt that he more than ever deserved a continuance of that love Was he not at that instant crushing with Spartan courage a passion within his own breast which he believed secretly silently unacknowledged even to his own heart to be returned and this terrible sacrifice was made not because his pride opposed his yielding to it but because he could not have endured the idea of supplanting Frederick even when it should be acknowledged that no shadow of hope remained for him And for this it was that he was thus insultingly desired to depart
Generous Hubert A few moments struggle decided him He resolved to go and that immediately He would not remain to witness the broken spirit of his hotheaded friend after he should have received the refusal which as he so strongly suspected awaited him neither would he expose himself to the danger of seeing Agnes afterwards
Without as yet replying to Frederick he rang the bell and desired that posthorses might immediately be ordered for his carriage and his valet told to prepare his trunks for travelling with as little delay as possible These directions given the friends were once more têteàtête and then Colonel Hubert ventured to trust his voice and answer the harsh language he had received
Frederick he said you have spoken as you would not have done had you given yourself a little more time for consideration for you have spoken unkindly and unjustly I would still prevail on you if I could to turn away from this lovely girl without committing yourself by making her an offer of marriage I would strongly advise this—I would strongly advise your remembering while it is yet time the pang it may cost you should anything in short believe me you would suffer less by leaving Clifton immediately with me than by remaining under circumstances which I am sure will turn out inimical to your happiness Will you be advised and let us depart together
No Colonel Hubert I will not I have no wish to detain you I have already said this with sufficient frankness be equally wise on your side and do not attempt to drag me away in your train
These were pretty nearly the last words which were exchanged between them Frederick Stephenson soon left the house to wander about till the hour arrived for making his visit in Rodney Place and in less than two hours Colonel Hubert was driving rapidly through Bristol on his way to London
As soon as Mrs Barnaby and the friendly Mr Peters were fairly off the premises and on their road to look after the thief Mary called a consultation on the miserably jaded looks of poor Agnes and having her own particular reasons for not choosing that she should look half dead inasmuch as she was persuaded the promised visit of Frederick was not intended to be for nothing she peremptorily insisted upon her taking sal volatile bathing her eyes in cold water and then either lying on the sofa or taking a walk upon the down till luncheontime that being the usual hour of Mr Stephensons morning visits
Agnes submitted herself very meekly to all this discipline save the depositing herself on the sofa to which she objected vehemently deciding for the walk on the down as the only thing at all likely to cure her headache It was on their way to this favourite magazine of fresh air that Mr Stephenson met them To Agnes the rencontre was an extreme annoyance for she wanted to be quite quiet and this was what Frederick Stephenson never permitted her to be But she could not run away and so she continued to walk on till just after passing the turnpike she discovered that Mary and Elizabeth Peters were considerably in their rear This têteàtête however caused her not the slightest embarrassment and if she was to be talked to instead of being permitted to sink into the dark but downy depths of meditation which was now her greatest indulgence it mattered very little to her who was the talker She stopped however from politeness to her friends and a sort of natural instinct of bienséance towards herself saying I was not aware Mr Stephenson that we had been walking so fast I think we had better turn back to them
May I entreat you Miss Willoughby said the young man to remain a few moments longer alone with me It is not that you have walked fast but your friends have walked slowly for they at least I plainly perceive have read my secret And is it possible that you Agnes have not read it also Is it possible that you have yet to learn how fervently I love you
No young girl hears such an avowal as this for the first time without feeling considerable agitation and embarrassment but many things contributed to increase these feelings tenfold in the case of Agnes for first which is rarely the case the declaration was wholly unexpected secondly it was wholly unwelcome and thirdly it inspired a feeling of acute terror lest flattering and advantageous as she knew such a proposal to be it might tempt her friends or set on her terrible aunt to disturb her with solicitations which by only hearing them would profane the sentiment to which she had secretly devoted herself for ever
Greatly however as she wished to answer him at once and definitively she was unable to articulate a single word
Will you not speak to me Agnes resumed Frederick after a painful pause Will you not tell me what I may hope in return for the truest affection that ever warmed the heart of man Will you not even look at me
Agnes now stood still as if to recover breath She knew that he had a right to expect an answer from her and she knew that sooner or later she should be compelled to speak it so making an effort as great perhaps in its selfcommand as many that have led a hero to eternal fame she said but without raising her eyes from the ground Mr Stephenson I am very sorry indeed that you love me because it is quite quite impossible I should ever love you in return
Good God Miss Willoughby is it thus you answer me Do you know that the words you utter so lightly so coldly must if persisted in doom me to a life of misery Can you hear this Agnes and feel no touch of pity
Pray do not talk in that way Mr Stephenson It gives me so very much pain
Then you will unsay those cruel words You will tell me that time and faithful constant love may do something for me Oh tell me it shall be so
But I cannot tell you so Mr Stephenson said Agnes with the most earnest emphasis It would be most wicked to do so because it would be untrue You are very young and very gay Mr Stephenson and I cannot think that what I have said can vex you long particularly if you will believe it at once and talk no more about it And now I think that we had better walk back to Mary if you please
Having said this she turned about and began to walk rapidly towards Clifton
Can this be possible said the young man greatly agitated so young and seemingly so gentle and yet so harsh and so determined Oh Agnes why did you not let me guess this end to all my hopes before they had grown so strong You must have seen my love—my adoration You must have known that every earthly hope for me depended upon you
No no no cried Agnes greatly distressed I never knew it—I never guessed it How should I guess what was so very unlikely
Unlikely Are you laughing at me Agnes Unlikely Ask your friends—ask Miss Peters if she thought it unlikely
I do not believe so strange a thought ever entered her head Mr Stephenson for if it had I am sure she would have put me on my guard against it
On your guard against it Miss Willoughby What is there in my situation fortune or character that should render it necessary for your friend to put you on your guard against me Surely you use strange language
Then do not make me talk any more about it Mr Stephenson It is very likely that I may express myself amiss for I am so sorry and so vexed that indeed I hardly know what I say but pray forgive me and do not be unhappy about me any longer
Agnes you love another suddenly exclaimed Frederick his face becoming crimson There is no other way of accounting for such cold indifference such hard insensibility
Agnes coloured as violently in her turn and bursting into tears said with great displeasure That is what nobody in the world has a right to say to me and I will never if I can help it permit you to say it again
She now increased her speed and had nearly reached the Misses Peters notwithstanding all the beautiful summer flowers they had found by the ways side saying no more in reply either to the remonstrances or the passionate pleadings of Mr Stephenson when at length he laid his hand upon her arm and detained her while he said Agnes if you accept my love and consent to become my wife I will release you from the power of your aunt place you in a splendid home and surround you with friends as pureminded and as elegant as yourself Is this nothing Answer me then one word and one word only Is your refusal of my hand and my affection final
Yes sir said Agnes still weeping for his accusation of her having another love continued to ring in her ears and make her heart swell almost to bursting
Speak not in anger Agnes said he mildly What I have felt for you does not deserve such a return
I know it I know it replied Agnes weeping more violently still and I am very wrong as well as very unhappy Pray Mr Stephenson forgive me and she held out her hand to him
He took it and held it for a moment between both his Unhappy Agnes he said why should you be unhappy Oh if my love my devotion could render you otherwise But you will not trust me You will not let me pass my life in labouring to make yours happy
Nothing can make me happy Mr Stephenson pray do not talk any more about it for indeed indeed I cannot be your wife
He abruptly raised her hand to his lips and then let it fall May Heaven bless and make you happy in your own way whatever that may be he cried and turning from her reached the verge of the declivity that overhung the river then plunging down it with very heedless haste he was out of sight immediately
This was a catastrophe wholly unexpected by Miss Peters who now hastened to meet the disconsolatelooking Agnes What in the world can you have said to him my dear to send him off in that style I trust that you have not quarrelled
Most unfeignedly distressed and embarrassed was Agnes at this appeal and the more so because her friend Mary was not alone To her perhaps she might have been able to tell the terrible adventure which had befallen her but before Elizabeth it was impossible and pressing Marys arm she said in a whisper Ask me no questions dearest Mary now for I cannot answer them wait only till we get home
But to wait in a state of such tormenting uncertainty was beyond the philosophy of Mary so she suddenly stopped saying Elizabeth walk on slowly for a few minutes will you I have something that I particularly wish to say to Agnes And the goodnatured Elizabeth walked on without ever turning her head to look back at them
What has happened what has he said to you and what have you said to him hastily inquired the impatient friend
Oh Mary he has made me so very unhappy and the whole thing is so extremely strange I cannot hide anything from you Mary but it will kill me should you let my aunt hear of it He has made me an offer Mary
Of course Agnes I know he has But how does that account for his running off in that strange wild way and how does it account for your crying and looking so miserable Why did he run away as if he were afraid to see us Agnes and when are you going to see him again
I shall never see him again Mary said Agnes gravely
Then you have quarrelled Good Heaven what folly I suppose he said something about your aunt that you fancied was not civil but all things considered Agnes ought you not to have forgiven it
Indeed Mary he said nothing that was rude about my aunt and I am sure he did not mean to be uncivil in any way though certainly he hurt and offended me very much but perhaps he did not intend it
Hurt and offended you Agnes Let me beg you to tell me at once what it was he did say to you
I will tell you everything but one and that I own to you I had rather not repeat and it does not signify for that was not the reason he ran off so
And what was the reason
A very foolish one indeed and I am sure you will laugh at it it was only because I said I could not marry him
You said that Agnes You said you could not marry him
Yes I did I do not wish to marry him indeed I would not marry him for the world
And this is the end of it all exclaimed Miss Peters with much vexation I have much mistaken you Agnes I thought you were suffering greatly from being dependent on your aunt Barnaby
And do you doubt it now Mary
How can I continue to think this when you have just refused an offer of marriage from a young man well born nobly allied with a splendid fortune extremely handsome and possessed as I truly believe of more excellent and amiable qualities than often fall to the share of any mortal How can I believe after this that you really feel unhappy from the circumstances of your present situation
All that you say is very true and I cannot deny a word of it but what can one do Mary if one does not happen to love a man you would not have one marry him would you
How like a child you talk Why should you not love him with manners so agreeable such excellent qualities and a fortune beyond that of many noblemen
But you dont suppose I could love him the better for his being rich do you Mary
You are a little fool Agnes and I know not what to suppose Perhaps my dear you think him too old for you Perhaps you will not choose to fall in love till you meet an Adonis about your own age
It is you who are talking nonsense now replied Agnes with some warmth So far from his being too old I think that is to say I dont think I mean that I suppose everybody would think people a great deal older might be a great deal But this is all nothing to the purpose Mary I would not marry Mr Stephenson if But let us say no more on the subject only for pitys sake do not let my aunt know anything about it
She shall not hear it from me Agnes replied Miss Peters But I cannot understand you—you have disappointed me However I have no right to be angry and so as you say we will talk no more about it Come let us overtake Elizabeth we must not let her go all the way to Clifton in solitary state
And so ended the very promising trial at matchmaking upon which the pretty Mary Peters had wasted so many useless meditations It was a useful lesson to her for she has never been known to interfere in any affair of the kind since
CHAPTER XI
MRS BARNABY FEELS CONSCIOUS OF IMPROVEMENT AND REJOICES AT IT—HOPES FOR THE FUTURE—A CONVERSATION IN WHICH MUCH GENEROUS SINCERITY IS DISPLAYED—A LETTER INTENDED TO BE EXPLANATORY BUT FAILING TO BE SO
Mrs Barnabys first feelings after the Major left her were agreeable enough She had escaped with little injury from a great danger and while believing herself infinitely wiser than before she was conscious of no reason that should either lower her estimate of herself or check the ambitious projects with which she had set forth from her native town to push her fortune in the world But her views were improved and enlarged her experience was more practical and enlightened and her judgment as to those trifling fallacies by which people of great ability are enabled to delude people of little though in no degree changed as to its morale was greatly purified and sharpened as to the means to be employed Thus by way of example it may be mentioned that during the hour of mental examination which followed Major Allens adieux Mrs Barnaby determined never again to mention Silverton Park and if at any time led to talk of her favourite greys that the pastures they fed in and the roads they traversed should on no account be particularly specified Neither her courage nor her hopes were at all lowered by this her first adventure on the contrary by setting her to consider from whence arose the blunder it led her to believe that her danger had been occasioned solely by her own too great humility in not having soared high enough to seek her quarry
In making new acquaintance thus ran her soliloquy—in making new acquaintance the rank and station of the party should be too unequivocal to render a repetition of such danger possible I was to blame in so totally neglecting the evident admiration of Colonel Hubert in order to gratify the jealous feelings of Major Allen That was a man to whom I might have devoted myself without danger his family and fortune known to all the world and himself so every way calculated to do me honour But it is too late now His feelings have been too deeply wounded I cannot forget the glances of jealous anger which I have seen him throw on that unworthy Allen But my time must not be wasted in regrets I must look forward
And look forward she did with a very bold and dashing vein of speculation although for the present moment her power of putting any new plans in action was greatly paralyzed by her having been bound over to prosecute Betty Jacks and her accomplices at the next Bristol assizes Now Bristol and its vicinity had become equally her contempt and aversion The Major had taught her to consider the tradewon wealth of the Peterses as something derogatory to her dignity and though she still hoped to make them useful she had altogether abandoned the notion that they could make her great During the time that it would be necessary for her to remain at Clifton however she determined to maintain as much intimacy with them as their very stiff manners would permit and carefully to avoid anything approaching to another affair of the heart till she should have left their neighbourhood and the scene of her late failure behind
As soon as her spirits had recovered the double shock they had received from the perfidies of Betty Jacks and Major Allen she remembered with great satisfaction the discovery made of Agness singing powers Though more than eighteen years had passed since her musical father and mother had warbled together for the delight of the Silverton soirées Mrs Barnaby had not forgotten the applause their performances used to elicit nor the repeated assurances of the best informed among their auditors that the voices of both were of very firstrate quality The belief that Agnes inherited their powers now suggested more than one project In the first place it would make the parties she was determined to give extremely attractive and might very probably be sufficient to render her at once the fashion either at Cheltenham which she intended should be the scene of her next campaign or anywhere else where it was her will and pleasure to display it Nor was this ornamental service the only one to which she thought it possible she might convert the voice of Agnes She knew that the exploits she contemplated were hazardous as well as splendid and that although success was probable failure might be possible in which case she might fall back upon this newlydiscovered treasure and either marry her niece or put her on the stage or make her a singing mistress as she should find most feasible and convenient
With these notions in her head she attacked Agnes on the singular concealment of her talent as well as upon other matters during breakfast the morning after the unlamented Majors departure which was in fact the first time they had been alone together Agnes having passed the whole of the preceding day at Rodney Place
In answer to her nieces gentle salutation she said in a tone very far from amiable though it affected to be so——
Yes yes good morning aunt thats all very well and now please to tell me where I shall find another young lady living with a generous relation to whom she owes her daily bread who knowing that relations anxiety about everything concerning her has chosen to make a secret of the only thing on earth she can do Tell me if you can where I shall find anything like that
If you mean my singing aunt I have told you already why I never said anything about it My only reason was because I did not like to ask you for a piano
Thats all hypocrisy Miss Agnes and let who will be taken in by you I am not and you may just remember that miss now and always You were afraid perhaps that I might make you of some use to me But the scheme wont answer With the kindest temper in the world I have plenty of resolution to do just whatever I think right and thats what I shall do by you I shall say no more about it in this nasty vulgar merchandizing sort of a place but as soon as we get among ladies and gentlemen that I consider my equals I shall begin to give regular parties like other people of fashion and then let me hear you refuse to sing when I ask you and we shall see what will happen next
Indeed aunt I believe you are mistaken about my voice replied Agnes I have never had teaching enough to enable me to sing so well as you seem to suppose and in fact I know little or nothing about it except what dear good Mr Wilmot used to tell me and I dont believe he has heard any really good singing for the last twenty years
And I was not at Mrs Peterss the other night I suppose Miss Willoughby and I did not hear all the praise and the rapture and the fuss didnt I What a fool you do seem to take me for Agnes However I dont mean to quarrel with you You know what sacrifices I have made and not all your bad behaviour shall prevent my making more still for you You shall have a master if I find you want one and when we get to Cheltenham you shall be sure to have a pianoforte Does that please you
I shall be very glad to be able to practice again aunt only
Only what if you please
Why I mean to say that I should be sorry you should expect to make a great performer of me for I am certain that you will be disappointed
Stuff and nonsense Dont trouble yourself about my disappointments—Ill take care to get what I want And theres another talent Miss Agnes which I shall expect to find in you and I hope you have made a secret of that too for I never saw much sign of it I want you to be very active and clever and to act as my maid till I get one Indeed Im not sure I shall ever get one again they seem to be such plagues and if I find you aint too great a fool to do what I want I have a notion that I shall take a tiger instead—it will be much more respectable Pray Agnes have you any idea about dressing hair
I think I could do it as well for you aunt as Jerningham did replied Agnes with perfect goodhumour
And thats not quite so well as I want but I suppose you know that as well as I do only you choose to shew off your impertinence And theres my drawers to keep in order dunce as you are I suppose you can do that and fifty other little things there will be now that goodfornothing baggage is gone which I promise you I do not intend to do for myself
Did Agnes repent having sent the enamoured possessor of seven thousand ayear from her in despair as she listened to this sketch of her future occupations No not for a moment No annoyances that her aunt could threaten no escape from them that Mr Stephenson could offer had the power of mastering in her mind the one prominent idea which like the rod of the chosen priest swallowed up all the rest
And this engrossing this cherished this secretly hoarded idea how was it nurtured and sustained Did the object of it return to occupy every hour of her life by giving her looks words and movements to meditate upon No Colonel Hubert appeared no more at Clifton and Agnes notwithstanding the flashes of fond hope that like the soft gleaming of the glowworm had occasionally brightened the gloom of her prospects was left to suppose that he had taken his departure in company with his offended friend and that she should probably never hear of him more Was he then angry at her refusal Was the notice he had taken of her for his friends pleasure rather than his own Poor Agnes there was great misery in this thought They had indeed both left Clifton on the same day though they had not left it together But that she knew not Colonel Hubert as we have seen was already on his way to London when the impetuous Frederick staked all his dearest hopes upon his sanguine but most mistaken judgment of a young girls heart and when the illfated experiment was over he posted with all speed across the country to Southampton and there embarked to take refuge among the hills and the orchards of Normandy
The recollection of the manner in which he had driven Colonel Hubert from him was no slight aggravation of his unhappiness when he gave himself time to take breath and to reflect a little He felt deeply bitterly the loss of Agnes but perhaps he felt more bitterly still the loss of his friend The first as he could not help confessing to himself was the loss of a good he had possessed only in his own fond fancy the last was that of the most substantial good that man can possess a tried attached and honourable friend
For many days and many nights too Frederick suffered sorely from the battle that was going on between his pride and his consciousness of having been wrong but happily for his repose his pride at length gave way and the following letter was written and directed to the United Service Club whence sooner or later he knew it would reach the friend to whom it was addressed
Most men my dear Hubert would be too angry at the petulance I exhibited during our last interview even to receive an apology for it but you are not one of them and you will let me tell you without receiving the confession too triumphantly that I have never known a moments peace from that day to this nor ever shall till you send me your forgiveness as frankly as I ask it You may do this with the more safety dear Hubert because we shall never again quarrel on the same occasion and so perfectly have I found you to be right in all you said and all you hinted on that fair but unfortunate subject that henceforward I think I shall be afraid to pronounce upon the colour of a ladys hair or the tincture of her skin till I have heard your judgment thereon Let us therefore never talk again either of the terrible Mrs Barnaby or her beautiful niece but forgetting that anything of the kind could breed discord between us remember only that I am and ever must be
Your most affectionate friend
Frederick Stephenson
How many times did Colonel Hubert read over this letter before he could satisfy himself that he understood it This is a question that cannot be answered because he never did by means of these constantly repeated readings ever arrive at any such conclusion at all Had Mrs Barnabys name been altogether omitted he might have fancied that his own deep but unacknowledged belief that Miss Willoughby would refuse his friend had been manifest in the dissuasive words he had spoken notwithstanding his caution But this allusion to the widow who had so repeatedly been the theme of his prophetic warnings left him at liberty to suppose that Fredericks solitary and repentant rumination upon all he had propounded on that fertile subject had finally induced him to give up the pursuit and to leave Clifton without having proposed to her niece
Anything more destructive to the tranquillity of Colonel Hubert than this doubt can hardly be imagined He had long persuaded himself it is true that it was impossible under any circumstances he could ever confess to Agnes what his own feelings were as his friendship for Stephenson must put it totally out of his power to do so The frankness of Fredericks early avowal of his passion to him and the style and tone of the opposition with which he had met it must inevitably lay him under such an imputation of dishonour if he addressed her himself as he could not bear to think of Nevertheless he felt or fancied that he should be much more tranquil and resigned could he have known to a certainty whether Stephenson had proposed to her or not It was long however ere any opportunity of satisfying himself on this point arose The reconciliation indeed between himself and his friend was perfect and their letters breathed the same spirit of affectionate confidence as heretofore but how could Colonel Hubert abuse this confidence by asking a question which could not be answered in any way without opening afresh the wound that he feared still rankled in the breast of his friend
It would be selfish and ungenerous in the extreme and must not be thought of but this forbearance robbed the highminded Hubert of the only consolation that his situation left him—namely the belief that the young Agnes notwithstanding the disparity in their years had been too near loving him to accept the hand of another Of the two interpretations to which the letter of Frederick was open this the most flattering to himself was the one that faded fastest away from the mind of Colonel Hubert till he hardly dared remember that he had once believed it possible and he finally remained with the persuasion that his too tractable friend had yielded to his arguments against the marriage without ever having put the feelings of Agnes to the test which he would have given the world to believe had been tried and been withstood
CHAPTER XII
A LUCKY ESCAPE—A MELANCHOLY PARTING—MRS BARNABY SETTLES HERSELF AT CHELTENHAM—HER FIRST SORTIE—BOARDINGHOUSE BREAKFAST—A NEW ACQUAINTANCE—A MEDICAL CONVERSATION
In addition to Mrs Barnabys pretty strong confidence in herself and her own devices she soon learned to think that she was very especially favoured by fortune for just as she began to find her idle and most unprofitable abode at Clifton intolerably tedious and that the recovery of her property hardly atoned for the inconvenience of being obliged to prosecute those who had stolen it she received the welcome intelligence that the trio had escaped by means of the superior ingenuity of Captain Maintry alias Purdham The ends of justice being considerably less dear to the widows heart than the end of the adventures she promised herself at Cheltenham she welcomed the intelligence most joyfully and set about her preparations for departure without an hours delay
Several very elegant shops at Clifton had so earnestly requested the honour of her name upon their books that Mrs Barnaby had found it impossible to refuse and the consequence was that when she announced her intended departure so unexpected an amount of mere nothings crowded in upon her that she would have been very considerably embarrassed had not the manner of raising money during the last years of her fathers life been fresh in her memory shewing her as her property was all in the funds and happily or unhappily standing in her own name that nothing could be more easy than to write to her broker and order him to sell out a couple of hundreds
Confidence in ones self—the feeling that there is a power within us of sufficient strength to reach the goal we have in view—is in general a useful as well as a pleasant state of mind but in Mrs Barnaby it was very likely to prove otherwise In all her meditations in all her plottings in all her reasonings she saw nothing before her but success the alternative and all its possible consequences never suggested itself to her as possible and therefore no portion of her clever ingenuity was ever employed even in speculation to ward it off
In a word then her bills which by the by were wholly and solely for her own dress were all paid without difficulty or delay and the day was fixed for the departure of herself and Agnes by a stagecoach from Bristol to Cheltenham
Poor Agnes wept bitterly as she received the affectionate farewells of her friends in Rodney Place and Mary who really loved her wept too though it is possible that the severe disappointment which had attended her matrimonial project for her had a little dulled the edge of the enthusiasm at first excited by the sweetness and beauty of the poor motherless girl But under no circumstances could the grief of Miss Peters at losing sight of her have been comparable to that felt by Agnes herself How little had the tyranny of Mrs Barnaby and all the irksome désagrémens of her home occupied her attention during the month she had spent at Clifton How completely it had all been lost sight of in the society of Mary and the hospitable kindness of Rodney Place
But Oh the heavy change That which had been chased by the happy lightness of her young spirit as a murky cloud is chased by the bright sun of April now rolled back upon her looking like a storm that was to last for ever She knew it she felt its approach and like a frightened fawn trembled as she gazed around and saw no shelter near
You will write to me dear Agnes said Mary I shall think of you very often and it will be a real pleasure to hear from you
And to write to you Mary will be by far the greatest pleasure I can possibly have But how can I ask you to write to me in return I am sure my aunt will never let me receive a letter and yet would it not be worth its weight in gold
Dont take up sorrow at interest Agnes replied Mary laughing I dont think your dragon will be so fierce as that either I can hardly imagine she would refuse to let you correspond with me
Agnes endeavoured to return her smile but she blushed and faltered as she said I mean Mary that she would not pay postage for me
Impossible cried Miss Peters indignantly you cannot speak seriously I know my mother does not believe a word about her very large fortune any more than she does her very generous intention of leaving it to us But she says that my uncle must have left something like a respectable income for her and though we none of us doubt not even Elizabeth that she will marry with all possible speed and when she has found a husband with all her worldly goods will him endow still till this happens it is hardly likely she will refuse to pay the postage of your letters
Perhaps she will not said Agnes blushing again for saying what she did not think but at any rate try the experiment dearest Mary To know that you have thought of me will be comfort inexpressible
And suppose Mr Frederick Stephenson were to ramble back to Clifton Agnes and suppose he were to ask me which way you are gone may I tell him
He never will ask you Mary
But an if he should persisted Miss Peters
Then tell him that it would be a great deal more kind and amiable if he never again talked about me to any one
Arrived at Cheltenham Mrs Barnaby set about the business of finding a domicile with much more confidence and savoir faire than heretofore A very few inquiries made her decide upon choosing to place herself at a boardinghouse and though the price rather startled her she not only selected the dearest but indulged in the expensive luxury of a handsome private sittingroom
I know what I am about thought she faint heart never won fair lady and sparing hand never won gay gentleman
It was upon the same principle that within three days after her arrival she had found a tiger and got his dress resplendent with buttons from top to toe sent home to her private apartments and likewise that she had determined to enter her name as a subscriber at the pumproom
The day after all this was completed was the first upon which she accounted her Cheltenham existence to begin and having informed herself of the proper hours and fitting costume for each of the various stated times of appearing at the different points of reunion she desired Agnes carefully to brush the dust from her immortal black crape bonnet and with her own features sheltered by paille de fantaisie strawcoloured ribbons and Brussels lace she set forth leaning on the arm of her niece and followed by her tiger and parasol to take her first draught at the spring at eight oclock in the morning
Her spirits rose as she approached the fount on perceiving the throng of laughing gay and gossiping invalids that bon ton and bile had brought together and when she held out her hand to receive the glass she had more the air of a fullgrown Bacchante celebrating the rites of Bacchus than a votary at the shrine of Hygeia But no sooner had the healthrestoring but nauseous beverage touched her lips or rather her palate than making a horrible grimace she set down the glass on the marble slab and pushed it from her with very visible symptoms of disgust A moments reflection made her turn her head to see if Agnes was looking at her but no Agnes indeed stood at no great distance but her whole attention seemed captivated by a tall elegantlooking woman who together with an old lady leaning on her arm appeared like herself to be occupied as spectators of the waterdrinking throng
Satisfied that her strong distaste for the unsavoury draught had not been perceived Mrs Barnaby backed out of the crowd saying as she took the arm of her niece in her way This water must be a very fine medicine I am sure for those who want it but I dont think I shall venture upon any more of it till I have taken medical advice it is certainly very powerful and I think it might do you a vast deal of good Agnes
These words being spoken in the widows audible tone which she always rather desired than not should make her presence known at some distance excepting indeed when she was making love were very distinctly heard by the ladies above mentioned and the elder of them having witnessed Mrs Barnabys look of disgust as she sat down her unemptied glass laughed covertly and quietly but with much merriment saying though rather to herself than her companion Good very good indeed This will prove an acquisition
A turn or two up and down the noble walk upon which the pumproom opens was rendered very delightful to the widow by shewing her that even at that early hour many dashinglooking lacefrocked men moustached and whiskered to the top of her bent might be met sauntering there and having enjoyed this till her watch told her the boardinghouse breakfast hour was arrived she turned from the fascinating promenade in excellent spirits and after a few minutes passed at the mirror in arranging her cap and her curls and refreshing her bloom entered for the first time the public eatingroom well disposed to enjoy herself in every way
Having left the Peters family behind her she no longer thought it necessary to restrain her fancy in the choice of colours and excepting occasionally on a provincial stage it would be difficult to find a costume more brilliant in its various hues than that of our widow as she followed the obsequious waiter to the place assigned her Agnes came after her like a tranquil moonlit night following the meretricious glare of noisy fireworks the dazzled sight that had been drawn to Mrs Barnaby as she entered rested upon Agnes as if to repose itself, and by the time they both were seated it was on her fair delicate face and mourning garb that every eye was fixed The vicarial crape and bombasin which she wore in compliance with the arrangement of her too sensitive aunt did Agnes at least one service among strangers for it precluded the idea of any near relationship between her companion and herself and though no one could see them together without marvelling at the discordant fellowship of two persons so remarkably contrasted in manner and appearance none explained it by presuming that they were aunt and niece
The party assembled and assembling at the breakfasttable consisted of fourteen gentlemen and five ladies the rest of the company inhabiting the extensive and really elegant mansion preferring to breakfast in their own apartments though there were few who did not condescend to abandon their privacy at dinner Of the gentlemen now present about half were of that lemon tint which at the first glance shewed their ostensible reason for being there was the real one Of the other half it would be less easy to render an account The five ladies were well dressed and two being old and three young they may be said for the most part to have been welllooking Any more accurate description of them generally would but encumber and delay the narrative unnecessarily as such among them as may come particularly in contact with my heroine or her niece will of necessity be brought into notice
Our two ladies were of course placed side by side Mrs Barnaby being flanked to the right by a staid and sober gentleman of middle age who happily acted as a wet blanket to the crackling and sparkling vivacity of the widow obliging her after one or two abortive attempts at conversation and such sort of boardingtable agaceries as the participation of coffee and eggs may give room for either to eat her breakfast in silence or to exercise her social propensities on the neighbour of Agnes This was an elderly lady who though like Mrs Barnaby but just arrived for the season had unlike her been a constant visiter at Cheltenham for the last twelve years and being an activeminded spinster of tolerably easy means and completely mistress of them was as capable of giving all sorts of local information as Mrs Barnaby was desirous of receiving it Miss Morrison such was her name being now and having ever been a lady of great prudence and the most unimpeachable discretion might probably have taken fright had she chanced at first meeting with our widow to see her under full sail in chase of conquest but luckily this was not apparent at their first interview and the appearance and manner of Agnes offering something like a guarantee for the respectability of the lady to whose charge she was intrusted she met Mrs Barnabys advances towards making an acquaintance with great civility
Before many sentences had been exchanged between them the spinster had the satisfaction of perceiving that all her minute acquaintance with Cheltenham and its ways gave her an immeasurable superiority over her richlydressed new acquaintance while the widow with like facility discovered that all she most particularly desired to know might be learned from the very respectablelooking individual near whom her good fortune had placed her
The consequence of this mutual discovery was so brisk an exchange of question and answer as obliged Agnes to lean back in her chair and eat her breakfast by means of a very distant communication with the table but she was thankful her aunt had fallen upon a quiet though rather singularlooking female of forty instead of another whiskered Major Allen and willingly placed herself in the attitude least likely to interrupt their conversation
Never been at Cheltenham before really Well maam I have little doubt that you will soon declare it shall not be your last visit though it is your first said Miss Morrison
Indeed maam I think you will prove right in that opinion replied Mrs Barnaby for I never saw a place I admired so much We are just come from Clifton which is called so beautiful but it is not to be compared to Cheltenham
You are just come from Clifton are you maam I understand it is a very beautiful place but terribly dull I believe when compared to this If a person knows Cheltenham well and has a little notion how to take advantage of all that is going on he may pass months and months here without ever knowing what it is to have an idle hour I dont believe there is such another place in the whole world for employing time
I am sure thats a blessing replied Mrs Barnaby earnestly If there is one thing I dread and hate more than another it is having nothing to do with my time Idleness is indeed the root of all evil
Im pleased to hear you say so maam said Miss Morrison because it is so exactly my own opinion and because too you will find yourself so particularly well off here as to the avoiding it and I shall be very happy Im sure if any advice of mine may put you in the way of making the most of the advantages in that line that Cheltenham offers
You are exceedingly kind and obliging maam returned Mrs Barnaby very graciously and I shall be very grateful for any counsel or instruction you can bestow With my handsome fortune I should consider it quite a crime if I did not put my time to profit in such a place as Cheltenham
This phrase produced its proper effect Miss Morrison eyed the speaker not only with increased respect but increased goodwill
Indeed my dear madam you are quite right she said and by merely paying attention to such information as I shall be able to give you I will venture to say that you will never have the weight of an idle hour upon your hands while you remain here for what with the balls and the music at the libraries and the regular hours for the walks and attendance at all the sales and I assure you we have sometimes three in a day and shopping and driving between the turnpikes if you have a carriage and morning visits and evening parties and churches and chapels if you have a taste for them and looking over the new names and the pumproom and making new acquaintance and finding out old ones there is not a day of the week or an hour in the day in which one may not be well employed
I am sure maam it is perfectly a pleasure to a person of my active turn of mind to listen to such a description and it is a greater pleasure still to meet with a lady like yourself with taste and good sense to value what is valuable and to find out how and where to enjoy it I hope we shall become better acquainted I have a private drawingroom here where I shall be delighted to see you Give me leave to present you with my card
A giltedged and deeplyembossed card inscribed—
MRS BARNABY
The —— Hotel and Boarding House
No 5
was here put into Miss Morrisons hand who received it with an air of great satisfaction and reiterated assurances that she would by no means fail of paying her compliments
Unlike many vain persons who receive every civility under the persuasion that it is offered for their own beaux yeux Miss Morrison had sufficient good sense and experience to understand that any convenience or advantage she might derive from Mrs Barnaby or Mrs Barnabys private drawingroom must be repaid by accommodation of some sort or other All obligations of such kind were for a variety of excellent reasons always repaid by Miss Morrison with such treasure as her own lips could coin aided by her wit and wisdom without drawing on any other exchequer and now having placed her little modest slip of pasteboard bearing in broad and legible though manuscript characters—
MISS MORRISON
The —— Hotel and Boarding House
by the side of Mrs Barnabys buttered roll she began at once like an honest old maid as she was to pay the debt almost before it was incurred
I dont know how they do those sort of things at Clifton Mrs Barnaby she said but here the medical gentlemen or at least many of them always call on the newcomers and though I hope and trust that neither you nor this pretty young lady—who I suppose is your visiter—though I hope with all my heart that you wont either of you have any occasion in the world for physic or doctors yet I advise you most certainly to fix on one in your own mind beforehand and just let him know it There are not more kind and agreeable acquaintances in the world than gentlemen of the medical profession at least Im sure it is so here There are one or two apothecaries in particular—surgeons though I believe they are called—who certainly are as elegant conversable gentlemen as can be met with in London or anywhere unless indeed just in Paris where I certainly found the apothecaries like everything else in a very outofthecommonway style of elegance toutafay par fit as we say on the Continent Of course you have been abroad Mrs Barnaby
No Miss Morrison I have not replied the widow making head against this attack with great skill and courage I am obliged to confess that the extreme comfort and elegance of my own home have absolutely made a prisoner of me hitherto but since I have lost my dear husband I find change absolutely necessary for my health and spirits and I shall probably soon make the tour of Europe
Indeed Oh dear how I envy you But you speak all the languages already
Oh perfectly
Im so glad of that Mrs Barnaby for upon my word I find it quite out of my power to avoid using a French word every now and then since I came from abroad and it is so vexing when one is not understood A lady of your station has of course been taught by all sorts of foreigners but those who cant afford this indulgence never do get the accent without going abroad Im sure youll find before you have been a week on the Continent a most prodigious difference in your accent though I dare say its very good already But a prop po about the apothecaries and surgeons that I was talking about I hope you will give orders at the door that if Mr Alexander Pringle calls and sends in his card he shall be desired to walk up and then you know just a prop po de nang you can talk to him about whatever you wish to know and you can say if you like it that Miss Morrison particularly mentioned his name There is no occasion do too that you should give him any fee but you may ask him a few questions about the waters cum sa and you will find him the most agreeable convenient and instructive acquaintance do mund
The breakfast was now so evidently drawing to its close that the new friends deemed it advisable to leave the table and Mrs Barnaby having repeated her invitation and Miss Morrison having replied to it by kissing her fingers and uttering Mercy Mercy O revor they parted the widow to give orders as she passed to her drawingroom that if Mr Alexander Pringle called on her he should be admitted and the spinster to invent and fabricate in the secret retirement of her attic retreat some of those remarkably puzzling articles of dress the outline of which she had studied during a three weeks residence in Paris and which passed current with the majority of her friends and acquaintance for being of genuine Gallic manufacture
The prediction of Miss Morrison was speedily verified Mr Alexander Pringle did call at the hotel to leave his card for Mrs Barnaby and in consequence of the orders given was immediately admitted to her presence
She was alone for Agnes though unfortunately there was no little dear miserable closet for her had received the welcome congé now always expressed by the words There you may go to your lessons child if you will and had withdrawn herself to an outoftheway corner in their doublebedded room where already her desk and other Empton treasures had converted about four feet square of her new abode into a home The sofa therefore with the table and its gaudy cover adorned with the widows fine workbox a boardinghouse inkstand of bright coloured china and THE ALBUM still sacred to the name of Isabella dAlmafonte had all been set in the places and attitudes she thought most becoming by Mrs Barnaby herself and together with her own magnificent person formed a very charming picture as the medical gentleman entered the room but it is probable Mr Alexander Pringle expected rather to find a patient than to be ushered into the presence of a lady in a state of health apparently so perfect
Pray sit down sir Mr Pringle I believe said Mrs Barnaby half rising and pointing to a chair exactly opposite her place upon the sofa
Mr Pringle took the indicated chair but before he was well seated in it the idea that some mistake might be the source of this civility occurred to him and he rose again made a step forward and laid his card specifying his name profession and address on the table immediately before the eyes of the lady
Oh yes said she smiling with amiable condescension I understand perfectly and should myself or my young niece or any of my servants require medical assistance Mr Pringle this card placing it carefully in her workbox will enable us to find it But though at present we are all pretty well I am really very glad to have an opportunity of seeing you sir Miss Morrison I believe you know Miss Morrison Mr Pringle bowed Miss Morrison has named you to me in a manner that made me extremely desirous of making your acquaintance Gentlemen of your profession Mr Pringle have so much knowledge of the world that it is a great advantage for a stranger on first arriving at a new place to find an opportunity of conversing with them Will you afford me five minutes while I explain to you my very peculiar situation
Assuredly madam replied Mr Pringle I shall be most happy to listen to you
Well then without farther apology I will explain myself My name is Barnaby I am a widow of good fortune and without children for I have lost both my little ones Here Mrs Barnaby drew forth one of her embroidered handkerchiefs as she always did when speaking of her children which were not and this frequently happened for she had a great dislike to being considered as one unblessed by offspring—a peculiarity which together with some others displaying themselves in the same inventive strain proved an especial blessing to Agnes inasmuch as it made her absence often desirable Having wiped her eyes and recovered her emotion she continued I have no children but an elder sister so much older indeed as almost to be considered as my mother died several years ago leaving an orphan girl to my care In truth I am not a great many years older than my niece and the anxiety of this charge has been sometimes almost too much for me However she is a good girl and I am most passionately attached to her Nevertheless she has some peculiarities which give me pain one is that she will never wear any dress but the deepest mourning thus consecrating herself as I may say to the memory of her departed parents Now this whim Mr Pringle shews her spirits to be in a state requiring change of scene and it is on this account that I have left my charming place in Devonshire in the hope that variety and a gayer circle than is likely to be found in the immediate neighbourhood of a large mansion in the country might be of service to her
Indeed maam I think you are quite right replied Mr Pringle What age is the young lady
Just seventeen and I should have no objection whatever to take her into company and this is indeed the point on which I most wish for your advice I came to Cheltenham sir fully expecting to find my friends the Gordons near relations of the Duke and persons of firstrate fashion and consequence who would at once have placed us in the midst of all that is most elegant in the way of society here But by a letter they sent to meet us at Clifton I find that they are absolutely obliged to pay a visit of some weeks to the Duchess of Bedford and thus I find myself here a perfect stranger without any means whatever of getting into society
A most vexatious contretems certainly madam replied Mr Pringle but there can be no doubt of your obtaining quite as much society as you wish for Cheltenham is extremely full just now and a lady in your situation of life can hardly fail of meeting some of your acquaintance Of course you will go to the pumproom Mrs Barnaby and look over the subscriptionbooks and I doubt not you will soon find there are many here whom you know Besides I will myself if you wish it take care to make it known that you intend to enter into society and probably intend to receive
Indeed sir you will oblige me On my own account I should certainly never particularly desire to make acquaintance with strangers but there is nothing I would not be willing to do for this dear girl Of course I shall make a point of subscribing to everything and particularly of taking my poor dear niece to all the balls She is really very pretty and if I can but contrive to get suitable partners for her I think dancing may be of great service Are there many of the nobility here at present Mr Pringle
Yes madam several and a great deal of good company besides
That gives us a better chance of finding old acquaintance certainly But there is another point Mr Pringle on which I am anxious to consult you My niece is decidedly very bilious and I feel quite convinced that a glass of the water every morning would be of the most essential benefit to her Unfortunately dear creature she is quite a spoiled child and I do not think she will be prevailed on to take what is certainly not very pleasant to the taste unless ordered to do it by a medical man
I must see the young lady maam replied Mr Pringle before I can venture to prescribe for her in any way
Mrs Barnaby internally wished him less scrupulous but feeling that it would be better he should send in a bill and charge a visit than that she should lose a daily excuse for visiting the delightful pumproom and moreover feeling more strongly still that in order to make Agnes swallow the dose instead of herself it would be good economy to pay for half a dozen visits she rose from the sofa and said with a fascinating smile I will bring her to you myself my dear sir but I hope you will not disappoint me about prescribing the Cheltenham waters for her I know her constitution well and I venture to pledge myself to you that she is exactly the subject for the Cheltenham treatment So bilious poor girl so dreadfully bilious
Mrs Barnaby left the room and presently returned with Agnes who was considerably surprised at being told that it was necessary a medical man should see her for in the first place save a heaviness at her heart she felt quite well and in the second she had never before since she left Empton perceived any great anxiety on the part of her aunt as to her being well or ill However she yielded implicit obedience to the command which bade her leave the letter she was writing to Miss Peters and meekly followed her imperious protectress to their sittingroom
Mr Alexander Pringle was decidedly a clever man and clever men of his profession are generally skilful in discerning diagnostics of various kinds He had expected to see a yellow heavyeyed girl looking either as if she were ready to cry with melancholy or pout from perverseness instead of which he saw a lovely graceful creature with a step elastic with youth and health and an eye whose clear intelligent glance said as plainly as an eye could speak What would you with me I have no need of you
He immediately perceived that the amiable childbereaved widow had quite misunderstood the young ladys case It might be perhaps from her too tender affection but let the cause be what it would it was not to solve any professional doubts that he took her delicate hand to feel the healthful music of her pulse Nevertheless Mr Pringle who had seven promising children knew better than to reject the proffered custom of a rich widow who had none so looking at his beautiful patient with much gravity he said—
There is little or nothing madam to alarm you The young lady is rather pale but I am inclined to believe that it rather proceeds from the naturally delicate tint of her complexion than from illness It will be proper however that I should see her again and mean time I would strongly recommend her taking about onethird of a glass of water daily If more be found necessary the dose must be increased but I am inclined to hope that this will prove sufficient with the help of a few tablespoonfuls of a mixture by no means disagreeable my dear young lady which I will not fail to send in And so saying Mr Pringle rose to take leave but was somewhat puzzled by Agnes saying with a half smile in which there was something that looked very much as if she were quizzing him—
You must excuse me sir if I decline taking any medicine whatever till I feel myself in some degree out of health
Mr Pringle who was very near laughing himself answered with great goodhumour Well then Mrs Barnaby I suppose we must do without it and I dont think there will be much danger either He then took his departure leaving Mrs Barnaby quite determined that Agnes should drink the water but not very sorry that she was to have no physic to pay for whilst Agnes was altogether at a loss to guess what this new vagary of her aunt might mean
What made you think I was ill aunt said she
Ill Who told you child that I thought you ill I dont think any such thing but I did not choose you should drink the waters till I had the opinion of the first medical man in the place about it There is no expense no sacrifice Agnes that I am not ready to make for you
But I dont mean to drink the waters at all thank you aunt replied Agnes
Dont mean miss you dont mean And perhaps you dont mean to eat any dinner today and perhaps you dont mean to sleep in my apartment tonight Perhaps you may prefer walking the streets all night Pretty language indeed from you to me And now you may take yourself off again and as you like to stick to your lessons you may just go and write for a copy I must do as Im bid
Agnes quitted the room in silence and Mrs Barnaby prepared to receive her new friend Miss Morrison who she doubted not would call before the hour she had named as the fashionable time for repairing to the public library nor was she at all displeased by this abrupt departure as for obvious reasons it was extremely inconvenient for her to have Agnes present when she felt inclined to enter upon a little autobiography But while anticipating this agreeable occupation she recalled as she set herself to work upon one of her beautiful collars the scrape she had got into respecting her park and firmly resolved not even to mention a paddock to Miss Morrison by name whatever other flights of fancy she might indulge in
This has been no idle day with me as yet thought she as she proceeded with her elegant satinstitch I have got well stared at though only in my close strawbonnet at the pumproom—have made a capital new acquaintance and—remembering with a self-approving smile all she had said to Mr Pringle—I know I have not been sowing seed on barren ground I have not forgotten how glad my poor dear Barnaby was to get hold of something new He will repeat it every word Ill answer for him
CHAPTER XIII
THE ACQUAINTANCE RIPENS INTO FRIENDSHIP—USEFUL INFORMATION OF ALL SORTS—AN EXCELLENT METHOD OF TALKING FRENCH ATTENDED WITH LITTLE LABOUR AND CERTAIN SUCCESS—A COLLECTOR—A SALEROOM—A PEER OF THE REALM
The visit of Miss Morrison which quickly followed was long and confidential Mrs Barnaby very condescendingly explained to her all the peculiar circumstances of her position which rendered her the most valuable friend in the world and also the most eligible match extant for a man of rank and fortune but all these latter particulars were communicated under the seal of secrecy never upon any account to be alluded to or mentioned to any one and in return for all this Miss Morrison gave the widow a catalogue raisonnée of the most marriageable men at present in Cheltenham together with the best accounts of their rentrolls and expectancies that it had been in the power of pertinacious questionings to elicit But it would be superfluous to narrate this part of the conversation at length as the person and affairs of many a goodly gentleman were canvassed therein who as they never became of much importance to Mrs Barnaby can be of none to those occupied by the study of her character and adventures There were other points however canvassed in this interview which were productive of immediate results and one of these was the great importance of attending the sales by auction which sometimes preluded by soft music and always animated as they went on by the most elegant conversation occupied the beau monde of Cheltenham for many hours of every day
Your descriptions are delightful Miss Morrison exclaimed the animated widow I could almost fancy myself there already and go I will constantly you may depend upon that and I want to consult you about another thing Miss Morrison Theres my niece you know—the little girl you saw at breakfast do you think it would be quite the thing to make her leave her books and lessons and all that to waste her time at the sales And besides baby as she is she gets more staring at than I think at all good for her
Jay non doot paw replied Miss Morrison for she is divinely handsome say toon bow tay par fit as they say at Paris and my belief is that if you wish to be the fashion at Cheltenham the best thing you can do is to let her be seen every day and all day long That face and figure must take say clare
Mrs Barnaby fell into a reverie that lasted some minutes That she did wish to be the fashion at Cheltenham was certain but the beauty of Agnes was not exactly the means by which she would best like to obtain her wish She had hoped to depend solely on her own beauty and her own talents but she was not insensible to the manifest advantage of having two strings to her bow and as the ambition which made her determine to be great was quite as powerful as the vanity which made her determine to be beautiful the scheme of making Agnes a partner in her projects of fascination and conquest was at least worthy of consideration
I must think about it Miss Morrison she replied there is no occasion to decide this minute
Poing do too said Miss Morrison I always like myself to walk round a thing as I call it before I decide to take it Besides my dear madam a great deal depends upon knowing what is your principal object Bo coo depong de sell aw If you intend to be at all the parties to be marked with a buzz every time you enter the pumproom the ballroom or the sales I would say dress up that young lady in the most elegant and attractive style possible and you will be sure to succeed paw le mowyndra doot de sell aw But if on the other hand your purpose is to marry yourself set o tra shews and you must act altogether in a different way
I understand you my dear Miss Morrison perfectly replied the widow greatly struck by the sound sense and clear perception of her new friend and I will endeavour with the most perfect frankness to make you understand all my plans for I feel sure that you deserve my full confidence and that nobody can be more capable of giving me good advice The truth is Miss Morrison that I do wish to marry again My fortune indeed is ample enough to afford me every luxury I can wish for but a widowed heart my dear Miss Morrison a widowed heart is a heavy load to bear where the temper like mine is full of the softest sensibility and all the tenderest affections Therefore as I said it is my wish to marry again but God forbid I should be weak and wicked enough to do so in any way unbecoming my station in society—a station to which I have every right as well from birth as fortune No attachment however strong will ever induce me to forget what I owe to my family and to the world and unless circumstances shall enable me rather to raise than debase myself in society I will never whatever my feelings may be permit myself to marry at all
Crowyee moy vous avay raisong share dam exclaimed Miss Morrison
Such being the case resumed the widow it appears to me evident that the first object to be attended to is the getting into good society and if in order to obtain this I find it necessary to bring forward Agnes Willoughby it must certainly be done especially as her singing is much more remarkable I believe than even the beauty of her person
Et he poseble said Miss Morrison joyfully Then in that case share a me there is nothing in the whole world of any sort or kind that can prevent your being sought out and invited to every fashionable house in the place An ugly girl that sings well may easily get herself asked wherever she chooses to go but a beautiful one aveck ung talong samblabel may not only go herself but carry with her as many of her friends as she pleases
Really said Mrs Barnaby thoughtfully This is a great advantage and you feel sure Miss Morrison that if I do make up my mind to bring her forward this will be the case
O we replied her friend confidently set ung fay certaing there is no doubt about it and if you will I am ready to make you a bet of five guineas play or pay that if you contrive to make her be seen and heard once you will have your table covered with visiting cards before the end of the week nong douty paw
Well we must consider about it Miss Morrison but I should like I think to go first to some of these crowded places that you talk about without her just to see that is if you would be kind enough to go with me
Most certainly I will replied Miss Morrison aveck leplu grang plesire Suppose we go to the salerooms this morning There is a vast variety of most useful and beautiful things to be sold today and as they always go for nothing you had better bid a little It is thought stylish
And must certainly draw attention said Mrs Barnaby with vivacity
You are quite right say sa and it is just about time to get ready All our gentlemen will be there you may be sure and perhaps you know some one of them may join us which is a great advantage for nothing makes women look so much like nobody as having no man near them As to marriage I dont think of it for myself jay pre mong party but I confess I do hate to be anywhere without the chance of a mans coming to speak to one mays eel foh meytra mong shappo o reyvoyr
Mrs Barnaby now found herself at last obliged to confess she did not understand her
Of course I know French perfectly she said but as I have never been in the country and not much in the habit of speaking it even at home I cannot always follow you I would give a great deal Miss Morrison to speak the language as beautifully as you do
It is a great assistance in society certainly replied Miss Morrison very modestly but I do assure you that it is quite impossible for anybody in the world to speak it as I do without being in the country and taking the same incessant pains as I did As to learning it from books it is all nonsense to think of it how in the world is one to get the accent and pronunciation But I must say that I believe few people ever learned so much in so short a time as I did I invented a method for myself without which I should never have been able to speak as I do I never was without my pencil and paper in my hand and I wrote down almost every word I heard in such a manner as that I was always able to read it myself without asking anybody The English of it all I got easily afterwards for almost everybody understands me when I read my notes according to my own spelling especially English people and these translations I wrote down over against my French which I call making both a grammar and dictionary entirely of my own invention and I have often been complimented upon it I assure you
And Im sure you well deserve it I never heard anything so clever in my life replied Mrs Barnaby But how soon shall we begin our walk
Now directly if you please I will go and put on my hat that was what I said to you in French Eel foh meytra mong shappo
Mrs Barnaby then repaired to her toilet and having done her very utmost to make herself as conspicuously splendid and beautiful as possible turned to Agnes who was still writing in her dark corner and said You had better finish what you are about Agnes and I hope it is something that will improve you I am going out with Miss Morrison on business and if the evening is fine I will take you a walk somewhere or other
Agnes again blessed their rencontre with this valuable new friend and saw the satin and feathers of her aunt disappear with a feeling of great thankfulness that she was spared the necessity of attending them
On leaving Mrs Barnaby Mr Alexander Pringle paid a visit to his good friend and patient Lady Elizabeth Norris the aunt of Colonel Hubert who as usual was passing a few weeks of the season at Cheltenham as much for the sake of refreshing her spirits by the variety of its company as for the advantage of taking a daily glass of water at its spring The worthy apothecary was as useful by the information and gossippings he furnished on the former subject as by his instructions on the latter and was invariably called in the day after her ladyships arrival however perfect the state of her health might be and given moreover to understand that a repetition of a professional visit would be expected at least three times a week during her stay
He now found the old lady sitting alone for Sir Edward and Lady Stephenson who were her guests were engaged in one of their favourite morning expeditions exploring the beautiful environs of the town a pleasure which they enjoyed as uninterruptedly as the most sentimental newlymarried pair could desire as by a strange but very general spirit of economy few of the wealthy and luxurious visitants of Cheltenham indulge themselves in the expense of a turnpike
Soh Pringle you are come at last are you said Lady Elizabeth I have been expecting you this hour the Stephensons are off and away again to the worlds end in search of wild flowers and conjugal romance leaving me to my own devices—a privilege worth little or nothing unless you can add something new to my list here for next Wednesday
Perhaps I may be able to assist your ladyship returned her Esculapius that is provided Lady Stephenson knows nothing about it for I fear she has not yet forgiven my introduction of Mr Myrtle and the two Misses Tonkins
Stuff and nonsense What does it signify now she is married and out of the way what animals I get into my menagerie But I dont think Pringle that you are half such a clever truffledog as you used to be What a time it is since you have told me of anything new
Upon my word my lady it is not my fault replied the apothecary laughing I never see or hear anything abroad without treasuring it in my memory for your ladyships service and I am now come expressly to mention a new arrival at the —— which appears to promise well
I rejoice Is it male or female
Female my lady and there are two
Of the same species and the same race
Decidedly not but the contrast produces a very pleasant effect and moreover though infinitely amusing they are quite comme il faut I understand the elder lady is sister to Mrs Peters of Clifton
Mr Pringle then proceeded to describe his visit to Mrs Barnaby and did justice to the florid style of her beauty dress and conversation But when he came to speak of the young girl who was vouée au noir and of her aunts pertinacious resolution that she should take the waters and be treated as an invalid notwithstanding the very excellent state of her health the old lady rubbed her hands together and exultingly exclaimed Good admirable You are a very fine fellow Pringle and have hit this off well Why man I saw your delightful widow this morning at the Pump rouge ringlets and all I saw her taste the waters and turn sick and now because she must have a reason for shewing herself at the Pump she is going to make the poor girl drink for her Capital creature I understand it all poor little girl And so the widow wants acquaintance does she I offer myself my drawingroom shall be open to her Pringle And now how can I manage to get introduced to her
You will not find that very difficult Lady Elizabeth depend upon it I will undertake to promise for this Mrs Barnaby that she will be visible wherever men and women congregate At the ball for instance tomorrow night does your ladyship intend to be there
Certainly And if she be there I will manage the matter of introduction with or without intervention and so obtain this fullblown peony for my shew on Wednesday next
Whilst fate and Mr Pringle were thus labouring in one quarter of the town to bring Mrs Barnaby into notice she was herself not idle in another in her exertions to produce the same effect The saleroom to which the experienced Miss Morrison led her was already full when they entered it but the little difficulty which preceded their obtaining seats was rather favourable to them than otherwise for as if on purpose to display the sagacity of that ladys prognostications two of the gentlemen who had made part of their company at breakfast not only made room for them but appeared well disposed to enter into conversation and to offer every attention they could desire
Mr Griffiths if I mistake not said Miss Morrison bowing to one of them I hope you have been quite well sir since we met last year Give me leave to introduce Mr Griffiths Mrs Barnaby
I am happy to make your acquaintance said the gentleman bowing low Your young friend whom I saw with you this morning is not here is she
No sir replied Mrs Barnaby in the most amiable tone imaginable the dear girl is pursuing her morning studies at home
Introduce me Griffiths whispered his companion
Mr Patterson Mrs Barnaby Mr Patterson Miss Morrison and a very social degree of intimacy appeared to be immediately established
Oh what a lovely vase exclaimed Mrs Barnaby What an elegant set of candlesticks cried Miss Morrison as the auctioneer brought forward the articles to be bid for which being followed by a variety of interesting observations on nearly all the people and nearly all the goods displayed before them afforded Mrs Barnaby such an opportunity of being energetic and animated that more than one eyeglass was turned towards her producing that reciprocity of cause and effect which it is so interesting to trace for the more the gentlemen and ladies looked at her the more Mrs Barnaby talked and laughed and the more Mrs Barnaby talked and laughed the more the gentlemen and ladies looked at her Flattered fluttered and delighted beyond measure the eyes of the widow wandered to every quarter of the room and for some time every quarter of the room appeared equally interesting to her but at length her attention was attracted by the almost fixed stare of an individual who stood in the midst of a knot of gentlemen at some distance but nearly opposite to the place she occupied
Can you tell me sir who that tall stout gentleman is in the green frockcoat with lace and tassels That one who is looking this way with an eyeglass
The gentleman with red hair returned Mr Patterson to whom the question was addressed
Yes that one rather sandy but a very finelooking man
That is Lord Mucklebury Mrs Barnaby He is a great amateur of beauty and upon my word he seems exceedingly taken with some fair object or other in this part of the room
The sight of land after a long voyage is delightful rest is delightful after labour food after fasting but it may be doubted if either of these joys could bear comparison with the emotion that now swelled the bosom of Mrs Barnaby This was the first time to the best of her knowledge and belief that she had ever been looked at by a lord at all and what a look it was No passing glance no slight unmeaning regard directed first to one and then to another beauty but a long steady direct and unshrinking stare such as might have made many women leave the room but which caused the heart of Mrs Barnaby to palpitate with a degree of ecstasy which she had never felt before—no not even when the most admired officer of a new battalion first fixed his looks upon her in former days and advanced in the eyes of all the girls to ask her to dance for no Lord anything had ever done so and thus the fulness of her newborn joy while it had the vigorous maturity of ripened age glowed also with the early brightness of youth It might indeed have been said of Mrs Barnaby at that moment that like Mrs Malaprop and the orangetree she bore blossom and fruit at once
One proof of the youthful freshness of her emotion was the very naïve manner in which it was betrayed She could not sit still her eyes rose and fell her head turned and twisted her reticule opened and shut and the happy man who set all this going must have had much less experience than my Lord Mucklebury if he had not immediately perceived the effect of himself and his eyeglass
Could Mrs Barnaby have known at that moment the influence produced by the presence of Miss Morrison she would have wished her a thousand fathoms deep in the ocean for certain it is that nothing but her wellknown little quizzical air of unquestionable Cheltenham respectability prevented the noble lord from crossing the room and amusing himself without the ceremony of an introduction in conversing with the sensitive lady whose bright eyes and bright rouge had drawn his attention to her As it was however he thought he had better not and contented himself by turning to his everuseful friend Captain Singleton and saying in a tone the familiarity of which failed not to make up for its imperiousness Singleton go and find out who that great woman is in the green satin and pink feathers theres a good fellow
Mrs Barnaby did not hear the words but she saw the mission as plainly as my Lord Mucklebury saw her and her heart thereupon began to beat so violently that she had no breath left to demand the sympathy of her friend under circumstances so pregnant with interest But though she hardly knew where she was nor what she did she still retained sufficient presence of mind to mark how the obedient envoy addressed himself and alas in vain first to one lounger and then to another who all replied by a shake of the head which said with terrible distinctness I dont know
Gracious heaven how provoking murmured Mrs Barnaby as she pressed her delicatelygloved hand upon her heart to still its beating He will leave the room without finding out my name Had she been only a few hours longer acquainted with Mr Patterson it is highly probable she would have desired him if asked by the little gentleman in black so actively making his way through the crowd what her name was just to have the kindness to mention that it was Barnaby But though very civil Mr Patterson was rather ceremonious and the unsuccessful messenger had returned to his lord and delivered all the shakes of the head which he had received condensed into one before she could resolve on so frank a mode of proceeding For a few moments longer however the amused nobleman continued his fascinating gaze and then giving a signal with his eye to Singleton that it was his pleasure to move that active personage cleared the way before him and the fat viscount with his hands in his waistcoatpockets stalked out of the room but not without turning his head and giving one bold final openeyed steady look at the agitated widow
That man is my fate she softly whispered to her soul as the last frog on the hinder part of his coat has passed from her eye and then like the tender convolvolus when the sunbeam that reached it has passed away she drooped and faded till she looked more like a sleeping picture of Mrs Barnaby than Mrs Barnaby herself
Do you not find the room very close Miss Morrison said she after enduring for a minute or two the sort of vacuum that seemed to weigh upon her senses
Poing do too replied Miss Morrison speaking through her nose which was one method by which she was wont to convey the true Parisian accent when she desired that it should be particularly perfect Poing do too Mrs Barnaby however I am quite ready to go if you like it for I dont think I shall buy anything this morning and I dont see many acquaintance here
Mrs Barnaby immediately rose the two civil gentlemen made way for them and the widow followed by her friend walked out a more pensive though not perhaps a less happy woman than when she walked in
CHAPTER XIV
A CHELTENHAM BALL—AN INTRODUCTION—A CONQUEST
A great deal of profound meditation was bestowed by Mrs Barnaby on the occurrences of that morning before the time arrived for the toilet preparatory to the ball of the succeeding night All these will shew themselves in their results as they arise and for the present it will be only necessary to mention that in providing for this toilet everything approaching to the sordid cares dictated by economy was banished The time was too short to admit of her ordering a new dress for this occasion though the powerful feeling at work within her caused a white satin decorated in every possible way with the richest blonde to be bespoken for the next Every other article that Cheltenham could furnish and it being the height of the season Paris itself could hardly do more for her every other species of expensive decoration short of diamonds and pearls was purchased for this important ball at which something within her—speaking with the authority of an oracle—declared that she should become acquainted with Lord Mucklebury Busy as were the afternoon and morning which intervened she found time for the very necessary business of ordering her broker he had been her fathers broker too to sell out five hundred pounds stock for her and this done and her letter safely deposited in the boardinghouse letterbag she turned her thoughts towards Agnes
She had certainly to use her own language when reasoning the point with herself the very greatest mind in the world not to take her to the ball at all But this mind great as it was was not a settled mind and was presently shaken by a sort of instinctive consciousness that there was in Agnes independent of her beauty a something that might help to give consequence to her entrée As to her dress thought she I am perfectly determined that it shall be the same she wore at Clifton not so much on account of the expense at the present moment it would be madness to permit such a consideration to have any effect but because it gives her an air more distinguished more remarkable than any one else and besides who knows but that the contrast of style beautiful as she is may be favourable to me I have not forgotten our fellowtraveller from Silverton she seemed to freeze him And let her freeze my adorable viscount too so that I But here her thoughts came too rapidly to dress themselves in words and for a few minutes her reverie was rather a tumult than a meditation
Yes she shall go she exclaimed at last rising from the sofa and collecting a variety of precious parcels the result of her shopping Yes she shall go to the ball and should any mischief be likely to follow I will make her go out to service before the end of the week
Having thus at last come to a determination and upon reasonings which she felt were not likely to be shaken she mounted to her sleeping apartment and after indulging herself by spreading forth various articles of newlypurchased finery upon the bed she turned to the corner in which Agnes her tiny table her books and writing apparatus were all packed away together in the smallest possible space, and said Come here Agnes you must have done lessons enough for today and I have great news for you Where do you think I mean to take you tonight
Agnes cast her eyes upon the bed and immediately anticipating some public display of which she was doomed to be a witness replied in a tone that was anything but joyful—
I dont know aunt
I dont know aunt retorted Mrs Barnaby indignantly mimicking her tone What an owl of a girl you are Agnes Oh how unlike what I was at the same age You dont know I suppose you dont indeed There is not another woman under the sun besides myself who would do for a dependant penniless girl all I am doing for you I sacrifice everything for you my feelings my health my money and yet you look exactly as if I was going to take you to school again instead of to a ball
Agnes sighed she thought of her last ball of all its pains and all its pleasures and feeling but too sure that it was as impossible she should escape the former, as improbable that she should find the latter she replied mournfully enough I would rather not go if you please aunt I do not like balls
Upon my honour Agnes if I had not a temper that was proof against everything I should be tempted to box your ears Is it possible to see anything more disgustingly hypocritical than a girl of seventeen screwing herself up and saying I do not like balls I wonder what you do like Miss Prim But I promise you I do not intend to ask your leave for what I do and as long as you eat my bread you will do as I bid you or else turn out and provide for yourself at once Let me hear no more such stuff if you please but take care to make yourself decent and be ready to get into the carriage exactly at nine oclock Do you hear
Agnes meekly turned to her travelling magazine of sable suits and was considerably surprised by being told that she must instantly get ready to go out for the purpose of buying satin shoes white gloves and one or two other trifles which the newlyenlarged views of her aunt now rendered necessary All this was done Miss Morrison engaged to join their party the labours of the hairdresser were completed and a toilet of two hours duration was brought to a most satisfactory conclusion within ten minutes of the early hour she had named and to the ballroom they repaired considerably before any other person entered it
I told you it would be so my dear Mrs Barnaby said Miss Morrison looking rather disconsolately round her noo sum tro toe but never mind let us sit down comfortably on this sofa and I dare say I shall be able to tell you the names of most of the principal people Cheltenham is so very delightful that almost everybody comes over and over again say too ta fey law mode
A few straggling strangers began to enter almost immediately and in about half an hour the wellpleased Miss Morrison was enabled to redeem her promise by pointing out some scores of welldressed individuals by name But still Lord Mucklebury came not and the widows heart grew sad till happily she heard a young partnerless lady say as she swept by—What a bore it is that all the best men come so late In a moment hope was rekindled in Mrs Barnabys eye and with renewed interest she listened to the catalogue of names which her friend poured into her ear
Oh here comes the bride Lady Stephenson What a handsome man her husband is I have seen her here often with her aunt Lady Elizabeth Norris before she was married The old lady dotes upon Cheltenham they say I wish you knew some more people but name port it will all come by and by I dare say and I will introduce you to Lady Elizabeth if I can but I must ask her first or she may take miff Ell hay ung pew fear
Stephenson said Mrs Barnaby—is it Sir Edward Stephenson
Yes Sir Edward thats his name do you know him Mrs Barnaby
We were most intimately acquainted with his brother at Clifton and with Colonel Hubert too thats her brother you know Pray is he here too
How Agnes trembled as she waited for the answer
I dont know I have not seen him yet replied Miss Morrison and it is impossible to overlook him—set hun um seuperb but comb heel hay fear Perhaps he will come in presently he is always ung pew tar at the balls for he never dances
Oh I know that said Mrs Barnaby I know him perfectly well I assure you he is a most elegant person but I suspect he is rather of a violent and jealous temper However Im sure I wish he was here and his friend Frederick Stephenson too Hes a charming young man and used to walk to Bristol with us and dance three times a night with Agnes
Dear me you dont say so exclaimed Miss Morrison to whom the intelligence was extremely agreeable as it removed at once all doubts and fears respecting Mrs Barnabys real station in society Well then Im sure you ought to know Lady Elizabeth Norris and I really must somehow or other contrive to let her hear of your acquaintance with her nephew Colonel Hubert They say she dotes upon him and that he is to be her heir and thats almost a pity for he has a noble fortune of his own already Do you happen to know how much his sister had Mrs Barnaby Some say twenty some thirty some fifty thousand
Young Stephenson never happened to say anything about it that I recollect replied the widow But look Lady Elizabeth is coming this way You had better step forward Miss Morrison that she may see you
But there was no occasion for any contrivance on the part of Miss Morrison in order to obtain the notice of Lady Elizabeth for that lady having descried and recognised the party she immediately decided that Miss Morrison whose acquaintance she had cultivated for several successive seasons on account of her admirable French should be for her the medium of introduction to the pompous widow who was clever enough to make her niece drink the waters instead of herself
It was therefore by a straight and direct line that supported by the arm of Sir Edward Stephenson and followed by his lady she crossed the room from her own place to that occupied by those whom in her own particular manner she delighted to honour
Miss Morrisons surprise was as great as her satisfaction when she perceived this to be the case and she felt her triumph doubled by her fine new acquaintance being the witness of it
Bon jour Miss Morrison said the old lady holding out her hand toujours en bonne santé jespere
Amidst smiles and bows and blushes and courtesies Miss Morrison replied in her favourite jargon—
Mey we me ladee and I hope your ladyship is the same
A good many old faces here Miss Morrison and a good many new ones too You have friends with you whom I do not remember to have seen before You must introduce me
This request threw the goodnatured spinster into a twitter of delight which almost deprived her of the power of obeying it first she made a little movement with one hand and then with the other while the ample Mrs Barnaby stood in happy smiling expectation and the tall stifflooking old lady continued gazing at the group through her halfclosed eyes and determined on no account to hasten a process from which she derived so great amusement
At length the respective names were pronounced in their proper order that of the blushing Agnes being included The old lady gave her a look in which something of surprise was mingled with curiosity and suddenly turning round to Lady Stephenson who stood behind her she said—
Come Emily you must be introduced too Miss Willoughby Lady Stephenson
Mrs Barnaby had prepared another smile and another majestic bend for the presentation of herself to the fair bride but it did not follow a disappointment for which she was soon consoled by Lady Elizabeths sitting down and graciously intimating by an action of her hand that the widow might sit beside her
Agnes meanwhile stood trembling from head to foot with her eyes timidly fixed on the beautiful countenance of Colonel Huberts sister As it was quite impossible her ladyship could understand the cause of the agitation she inspired so neither was she at all aware of its strength but she saw that the beautiful girl before her notwithstanding the quiet unstudied grace of her appearance was not at her ease and could only account for it by supposing that she was suffering from extreme shyness Lady Stephenson had not yet forgotten the time when she too had hardly dared to look up unless her paternal brother as she was wont to call him stood very near to sustain her carriage and sympathising with a weakness that was in some degree constitutional in herself she felt disposed to take more notice of the fair stranger than she usually bestowed upon persons introduced to her by the whimsical caprices of her aunt
Lady Stephenson was however altogether mistaken Agnes was not at that moment suffering from shyness there was timidity certainly in the pleasure with which she listened to the voice and gazed at the features of Colonel Huberts sister but still it was pleasure and very nearly the most lively she had ever experienced
You are at Cheltenham for the first time Miss Willoughby said the bride
Yes replied Agnes we only arrived two days ago
There was not much opportunity of indicating feeling of any kind by these words nevertheless the manner in which they were spoken and the sweet expression of the beautiful eyes that were raised to hers convinced Lady Stephenson that however shy her new acquaintance might be she greatly liked to be spoken to and accordingly continued the conversation which to her own surprise warmed so much as it proceeded that at length her aunt being evidently settled down for an elaborate development of the absurdities whatever they might be of her new acquaintance she offered her arm inviting her to take a turn round the room
Could this be real Was it possible that she was walking round the Cheltenham ballroom on the arm of Colonel Huberts sister But though the happy Agnes asked herself this question again and again neither the asking nor the answering it prevented her bearing her part in a conversation that made her so exquisitely happy with all the pretty earnestness of one interested in every word that was said to her and too young and freshminded to conceal the pleasure she felt
Lady Stephenson was unexpectedly pleased with her young companion there was no mixture of niaiserie in the simplicity of Agnes and though her ladyship in no degree shared her aunts extravagant passion for originals she had in her own quiet way a reasonably strong liking for whatever appeared to her untainted by affectation The beauty of Agnes might perhaps have had some share in the pleasure she gave but certain it is that after taking two or three turns together instead of one and perceiving Lady Elizabeth about to move her quarters in search of fresh amusement she shook hands with Agnes before parting with her so cordially that she felt called upon to offer some reason for it to her husband who had quitted her during her promenade but was now returned
That is by far the most enchanting girl Edward in person mind and manners that I ever remember to have met with How very strange that she should belong to one of my aunts collection
She is vastly beautiful Emily replied Sir Edward and I suspect that covers a multitude of sins in your eyes for I observe you never fail to pick out the beauties go where you will I declare I think your eyes are infinitely sharper than mine in this way Having once found out the fairest of the fair I do not feel so much interest as I used to do in looking about me
A very pretty speech Sir Edward returned the lady laughing but that sweet girls beauty is not her greatest fascination I must ask Lady Elizabeth whether she found the magnificent lady to whom she has been devoting herself answer her expectations
When this question was put to the old lady however she bluntly answered No not at all She is as dull as a prizeox decorated with ribbons at a fair
I am sorry to hear it observed Lady Stephenson for I have lost my heart to the fair girl in black whom she seems to lead about as a contrast to her radiant self I marvel what the connexion can be It is plain they are not related from the deep mourning of the one and the rainbow brilliance of the other
Your inference is altogether wrong my Lady Stephenson one of this Madam Barnabys long stories was about this melancholy miss who is her niece and who will wear mourning in spite of her I must watch them at the pump just to see if the girl makes up for her disobedience in this respect by swallowing the waters which Pringle says the aunt is determined she shall take and after that I shall trouble myself no more about them The great woman does not answer she is a vulgar pompous everyday bore
Pray do not give her quite up aunt for my sake said Lady Stephenson for I have set my fancy upon seeing a great deal more of her niece who by the way for so pertinacious a mourner is wonderfully sprightly but I must flatter myself she found consolation in my society I must beg you to cultivate the acquaintance a little farther
This is something quite new Emily replied the old lady It is the first time I believe that you ever condescended to take any interest in my menagerie Far be it from me my dear to check so happy a symptom of an improving intellect I have already asked the expansive widow and her delicate shadow for Wednesday and if your fever for cementing a friendship with the latter should happen to continue yield to it by all means You know Emily I never wish to control anybodys set of favourites provided always that nobody interferes with my own
The only pleasure which the rest of the evening afforded Agnes arose from studying the features and still more the countenance of Lady Stephenson whenever she was fortunate enough to be within sight of her No one asked her to dance and no word was uttered within her hearing that gave her the least amusement One single circumstance cheered the tedious hours during which she was doomed to sit with her aunt Barnaby before her eyes in a terror which increased every moment lest she should draw the eyes of every one else in the room upon her This single circumstance was that the sister of Colonel Hubert when standing at three feet of distance from her turned her head and said with a smile of strong family affinity to his own—
I find that I am to have the pleasure of seeing you on Wednesday at my aunts Miss Willoughby I am very glad of it Good night and soon afterwards the party left the room
Far different was the fate of Mrs Barnaby The evening began for her very gloriously for she had been spoken to by a Lady Elizabeth but it ended in rapture for before its close Lord Mucklebury made his appearance stared at her again with the most marked impertinence inquired and learned her name from Mr Pringle by whom he was at his express desire presented and finally he placed himself beside her on the sofa where he remained for at least twenty minutes talking to her in a style that might be said without the slightest exaggeration to have thrown her into a state of temporary delirium
Nor had it failed to produce some emotion in the noble lord nay it is probable it might have lasted longer had it amused him less for when he look his leave of the widow expressing his hope that he should be happy enough to meet her again he moved with a step rather quicker than ordinary to ensconce himself among a knot of men who were amusing themselves by communicating to each other the most ludicrous remarks on the company in a distant corner of the room
Have you really torn yourself away from that magnificent specimen of womanhood Mucklebury said one of the group as he approached them She is evidently magnetic by the manner in which you have been revolving round her for some time and if magnetic and the power at all proportioned to the volume it is a miracle that you ever left her side again
I never would leave her side again replied Lord Mucklebury laughing immoderately did I not fear that I should fall at her feet in a fit Oh she is glorious
Who and what is she in Gods name said another
Who is she Barnaby Bless her—Mistress Barnaby What is she A widow Darling creature a widow fair fat and forty most fat—most fair and oh a pigeon a dove—a very turtledove for kindness
She is really handsome though isnt she Mucklebury said one
Yes upon my soul she is replied the Viscount more seriously and bears looking at too remarkably well notwithstanding the potfull of coarse rouge that it pleases her to carry about on each of her beautiful cheeks
And by what blessed chance has your lordship been favoured with an introduction Or did your lordship so far overcome your constitutional timidity as to introduce yourself
Alarm not your spirit on that score Digby replied Lord Mucklebury The medium of introduction was illustrious but my passion was anterior to it for the history of our loves was in this wise It is said of me I know not how truly that my taste in beauty tends somewhat towards the Blowzabella order Be this as it may it is certain that yesterday morning between the hours of two and three being actively employed for the good of myself and my country in Johnsons saleroom I felt myself penetrated perforated pierced and transfixed by the very bright eyes of this remarkable lady whereupon overpowering my constitutional timidity Digby I fixed my regards eyeglass and all upon her but the result was astonishing Did any of you gentlemen ever happen to watch the effect of the suns rays when thrown upon some soft substance a pound of butter for example) through the medium of a burningglass Such and so great was that produced by the rays of my right eye when sent through my eyeglass upon this charming creature She warmed trembled yea visibly melted under it I inquired her name on the spot but in vain This evening I have been more successful and now I have the inexpressible felicity of being enrolled as an acquaintance of this inimitable widow
A very interesting narrative said one of his auditors and may I ask your lordship what it can be that has now induced you to leave her fair side all unguarded
Ecstasy Tom I had not strength to witness the emotions I inspired I tell you I must have fallen at her feet had I continued near her
The conversation of these merry gentlemen went on for some time longer in the same strain forming a contrast perhaps not very uncommon to the solemn and serious meditations of Mrs Barnaby on the very same circumstances which caused their mirth Far however from exaggerating the effect he had produced Lord Mucklebury had little or no idea of its strength and reality He fancied the lady inflammable and easily touched by any appearance of admiration but it never entered his head to suppose that his flourishing speeches and audacious eyes had given birth in her mind to the most sanguine hope and the most deliberate intention of becoming Viscountess Mucklebury
Sudden as the formation of these hopes and intentions may appear it would be doing injustice to Mrs Barnaby were the reader suffered to believe that they were permitted to take possession of her heedlessly She remembered Major Allen she remembered the agony of the moment in which she beheld his friend Maintry appear in the character of a thief and sweet to her ears as was the title of her new conquest she did not suffer it to charm away her resolution of discovering whether he were poor or rich Every inquiry tended to prove that she was safe in the direction which her ambition and her love had now taken Lord Mucklebury was a widower with an only son very nobly provided for and as capable of making a good jointure if he married again as a widows heart could wish
Now then all that remained to be done was to foster the admiration she had inspired into a passion strong enough to induce the noble Viscount to settle that jointure upon her Nothing could be more just than her reasoning—nothing more resolute than her purpose She knew she was handsome she felt it to be advisable that she should appear rich and with the devoted feeling of a warrior who throws away his scabbard as he rushes to the onslaught Mrs Barnaby heroically set herself to win her way to victory—coûte qui coûte
CHAPTER XV
NEW HOPES BEGET A NEW STYLE OF EXISTENCE—A PARTY—AGNES HAS SOME SUCCESS WHICH MRS BARNABY DOES NOT QUITE APPROVE—LORD MUCKLEBURY ENTERS INTO EPISTOLARY CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE WIDOW BY WHICH HER HOPES ARE RAISED TO THE HIGHEST PITCH—BUT LORD MUCKLEBURY LEAVES CHELTENHAM
Lord Mucklebury was a gay man in every sense of the word He loved a jest almost as well as a dinner and would rather have been quoted as the sayer of a good thing than as the doer of a great one He had enjoyed life with fewer drawbacks from misfortune than most men and having reached the age of forty had made up his mind as soberly as he could do on any subject that the only privilege of the aristocracy worth valuing was the leisure they enjoyed or might enjoy if they chose it for amusing themselves Nature intended him for a goodtempered man but fun had spoiled him having laughed with everybody for the first twenty years of his life he learned during the second that it was a better joke still to laugh at them and accordingly the principal material for the wit on which his reputation rested was derived at the time Mrs Barnaby made his acquaintance from an aptitude to perceive the absurdities of his fellow creatures and a most unshrinking audacity in exposing them
Having pointed out Mrs Barnaby to a set of his clever friends as the joke in which he meant to indulge during the three or four weeks of Cheltenham discipline to which he annually submitted it became necessary to his honour that he should prove her to be ridiculous enough to merit the distinction; and he knew well enough that all she required to make her perfect in this line was as much nonsense from himself as would keep her vanity afloat The occupation suited him exactly it threatened little fatigue and promised much amusement so that by the time Mrs Barnaby had made up her mind to win and wear his lordships coronet he had decided with equal sincerity of purpose to render her the jest of the season to his Cheltenham acquaintance
An hours close examination of Miss Morrison concerning the manière dêtre of the beau monde during the season sufficed to convince the widow that expensive as the boardinghouse had appeared to her it was far from being all that was necessary for her present purpose She must have a carriage she must have a tall footman she must have a smart ladysmaid and great was the credit due to the zeal and activity of this invaluable friend for the promptitude and dispatch with which these indispensable articles were supplied Some idea of this may be gathered from the fact that the carriage which conveyed them to the house of Lady Elizabeth Norris was one hired horses coachman and all for the season while the first applicant of six feet high who appeared in consequence of the earnest requisition for such an individual made at half a dozen different shops followed the widow in a full suit of livery the following Sunday to church
Agnes looked on at first with wonder which a little reflection converted into great misery She knew absolutely nothing as to the amount of her aunts fortune but there was a wild heedlessness of expense in her present manner of proceeding that despite her ignorance made her tremble for the result The idea that she might by persevering industry render herself fit to become a governess was that which most tended to console her but Agness estimate of what was required for this was a very high one and greatly did she rejoice to find that her aunt permitted her to be wholly mistress of her time seldom inviting her to go out and receiving her apologies for declining to do so with a degree of complacency which plainly enough shewed they were not unwelcome
Lady Elizabeth Norriss party was five days after the ball and before it arrived Mrs Barnaby had persuaded herself into the firmest possible conviction of Lord Muckleburys devoted attachment and honourable intentions Had his lordship not been one of the invited guests Mrs Barnaby would unquestionably have given up the engagement though but a few short days before it had appeared to her very like a permission to enter the gates of paradise but her estimate of all things was changed she was already a viscountess in all her reasonings and perhaps the only person who held an unchanged value was the poor Agnes whose helpless dependance could not place her in a position of less consideration than it had done before
Pray Miss Agnes is it your pleasure to go to Lady Elizabeth Norriss this evening said Mrs Barnaby while watching her new maids assiduous preparations for her own toilet
Oh yes aunt if you have no objection I should like to go very much indeed
Nay child you may go if you wish it I imagine it will prove but a humdrum sort of thing Wear the same dress that you did at the ball My maid shall arrange your hair for you
Yet notwithstanding all this increase of dignity Agnes never for a moment guessed what was going on she had never seen Lord Mucklebury excepting at the ball and her imagination had not suggested to her the possibility that so casual an acquaintance could be the cause of all she saw and heard
Had Agnes been as lighthearted as when she used to sit upon her travelling trunk in her closet at Clifton listening to the lively gossip of her friend Mary the party at Lady Elizabeths would have been pregnant with amusement But as it was she sat very sadly alone in a corner for during the first portion of the evening Sir Edward Stephenson and his lady were not present having dined out where they were detained much beyond the hour at which the majority of Lady Elizabeths guests assembled
But the lively old woman wanted no one to assist her in the task of entertaining her company for in truth she was not particularly anxious about their entertainment her sole object in bringing them all together being to amuse herself and this she achieved in a way less agreeable perhaps to one who like Agnes was a mere passive spectator than to those who were expected to take a more active part During the early part of the evening few persons appeared excepting such as she had expressly desired to come early and there was not one of these undistinguished by some peculiarity from which the whimsical old lady derived amusement
It was her custom to place herself immoveably in a huge armchair with a small table before her on which was placed her tea coffee ice biscuits or anything else she might choose with quite as little ceremony as if alone A book or two also with a pair of waxlights having a green shade over them never failed to make part of the preparation for her evenings amusement and to these she never scrupled to address herself if her people proved less entertaining than she expected
Every one as they entered approached this throne to pay their compliments and then seated themselves at some distance one single chair alone being permitted to stand near her To this place all those whom she wished to listen to were called in succession and dismissed when she had had enough of them with the same absence of all ordinary civility as she was sure to display to all those who were so illadvised as to appear at her unceremonious bidding
Both her nephew and niece had often remonstrated with her on the subject of these strange réunions but she defended herself from the charge of behaving rudely to those who in accepting her invitations had a right to expect civility by saying I am as civil as they deserve My title is the Duc ad me that calls fools into my circle and till I cease to be Lady Elizabeth they get what they come for
For the most part the company were rather oddlooking than elegant and the newlyawakened grandeur of Mrs Barnaby was a little wounded by observing how few persons there were present whose dress entitled them to the honour of meeting her and her dress Lady Elizabeth moreover received her very coldly though to Agnes she said How dye do my dear Lady Stephenson will be here presently
What vulgar ignorance thought the widow as she retreated to a sofa commanding a perfect view of the door by which the company entered Notwithstanding her title that woman must have been wretchedly brought up Should I in my second marriage be blessed with offspring I shall make it my first object to teach them manners befitting their rank
The absurdities of Lady Elizabeths guests on this evening were not sufficiently piquant to justify a detailed description One old gentleman was summoned to THE chair that he might recount how many habitual drunkards both male and female he had converted into happy waterdrinkers by the simple process of making them take an oath another amused her ladyship for several minutes by what she called saying his peerage—that is by repeating a catalogue of noble names all of which he stated to belong to his most familiar friends One lady was had up for the purpose of repeating her own poetry and another that she might by a little prompting give vent to some favourite metaphysical doctrine which it was her forte to envelop in words of her own construction Miss Morrison too was courted into talking of Paris in her own French but altogether the meeting was not successful and Lady Elizabeth was in the act of arranging the shade of her lights so as to permit her reading at her ease when her eye as she looked round the room chanced to fall upon Agnes She was on the point of calling to her by name but there was a modest tranquillity in her delicate face that the imperious old lady felt no inclination to startle and instead of speaking to her she addressed her aunt
Pray Mrs Barnaby does your young lady play or sing We are mighty drowsy I think tonight all of us and if she does I should be really much obliged if she will favour us Lady Stephensons instrument is a very fine one
Mrs Barnaby was so little pleased by her reception and so completely out of sorts at the nonarrival of Lord Mucklebury that she answered as little graciously as it was well possible I dont think there is any chance of her amusing your ladyship
Great was the widows surprise when she saw the quiet unpresuming Agnes rise from her distant chair walk fearlessly across the circle to that of Lady Elizabeth and heard her say in a low voice but quite distinctly—
I do sing and play a little Lady Elizabeth and if it be your ladyships wish that I should make the attempt now I shall be happy to obey you
Perhaps Lady Elizabeth was as much surprised as Mrs Barnaby but though she understood not the feeling that had prompted this wish to oblige her she was pleased by it and rising for the first time that evening from her chair she took Agnes by the arm and led her to the pianoforte
Does your ladyship love music said Agnes trembling at her own temerity but longing irresistibly to be noticed by the aunt of Colonel Hubert
Yes my dear I do indeed replied the old lady It is one of our family failings—I believe we all love it too well
Which does your ladyship prefer old songs or new ones said Agnes
Old ones most decidedly she replied But at your age my dear and in the present state of musical science it is hardly likely you should be able to indulge my oldfashioned whim in this respect
My practice has been chiefly from the old masters replied Agnes turning over the leaves of a volume of Handel
Say you so my little girl Then I will sit by you as you play
The delighted Agnes wondering at her own audacious courage assiduously placed a chair for the old lady and with a flutter at her heart that seemed almost like happiness turned to the song that she had seen produce on Colonel Hubert an effect never to be forgotten It had brought tears to the eyes of the gallant soldier and given to his features such dangerous softness that the poor minstrel had never recovered the effects of it To sing it again to the ear of his aunt was like coming back towards him and the alleviation this brought to the terrible fear of having lost sight of him for ever not only gave her the courage necessary to bring her to the place she now occupied but inspired her with animation skill and power to sing with a perfection she had never reached before
The pleased attention of Lady Elizabeth had been given in the first instance to reward the ready effort made to comply with her wishes but long before the song was ended she had forgotten how she had obtained it had forgotten everything save her own deep delight and admiration of the beautiful siren who had caused it Silent and motionless she waited till the last chord of the concluding symphony had died away and then rising from her chair she bent down over Agnes and having gazed earnestly in her face for a moment kissed her fair forehead once twice and again with a cordiality that thanked her better than any words could have done
Agnes was greatly touched greatly gratified and forgetting the inexpediency of giving way to feelings that it was neither possible nor desirable should be understood she seized the good ladys hand pressed it to her bosom and looking up to her with eyes swimming in tears of joy said in a voice of deep feeling I am so very glad you like me
Why what a precious little creature you are exclaimed Lady Elizabeth half aroused and half softened as original to the full as any of my queer company here and quite as remarkable for sweetness and talent as they for the want of it Where did you grow fair lilyflower And how came you to be transplanted hither by so But never mind all this now if we get on well together we shall get better acquainted What shall I call you pretty one
Agnes if you please Lady Elizabeth Agnes Willoughby replied the happy girl becoming every moment more delighted at the result of the bold measure she had taken
You must come to me tomorrow morning Agnes while I am at breakfast at ten oclock remember for then I am alone And you must come prepared my child to talk to me about yourself for I cant understand it at all and I never choose to be puzzled longer than I can help it upon any subject But listen to my monsters If they are not presuming to be noisy behind my back
Then lull me lull me charming air
My senses wrap in wonder sweet
Like snow on wool thy footsteps are
Soft as a spirits are thy feet—
exclaimed the old lady in a whisper close to the ear of Agnes Sing to me again my child and I will send a message to them in words borrowed from the famous epitaph on Juan Cabeca Hold your tongues ye calves and turning herself round she beckoned to a servant who had just entered with refreshments saying to him in a voice which might have been heard by most of those in the apartment Set down the tray Johnstone nobody wants it and go round the room begging they will all be silent while this lady sings
It was in the middle of the song which followed that Sir Edward and Lady Stephenson returned The door opened without Agnes being aware of it and her rich voice swelling to a note at the top of its compass and sustaining it with a power given to few filled the chamber with a glorious volume of sound that held Colonel Huberts sister transfixed as she was about to enter Unconscious that there was another of the race near her whom she would have almost breathed her soul away to please Agnes warbled on nor raised her eyes from the page before her till the strain was ended Then she looked up and perceived Lady Stephenson who had noiselessly crept round to ascertain whom the gifted minstrel might be immediately opposite and looking at her with a most gratifying expression of surprise and pleasure A very cordial greeting and shaking of hands followed while Lady Elizabeth her hand resting on her new favourites shoulder said almost in a whisper—
Who would have thought Emily that I should come at last to take lessons from you as to the selection of my natural curiosities But you have made a hit that does you immortal honour this little singing bird is worth all the monsters I ever got together Your ladyship need not look so grave however she added in a voice still lower I do not intend to treat her as if she were stolen from the Zoological Gardens She is to come to me tomorrow morning and then we shall know all about her I wish your fastidious brother were here Do you remember what he said the other day about some miss he had heard at Clifton I fancy we might have a chance of correcting his outrageous judgment concerning her What think you
Lady Stephenson answered by expressing the most cordial admiration of Agness voice but added There are many people coming in now dear aunt If Miss Willoughby will have the kindness to come to us tomorrow we shall enjoy hearing her much more than we can now and I think she would like it better too
Agnes gave her a very grateful look and whispering an earnest Thank you as she passed glided back to the place she had left beside her aunt
Upon my word Miss Agnes your are improving fast in impudence said Mrs Barnaby in her ear I desire if you please that next time you will wait till I bid you sing
Agnes did not reply Nothing that it was in the power of her aunt to say could in that happy moment have caused her the slightest serious uneasiness She was blessed beyond the reach of scolding which was the more fortunate as the widow had seldom been in a more irritable mood Quarter after quarter had heavily struck upon her ear from the timepiece on the marble slab behind her eleven oclock the hour at which her carriage was ordered approached with fearful strides and yet Lord Mucklebury came not Had her toilet upon this occasion been less fearfully expensive she could have endured it better but that all the charms a milliner could give should have been freely ventured on and HE not see it was hard to bear
It is true that with the dogged firmness of a resolute purpose Mrs Barnaby scorned to shrink or tremble as she played her desperate game nevertheless she knew that selling out stock three times within a fortnight was a strong measure and anything that seemed to check her approach to the goal she felt so sure of reaching did produce a disagreeable sort of spasm about her heart There was no help for it however go she must as nearly all the rest of the company had gone before her with nothing to console her but an indifferently civil nod from Lady Elizabeth and the surprise less agreeable perhaps than startling of seeing her dependant niece parted with in a manner that shewed she was considered of infinitely greater importance than herself notwithstanding her carriage her tall footman and her magnificent attire
Miss Morrison was accommodated with a seat in the carriage she had so actively exerted herself to procure and the first words spoken after they drove off were hers
Nest paw que jay raisong Did I not say so Mrs Barnaby Did I not tell you my dear madam that you need do nothing but make this young lady sing in order to become the fashion at Cheltenham You have no idea what a number of visits you will have tomorrow Noo verong
Really Miss Morrison replied the widow tartly I am surprised to hear a person of your good sense speak so foolishly How can you suppose that a person in my station of life could desire the visits of such a set of people as we met tonight And as to making this poor penniless girl talked of as a singer I should be ashamed to think of such a thing Remember miss if you please that from this time forward I never will permit you to sing again unless indeed you mean to get your bread by it and Im sure I wont undertake to say but what you may want it I can answer for nobody but myself and I dont think it probable that others may be inclined to shew the same devoted generosity that I have done to a girl that never shewed the slightest affection for me in return
And so she ran on till she fell asleep but her words fell like rain on a waterproof umbrella they made a noise but they could not reach the head which they seemed destined to deluge Agnes was wrapped in armour of proof and nothing could do her harm
Happily for her one of the facetious Lord Muckleburys modes of extracting amusement from the widow was by writing her notes which elicited answers that often threw him into a perfect ecstasy and which he carefully preserved in an envelope endorsed Barnaby Papers lodging them in a corner of his writingdesk from whence they were not unfrequently drawn for the delectation of his particular friends One of these notes intended to produce an answer that should add a gem to his collection was delivered to Mrs Barnaby as she passed from the breakfasttable of the boardinghouse to her own sittingroom The emotions produced by these notes were always very powerful and on the present occasion more so than ordinary for there were apologies for not appearing last night and hopes for an interview that morning which were to be answered instantly for the servant waited
Mrs Barnaby panting with haste and gladness seated herself at her table opened her writingdesk seized a pen and was in the very act of venturing the words My dear Lord when Agnes drew near and said May I go out aunt to call on Lady Elizabeth
Gracious Heaven what a moment to torment me Go go where you will plague of my life as you are Get along at once cant you
Agnes vanished—a Barnaby paper was written and while the niece was enjoying three hours of the most flattering and delightful intercourse with the nearest relations of Colonel Hubert the aunt with a degree of felicity hardly less perfect was receiving a têteàtête visit from Lord Mucklebury in which he as carefully studied her looks attitudes and words as if their effect on him were all she believed them to be Nor did either interview pass without producing some important results His lordship carried away with him wherewithal to keep halfadozen of his friends who dined with him on that day in a continued roar for nearly an hour Mrs Barnaby was left with a sweet assurance that all was going well which led to the purchase of a richlylaced mantelet and a new bonnet while Agnes inspired by so strong a wish to please as to make her follow the lead of her new friends and converse with them of all her little history just as they wished to make her created in them both an interest too strong to be ever forgotten and she left them with a confidence in their kindness that made her endure much subsequent suffering with firmness for it was long ere she wholly lost the hope that they might meet again in future years
During the next fortnight this agreeable intercourse was very frequently repeated for there were few hours of the day in which Mrs Barnaby was not in some way or other so occupied by the sentiment that engrossed her either by the presence of its object, or the anticipation of his presence or meditation upon it when it was passed that she was well pleased to have Agnes out of the way and Lady Elizabeth and her charming niece were on the contrary so well pleased to have her that scarcely a day passed without some hours of it being devoted to them
Lady Stephenson in particular seemed to study her character with peculiar attention There was a fond devotion in the gratitude which their kindness had produced that could not be mistaken and which from one so artless and so every way interesting could not fail of producing affection in return From such a friend it was impossible for Agnes to conceal even if she had wished it that her home was a very wretched one and they often conversed together on the possibility of her releasing herself from it by endeavouring to obtain some sort of independence by her own exertions Lady Elizabeth was repeatedly a party in these consultations but uniformly gave it as her opinion that any home was better for such a girl as Agnes than an attempt to support herself which must inevitably expose her to a degree of observation more dangerous than any annoyance from her aunt Barnaby Agnes by no means clearly understood the grounds upon which this sturdy opposition to her wishes was founded and as Lady Stephenson who seemed more able to sympathise with her actual sufferings listened without venturing to answer these mysterious threatenings of something remote she at length took courage herself and said
Will you tell me dear Lady Elizabeth what it is you think would happen to me if I went into a family as a governess
You are a little fool Agnes replied the old lady unable to repress a smile but as I do really believe that your ignorance is genuine I will tell you Dont be frightened my poor child but the fact is that you are a great deal too handsome for any such situation
Agnes blushed instantly a most celestial rosy red and felt shocked and ashamed at having drawn forth such an answer but though she said nothing in reply she at once decided that Lady Elizabeth Norris should never have reason to believe that she was capable of neglecting her friendly caution All hopes from her power of teaching ended for ever and the next time her aunt Barnaby was particularly cross which happened that night while they were undressing to go to bed Agnes very seriously began to revolve in her altered mind the possibility of learning so late in life the profitable mystery of satinstitch
Once and once only during the many hours Agnes passed with his relations did she venture to pronounce the name of Colonel Hubert She had often determined to do it but had never found courage and opportunity till one morning after an hour or two passed in singing duets with his sister Lady Elizabeth again alluded to the Clifton miss that her nephew had so vaunted and whose voice must she was sure be so immeasurably inferior to that of Miss Willoughby
It was under cover of this observation that Agnes ventured to say I knew Colonel Hubert a little when I was at Clifton
Did you said the old lady briskly then Ill bet my life he heard you sing
Once or twice he did
Oh hah that explains it all You need not blush so about it my dear why did you not tell me so at once
I do not think it is quite certain returned Agnes attempting to smile that Colonel Hubert spoke of me
Dont you my dear but I do and I know him best I suppose And what was it you sang to him Agnes
Agnes mentioned the songs but her voice trembled so that she grievously repented having brought on herself questions that she found it so difficult to answer
Her embarrassment was not greatly relieved by perceiving—when at length she looked up to save herself from the awkwardness of pertinaciously looking down—that the eyes of Lady Stephenson were earnestly fixed upon her
Did you ever see Frederick Stephenson with my brother said her ladyship they were at Clifton together this summer Perhaps you dont know that I was married there Agnes and Sir Edward and I left our two brothers there together
This change of subject was a considerable relief and Agnes answered with tolerable composure—Oh yes I did know you were married there for I heard it mentioned several times and I saw you too Lady Stephenson the evening before you were married walking up and down Gloucester Row with with your brother
Did you indeed—Were you walking there Agnes
No we were at the drawingroom window and my aunt made me look out to see your brother
Why particularly to see my brother inquired Lady Stephenson with a smile
Because because he was so tall I believe replied Agnes looking considerably more silly than she had ever done in her life
And so you watched us walking up and down did you Agnes
Yes once or twice answered Agnes again blushing violently
And did you hear what we said my dear
No but I am sure it was something very interesting you seemed to be talking so earnestly
It was very interesting it was about Frederick You knew him too did not you
Oh yes very well
Really I wonder you never told me so before
It was impossible to look at Agnes at this moment as Lady Stephenson now looked at her without perceiving that there must be some cause for the agitation she evinced It immediately occurred to her that it was likely enough Frederick might have laid his heart at her feet or perhaps stopped short before he did so from the effect of that very conversation of which Agnes had been an eye though not an ear witness
Poor little thing thought Lady Stephenson if this be so and if she has given her young heart in return how greatly is she to be pitied
No sooner had this idea struck her which many trifling circumstances tended to confirm than Lady Stephenson determined to drop the subject for ever and much as Agnes secretly but tremblingly wished it no allusion was ever made to the two gentlemen again
Days and weeks rolled on till the time fixed by Lord Mucklebury for his departure arrived His collection of the Barnaby papers was quite as copious as he wished it to be and having indulged himself and his friends with as many good stories as any one lady could be the heroine of without being fatiguing he parted with the widow on Saturday evening assuring her with a thousand expressions of passionate admiration that he should be early on the walks to look for her on the morrow and by noon on Sunday was on his road to London behind four gallopping posthorses
During the whole of that fatal Sunday Mrs Barnaby roamed through all the public walks of Cheltenham with the disconsolate air of a pigeon whose mate has been shot She was sad cross tender and angry by turns but never for a moment during that long dismal day did she ever once conceive the terrible idea that her intended mate was flown for ever Nay even on the morrow when in answer to an inquiry at the readingroom of whether Lord Mucklebury had been there that morning the man replied—I believe his lordship has left the town maam—not even then did her mind receive the terrible truth
It was from the hand of her friend Miss Morrison that the blow came at last That lady on Wednesday evening entered her room bringing a London newspaper with her she was much irritated
Mong Dew Mrs Barnaby she cried look here
The widow seized the paper with a trembling hand and before she fainted read as follows—
Lord Viscount Mucklebury arrived this morning at Mivarts Hotel from Cheltenham It is rumoured that his lordship is about to depart in a few days for the Continent in order to pass the winter at Rome but rather with the intention of kissing the hands of the beautiful Lady M—— S—— than the toe of his holiness
THE WIDOW BARNABY
BY FRANCES TROLLOPE
AUTHOR OF THE VICAR OF WREXHILL A ROMANCE OF VIENNA ETC
IN THREE VOLUMES
VOL III
LONDON
RICHARD BENTLEY NEW BURLINGTON STREET
1839
LONDON
PRINTED BY SAMUEL BENTLEY
Dorset Street Fleet Street
CONTENTS
CHAPTER I
CHAPTER II
CHAPTER III
CHAPTER IV
CHAPTER V
CHAPTER VI
CHAPTER VII
CHAPTER VIII
CHAPTER IX
CHAPTER X
CHAPTER XI
CHAPTER XII
CHAPTER XIII
CHAPTER XIV
CHAPTER XV
CHAPTER XVI
CHAPTER XVII
CHAPTER XVIII
THE WIDOW BARNABY
CHAPTER I
MRS BARNABY LOSES HER SENSES AND RECOVERS THEM—SHE TAKES A DESPERATE RESOLUTION—MISS MORRISON PROVES HERSELF A FRIEND IN NEED—AGNES FINDS CONSOLATION IN SORROW
Mrs Barnabys horror on recovering her senses for she really did fall into a swoon was in very just proportion to the extent of the outlay her noble vision had cost her To Miss Morrison who had listened to all her hopes she scrupled not to manifest her despair not however entering into the financial part of it but leaving it to be understood by her sympathizing friend that her agony proceeded wholly from disappointed love
What a Lovelace what a Lothario what a finished deceiver Keloreur exclaimed the pitying spinster And how thankful ought I to be that no man can ever again cause me such terrible emotion Nong jammy
Gracious Heaven what is to become of me cried Mrs Barnaby apparently but little consoled by this assurance of her friends exemption from a similar misfortune what ought I to do Miss Morrison If I set off instantly for London do you think I could reach it before he leaves it for Rome
Miss Morrison having turned to the newspaper examined its date and read the fatal paragraph again replied You certainly could my dear Mrs Barnaby if this statement be correct but I would not do it if I were you without thinking very seriously about it It is true I never had a lord for a lover myself but I believe when they run restive they are exceedingly difficult to hold and if you do go after him and fail at last to touch his cruel heart you will be only worse off than you are now Say clare
That may be all very true in one sense Miss Morrison replied the unhappy widow but there is such a thing as pursuing a man lawfully for breach of promise of marriage and though money is no object to me I should glory in getting damages from him if only to prove to the world that he is a scoundrel
That is quite another thing indeed said the confidant toot a fay and if you mean to bring an action against him I am pretty sure that I could be very useful to you for my brother is an attorney in London and is reckoned particularly clever about everything of the kind But have you any proof my dear lady that is what my brother will be sure to say to you I know you have had lots of letters and if you have kept them all it is most likely my brother may find out something like proof Eel ay see abeel
Proof To be sure I have proof enough if thats all thats wanted and Ill go to your brother at once Miss Morrison for revenge Ill have if nothing else
Then of course youll take all his love letters with you Mrs Barnaby and I think if you would let me look over them I should be able to tell you whether they would answer the purpose or not—Jay me coney ung pew
I should have no objection in the world to your seeing them every one replied the outraged lady but I am thinking Miss Morrison that I have an immense deal of business to do and that I shall never get through it without your friendly help I am thinking
And Mrs Barnaby was thinking and very much to the purpose too She was thinking that though she had squandered about seventy or eighty pounds in trifling purchases by far the greater part of the expenses her noble lover had induced her to run into were still in the shape of debts the money with which she proposed to discharge them being as yet paying her interest in the funds Could she contrive to leave the heaviest of these debts unpaid till she knew the result of her intended attack upon Lord Muckleburys purse it would be very convenient Perhaps some vague notion that she too might visit the continent and thus escape the necessity of paying them at all might mix itself with her meditations but at any rate she very speedily decided upon leaving Cheltenham the following day without mentioning her intention to her milliner mercer tailor shoemaker hosier perfumer liverystable keeper librarian or even to her hairdresser If she got damages she should certainly return and pay them all with great éclat if not circumstances must decide what it would be most advisable for her to do
Great as was her esteem and affection for Miss Morrison she did not think it necessary to trouble her with all these trifling details but resumed the conversation by saying—
Yes my dear Miss Morrison I am thinking that the best thing I can do will be to go to London for a day or two see your brother put all my documents into his hands and then return to Cheltenham for the remainder of the season for I am sure I should be more likely to recover my spirits in your friendly society than anywhere else
Indeed I approve your resolution altogether replied Miss Morrison and I will write a line by you to my brother telling him that whatever he does to assist you I shall take as a personal favour to myself
I cannot thank you enough said the widow pressing her hand We shall be able to get everything ready tonight I hope and when my coachman comes as usual for orders at eleven oclock tomorrow morning tell him my dear friend to drive you about wherever you like to go And you may mention if you please that I shall want him to take us a long drive on Saturday to see the Roman Pavement I mean to return on Friday night for what will be the use you know of my staying in town
None in the world but I think you had better name Monday for the drive for fear you should be too tired on Saturday
Well just as you please about that but you had better go and write your letter and Ill speak to Agnes and my maid about packing
Perhaps you will not like to take Miss Willoughby I will take the greatest care of her if you will leave her in my charge
How very kind But I would rather take her I cant do without somebody to lace my stays and fasten my dress and I want my maid to finish the work she is about She is an exquisite darner and I have set her to mend the rent that hateful Lord Mucklebury made in my India muslin So I dont mean to take her
Nothing of any kind occurred to interfere with the execution of this hastily but by no means unskilfully imagined plan The readymoney expenditure of Mrs Barnaby had been so lavish that she had bought golden opinions from master mistress men and maids throughout the establishment and when she summoned Mr —— the landlord to her presence and informed him that she was going to London for a couple of days on business but should not give up her rooms as she should take neither of her servants with her he received the communication with great satisfaction and promised that no one but her own people should enter her drawingroom till her return
This preliminary business happily settled Mrs Barnaby mounted the stairs to her bedroom where as usual she found Agnes busily occupied in her corner the hour for an evening engagement made with Lady Stephenson not having yet arrived
For some reason or other Mrs Barnaby never enjoyed any flirtation so much in the presence of Agnes as without her and it was for this reason that at Cheltenham as well as at Clifton she had encouraged her making acquaintance for herself thus her constant intercourse with Lady Elizabeth Norris and Lady Stephenson had never in any degree been impeded by her aunt
Mrs Barnaby was aware that Agnes had engaged to pass this evening with them and when she looked at her tranquil face as she entered the room she felt greatly disposed to plague her by saying that she must stay at home to pack and could not go But a moments reflection suggested to her that the less fuss she made about this packing the better and therefore only told her that she was obliged to set off by seven oclock the next morning for London on business that would detain her for a day or two that she meant to take her and leave her maid and that before she set off upon her gossiping visit it would be necessary to pack her trunk
Agnes laid down her book and looked surprised
Dont stare so like a fool Agnes Do what I bid you instantly
There will be no occasion for me to pack much aunt if we are only to stay a day or two said Agnes
When I tell you to pack your trunk miss I mean that your trunk shall be packed and I wont trouble you to give me any opinion on the subject
Am I to put everything into it aunt
Plague of my life yes replied Mrs Barnaby whose vexed spirit seemed to find relief in speaking harshly
Without further remonstrance Agnes set about obeying her and the little all that formed her mourning wardrobe was quickly transferred from the two drawers allowed her to the identical trunk which aunt Betsy had provided for her first journey from Silverton to Empton
And my books aunt said Agnes fixing her eyes on the heated countenance of the widow with some anxiety
Mrs Barnaby hesitated and Agnes saw she did It was not because the little library of her niece formed the chief happiness of her life that she scrupled at bidding her leave them behind but because she suspected that they and their elegant little case were of some marketable value You may take them if you will she said at length I dont care a straw what you take or what you leave only dont plague me You must know I suppose if you are not quite an idiot that when people go to London on business it is possible they may stay longer than they expect
Agnes asked no more questions but quietly packed up everything that belonged to her and when the work no very long one was completed she said—
Can I be of any use to you aunt before I go out
I should like to know what use you are ever likely to be of to anybody was the reply Take yourself off in Gods name—the sooner the better
The very simple toilet of Agnes was soon arranged and having left everything in perfect order for departure she uttered a civil but unanswered Goodbye aunt and went away
It so chanced that a little volume of poems lent to her by Lady Stephenson had been left in the drawingroom and Agnes wishing to return it before leaving Cheltenham entered the room to look for it As a good many circulatinglibrary volumes were lying about it was some minutes before she found it and just as she had succeeded and was leaving the apartment Miss Morrison appeared at the door She had a letter in her hand and a bustling busy look and manner which led Agnes to suppose that she had something of consequence to say to her aunt
Shall I run up stairs and desire my aunt to come to you Miss Morrison said she
No thank you my dear you are very kind but I think I had better go up to her I only stepped in first to see if she was here She is very busy packing I suppose and perhaps I can help her
Then you know Miss Morrison that she is going to London tomorrow said Agnes
Oh dear yes I believe it was I put it into her head first and this is the letter she is to take to my brother I am sure I hope shell succeed with all my heart and I should like to hear that Lord Mucklebury had ten thousand pounds to pay her for damages
Damages repeated Agnes what for
What for my dear child Why for having used her so abominably ill to be sure there is nobody that saw them together as I did but must have supposed he intended to marry her
And if he has used her ill Miss Morrison said Agnes looking greatly alarmed will it not be exposing herself still more if she goes to law about it Indeed Miss Morrison you should not advise her to do anything so very wrong and disagreeable
Dont blame me my dear I beg of you the idea was quite her own toot a fay I assure you and all I have done to further it was just writing this letter to my brother for her He is a very clever lawyer and Im sure she could not do better
It would be much better Miss Morrison if she did not do anything said Agnes while tears started to her eyes at the idea of this fresh exposure
I dont think my dear Miss Agnes that you can be much of a judge retorted the adviser However as you do choose to give an opinion upon the subject and seem to be so very much afraid that she should expose herself I must just tell you that you owe it to me if she does not go galloping after Lord Mucklebury all the way to Rome She had the greatest possible inclination to do so I assure you However I think that I have put it out of her head by talking to her of damages But you are going down stairs and I am going up so goodbye Dont frighten yourself more than is needful it is as likely as not that you will never be called into court O revor
Agnes sick at heart and trembling for the future repaired to the house of Lady Elizabeth Lady Stephenson was at the pianoforte and the old lady reading near a window but as soon as her young guest was announced she closed her volume and said You are late little girl we have been expecting you this hour and this is the last evening we shall have quietly to ourselves for Colonel Hubert writes us word that he is coming tomorrow and he is a much more stayathome person than Sir Edward
Colonel Hubert coming to Cheltenham the very day she was to leave it These were not tidings to cheer her spirits already agitated and depressed and when she attempted to speak she burst into tears Lady Stephenson was at her side in a moment Agnes she said what ails you You are as white as a ghost Had you heard any agitating news before you came here
Struck by the accent with which this was spoken and perceiving in a moment that Lady Stephenson thought the mention of Colonel Huberts arrival had caused her emotion she hastened to reply and did so perhaps with more frankness than she might have shewn had she not been particularly anxious to prove that there were other and very sufficient reasons for her discomposure
News most painful and most sad to me Lady Stephenson she said I believe you have heard my aunt Barnabys foolish flirtation with Lord Mucklebury spoken of Lady Elizabeth was laughing about it the other day
And who was not my dear The saucy Viscount has made her they say the subject of a ballad But is it for this you weep Or is it because he is gone away and that theres an end of it
Alas Lady Elizabeth there is not an end of it and it is for that I weep though indeed I ought to beg your pardon for bringing such useless sorrow here but I find that my aunt fancies she has a claim upon him—a legal claim and that she is going to London tomorrow to bring an action against him
Is it possible exclaimed the old lady looking at poor Agnes with very genuine compassion God knows you may well weep my poor child I shall begin to think I gave but sorry advice Agnes when I told you to stay with her It may after all be better to run some risk in leaving her than brave certain disgrace and ridicule by remaining to reside in her family
Is she going to take you to town with her Agnes inquired Lady Stephenson with a look of deep concern
Yes Lady Stephenson I am to go with her
There was a very painful silence of a minute or two Both the admiring friends of Agnes would have done much to save her from being a sharer in such an enterprize but to interfere with the indisputable authority of such a woman as Mrs Barnaby in her arrangements concerning a niece who had no dependence but on her was out of the question and the conviction that it was so kept them silent
How did you hear this strange story my dear said Lady Elizabeth Did your aunt explain to you her ridiculous purpose herself
No Lady Elizabeth she only bade me prepare my trunk for going to London with her It was Miss Morrison whom I met by chance as I came out who told me the object of the journey and dreadful as this going to law would be it is not the worst thing I fear
What worse can there be Agnes said Lady Stephenson
I am almost ashamed to tell you of such fears but when I uttered something like a reproach to Miss Morrison for having advised this journey and writing a letter about it to her brother who is a lawyer in London she told me that I ought to be grateful to her for preventing my aunts following Lord Mucklebury all the way to Rome for that such was her first intention and continued Agnes bursting anew into tears I greatly greatly suspect that she has not given up this intention yet
The two ladies exchanged glances of pity and dismay and Lady Elizabeth making her a sign to come close to her took her kindly by the hand saying in accents much more gentle than she usually bestowed on any one My poor dear girl what makes you think this Tell me Agnes tell me all they have said to you
Agnes knelt down on the old ladys footstool and gently kissing the venerable hand which held hers said It is very very kind of you to let me tell you all and your judgment will be more to be trusted than mine as to what it may mean but my reason for thinking that my aunt is going to do more than she confesses to Miss Morrison is that she has publicly declared her intended absence will be only for two days and yet though she told me this too she ordered me to pack up everything I had even the little collection of books I told you of Lady Stephenson and moreover instead of letting her maid put up her things I left her doing it herself and saw her before I came away putting a vast variety of her most valuable things in a great travelling trunk that she could never think of taking if it were really her intention to stay in London only two days and then return to Cheltenham
Very suspicious very much so indeed said the old lady and all I can say to you in reply my poor child is this You must not go abroad with her I am not rich enough to charge myself with providing for you nor must your friend Emily here frighten her new husband by talking of taking possession of you Agnes but you must not go abroad with that woman Governess you must be I suppose if things go on in this way and instead of opposing it I will try if I cannot find a situation in which you may at least be safer than with this aunt Barnaby Whatever happens you must let us hear from you and remember the moment you discover that she really proposes to take you abroad you are to put yourself into a Cheltenham coach and come directly to me
What words were these for Agnes to listen to Colonel Hubert was to take up his residence in that house on the morrow and she was now told in a voice of positive command that if what she fully expected would happen did happen she was at once to seek a shelter there She dared not trust her voice to say I thank you but she ventured to raise her eyes to the hardfeatured but benignant countenance that bent over her and the kiss she received on her forehead proved that though her silence might not be fully understood her gratitude was not doubted
The evening was not like many others recently passed there so happy that Mrs Barnabys footman often came to escort her home before she thought the time for parting could be half arrived They had no music no scraps of poetry in Italian or in English as touchstones of taste and instruction with which Lady Stephenson loved to test the powers of her young favourite but the conversation rested almost wholly upon the gloomy and uncertain future At length the moment came in which she was to bid these valued friends adieu they embraced and blessed her with tenderness nay even with tears but little did they guess the tumult that swelled the breast of Agnes It was Huberts sister to whom she clung it was Huberts aunt—almost his mother—who hung over her looking as if she were her mother too and on the morrow he would be with them and he would hear her named for notwithstanding their unmeasured superiority to her in all ways they could not forget her so soon he would hear of her sorrows of the dangers that surrounded her and he would hear too perhaps of the shelter offered her in the very house he dwelt in
All these thoughts were busy in her head as she uttered the last farewell and turned again in passing through the door to look once more on those who would so soon be looked at by him
There was certainly a strange pleasure mixed with all this sadness for though she wept through half the night she would not have exchanged the consciousness of having been brought nearer to him even by the act of having mingled tears in parting with his nearest relations for all the enjoyment that a tranquil spirit and a calm nights rest could offer in exchange for it
CHAPTER II
MRS BARNABY EFFECTS HER RETREAT FROM CHELTENHAM—SHE CARRIES WITH HER A LETTER—ITS EFFECT—AN AMIABLE ATTORNEY—SPECIMENS OF A NOBLE STYLE OF LETTERWRITING—CONSOLATION
Though the baggage of Mrs Barnaby was strangely disproportionate to the period she had named for her absence it seemed not to excite suspicion which might perhaps be owing to the well known splendour of her elaborate toilet which she not unfrequently changed four times in a day requiring—as all who thought on the subject must be aware—an extent of travelling equipment much exceeding the portion assigned to ordinary ladies
So she passed forth unchallenged and unchallenged saw her treasures deposited on roof and in rumbletumble till all were stowed away and then having affectionately squeezed the hand of Miss Morrison who accompanied her to the stage she climbed into it followed by the pale and melancholy Agnes
Our widow was now beginning to be an experienced traveller and her first care on reaching London was to secure rooms in a private lodginghouse Notwithstanding the noble visions with which she had recreated her fancy during the last month she now with great good sense sent them all to the moon knowing she could easily call them back again if all went well with her but determined that they should in no way interfere with her enjoyment of the more substantial goods that were still within her reach so she commissioned the maid of the house to procure her three dozen of oysters and a pot of porter with which while Agnes wept herself to sleep she repaid herself for her days fatigue and wisely laid in a stock of strength for the morrow
Her first object of course was to hold communication with the brother of her friend Magnus Morrison Esq attorneyatlaw Red Lion Square Such was the address the letter entrusted to her bore and at breakfast the following morning she sat gazing at it for some minutes before she could decide whether it would be better to convey it herself or prepare the lawyer to receive her by letting it precede her for a few hours She finally decided to send it before her—the wisdom of which determination will be evident upon the perusal of the letter such an introduction being well calculated to ensure all the zealous attention she desired
Miss Morrisons letter ran thus—
My dear Brother
I never fail as you well know to catch all the fish for your net that comes in my way crowyee sellaw too jure and I now send you a client whom I have little doubt you will find answer in every way She is a most charming woman and my most particular friend I dont know a more charming person anywhere not even in my dear Paris so rich so free in all her expenses so remarkably obliging and so very handsome for all those who admire tall large beauties But you are too good a lawyer to listen to all this when business is in hand and so I must come o fay And now Magnus be sure to attend to every word Mrs Barnaby—this charming friend of mine—has for the last month been receiving the most marked and the most tender attentions from Lord Mucklebury He is a viscount my dear Magnus and—observe—as rich as a Jew This nobleman has given her poor dear lady every reason in the world to believe that his dearest wish hope and intention was to marry her and she good tenderhearted creature perfectly adored him devoting every hour of the day to the finding out where he was to be seen and the going there to see him She had no secrets whatever from me the whole time and I knew everything that was going on from the first moment he ever kissed her hand to the most tender interviews that ever passed between them And how do you think it has all ended Oh Magnus it is impossible to deny that the male sex—lords and all—are most dreadfully deceitful and falsehearted All this devoted love going on as I tell you for a whole month has just ended in nothing My lord set off in his travelling carriage with four horses and an outrider as we subsequently ascertained without even taking any leave of the lady at all or explaining himself the least bit either one way or the other You may easily guess her feelings Her first idea poor thing was to follow him to the worlds end—for there is no doubt in the world that her attachment was of the most sincere kind but luckily she confided this romantic thought to me and it struck me directly Magnus that the best thing in the world for her to do would be to put the whole affair into your hands She has got quantities of his letters they are very little letters to be sure folded up sometimes not much bigger than a shilling but still letters are letters you know and I cant but think that with your cleverness something might be made of an action for damages Of course it is natural to suppose that I am a little partial to this sort of measure because I cant well have forgotten yet that the best part of my snug little fortune came to me in the same way thanks to the good management of our dear good father Magnus The dear lady listened to reason in a minute and consented to put herself in your hands for which reason she is going to set off for London tomorrow morning She will bring all Lord Muckleburys letters with her and it will be for you to judge what use can be made of them—only it is but right to mention that there is no doubt in the world but that Mrs Barnaby is quite rich enough to pay handsomely whether she gains the cause or loses it
I am my dear Magnus
Your affectionate sister
Sarah Morrison
Mrs Barnaby enclosed this letter in an envelope in which she wrote—
Mrs Barnaby presents her compliments to Mr Magnus Morrison and will be happy to see him on the business to which the enclosed letter refers at any hour he will name
No 5 Halfmoon Street Piccadilly
Having consigned her packet to the post the widow declared to her anxious companion that she did not mean to waste her time as long as she remained in London but should walk to every part of the town and should expect her to do the same
Will there not be danger of losing ourselves aunt said Agnes London you know is so much bigger than any place you ever saw
And whats the good of that piece of wisdom Miss Solomon Perhaps you dont know that I have a tongue in my head and that the Londoners speak English Come and put on your bonnet if you please and Ill promise not to leave you in any of the gutters but bring you safe home again to No 5 Halfmoon Street Piccadilly There you see I shall know what place to ask for Wont that do for you
Agnes felt that all remonstrance would be in vain and submitted though the idea of being dragged through the streets of London by her aunt Barnaby dressed in the identical green satin gown and pink feathers which had first attracted Lord Muckleburys attention was by no means an agreeable prospect
The expedition however fatiguing and disagreeable as it proved was achieved without any very disastrous results Mrs Barnaby indeed was twice very nearly knocked down by a cab while staring too eagerly about her when crossing the streets and friendly as was the old black crape veil of poor Agnes it could not wholly save her from some tolerably obvious efforts to find out whether the face it sheltered was worthy the graceful symmetry of the person who wore it but they nevertheless reached their Halfmoon Street without any positive injury to life or limb
At eight oclock in the evening while Mrs Barnaby and her weary companion were taking tea the drawingroom door opened and Mr Magnus Morrison was announced and most cordially welcomed by the widow who not only saw in him the lawyer from whom she hoped to learn how to replenish her waning finances but also the brother of her dear Miss Morrison and the only acquaintance she could hope at this trying moment to find or make in London
But now as heretofore the presence of Agnes was inconvenient which she took care to signify by saying to the lawyer I am greatly indebted to you Mr Morrison for your early attention to my note and I shall be very glad to talk with you on the business that brings me to London but not quite yet we really must be quite by ourselves for it will be necessary that I should have your whole attention Will you in the mean time permit me to offer you tea
Before Mr Morrison could reply Agnes was on her feet and asking her aunt in a whisper if she would give her leave to go to bed Yes if you like it my darling replied Mrs Barnaby whose tenderness for her niece was always awakened by the presence of strangers I am sure you look tired to death But bring down first my dear my writingdesk and remember my love to take care that I have warm water when I come up and dont forget Agnes to put my bonnet and shawl and all that nicely away and see that I have paper for curling my hair ready on the dressingtable and dont go to bed till you have put out my lilac silk for tomorrow and just put a stitch in the blonde of my bonnetcap for I pulled it almost off
All this was said by the widow in a coaxing sort of half whisper with an arm round her victims waist and a smile of the most fascinating kindness on her own lips
The desk was brought and the consulting parties left alone while Agnes as she performed the different tasks imposed on her and which her great fatigue rendered heavy could not for an instant banish from her mind the question that had incessantly haunted her from the hour she left the drawingroom of Lady Elizabeth Will she go abroad Shall I be obliged to return to Cheltenham without her Shall I be obliged to go to the house where he is living
Mr Magnus Morrison was by no means an illlooking man and though a bachelor of thirtyfive had as little of quizzical peculiarity about him as a careful attorney of that age unpolished by a wife can be expected to have Mrs Barnaby though a little his senior was still as we know a lady à prétention and never permitted any gentleman to approach her without making an experiment upon him with her fine eyes Their success in the present instance was neither so violent as in the case of Major Allen nor so instantaneous as in that of the falsehearted peer nevertheless enough was achieved to throw an agreeable sort of extraneous interest into the business before them and the widow disdained not as it proceeded to decorate her narrative and herself with such graces as none but a Mrs Barnaby can display
Having given her own version and with such flourishes as her nature loved of Lord Muckleburys violent passion for her she asked her attentive and somewhat captivated auditor what species of testimony was required to prove a promise of marriage in such a manner as to secure large damages for without being quite certain of obtaining such you must be aware my dear sir that a woman of my station connexions and fortune could not think of appearing in court
Assuredly not replied Mr Magnus Morrison fervently Such a measure is never to be resorted to unless the evidence is of a nature that no crossexamination can set aside My sister tells me madam that you have letters
Yes Mr Morrison I have many though I am sorry to say that many more have been destroyed This was a figure of poetry and of a kind that the widow often adopted to give strength to the narrative portion of her conversation
That is greatly to be regretted Mrs Barnaby though we must hope that among those which remain sufficient proof of this very atrocious case will be found to answer the purposes of justice Was there any principle of selection in the manner in which some were preserved and others destroyed
I can hardly say replied the lady that it was done on any principle unless the feeling can be so called which leads a woman of delicacy to blush and shrink from preserving the effusions of a passion so vehement as that expressed in some of the letters of Lord Mucklebury
They were then the most ardent declarations of his attachment that you destroyed Mrs Barnaby
Most certainly said the widow throwing her eyes upon the carpet
It is unfortunate very unfortunate observed the lawyer though it shews a delicacy of mind that it is impossible not to admire Will you give me leave madam to peruse such of the letters as you have preserved
Undoubtedly replied Mrs Barnaby unlocking her writingdesk and though I know not how to regret the existence of such feelings Mr Morrison I will not deny that for the sake of honour and justice I am sorry now that what I have to shew you is so much the least explicit part of the correspondence
She then drew forth the packet which contained be it spoken in confidence every syllable ever addressed to her by the laughterloving Viscount and greatly as Mr Magnus Morrison began to feel interested in the case and much as he would have liked to bring so charming a client into court he very soon perceived that there was nothing in these highlyscented but diminutive feuilles volantes at all likely to produce any effect on a jury approaching to that elicited by the evidence of the learned and celebrated Sergeant Buzfuz on an occasion somewhat similar He continued to read them all however and they were numerous with the most earnest attention and unwearied industry permitting little or no emotion of any kind to appear on his countenance as he proceeded and determined to utter no word approaching to an opinion till he had carefully perused them all Important as Mrs Barnaby flattered herself these little letters might eventually prove and interesting as her lawyer found every word of them the whole collection might perhaps be considered as somewhat wearisome full of repetition and even trifling by the general reader for which reason a few only shall be selected as specimens taken at hazard and without any attention either to their dates or the particular events which led to them
No 1
Prima Donna del Mundo1
Walk you today At three be it at which hour my station will be the library
M
1 Lord Mucklebury had been assured on the authority of Mrs Barnaby herself that her favourite language was the Italian
No 2
Bellissima
Should I appear today you may guess where with a friend on my arm let it not change the sweet demeanour of my charming widow He is an excellent fellow but one whom I always treat as if he were not in existence—for in truth being almost as dreadfully in love as myself he neither sees nor hears
M
No 3
Bella Donna
It is three days since I have received a line from the fairest lady in Cheltenham Write me a whole page I beseech you and let it be such a one as shall console me under the necessity of dining and passing the whole evening with half a dozen hefellows when the champagne will but ill atone for the sparkling eyes whose light I shall lose by being among them But if I have one of your exquisite billets in my waistcoatpocket I shall bear the loss better
M
No 4
Vedova maravigliosa
Should I find the Barnaby disengaged in her saloon were my audacious feet to bear me across its threshold this evening
M
Such and such like were the manuscripts submitted by Mrs Barnaby to the inspection of her lawyer When he had carefully and deliberately gone through the whole collection he tied them all up again with a bit of rosecoloured ribbon as he had found them and pushing them back to her across the table said with something like a sigh—
It is greatly to be lamented madam that some of these little notes had not been consigned to the flames instead of the letters you have described to me for my judgment decidedly is that although every one of these documents tends to prove the admiration of their author for the lady to whom they are addressed there is not one of them which can be said to contain a positive promise of marriage or even I fear any implied intention of making a proposal so that I am afraid we should not get a verdict against my Lord Mucklebury on the strength of any evidence contained therein nevertheless if you have witnesses to prove that such proposal and such promise have been actually made to you by his lordship I think these letters might help us to make out a very pretty case and one which if it did not eventually bring you a large sum of money would at least be exceedingly vexatious to his lordship—a circumstance which might in some degree tend to soothe the naturally outraged feelings of so charming a lady so villanously treated
Mr Morrison said this with his eyes fixed steadily on the widows face intending to ascertain what chance there might be of her wishing to spend a few hundred pounds for the pleasure of plaguing her perfidious deluder but he could make out nothing from this scrutiny Nevertheless the mind of Mrs Barnaby was busily at work so many schemes however were battling together in her brain that the not being able to discover which preponderated shewed no want of skill in the lawyer
First she had a very strong inclination for a personal interview with Lord Mucklebury in order to see how a little passionate grief might affect him Secondly she greatly desired to profit by the present occasion for seeing some of those London sights which country ladies and gentlemen so love to talk about Thirdly she very ardently wished to avoid the necessity of paying the debts which his lordships base delusions had induced her to contract at Cheltenham Fourthly and lastly the project of a journey to Rome was beginning to take a very decided shape in her fancy but amidst all this there remained not the smallest wish or intention of trying to revenge her wrongs by the assistance of the law She was beginning to be too well aware of the melting nature of money in the funds to wish that the villanous Viscount should lead her to expend another shilling upon him
After the silence of a few minutes Mrs Barnaby raised her eyes from the ground and fixing them with a soft gentle resigned smile upon Mr Morrison said—
I thank you gratefully Mr Morrison for your frank opinion given too in so gentlemanlike a manner as to make me feel that I am indeed rather in the hands of a friend than a lawyer and in return I will use the same frankness with you I have loved Lord Mucklebury most sincerely loved him with all the pure disinterested ardour of my character but the same warm heart Mr Morrison which thus surrenders itself without suspicion or restraint is precisely of the nature most prompt to reject and forget a being proved to be unworthy of it Therefore I may now truly say that this poor bosom pressing her two hands upon it suffers more from the void within it than from tender regret and I am greatly inclined since I cannot benefit by your able services as a lawyer to urge my friendship with your dear sister as a claim upon your kindness as a gentleman Will you assist to cure the painful void I speak of by giving me your help in my endeavours to see all that is best worth looking at in London I am sure it would do me good not to mention that it might give pleasure to the dear child whom you saw with me when you entered She is quite my idol and I should delight in procuring her an amusement which I know she would so particularly enjoy
Mr Morrison who was a shrewd quicksighted man thought there was considerable food for speculation in this speech and had leisure served him he might have reasoned upon it in a spirit not much unlike that of Benedict Will you assist to cure the painful void which is as much as to say and so on He waited not however to give this all the attention it merited but remembering clearly his sisters statement respecting the widows fortune replied with most obliging readiness—
There is nothing my dear madam that I would not joyfully do to prove my wish of serving a lady so highly esteemed by my sister and one also permit me to add so deserving the admiration of all the world replied the gallant attorney
Well then my dear sir rejoined the widow in accents of renewed cheerfulness I throw myself entirely upon you and shall be quite ready to begin tomorrow to go here there and everywhere exactly as you command
A scheme for St Pauls and the Tower in the morning and one of the theatres at night was then sketched out and the gentleman departed by no means certain that this adventure might not terminate by being one of the most important of his life
CHAPTER III
A BOLD MEASURE—A TOUR DE FORCE ON THE PART OF MRS BARNABY AND OF SAVOIR FAIRE ON THAT OF LORD MUCKLEBURY—SIGHTSEEING—THE WIDOW RESOLVES UPON ANOTHER JOURNEY
Mr Morrison who really had a little business though not very much had named two oclock as the earliest hour at which he should be able to come to Halfmoon Street for the purpose of escorting the ladies in a hackneycoach to the city and it was during the hours that intervened between her breakfast and this time that the activeminded Mrs Barnaby determined upon making a private visit to Mivarts Hotel in the hope of seeing Lord Mucklebury
She had quite made up her mind to the worst as may be seen from the projects already maturing themselves in her brain as the consequence nevertheless she thought it was just possible that his lordship might be unable to resist the expression of sorrow in eyes he had so vehemently admired and at any rate there was something so so touching in the idea of this final interview that she could not refuse herself the satisfaction of making the experiment
Telling Agnes that she had a little shopping to do before their sightseeing began and that she would not take her for fear she should be as stupidly fatigued as on the night before she mounted to her bedroom adorned herself in the most becoming costume she could devise and with somewhat less rouge than usual that the traitor might see how sorrow worked set forth on her expedition
Having reached Piccadilly she called a coach and in a few minutes was safely deposited before Mivarts door
Is Lord Mucklebury here she inquired in a voice of authority of the first official she encountered
Yes maam was the answer His lordship is at breakfast
I must see him if you please directly
Is it by appointment maam questioned the discreet waiter looking at her keenly His lordship is just going to set off and is too busy I believe to see anybody
He is not too busy to see me—I must see him directly
Is it an appointment repeated the man in an accent not the most respectful
Yes it is replied the unblushing widow
Better call his own man Joe said another napkined functionary attracted by the appearance of the lady
You had better take this sovereign said Mrs Barnaby in a whisper
Apparently the man thought this advice the best for taking the coin with such practised dexterity as hardly to make the action perceptible he gave the lady a look with his knowing eye that said Follow me and slid away among passages and stairs till he had marshalled her to the door of Lord Muckleburys apartments Being probably somewhat doubtful whether the office he had performed would be as gratefully requited by the gentleman as by the lady he waited not to open the door but saying Theres his room disappeared leaving Mrs Barnaby to announce her illused self
She was a little frightened but still resolute and after pausing for one moment to recover breath threw open the door and entered
The waiters account was strictly true for his lordship was at breakfast and his lordship was packing En robe de chambre with a cup of coffee in one hand and a bunch of keys in the other he was standing beside his valet who knelt before a carriageseat he was endeavouring to close Lord Mucklebury was facing the door and raised his eyes as it opened The sight that greeted them was assuredly unexpected but the nerve with which he bore it did honour to his practised philosophy
Mrs Barnaby he exclaimed with a smile in which his valet seemed to take a share for the fellow turned his head away to conceal its effect upon him Mrs Barnaby How very kind this is But I grieve such obliging benevolence should be shewn at a moment when I have so little leisure to express my gratitude My dear lady I am this instant starting for the continent
I know it sir I know it but too well replied the widow considerably embarrassed by his easy tone Permit me however to speak to you for one moment before you set out
Assuredly Place yourself on this sofa Mrs Barnaby How deeply I regret that moments so delightful Confound you Rawlins youll break those hinges to pieces if you force them so My dear lady I am shocked to death but upon my soul I have not a moment to spare
I wish to speak to you my lord without the presence of your servant
My dearest Mrs Barnaby you need not mind Rawlins any more than the coffeepot You have no idea what a capital fellow he is true as steel silent as the grave Thats it Rawlins Ill set my foot upon it while you turn the key here it is this crooked one
Lord Mucklebury you must be aware began the widow
Aware Good Heaven yes To be sure I am But what can I do my dearest Mrs Barnaby I must catch the packet you see How is dear good Miss Morrison Now for the dressingcase Rawlins dont forget the soap—Ive done with it For goodness sake dont tell my excellent friend Miss Morrison how very untidy you have found everything about me She is so very neat you know Im sure shed Mind the stoppers Rawlins—put a bit of cotton upon each of them
Is it thus Lord Mucklebury that you receive one who
I know what you would say my charming friend interrupted his lordship handing her a plate of buttered toast that I am the greatest bear in existence No you will not eat with me But you must excuse me dear friend for I have a long drive before me And so saying Lord Mucklebury seated himself at the table replenished his coffeecup broke the shell of an egg and seriously set about eating an excellent breakfast
The widow was at a loss what to do or say next Had he been rude or angry or even silent and sullen or in any other mood in the world but one of such very easy good humour she could have managed better But a painful sort of conviction began to creep over her that Lord Muckleburys present conduct as well as all that had passed before was merely the result of highbreeding and fashionable manners and that lords and ladies always did so to one another. If this were so rather than betray such rustic ignorance as to appear surprised at it she would have consented to live without a lover for weeks and weeks to come and the terrible idea followed that by having ignorantly hoped for too much she might have lost a most delightful opportunity of forming an intimate friendship with a peer of the realm that might have been creditable and useful to her either abroad or at home
Fortunately Lord Mucklebury was really hungry and he ate so heartily for a minute or two that the puzzled lady had time to settle her purpose and take the new tone that her ambition suggested to her which she did with a readiness that his lordship really admired
Well I see how it is my lord said she I come here to ask you to do a commission for me at Rome where the papers told me you were going but you are too busy and too hungry to spare a moment to an old acquaintance
No upon my soul said Lord Mucklebury throwing some of his former homage into his eyes as he bowed to her There is no commission in the world you could give me from New York to Jerusalem that I would not execute with the fidelity of a western or an eastern slave What are your commands bewitching Mrs Barnaby
Merely my lord that you would buy a set of shells for me—as nearly like Lady Stephensons as possible and I dare say she added very cleverly drawing out her purse to avoid any misconception respecting the object,—I dare say your lordship who has travelled so much may be able to tell me pretty nearly what the price will be About ten pounds I think
And ten golden sovereigns were immediately thrown from the purse upon the table
Lord Mucklebury perfectly delighted by this brilliant proof of the versatility of her powers gaily took her purse from her hand and replacing the money in it said—
It is not so that I execute the commissions of my fair friends Mrs Barnaby I will note your orders in my pocketbook thus A set of the handsomest shells in Rome for the charming Mrs Barnaby See I can hardly overlook it and when I have the pleasure of presenting them we will settle about the price
He replaced her purse in her hand which he kissed with his best air of Cheltenham gallantry upon which she wisely rose and saying with every appearance of being perfectly satisfied with her reception Adieu my lord forgive my intrusion and let me hope to have the pleasure of seeing you when you return she took her departure perfectly convinced that her newborn conjecture was right and that lords had privileges not accorded to other men
This persuasion however as well as the interview which gave rise to it she determined to keep to her own breast not sorry perhaps that some of her friends might go to their graves with the persuasion that though deserted by him she once had a nobleman for her lover and vastly well satisfied with herself for having found out her plebeian blunder in time to prevent the loss of so very valuable a friend as she still thought Lord Mucklebury might be
She returned in good time to rest and refresh herself with a draught of her favourite beverage porter before Mr Morrison arrived
If she had thought this gentleman worthy of some little agaceries before her definitive interview with her noble friend she certainly did not think him less so afterwards and the morning and the evening passed away with great appearance of enjoyment to both the gentleman and lady Mrs Barnaby began to think as upon former occasions of the same kind that it would be vastly more agreeable if Agnes were not of the party
The same idea had occurred to the suffering girl herself more than once in the course of the day Whether her own wish was father to the thought or that her aunt had purposely permitted her feelings to be seen it matters not to inquire but when on the following morning Agnes complained of headache and expressed a timid wish to be left at home Mrs Barnaby without hesitation replied—
I think you are right Agnes You have no strength for that sort of thing so it is very lucky you brought your books and you may unpack them if you will and set to work
This release was hailed with thankfulness Lady Stephenson and Miss Peters were both written to during the leisure it afforded and though she could give no very satisfactory intelligence to either there was a pleasure in writing to them that no other occupation could give her
After this time several days elapsed during which Mrs Barnaby was scarcely at home at all except for the purpose of eating her dinner which meal Mr Morrison regularly partook with them
More than a week passed in this manner Mrs Barnaby becoming every day more convinced that although every sensible woman ought to marry a lord if she can get one yet nevertheless that an active intelligent obliging friend full of admiration and obedient to command was an excellent substitute for everything else during an interregnum between the more violent attachments by which the career of all distinguished women must necessarily be marked And Mr Morrison as he on his side remarked how freely the lady hired her flies and her hackney chariots—how little she thought of the price of tickets for plays operas and that realization of all her dreams of elegant festivity Vauxhall—how liberally wine and even brandy flowed at the savoury little dinners in her drawingroom—as he remarked on all this he could not but reason with himself on the greatly superior felicity of being the husband of such a lady and living without any trouble at all upon her fortune to the remaining a bachelor in Red Lion Square under the necessity of working whenever work could be had in order to pay his rent settle his tailors bill and find wherewithal to furnish commons for himself and his one domestic
It is certain however that up to this time no serious idea of marrying Mr Magnus Morrison had entered the widows head on the contrary she was fully determined that as soon as she had seen London well she would see Paris too and was not without a vague notion that there might be something very elegant and desirable in becoming the wife of a French grandee But these ruminations interfered not at all with the amiable amenity of her demeanour to her assiduous attendant Agnes was as little in their way as it was possible she could be the weather was remarkably fine and on the whole it may be doubted if any lady of thirtyseven ever made her first debut in the metropolis of the united kingdoms with more perfect satisfaction to herself
Mrs Barnaby reached London on a Thursday evening the first Sunday shewed her the Foundling all the little children and a popular preacher which together constituted one of Mr Morrisons favourite lions The Sunday following being the last according to her own secret determination that she would pass in England she was left during the early part of the day to her own devices Mr Morrison having a deed to draw which could no longer be safely postponed and she therefore obligingly asked Agnes if she should not like to go to church with her Agnes willingly assented and they went to the morning service at St Jamess In returning thence our gailydressed widow full of animation and the hope of finding Mr Morrison ready to take luncheon with her previous to their projected walk in Kensington Gardens remarked as she gracefully paced along the crowded pavement that one individual among the many who eyed her appeared to follow her movements with particular attention Mrs Barnaby was never stared at without feeling delighted by the compliment she thought it implied and simpered and frolicked with her parasol in her best manner till at length having no one else to whom she could point out the flattering circumstance she said to Agnes as they turned down Halfmoon Street into which the admiring individual turned too Do look at that man Agnes He has never ceased to follow and stare at me since we left the church There now he is going to pass us again Is he not an impudent fellow
Perhaps he knows you aunt said Agnes raising her eyes as the man passed them I think I have seen him at Cheltenham
This suggestion heightened Mrs Barnabys colour so considerably that it was perceptible through all her rouge
You have seen him at Cheltenham Where pray
I do not well remember in a shop I think
Mrs Barnaby asked no more questions but knocked rather hastily at the door of her lodgings but though the person had crossed the street and in doing so passed close to her he made no attempt to speak to her but passed on his way not however before he had so refreshed her memory respecting her Cheltenham debts as to make her suddenly decide upon leaving London on the morrow
She found Mr Magnus Morrison waiting for her as welllooking and as devoted as ever so she did all but quite forget her recent alarm its only effect being when Agnes as usual declined her invitation to go out with them to say in a whisper to her in the window recess farthest removed from her waiting gentleman I think I shall leave London tomorrow night so you may employ yourself in getting everything ready for packing Agnes She then turned gaily to her escort and they set off together
During the whole of this tedious week Agnes had used every means within her very limited power to ascertain what her aunts plans were for the future and this not only to satisfy her own natural curiosity on the subject but also that she might have sufficient information to justify her writing another letter to Lady Stephenson But all her inquiries had been so vaguely answered that she was quite as ignorant of what her next movement might be as when she arrived and was living in a very torturing sort of suspense between hope that fate by some means or other would oblige her to return to Cheltenham and fear lest the mystery that veiled the future might only be elucidated when too late for her to obey the command which in case of the worst was to send her there
So weary was she both of her present position and of the doubt which concealed the termination of it that she joyfully set herself to obey the parting injunction of her aunt and having rapidly gone through this task began her second letter to her Cheltenham friends stating exactly all she knew and all she did not know and at length leaving her letter unfinished that her postscript as she said might contain according to the imputed custom of all ladies the essential part of her letter
The fine bonnets and smart waistcoats of Kensington Gardens together with a bagful of queencakes with which she had provided herself for her own refreshment and that of her companion during a promised hour of repose in one of the alcoves so pleasantly beguiled the hours that it was near seven before they returned to dinner when the widow confessed herself too tired for anything more that day and at an hour much earlier than usual Mr Morrison took his departure well informed as it seemed of the ladys intentions for the morrow for Agnes heard him say—
Well then Mrs Barnaby one more delightful excursion tomorrow—the Surrey Gardens will delight you and at two oclock I will be here Sorry am I to think for the last time at least for the present A cordial handshaking followed and the door closed after him
I have done what you bid me aunt said Agnes all your things are got ready for you to place them as you like and one of the boxes half filled just as you did before Shall I write the directions aunt
We can do that tomorrow I am tired to death Ring the bell No—run down yourself for the girl looks as cross as two sticks run down Agnes and tell her to get my porter directly and I think you must bring it to me in bed for I cant keep my eyes open
Will you tell me aunt where we are going said Agnes timidly as she took up one of the candles to light her steps down two flights of stairs
Dont plague me now Agnes was the reply I have told you that I am tired to death and nobody but you would think of teazing one with such a question now You know well enough though you have not had the grace to thank me for it that I never take you anywhere that it is not most delightful to go to What other countrygirl in the world is there at your age that has had the advantages you have Exeter Clifton Cheltenham London and if you dont provoke me too much and make me turn you out of house and home Ill take you now but its no matter where—youll know soon enough to be grateful if theres such a thing as gratitude in your heart But I am a fool to expect it and see you standing there when Ive begged as if my life depended upon it that you would please to order me a little beer
Agnes said no more but went to bed that night with her fears most reasonably strengthened that she should not learn Mrs Barnabys destination till it was too late to avoid sharing it let it be in what direction it might
CHAPTER IV
AN ADVENTURE—ANOTHER LETTER FROM MISS MORRISON PRODUCTIVE OF A POWERFUL EFFECT UPON HER BROTHER—HE FORSAKES HIS CLIENT AND HIS FRIEND—AGNES IS LEFT ALONE AND EMPLOYS SOME OF HER LEISURE IN WRITING A LETTER TO MISS COMPTON
The following day was an eventful one For the first time since they had been in London Agnes on seeing her aunt preparing to go out asked permission to go with her and You may go if you will was the answer but before her bonnet was tied on Mrs Barnaby changed her mind saying Put down your bonnet Agnes upon second thoughts I dont choose to take you Look at all these things of mine lying about here I have told you that it is likely enough we may set off by a night coach and I have got as you know to go out with Mr Morrison so I should be much obliged if you would please to tell me how all my packing is to get done
If you would let me go with you now aunt I shall have plenty of time to do all that remains while you are out with Mr Morrison replied Agnes
Agnes you are without exception the most impertinent and the most plaguing girl that ever a widowed aunt half ruined herself to provide for But I wont be bullied in this way either Stay at home if you please and do what I bid you or before this time tomorrow you may be crying in the streets of London for a breakfast I should like to know who there is besides me in the wide world who would undertake the charge of you Do you happen to know any such people miss If you do be off to them if you please—the sooner the better but if not stay at home for once without grumbling and do what youre bid
There was just sufficient truth mixed with the injustice of these harsh words to go to the heart of poor Agnes Her aunt Compton in reply to a letter of Mrs Barnaby written in a spirit of wanton impertinence and in which she made a formal demand of one hundred pounds ayear for the expenses of Agnes answered in great wrath that she and Agnes both had better take care not to change their residence so often as to lose a parish settlement for they might live to find that a much better dependence than anything they would obtain from her This pettish epistle received the day before they left Silverton was carefully treasured by Mrs Barnaby and often referred to when she was anxious to impress on her niece a sense of her forlorn condition and helpless dependence So all hope from that quarter seemed to be for ever shut out And could she forget that even at the moment when the dangers of her situation had so forcibly struck Lady Elizabeth Norris as to make her approve what she had before declared to be worse than any home—that even at that moment she had explicitly declared that neither herself nor her niece could take charge of her
These were mournful thoughts and it was no great proof of Agness wisdom perhaps that instead of immediately proceeding to the performance of her prescribed task she sat down expressly to ruminate upon them But the meditation was not permitted to be long for hardly had she rested her elbow upon the table and her cheek upon her hand in the manner which ladies under such circumstances always do than she was startled by a violent knocking and simultaneous ringing at the streetdoor followed as soon as it was opened by a mixture of two or three loud and angry voices amidst which she clearly distinguished that of her aunt and the moment after she burst into the room accompanied by the gentleman who had appeared to admire her so greatly in the street the day before together with two other much less welllooking personages who stuck close upon the heels of Mrs Barnaby with more appearance of authority than respect
You shall live to repent this treatment of a lady cried Mrs Barnaby addressing the hero of her yesterdays adventure who was no other than the keeper of the liverystable from whom she had hired the carriage and horses which had dignified her existence for the last month You shall be taught to know what is due from a trumpery country tradesman like you to a person of my fortune and station What put it into your head you vile fellow instead of waiting my return to Cheltenham to follow me to London in this abominable manner and to arrest me in the public streets
It is no difficult matter to tell you that Mrs Barnaby if thats your name replied the man and youll find that I am not the only vile fellow holding himself ready to pay you the same compliment though I knowing the old saying first come first served took some trouble to be the first
And do you really pretend to fancy you pitiful creature cried Mrs Barnaby in a voice in which terror and rage were struggling—do you really pretend to believe that I am not able to pay your twopennyhalfpenny bill a thousand times over
Cant say indeed maam replied the man I shall not stand upon sending you to prison if you will discharge the account as here we stand paying fees and expenses of course as is fitting Here are the items neither many nor high—
£ s d
Carriage and horses one month twentyfive shillings per diem 37 0 0
Coachmans livery board and wages 20 0 0
Footmans ditto hired to order 25 0 0
————
£ 82 0 0
————
Deduct liveries if returned 12 0 0
————
Remains £ 70 0 0
————
And all our expenses and fees added wont make it above 77l or 78l altogether so maam if you are the great lady you say you wont find no great difficulty in giving me a writeoff for the sum and my good friends here shall stay while I run and get it cashed after which I will be ready to make you my bow and say good morning
The anger of Mrs Barnaby was not the less excited because what Mr Simmons the liverystable keeper said was true and she seized with considerable quickness the feature of the case which appeared the most against him
Your vulgar mode of proceeding at Cheltenham Mr Simmons is I am happy to say quite peculiar to yourselves for though for my age I have lived a good deal in the world I certainly never saw anything like it Here have I like a woman of fortune as I am paid nobly since I have been in your trumpery town for every single thing for which it is customary to pay ready money and when a job like yours which never since the creation of the world was paid except from quarter to quarter has run up for one month down comes the stableman post haste after me with a writ and arrest I wonder you are not ashamed of yourself
I dare say I should maam you talking so fine as you do if I hadnt nothing to put forward in return I dont believe Mrs Barnaby but what you or any other richseeming lady like you I dont believe but what any such might have come to Cheltenham and have run up debts to the tune of a thousand pounds and not one of us taken fright at it provided the lady had stayed quiet and steady in the town where one had ones eyes upon her and was able to see what she was about But just do now look at the difference The seasons pretty fullish says one and trades brisk Thats true says another only somes going off and thats never a good sign specially if they go without paying And whos after that shabby trick says another Neither more nor less than the gay widow Barnaby is the answer The devil she is says one she owes me twenty pounds—I hope you are out there neighbour says another for she owes me thirty And me ten—and me fifty—and me nineteen—and me forty and so on for more than Ill number And what pray is the wisest among them likely to do in such a case Why just what your humble servant has done neither more nor less
And what right have you audacious man to suppose that I have any intention of not returning and paying all I owe as I have ever and always done before
Nothing particular except your just saying maam that you should be back in two days and nevertheless not making yourself be heard of in ten and your rooms kept and your poor maid kept in em all the time too
This man talks like one who knows not what a lady is said Mrs Barnaby her eyes flashing and her face crimson but I must beg to ask of you sir turning to one of the Bowstreet officials whether I am not to have time allowed for sending to my lawyer and giving him instructions to settle with this fellow here
Why by rights maam you should go to a sponginghouse without loss of time that we might get the committal made out and all regular but if you be so inclined as to make it worth while to my companion and me I dont think we shall object to keeping guard over you here instead while you send off for any friends you choose to let into the secret
The friends I shall send to are my men of business fellow replied Mrs Barnaby with the strongest expression of disdain that she could throw into her countenance You dont I hope presume to imagine that I would send for any one of rank to affront them with the presence of such as you
Fair words butter no parsnips is a good saying and a true one but Ill add to it that saucy ones unlock no bolts and if you expect to get out of this scrape by talking big its likely you may find yourself mistaken
A bill must be a good deal longer than this is man before the paying it will be much of a scrape to me said the widow affecting to laugh What a fool you are Agnes she continued turning to the corner of the room into which the terrified girl had crept what a prodigious fool to be sure you must be to sit there looking as white as a sheet because an insolent tradesman chooses to bring in a bill of a months standing with a posse of thieftakers to back it Get up pray and bring my desk here I wish to write to my attorney
In obedience to this command Agnes rose from her chair and attempted to cross the room to fetch the desk which was at the other extremity of it but not all her efforts to arouse her strength sufficed to overcome the sick faintness which oppressed her Do for Gods sake move a little faster child said Mrs Barnaby but Agnes failed in her habitual and meek obedience not by falling into a chair but by sitting down in one conscious that her fainting at such a moment must greatly increase her aunts embarrassment
Ill get the desk miss said one of the terrible men in a voice so nearly expressive of pity that tears started to her own eyes in pity of herself as she thought how wretched must be the state of one who could inspire such a feeling in such a being but she thanked him and he placed the ladys desk before her—that pretty little rosewood desk that had been and indeed still was the receptacle of my Lord Muckleburys flattering if not binding effusions and as the thought crossed the brain of Mrs Barnaby that she had hoped to make her fortune by these same idle papers she felt for the very first time in her life that perhaps after all she had not managed her affairs quite so cleverly as she might have done It was a disagreeable idea but even as she conceived it her spirit rose to counteract any salutary effect such a notion might produce and with a toss of the head that indicated defiance to her own common sense she opened her desk with a jerk and began editing an epistle to Mr Magnus Morrison
But this epistle though it reached the lawyer in a reasonably short time after it was written was not the first he received that day for the Cheltenham post had brought him the following
Dear Brother
Dont blame me if the gay widow I introduced to you the week before last should prove to be a flam as my dear father used to call it I am sorry to say there are great suspicions of it going about here She left us telling everybody that she should be back in two days and it is now more than ten since she started and no soul has heard a word about her since This looks odd and bad enough you will think but it is not the worst part of the story Im sorry to say paw de too as you shall hear When she first came to Cheltenham she took very good rooms a separate drawingroom which always looks well and dress and all that quite corresponding but no servants nor carriage nor anything of the highflying kind Now observe Magnus what follows and then I think that you will come to a right notion of what sort of person you have got to deal with No sooner did Mrs Barnaby get acquainted with Lord Mucklebury then she set off living at the rate of some thousands ayear and the worst is as far as I am concerned that she coaxed me to go round bespeaking and ordering everything for her I know you will tell me Magnus that my fathers daughter ought to have known better and so I ought but upon my word she took me in so completely that I never felt a single moments doubt about the truth of all she said And I believe too that the superior sort of elegant look of that beautiful Miss Willoughby went for something with me Having told you all this it wont be necessary I fancy to say much more in respect to putting you on your guard Of course you will take care to do nothing in the way of standing bail or anything of that sort paw see bate you will say All Cheltenham is talking about it and I was told at breakfast this morning that Simmons who furnished the carriage horses and servants is gone to London to look after her and that Wright the mercer and several others talk of doing the same Too sell aw man we but it cant be helped So many people too come to me for information just as if I knew any more about her than anybody else at the boarding table That queer Lady Elizabeth Norris sent for me yesterday begging I would call upon her and when I got there I found it was for nothing in the world but to ask me questions about this Mrs Barnaby And there was that noblelooking Colonel Hubert who sat and listened to every word I uttered just as if he had been as curious an old woman as his aunt maize eel foe dear Magnus that men are sometimes quite as curious as women However they neither of them got much worth hearing out of me and yet I almost thought at one time that the high and mighty Colonel was writing down what I said for he had got his gold pencilcase in his hand and though it was on the page of a book that he seemed to be scribbling I saw plain enough by his eye that he was listening to me You know brother I am pretty sharp and I have got a few presents out of this flyaway lady let what will come of it But I could not help thinking Magnus—and if it was in a printed book it would be called a fine observation—I could not help thinking how such a vulgar feeling as curiosity spoils the elegance of the manners Lady Elizabeth who has often told me that I speak the most exquisite French she ever heard and who always before yesterday seemed delighted to have the opportunity of conversing with me in this very genteel language never said one word in it all the time I stayed and once when as usual I spoke a few words she looked as cross as a bear and said Be so good as to speak English just now Miss Morrison Very impertinent I thought may set eh gal Dont think the worse of me for this unfortunate blunder Let me hear how you are going on and believe me
Your affectionate sister
Sarah Morrison
Mr Magnus Morrison had by no means recovered the blow given him by this most unpleasing news when a note from Mrs Barnaby to the following effect was put into his hands
My dear Sir
A most ridiculous but also disagreeable circumstance has happened to me this morning A paltry little tradesman of Cheltenham to whom I owe a few pounds has taken fright because I did not return to my apartments there at the moment he expected me the cause of which delay you must be aware has been the great pleasure I have received from seeing London so agreeably However he has had the incredible insolence to follow me with a writ and I must beg you to come to me with as little delay as possible as your bail I understand will prevent my submitting to the indignity of being lodged in a prison during the interval necessary for my broker who acts as my banker to take the proper measures for supplying me with the trifling sum I want In the hope of immediately seeing you
I remain dear Sir
Most truly yours
Martha Barnaby
Mr Magnus Morrison was not so quick as it is called as his sister Sarah and in the present emergency felt totally unable to fabricate an epistle or even to invent a plausible excuse for an absence which he nevertheless finally determined should be eternal He was illinspired when he took this resolution for had he attended the ladys summons he might with little trouble have made a more profitable client of her yet than often fell to his lot But he was terrorstruck at the word BAIL and forgetting all the beefsteaks cheesecakes porter and black wine that he had swallowed at the widows cost he very cavalierly sent word by the sheriffs officer who had brought her note that he was very sorry but that it was totally out of his power to come
On receiving this message delivered too with the commentary of a broad grin even Mrs Barnaby turned a little pale but she speedily recovered herself on recollecting how very easy and rapid an operation the selling out stock was so once more raising her dauntless eye she said with an assumption of dignity but little mitigated by this rebuff I presume you will let me wait in my own apartments till I can send to my broker
Why tis possible maam you see that it may be totally out of his power too like this tother gentleman and we cant be kept waiting all day Youll have a trifle to pay already for the obligingness we have shewn and so you must be pleased to get ready without more ado
You dont mean to take me to prison fellow for this trumpery debt
Tis where ladies always do go when they keep carriages without paying for them unless indeed they have got husbands as can go for them and as that dont seem to be your case maam we must really trouble you to make haste
Gracious Heaven It is incredible cried the widow now really in an agony Why fellow I tell you I have thousands in the funds that I can sell out at an hours warning
So much the better maam—so much the better for us all as in that case we shall be sure to get our own at last and if the thing can be settled so easily it is quite beneath such a clever lady as you to make a fuss about lodging at the kings charge for a night or so Pray miss can you help the gentlewoman to put up a nightcap and such like little comforts not forgetting a small provision of ready money if I might advise for thats what makes the difference between a bad lodging and a good one where we are going Dick run out and call a coach will you
All further remonstrance proved useless and Mrs Barnaby alternately scolding and entreating was forced at last to submit to the degradation of being watched by a bailiffs officer as she went to her chamber to prepare herself for this terrible change of residence The most bitter moment of all perhaps was that in which she was told that she must go alone for that they had no orders to permit the attendance of any one It was only then that she felt in some degree the value of the gentle observant kindness which had marked every word and look of Agnes from the moment when—her first feeling of faintness over—she assiduously drew near her put needlework into her hands set herself to the same employment and with equal ingenuity and sweet temper contrived to make the long interval during which they had to endure the presence of two of the men while the third was dispatched to Mr Morrison infinitely more tolerable than could have been hoped for But on this point the officials were as peremptory as in the commands they reiterated that she should get ready promising however that application should be made for leave to let the young lady be with her if she liked it
You may save yourselves the trouble brutes as you are cried Mrs Barnaby as with something very like a sob she returned the kiss of Agnes Ill defy you to keep me in your vile clutches beyond this time tomorrow Take care that this letter is put into the post directly Agnes but I will give it to the maid myself It will reach my broker by four or five oclock I should think and Ill answer for his not neglecting the business but it may however be near dinnertime before I get back—so dont be frightened my dear if it is and here is the key of the moneydrawer you know if you want to pay anything
Better divide the money drawer with the young lady at any rate said one of the men laughing
That you may pick my pockets perhaps replied the vexed prisoner
Have you enough money with you aunt whispered Agnes in her ear
Plenty my dear and more than Ill spend upon them depend upon it she replied aloud This drew on a fresh and not very gentle declaration that they must be gone directly and the unlucky Mrs Barnaby preceded by one and followed by two attendants descended the stairs and mounted the hackneycoach
It was then that Agnes for the first time began to understand and feel the nature of her own situation Alone utterly alone in lodgings in the midst of London totally ignorant of the real state of her aunts affairs and unhappily so accustomed to hear her utter the most decided falsehoods upon all subjects that nothing she had said on this gave her any confidence in the certainty either of her speedy return or of her being immediately able to settle all claims upon her What then was it her duty to do During the first few moments of meditation on her desolate condition she thought that the danger of being taken abroad could not have been greater than that which had now fallen upon her and consequently that Lady Elizabeth would be ready to extend to her the temporary shelter she had told her to claim in case of what then appeared the worst necessity But a very little calmer reflection made her shrink from this and the fact that Colonel Hubert was now with her which under other circumstances would have made such an abode if enjoyed only for a day or two the dearest boon that Providence could grant her now caused her to decide with a swelling heart that she would not accept it
The nature and degree of the disgrace which her aunt had now brought upon her was so much worse than all that either her vanity or her coquetry had hitherto achieved that she felt herself incalculably more beneath him than ever and felt during these dreadful moments that she would rather have begged her bread back to Empton than have met the doubtful welcome of his eye upon seeing her under such circumstances
This thought of Empton recalled the idea of the person whose liberal kindness had for years bestowed on her this only home that she had ever loved Was it possible that if made acquainted with her present deplorable situation she could refuse to extend some sort of protection to one whose claim upon her she had formerly acknowledged so freely and who had never forfeited it by any act of her own I will write to her said Agnes suddenly rousing herself as it occurred to her that she was now called upon to act for herself God knows thought she what my unfortunate and most unwise aunt Barnaby may have written or said to provoke her but now at least without either rebellion or deceit I may myself address her
This idea generated a hope that seemed to give her new life and with a rapid pen she wrote as follows
I can hardly dare to expect that a letter from one whom you have declared you never would see again should be very favourably received and yet my dear aunt Betsy permit me once more to call you so how can I believe that the same person who took such generous pity on my miserable ignorance six years ago would without any fault on my part permit me to fail in my hope of turning the education she bestowed into a means of honourable existence, and that solely from the want of her protection Alas aunt Compton I am most miserably in want of protection now My aunt Barnaby of whose pecuniary affairs I in truth know nothing was this morning arrested and taken away to prison for debt Her style of expense has been very greatly increased during the last few weeks and I have reason to believe that she entertained a hope of being married to a nobleman with whom she made acquaintance at Cheltenham but who left it about a fortnight ago without taking any leave of her I am not much in her confidence but she has so repeatedly mentioned before me her determination to be revenged on this Lord Mucklebury as well as her certainty of recovering damages from him that I have no doubt her coming to London was with a view to bringing an action for breach of promise of marriage What confirms this is that the only person we have seen is a lawyer and the same spirit of conjecture which has made me guess what I have told you leads me to suspect also that this lawyer has persuaded her to give the project up for not only do I hear no more of it but she has seemed for the last week to be devoted wholly to seeing the sights of London in company with this lawyer I have not accompanied them not being very well nor very happy in a mode of life so much less tranquil than what I have been used to at Empton
I tell you all these particulars aunt Compton that you may know exactly what my situation is I am at this moment alone in a London lodging my aunt Barnaby in prison and with no little danger as far as I am able to judge that when she has settled this claim for her carriage and horses many others may come upon her
My petition to you therefore, is, that you would have the great great goodness to permit my travelling back into Devonshire to put myself under your protection not idly to become a burden to you but that I might be so happy as to feel myself in a place of respectability and safety till such time as my kind friend Mrs Wilmot may hear of some situation as governess or teacher at a school such as she might think me fit for I have very diligently kept up my reading and writing in French and Italian with the hope of one day teaching both They tell me too that I have a good voice for singing as my poor mother had perhaps I might be able to teach that
I shall remain here unless removed by my aunt Barnaby of which I would give you notice till such time as the Silverton post can bring me an answer Have pity upon me dear aunt Betsy Indeed I want it as much now as when you found I could not read a line of English in your pretty bower at Compton Basett
How often I have thought of your flowers and your bees aunt Betsy and wished I could be there to wait upon them and upon you
Your dutiful and grateful niece
Agnes Willoughby
5 HalfMoon Street Piccadilly London
Having finished this letter Agnes completed one she had before been writing to Lady Stephenson and then took her solitary way to a letterbox of which she had learned the situation at no great distance She heard her important dispatch to Compton Basett drop into the box with a conviction that her fate wholly depended on the manner in which it was received and having walked back as slowly as possible that she might benefit by the mild western breeze that blew upon her feverish cheek she remounted the dark stairs to the solitary drawingroom totally incapable of enjoying that solitude though it had so often appeared to her the one thing needful for happiness
Happy was it for her that she had turned her thoughts to her aunt Compton for uncertain as was the result of her application there was enough of hope attached to it to save her from that feeling of utter desolation that must at this moment have been her portion without it The more she thought of receiving aid from the pity of Colonel Huberts family the less could she feel comfort from the idea When it had been offered as a protection against the notice which they had imagined her likely to excite it was soothing to all her feelings but required or accorded as mere ordinary charity it was intolerable A melancholy attempt at dining occupied a few minutes and then hour after hour passed over her slowly and sadly till the light faded But she had not energy for employment not one of all her bestloved volumes could have fixed her attention for a moment She called for no candles but lying on the sofa her aching head pillowed by her arm she suffered herself to dwell on all the circumstances of her situation which weighed most heavily upon her heart and assuredly the one which brought the greatest pang with it was the recollection of having won the affection of Colonel Huberts family just at the moment when disgrace so terrible had fallen on her own as to make her rather dread than wish to see him again
CHAPTER V
AGNES RECEIVES AN UNEXPECTED VISITER AND AN IMPORTANT COMMUNICATION—SHE ALSO RECEIVES A LETTER FROM CHELTENHAM AND FROM HER AUNT BARNABY
Agnes was roused from this state of melancholy musing by a double knock at the door
Is it possible she said starting up that she spoke truly and that she is already released
The streetdoor was opened but the voice of Mrs Barnaby did not make its way up the stairs before her—a circumstance so inevitable upon her approach—that after listening for it in vain for a moment the desolate girl resumed her attitude and endeavoured to recover the train of thought that had been broken But she was not destined to do so at least for the present for the maid threw open the drawingroom door and announced A gentleman
Agnes as we have said was sitting in darkness and the girl very judiciously placed her slender tallowcandle in its tin receptacle on the table saying as she set a chair for the gentleman I will bring candles in a minute miss and then departed
Agnes raised her eyes as the visiter approached and had the light been feebler still she would have found no difficulty in discovering that it was Colonel Hubert who stood before her He bowed to the angle of the most profound respect and though he ventured to extend his hand in friendly greeting he took hers with the air of a courtier permitted to offer homage to a sovereign princess
Agnes stood up she received his offered hand and raised her eyes to his face but uttered no word either of surprise or joy Her face was colourless and traces of very recent tears were plainly visible she trembled from head to foot and Colonel Hubert frightened as a brave man always is when he sees a woman really sinking under her sexs weakness replaced her on the sofa almost as incapable of speaking as herself
Do not appear distressed at seeing me dearest Miss Willoughby said he or I shall be obliged to repent having ventured to wait on you I should not have presumed to do this had not your friends your truly attached friends my aunt and sister authorized my doing so
Oh what kindness exclaimed poor Agnes bursting into a flood of most salutary tears Do not think me ungrateful Colonel Hubert if I could not say if I did not speak to you Do you indeed come to me from Lady Elizabeth
Here are my credentials he replied smiling and presenting a letter to her We learned that your foolish aunt forgive me Miss Willoughby but the step I have taken can only be excused by explaining it with the most frank sincerity we learned that Mrs Barnaby having quitted Cheltenham suddenly the ostensible reason for doing which was bad enough had left a variety of debts unpaid and that her creditors alarmed at her not returning were taking active measures to secure her person Is this true Is your aunt arrested
She is replied Agnes faintly
Good God You are here then entirely alone
I am quite alone was the answer though it was almost lost in the sob that accompanied it
Oh dearest Agnes cried Colonel Hubert in a burst of uncontrolable emotion I cannot see you thus and longer retain the secret that has been hidden in my heart almost from the first hour I saw you I love you Agnes beyond all else on earth Consent to be my wife and danger and desertion shall never come near you more
What a moment was this to hear such an avowal Human life can scarcely offer extremes more strongly marked of weal and woe than those presented by the actual position of Agnes and that proposed to her by the man she idolized But let De la Rochefoucault say what he will there are natures capable of feeling something nobler than the love of self; and after one moment of happy triumphant swelling of the heart that left no breath to speak she heaved a long deep sigh that seemed to bring her back from her momentary glimpse of an earthly paradise to things as they are and said slowly but with great distinctness No never will I be your wife never by my consent shall Colonel Hubert ally himself to disgrace
Had this been said to a younger man it is probable that he would not have found in it anything calculated to give a mortal wound to his hopes and wishes but it fell with appalling coldness on the heart of the brave soldier who had long kept Cupid at defiance by the shield of Mars and who had just made the first proposal of marriage that had ever passed his lips It was her age and his own that rose before him as she uttered her melancholy No never and Agnes became almost the first object to whom he had ever even for a moment been unjust He gave her no credit no not the least for the noble struggle that was breaking her heart and meant most sincerely what he said when he replied—
Forgive me Miss Willoughby Had I been a younger man the offer of my hand my heart my life would not have appeared to you as it doubtless must do now—the result of sober staid benevolence desirous of preserving youthful innocence from unmerited sorrow Such must my love seem So let it seem but it shall never cost one hours pain to you He was silent for a moment and had to struggle brave man as he was against feelings whose strength perhaps only shewed his weakness But even so he added making a strong effort to speak steadily even so let me not be here in vain listen to me as a friend and father
Poor Agnes this was a hard trial To save him worshipped as he was from a marriage that must be considered as degrading she could have sacrificed herself with the triumphant courage of a proud martyr but to leave him with the idea that she was too young to love him to let that glowing generous heart sink back upon itself because it found no answering warmth in her in her who would have died only to purchase the light of owning that she never did and never could love any man but him It was too terrible and the words Hubert beloved Hubert were on her lips but they came no farther for she had not strength to speak them Another effort might have been more successful and they or something like them might have found way had not the gentleman recovered his voice first and resumed the conversation in a tone so chillingly reserved that the timid brokenspirited girl had no strength left to prick the sides of her intent and lay her innocent heart open before him
In the name of Lady Elizabeth Norris let me entreat you Miss Willoughby not to remain in a situation so every way objectionable he said My aunt and sister both are full of painful anxiety on your account and the letter I have brought contains their earnest entreaties that you should immediately take up your residence with my aunt Do not refuse this from any fear of embarrassment of persecution from me I shall probably go abroad I shall probably join my friend Frederick at Paris He did you great justice Miss Willoughby and but for me perhaps Forgive me I will no longer intrude on you—forgive me—tell me you forgive me for all the pain I have caused you and for more injury perhaps than you will ever know I never knew how weak—I fear I should say how unworthy—my character might become till I knew you and to complete the hateful retrospect he added with bitterness and rising to go to complete the picture of myself that I have henceforth to contemplate I was coxcomb enough to fancy But I am acting in a way that I should scorn a youth for who numbered half my years Answer my aunts letter Miss Willoughby answer it as if her contemptible nephew did not exist he shall exist no longer where he can mar your fortune or disturb your peace
Agnes looked at him as if her heart would break at hearing words so harsh and angry when losing at once all sense of his own suffering Colonel Hubert reseated himself and in the gentlest accent of friendship alluded to the propriety of her immediately leaving London and to the anxiety of her friends at Cheltenham to receive her
They are very very good to me said Agnes meekly and I shall be most thankful Colonel Hubert to avail myself of such precious kindness if the old aunt to whom I have written in Devonshire should refuse to save me from the necessity of being a burden on their benevolence
But shall you wait for this decision here Miss Willoughby
I have promised to do so replied Agnes and as I may have an answer here on Thursday I think at latest I would not risk the danger of offending her by putting it out of my power immediately to obey her commands if she should be so kind as to give me any
The eyes of Agnes were fixed for a moment on his as she concluded this speech and there was something in the expression of that look that shook the sternness of his belief in her indifference He rose again and making a step towards her said with a violence of emotion that entirely changed the tone of his voice—
Agnes Miss Willoughby answer me one question Should my aunt herself plead for me could you would you be my wife
Agnes equally terrified lest she should say too little or too much faltered as she replied If it were possible Colonel Hubert could I indeed believe that your aunt your sister would not hate and scorn me
You might You will let me believe it possible you could be brought to love me To love me Agnes No do not answer me do not commit yourself by a single word Stay then here but do not leave the house Stay till Yet alas I dare not promise it But you will not leave this house Miss Willoughby with any aunt without letting me my family know where you may be found
Oh no said Agnes with a reviving hope that if they must be parted which this reference to her aunt and his own doubtful words made it but too probable would be the end of all at least it would not be because he thought she was too young to love him Oh no she repeated this letter will not be left without an answer
And you will not stir from these rooms alone he replied once more taking her hand
Not if you think it best she answered frankly giving hers and with a smile moreover that ought to have set his heart at ease about her thinking him too old to love And for the moment perhaps it did so for he ventured to press a kiss upon that hand and uttering a fervent Heaven bless and guard you disappeared
And Agnes then sat down to muse again But what a change had now come oer the spirit of her dream Where was her abject misery Where the desolation that had made her almost fear to look around and see how frightfully alone she was Her bell was rung her candles brought her tea was served and though there was a fulness and palpitation at the heart which prevented her taking it or eating the bread and butter goodnaturedly intended to atone for her untasted dinner quite in the tranquil satisfactory and persevering manner that might have been wished everything seemed to dance before her eyes en coleur de rose till at last giving up the attempt to sit soberly at the teatable she rose from her chair clasped her hands with a look of grateful ecstasy to heaven and exclaimed aloud He loves me Hubert loves me Oh happy happy Agnes
Did you call miss said the maid entering from having heard her voice as she passed up the stairs
Agnes looked at her and laughed No Susan she replied I believe I was talking to myself
Well that is funny said the girl and Im sure it is a pity such a young lady as you should have no one else to talk to Shall I take the things away miss
Once more left to herself Agnes set about reading the letter which hitherto had lain untouched upon the table blushing as she opened it now because it had not been opened before
The first page was from Lady Elizabeth and only expressed her commands given in her usual peremptory tone but nevertheless mixed with much kindness that Agnes should leave London with as little delay as possible and consider her house as her home till such time as an eligible situation could be found in which her own excellent talents might furnish her with a safer and more desirable manner of existence than any her aunt Barnaby could offer The remainder of the letter was filled by Lady Stephenson and expressed the most affectionate anxiety for her welfare but she too referred to the hope of being able to find some situation that should render her independent so that it was sufficiently evident that neither of them as yet had any idea that this independence might be the gift of Colonel Hubert
It is nonsense to suppose they will ever consent to it thought Agnes and this time her spirits were not so exalted as to make her breathe her thoughts aloud but I never can be so miserable again as I have been it is enough happiness for any one person in this life that everybody says is not a happy one it is quite enough to know that Hubert loves me Oh Hubert noble Hubert how did I dare to fix my fancy on thee Presumptuous But yet he loves me
And with this balm acting like a gentle opiate upon her exhausted spirits she slept all night and dreamed of Hubert
The four oclock delivery of the post on the following day brought her this letter from her aunt Barnaby
Dear Agnes
The brutality of these Cheltenham people is perfectly inconceivable Mr Crayton my broker and my poor fathers broker before me came to me as early as it was possible last night and I explained to him fully and without a shadow of reserve the foolish scrape I had got into which would have been no scrape at all if I had not happened to fall into the hands of a parcel of rascals He undertook to get the sum necessary to release me by eleven oclock this morning which he did good man with the greatest punctuality paid that villanous Simmons got his receipt and my discharge when just at the very moment when I was stepping into the coach that was to take me from this hateful place up come the same two identical fellows that insulted us in HalfMoon Street and arrest me again at the suit of Wright Such nonsense As if I could not pay them all ten times over as easy as buy a pot of porter But they care no more for reason than a pig in a sty so here I am shut up again till that dear old man Crayton can come and get through all the same tedious work again You cant conceive how miserably dull I am and whats particularly provoking I gave over trying to have you in with me as soon as old Crayton told me I should be out by noon today and therefore Agnes I want you to set off the very minute you receive this and come to me for a visit You may come to me for a visit though I cant have you in without special leave Mind not to lose your way but its uncommonly easy if you will only go by what I say Set out the same way that we went to the church you know and keep on till you get to the Haymarket which you will know by its being written up Then when youve got down to the bottom of it turn sharp round to your left and just ask your way to the Strand and when you have got there which you will in a minute walk on on on till you come to the bottom of a steep hill and then stop and ask some one to shew you the way to the Fleet Prison When you get there any of the turnkeys will be able to shew you to my room and a comfort Im sure it will be to see you in such a place as this And do Agnes buy as you come along half a dozen cheesecakes and half a dozen queencakes and a small jar for about four or five shillings of brandy cherries And whats a great comfort I may keep you till its dark which is what they call shuttingup time and then you can easy enough find your way back again by the gaslight which is ten times more beautiful than day all along the streets from one end of the town to the other Only think of that dirty scoundrel Morrison never coming near me after all that passed too and all the wine he drank shabby fellow There is one very elegantlooking man here that I meet in the passage every time I go to my bedroom He always bows but we have not spoken yet Bring five sovereigns with you and be sure set off the moment you get this
Your affectionate aunt
Martha Barnaby
It needs not to say the sort of effect which the tone of this letter produced on a mind in itself delicate and unsunned as the bells of the valley lily and filled to overflowing with the image of the noble Hubert Yet there were other feelings that mingled with this deep disgust she pitied her aunt Barnaby and could any decent or womanly exertion have done her good or even pleasure she would not have shrunk from making it But what she asked was beyond her power to perform and moreover she had promised Colonel Hubert not to leave the house How dear to her was the recollection of this injunction how delightful the idea that his care and his commands protected her from the horrors of such a progress as that sketched out by her aunt Barnaby To obey her was therefore altogether out of the question but she sat down to write to her and endeavoured to soften her refusal by pleading her terror of the streets at any hour and her total want of strength and courage to undertake such an expedition adding that she supposed by her account there could be no doubt of their meeting in HalfMoon Street on the morrow
But the morrow and its morrow came without bringing Mrs Barnaby In fact writ after writ had poured in upon her but hoping still to evade those yet to come she only furnished herself with what each one required and so prolonged her imprisonment to the end of the week Her indignation at Agness refusal to come to her was excessive and she answered her letter by a vehement declaration that she would never again inhabit the same house with her This last epistle ended thus—
If you dont wish to be turned neck and heels into the street the moment I return look out for a nurserymaids or a kitchenmaids place if you will only take care never to let me set eyes upon you again Ungrateful wretch What is Morrisons ingratitude to yours For nearly seven months you have eaten at my cost been lodged at my cost travelled at my cost ay and been clothed at my cost too And what is the return I am in prison for debts which of course were incurred as much for you as for myself and you refuse to come to me Never let me see you more—never let me hear your name and never again turn your thoughts or hopes to your for ever offended aunt
Martha Barnaby
Little as Agnes wished to continue under the protection of Mrs Barnaby this peremptory dismissal was exceedingly embarrassing She had declined immediately accepting the invitation of Lady Elizabeth in a manner that made her very averse to throwing herself upon it till a positive refusal of assistance from her aunt Compton obliged her to do so and being absolutely penniless excepting inasmuch as she was entrusted with the key that secured the widows small stock of ready money her only mode of not undergoing to the letter the sentence which condemned her to wander in the streets was remaining where she was till she received an answer from Miss Compton
It is certain that she submitted to thus seizing upon hospitality with the strong hand the more readily as by doing so she was enabled to obey the parting injunction of Colonel Hubert and bracing her courage to the meeting that must take place should Mrs Barnabys release precede her own she suffered the heavy interval of doubt to steal away with as little of the feverish restlessness of impatience as possible
CHAPTER VI
AGNES RECEIVES ANOTHER UNEXPECTED VISIT—MRS BARNABY RETURNS TO HER LODGINGS AND CATCHES THE VISITER THERE
The seven or eight months elapsed since the reader parted from Miss Compton passed not over the head of the secluded spinster as lightly as the years which had gone before for her conscience was not quite at rest For some time the vehemence of the indignation and disgust excited by Mrs Barnaby during their last interview sustained her spirits much as a potent but noxious dram might have done and during this time the fact of Agnes being her inmate and companion was quite sufficient to communicate such a degree of contamination to her as made the choleric old lady turn from all thought of her with most petulant dislike The letter of Mrs Barnaby demanding an allowance for Agnes reached her just when all this violence was beginning to subside and acting like turpentine on an expiring flame made her anger and hatred rage again with greater fury than ever This demand was refused as we have seen in the harshest manner possible and the writing this insulting negative was a considerable relief to the spinsters feelings But when this was done and all intercourse as it should seem finally closed between herself and the only human being concerning whom she was capable of feeling any lively interest her anger drooped and faded and her health and spirits drooped and faded too She remembered when it was too late that it was not Agness fault that she was living with Mrs Barnaby and conscience told her that if she had come forward as she might and ought to have done at the time of her brothers death the poor child might have been saved from the chance of any moral resemblance to the object of her aversion however much she might unhappily inherit the detestable Wisett beauty Then too came the remembrance of the beautiful vision whose caresses she had rejected when irritated almost to madness by the tauntings of Mrs Barnaby and the idea that the punishment allotted to her in this world for this flagrant act of injustice was the being doomed never to behold that fair young creature more lay with a daily increasing weight of melancholy on her spirits
It was on the afternoon of a fine September day that the letter of Agnes reached her As usual she was sitting in her bower and her flowers bloomed and her bees hummed about her as heretofore but the sprightly black eye that used to watch them was greatly dimmed She had almost wholly lost her relish for works of fiction and reading a daily portion of the Bible which she had never omitted in her life was perhaps the only one of all her comfortable habits that remained unchanged
It would be no easy matter to paint the state into which the perusal of Agness letter threw her Selfreproach was lost in the sort of ecstasy with which she remembered how thriftily she had hoarded her wealth and how ample were the means she possessed to give protection and welcome to the poor orphan who thus sought a refuge in her bosom All the strength and energy she had lost seemed to rush back upon her as her need called for them and there was more of courage and enterprize within that diminutive old woman than always falls to the lot of a sixfoottwo dragoon
Her resolution as to what she intended to do was taken in a moment and without any weakening admixture of doubts and uncertainties as to when and how but she knew that she should want her strength and must therefore husband it Her step was therefore neither hurried nor unsteady as she returned to the house and mounted to her sittingroom The first thing she did on entering it was to drink a glass of water the next to endite a note to the postmaster at Silverton ordering a chaise and four horses to be at Compton Basett by daybreak to take her the first stage towards London She then rang her bell gave her note to Peggy Wright the farmers youngest daughter who was her constant attendant and bade her request that her father if in the house would come to her immediately There was enough in the unusual circumstances of a letter received and a note sent to excite the good farmers curiosity and he was in the presence of his landlady as quickly as she could herself have wished
Sit down Farmer Wright said Miss Compton and the farmer seated himself
I must leave Compton Basett tomorrow morning Farmer Wright she resumed My niece—my great niece I mean Miss Willoughby has written me a letter which determines me to go to London immediately for the purpose of taking charge of her myself
Surely Miss Compton you beant goen to set off all by your own self for Lunnun exclaimed the farmer
Not if I can manage before night to get a couple of servants to attend me
Farmer Wright stared there was something quite new in Miss Betsys manner of talking
You are a very active man farmer in the haymaking season continued Miss Compton with a smile do you think that to oblige and serve me you could be as much on the alert for the next three or four hours as if you had a rick to save from a coming storm of rain
That I wool replied Wright heartily Do you but bid me do Miss Betsy and Ill do it
Then go to your sister Applebys and inquire if her son William has left Squire Hortons yet
I need not go so far for that Miss Compton Will is down stairs with my missus at this very minute said the farmer
That is fortunate He is not likely to go away directly is he
No not he Miss Betsy he is come to have a crack with our young uns and its more likely hell stay all night than be off in such a hurry
Then in that case have the kindness Farmer Wright to saddle a horse while I write a line to the bank I want you to ride over to Silverton for me to get some money
And Ill do it replied her faithful assistant leaving the room
Fortunately for her present convenience Miss Compton always kept a deposit of about one hundred pounds in the bank at Silverton in case of need either for the purpose of making the loans which have been already mentioned as a principal feature in her works of charity or for any accidental contingency Beyond this however she had no pecuniary transactions there as her habitual secrecy in all that concerned her money affairs made it desirable that her agent should be more distant This fund however was quite sufficient for the moment for as will be easily believed Miss Compton had no debts
Farmer Wright speedily reappeared equipped for his ride
You will receive ninetyseven pounds sixteen and twopence Wright said the spinster giving her draught
Would it suit you best to receive the rent Miss Betsy before you set off said the farmer It will make no difference you know maam if I pays it a fortnight beforehand
Not an hour upon any account Wright replied his punctilious landlady I will leave written instructions with you as to what you are to do with it and about all my other affairs in which you are concerned And now send William Appleby to me
This young man the nephew of her tenant and the exfootman of a neighbouring family had been favourably known to her from his childhood and a very few minutes sufficed to enrol him as her servant with an understanding that his livery was to be ordered as soon as they reached London
This done Mrs Wright was next desired to attend her and with very little waste of time or words it was agreed between them that if father made no objection which both parties were pretty sure he would not Peggy should be immediately converted into a waitingmaid to attend upon herself and Miss Willoughby This last arrangement produced an effect very likely to be destructive to all Miss Betsys quiet welllaid plans for preparation for the news that Peggy was to set off next morning for London very nearly turned the heads of every individual in the house
The mother of the family however so far recovered her senses as to appear again in Miss Comptons room at the end of an hour but with a heated face and every appearance of having been in great activity
I ax your pardon Miss Betsy a thousand times said the good woman wiping her face but Peggys things you know Miss Compton cant be like yours all nicely in order in the drawers and we must all wash and iron too before she can be ready But here I am now to help you and I can get your trunk ready in no time
I shall take very little with me Mrs Wright replied the old lady who seemed as much au fait of what she was about as if she had been in the habit of visiting London every year of her life nor must Peggy take much she added gently but with decision and getting her things washed and ironed must be done after we are gone I shall let you know as soon as I can where the luggage that must follow us shall be addressed and instead of washing and ironing Mrs Wright I want you and one of the elder girls to assist me in making an inventory of everything I leave behind orders concerning which you will also receive by the post
Miss Compton though a very quiet inmate and one whose regular habits gave little trouble was nevertheless a person of great importance at Compton Basett and her commands thus distinctly expressed were implicitly obeyed so that before the usual hour of retiring for the night everything was arranged both for going and staying exactly as she had determined they should be
It was singular to see with what unvacillating steadiness this feeblelooking old lady pursued her purpose no obstacle appeared of consequence sufficient to draw aside a thought from the main object she had in view but was either removed or passed over by an impulse that seemed as irresistible as the steam that causes the train to rush along the railroad making the way clear if it does not find it so
At daybreak the Silverton postchaise with four good horses and two smart postboys were at the door and within ten minutes afterwards all adieux had been spoken all luggage stowed and Miss Compton who had never yet left her native county was proceeding full gallop towards the metropolis
As you drive so you will be paid said William to the boys as they set off and they did drive as boys so bargained with generally do Miss Compton had shewn equal quickness and good judgment in having secured the services of this William for he had repeatedly travelled with his late master and mistress to London was apt quick and intelligent and fully justified the expectation his new lady had formed that with carte blanche in the article of expense he would manage her journey as expeditiously and with as little trouble to herself as if she had been attended with half a dozen outriders
At Exeter she dined and reposed herself for a couple of hours during which William undertook to hire a carriage for the journey furnished with a dickey behind and all other conveniences an arrangement which greatly lessened the fatigue to all parties and enabled the activeminded old lady to proceed as far as Salisbury that night Daybreak again found her en route and by means of Williams conditional mode of payment to the postilions Miss Compton arrived at Ibertsons Hotel by two oclock in the afternoon
It might be supposed from the exertion used to reach the wide city in which she knew poor Agnes stood alone that Miss Compton would drive directly to HalfMoon Street and save her as early as possible from all farther anxiety but such was not her plan There was something still wanting to prove her repentance and her love before she could present herself before the forsaken Agnes All her schemes all her wishes were explained to her efficient aidedecamp and while she and the wondering Peggy reposed themselves he was sent in search of handsome private lodgings which must be such as his master the member for Silverton might have approved for his own family And then he was to proceed to liverystables where he was known and hire for her by the week a carriage and horses fit for ladies to use Such were Miss Comptons vague but very judicious orders and the result was that by the time she had dined and taken an hours nap upon the sofa a very respectable equipage was at the door awaiting her orders In and about this the light luggage she had brought with her was arranged and ten minutes drive brought her to handsome airy lodgings near the top of Wimpole Street where William thought he should be able to breathe himself and where his mistress and Peggy new as they were to the smoke and dust might have as good a chance of doing so too as in any other street he could think of
Miss Compton was pleased greatly pleased with her new confidants promptitude and ability The carriage pleased her the horses the coachman the house the furniture and the obsequious landlady too all pleased her and she felt a degree of happiness as she set her Peggy to make arrangements for the especial comfort and accommodation of Agnes such as she had never known before It cured all fatigue it overpowered every feeling of strangeness in her new and most unwonted abode and gave a gaiety to her spirits and lightness to her heart that made her look as she stepped from room to room like one of the little benignant old fairies of which we read in French story books
By eight oclock all her preparations were complete the teathings placed on the drawingroom table Peggy given to understand that she was to consider herself more as Miss Willoughbys personal attendant than her own and the carriage again at the door to convey her to the longedfor yet almost dreaded meeting in HalfMoon Street
Agnes had written to Miss Compton on Monday and calculated that she might receive an answer to her letter on Thursday morning But Thursday morning was past and no letter arrived and when about halfpast eight on that same evening she heard a carriage stop and the knocker thunder the only idea that suggested itself was that her aunt Barnaby was returned and that she should have to plead for a nights lodging under her roof
Her spirits were weakened by disappointment she had heard nothing from Cheltenham since Colonel Huberts visit and this together with the nonarrival of any Devonshire letter had caused a degree of depression to which she very rarely gave way
What shall I say to her How shall I dare to meet her she exclaimed Oh if she keeps her word what what will become of me
She heard steps approaching and feeling convinced it was her aunt Barnaby attempted in her terror to open the door that communicated with the other room but found it locked and trembling like a hunted fawn obliged to turn to bay she cast her eyes towards the dreaded door and saw Miss Compton gently and timidly entering by it
Aunt Betsy she cried springing towards her and falling involuntarily upon her knees Oh dear dear aunt Betsy Is it indeed possible that you are come for me
The poor old ladys highwrought energies almost failed her now and had not a chair stood near she would hardly have saved herself from falling on the floor beside her niece Agnes poor child she said you thought I was too hard and too cruel to come near you I have been much to blame oh frightfully to blame Will you forgive me dear one My poor pale girl You look ill Agnes very very ill And is it not a fitting torment for me to see this fair bloodless cheek for did I not hate you for your rosy health
Agnes was indeed pale and though not fainting was so near it that while her aunt uttered this passionate address she had no power to articulate a word But she laid her cheek on the old ladys hands and there was something so caressing and so helpless in her attitude as she did this that poor Miss Compton was entirely overcome and wept aloud
No sooner however had this first violent burst of emotion passed away than the happiness such a meeting was calculated to afford to both of them was most keenly and delightfully felt Miss Compton looked at Agnes as the blood beautifully tinged her delicate cheek again with such admiration and delight that it seemed likely enough notwithstanding her strong good sense on many points that she might now fall into another extreme and idolize the being she had so harshly thrust from her while the object of this new and unhopedfor affection seemed to feel it at her very heart and to be cheered and warmed by it like a tender plant receiving the first beams of the morning sun after the chilling coldness of the night
At length Miss Compton remembered that she was not come there only to look at Agnes and withdrawing her arms which she had thrown around her she said Come my own child this is no roof for either of us Have you much to remove Is there more than a carriage can take Agnes
And will you take me with you now aunt Betsy cried the delighted girl springing up Wait but one moment and all I have shall be ready it is not much My books are packed and my trunk too the maid will help me
Ring the bell then love and let my servant take your packages down Agnes obeyed her trunk aunt Betsys original trunk and the dear Empton bookbox were lodged on the drivingseat and the dickey of the carriage and William was just mounting the stairs to say that all was ready when another carriage was heard to stop and another knocking resounded against the open streetdoor
Oh it is aunt Barnaby cried Agnes in a voice of terror
Is it replied Miss Compton in the lively tone of former days I shall be exceedingly glad to see her
Can you be in earnest aunt Betsy said Agnes looking very pale
Perfectly in earnest my dear child answered the old lady It will be greatly more satisfactory that she should be an eyewitness of your departure with me than that you should go without giving her notice Perhaps she would say you had eloped and robbed the premises
Hush cried Agnes she is here
Mrs Barnabys voice at least was already with them It was indeed the return of this lady which they had heard and no sooner had she dismissed her hackneycoachman than she began questioning the servant of the house who was stationed at the open door expecting Miss Compton and her niece to come down
What carriage is that Whose servant is that upon the stairs You have not been letting the lodgings I hope were the first words of the widow
Oh dear no maam replied the maid everything is just as you left it
Then who is that carriage waiting for
For a lady maam who is come to call on your young lady
My young lady unnatural hussy And what fine friends has she found out here I wonder to visit her Be they who they will they shall hear my opinion of her And with these words Mrs Barnaby mounted the last stair and entered the room
The two unsnuffed tallow candles which stood on the table did not enable her at the first glance to recognize her aunt who was wrapped in a long silk cloak much unlike any garment she had ever seen her wear but the sable figure of Agnes immediately caught her eye and she stepped towards her with her arm extended very much as if about to box her ears But it seemed that the action was only intended to intimate that she was instantly to depart for with raised voice and rapid utterance she said How comes it girl that I find you still here Begone Never will I pass another night under the same roof with one who could so basely desert a benefactress in distress And who may this be that you have got to come and make merry with you while I and for your expenses too Whoever it is they had better shew no kindness to you or they will be sure to repent of it
Mrs Barnaby then turned suddenly round to reconnoitre the unknown visiter Do you not know me Mrs Barnaby said Miss Compton demurely
My aunt Betsy Good God maam what brought you here
I came to take this troublesome girl off your hands Mrs Barnaby is not that kind of me
Thats the plan is it retorted the widow bitterly Now I understand it all Instead of coming to comfort me in my misery she was employing herself in coaxing another aunt to make a sacrifice of herself to her convenience Take her and when you are sick and sorry she will turn her back upon you as she has done upon me
Oh do not speak so cruelly aunt Barnaby cried Agnes greatly shocked at having her conduct thus described to one whose love she so ardently wished to gain Tell my aunt Compton what it was you asked of me and let her judge between us
Shut the door Agnes said Miss Compton sternly and then reseating herself she addressed Mrs Barnaby with an air of much anxiety and interest Niece Martha I must indeed beg of you to tell me in what manner this young girl has conducted herself since she has been with you for I can assure you much depends upon the opinion I shall now form of her I have no longer any reason to conceal from you that my circumstances are considerably more affluent than anybody but myself and my man of business is aware of Nearly forty years of strict economy niece Martha have enabled me to realize a very respectable little fortune It was I and not my tenant who purchased your poor fathers moiety of Compton Basett and as I have scarcely ever touched the rents a little study of the theory of interest and compound interest will prevent your being surprised when I tell you that my present income is fifteen hundred per annum clear of all outgoings whatever
Is it possible exclaimed Mrs Barnaby with an accent and a look of reverence which very nearly destroyed the gravity of her old aunt
Yes Mrs Barnaby she resumed such is my income With less than this a gentlewoman of a good old family desirous of bringing forward a niece into the world in such a manner as to do her credit could not venture to take her place in society and I have therefore waited till my increasing revenues should amount to this sum before I declared my intentions and proclaimed my heiress Such being the case you will not be surprised that I should be anxious to ascertain which of my two nieces best deserves my favour I do not mean to charge myself with both Let that be clearly understood The doing so would entirely defeat my object which is to leave one representative of the Compton Basett family with a fortune sufficient to restore its former respectability
And everybody must admire such an intention replied Mrs Barnaby in an accent of inexpressible gentleness and I for one most truly hope that whoever you decide to leave it to may deserve such generosity and have a grateful heart to requite it with
That is just what I should wish to find returned the spinster and before you came in I had quite made up my mind that Agnes Willoughby should be the person but I confess Mrs Barnaby that what you have said alarms me and I shall be very much obliged if you will immediately let me know what Agnes has done to merit the accusation of having deserted her benefactress
It is but too easy to answer that aunt Compton replied the widow and I am sorry to speak against my own sisters child but truth is truth and since you command me to tell you what I meant when I said she had deserted me I will I have been arrested aunt Compton and that for no reason on the earth but because I was tempted to stay three or four days longer in London than I intended Of course I meant to go back to that paltry place Cheltenham and pay every farthing I owed there the proof of which is that I have paid every farthing though it would have served them right to have kept them a year out of their money instead of a month but thats neither here nor there though there was no danger of my staying in prison I WAS there for three days and Agnes could not tell but I might have been there for ever yet when I wrote her a most affectionate letter begging her only to call upon me in my miserable solitude she answered my petition which might have moved a heart of stone with a flat refusal Ask her if she can deny this
What say you Agnes Is this so said the old lady turning to the party accused
Aunt Betsy said Agnes and then stopped as if unwilling for some reason or other to say more
Yes or NO demanded Mrs Barnaby vehemently Did you refuse to come to me or not
I did replied Agnes
I hope you are satisfied aunt Compton cried the widow triumphantly By her own confession you perceive that I have told you nothing but the truth
Agnes said nothing in reply to this but loosening the strings of a silk bag which hung upon her arm she took from it a small packet and placed it in the hands of Miss Compton What have we got here said the spinster sharply What do you give me this for child
I wish you to read what is there if you please aunt said Agnes Miss Compton laid it on the table before her while she sought for her spectacles and adjusted them on her nose but while doing this she kept her eyes keenly fixed upon the little packet and not without reason for had she turned from it for a single instant Mrs Barnaby who shrewdly suspected its contents would infallibly have taken possession of it
My coachman and horses will get tired of all this I think said Miss Compton however as you say niece Martha truth is truth and must be sought after even if it lies at the bottom of a well This is a letter and directed to you Miss Agnes and this is the back of another with some youngladylike scrawling upon it Which am I to read first pray
The letter aunt Betsy replied Agnes
So be it said the spinster with an air of great indifference and drawing one of the candles towards her and carefully snuffing it she began clearly and deliberately reading aloud the letter already given in which Mrs Barnaby desired the presence of Agnes and gave her instructions for her finding her way to the Fleet Prison Having finished this she replaced it quietly in its cover without saying a word or even raising her eyes towards either of her companions and taking the other paper containing Agness reasons for noncompliance read that through likewise exactly in the same distinct tone and replaced it with an equal absence of all commentary in the cover She then rose and walking close up to her elder niece who proffered not a word looking in her face with a smile that must have been infinitely more provoking than the most violent indignation said Niece Martha the last time I saw you if I remember rightly you offered me some of your old clothes but now you offer me none which I consider as the more unkind because if you dressed as smart as you are now while in prison you must most certainly wear very fine things when you are free And so as you are no longer the kind niece you used to be I dont think I shall come to see you any more As for this young lady here it appears to me that you have not been severe enough with her Mrs Barnaby Ill see if I cant teach her to behave better In prison or out of prison if I bid her come we shall see if she dare look about her for such plausible reasons for refusing as she has given you If she does Ill certainly send her back to you Mrs Barnaby Ring the bell naughty Agnes
The maid seemed to have been very near the door for it instantly opened Tell my servants that I am coming said the whimsical spinster enacting the fine lady with excellent effect and making a low slow and most ceremonious courtesy to the irritated but perfectly overpowered Mrs Barnaby she made a sign to Agnes to precede her to the carriage and left the room
CHAPTER VII
AGNES ELOPES WITH HER AUNT BETSY
Is it possible cried Agnes the moment that the door of the carriage was closed upon them is it possible that I am really under your protection and going to your home aunt Betsy
To my temporary home dear child you are certainly going said the old lady taking her hand but I hope soon to have one more comfortable for you my Agnes
Where I shall find the bower and the bees Is it not so aunt
Not exactly at least not at present But tell me Agnes dont you think I was very gentle and civil to Mrs Barnaby
It was certainly very wise not to reproach her poor woman more directly But oh dearest aunt Betsy how well you know her If you had studied for a twelvemonth to find out how you might best have tormented her you could have discovered no method so effectual as the making her first believe that you had a great fortune and then that her own conduct had robbed her of your favour Poor aunt Barnaby I cannot help pitying her
You are tenderhearted my dear and a flatterer too You give me credit I assure you for a vast deal more cleverness than I possess excepting on the subject of the old clothes which she offered me when we met in the cottage of dame Sims I attempted no jestings with her But tell me Agnes have you not suffered dreadfully from the tyranny and vulgar ignorance of this detestable woman Has she not almost broken your young heart
I have not been very happy with her aunt Betsy replied Agnes gently but she speaks only truth when she says I have lived at her cost and this ought to close my lips against speaking more against her than may be necessary to clear my own conduct in your eyes
Perhaps the old lady was a little disappointed at finding that she was to have no good stories concerning the absurdities of the apothecarys highflying widow as she called her but despite all the oddities of Miss Compton there was quite enough of the innate feeling of a gentlewoman within her to make her value Agnes the more for her promised forbearance She threw her arm round her and pressing her to her bosom said—
Let this feeling of Christian gentleness be extended to me also Agnes for I have great need of it This Martha Wisett the second poor soul was the firstborn of her mother and seems to have taken as her birthright all the qualities bodily and mental of her vulgar and illiterate dam But I have no such excuse my child for the obstinate prejudice with which my heart has been filled and my judgment absolutely confounded All you have suffered with this woman Agnes ought in truth to be laid to my charge I knew what she was and yet I suffered you Let us try to forget it and only remember if you can that I turned away from you for no other reason upon earth than because I feared you were not exactly what I now find you But here we are at home How greatly must you want the healing feeling that home should bring Poor dear When have you ever felt it
At Empton aunt answered Agnes eagerly and even though the carriage door was open and the step let down she added The only home I ever loved I owed to you
Hastily as this word was said it sunk with very healing effect into the heart of the self-reproaching old lady it was answered by a cordial God bless you and hand in hand the very happy pair walked up the staircase together The accomplished William had preceded them and thrown open the door of aunt Betsys handsome drawingroom and no apartment could offer an aspect of more comfort The evening had all the chilliness of September when its sun is gone and the small bright fire with a sofa placed cosily near it looked cheerily Waxlights on the chimney and teatable gave light sufficient to shew a large exceedingly wellfitted up room and a pretty young woman neatly dressed came forward to offer her services in the removal of cloaks and shawls
Agnes looked round the room and then turned to her aunt as if tacitly demanding an explanation of what she saw Miss Compton smiled and answered the appeal by saying Did you expect dearest that I should be able to bring my farmhouse and my bees with me
No aunt Compton replied Agnes very gravely I did not expect that but
Aunt Betsy—you must always call me aunt Betsy Agnes That was the appellation that your dear voice uttered so joyously when I entered the dark den in which I found you and I shall never like any other as well But dont be frightened because I have somewhat changed my mode of living my dear child I will not invite you to ramble through the streets of London in order to visit me when I am in prison for debt I know what my means are Agnes—few ladies better—and I will never exceed them
This was said very gravely and the assurance was by no means unimportant to the tranquillity of the young heiress The scenes she had recently passed through would have reconciled her to a farmhouse a cottage a hut so that the air of heaven blew untainted round it and no liverystable keepers or bailiffs followers could find entrance there But Miss Comptons words and manner set her heart at rest on that score though they could not remove her astonishment the involuntary expression of which on her beautiful face was by no means disagreeable to the novelread aunt Betsy It was just as it should be beauty goodness misery illusage and all and she felt most happily convinced that if there were but a lover in the case and such a one as despite all obstacles she could approve she should to her dying day have the comfort of thinking that the moment which she had chosen for ceasing to accumulate and beginning to spend was the very best possible
And this lover in the clouds Would Agnes open her heart to her on such a subject Had she any right to hope it Not yet certainly not yet thought Miss Compton as the services of William over and the teathings removed they drew nearer the fire and she fixed her eyes anew on the beautiful face she so greatly loved to contemplate partly because it was so beautiful and partly because she could not trace in it the slightest resemblance to any member of the Wisett race
But soft and peaceful as was now the expression of that face there might occasionally be seen by an accurate observer that indescribable look of thoughtfulness in the eyes which never arises till the mind has been awakened upon some subject or other to emotions of deep interest Miss Compton was a very accurate observer and saw as plainly as Lavater himself could have done that Agnes had learned to feel
The romantic old lady would have given her right hand to possess her confidence but she was determined not to ask for it
Do you think we shall be happy together Agnes said she in a voice which when its cheerful tone was not exaggerated into the ironical levity in which she sometimes indulged was singularly pleasing Do you think that you shall like to be my darling
Yes I do replied Agnes with the sudden bluntness of sincerity but I think I shall plague you sometimes aunt Betsy
You have made up your mind to that already have you returned Miss Compton delighted at the playful tone in which she spoke then in that case I must make up my mind too and contrive to make a pleasure of what you call a plague How do you mean to begin Agnes What will you do first Will you cry for the moon
Will you try to get it for me if I do aunt Betsy said Agnes laughing
Yes I will that is if you will let me know what sort of moon it is and to what part of the heavens I must turn to find it Jupiter you know has
Oh my moon is the highest and brightest of them all said Agnes with a sigh and after remaining silent for a moment she added Aunt Betsy may I tell you everything that has happened to me
If you love me well enough to do this my child said the delighted old lady while nevertheless a tear glistened in her clear black eye—if you love me well enough I shall feel that I have not given up my bees and my flowers for nothing
Agnes drew nearer and after a moments hesitation began
I believe that all young ladies histories have something about a gentleman in them and so has mine
A young gentleman I hope Agnes interrupted the aunt with a smile
Agnes coloured a little but replied He is not so very young aunt Betsy as to make his youth his most remarkable quality
Very well that is all quite right he ought to be older than you my dear Go on
When I was at Clifton aunt Betsy I was often in company with Colonel Hubert
A colonel That sounds very respectable he was the father I suppose of THE gentleman
No indeed replied Agnes with some vexation he is himself the only gentleman that I have anything to say about and his sister says that he will be a general next month
Indeed A general General Hubert a very eligible acquaintance I have no doubt I should hardly have hoped you could have had the good luck to meet with such among the friends of your aunt Barnaby
An eligible acquaintance Oh aunt you dont understand me at all But I will tell you everything Colonel Hubert is I cant describe him I hope you will see him aunt Betsy and then you will not wonder perhaps that I should have thought him from the very first moment I saw him the only person in the world
Agnes stopped short but Miss Compton seemed to think she had finished her phrase very properly
And what did he think of you my dear this young colonel
Colonel Hubert never said anything about it at Clifton replied Agnes blushing but yet I thought—I hoped he liked me though I knew it did not signify whether he did or not for he is one of a very distinguished family who could never I imagined think seriously of any one living with with my aunt Barnaby But at Cheltenham I became acquainted with his aunt Lady Elizabeth Norris and his sister Lady Stephenson and they were very very kind to me and when I came to London with my aunt Barnaby in this wild manner they were very anxious about me and made me promise to write to them But before I thought they could know anything about her being taken to prison the very day indeed that she went there in the evening while I was sitting in that dismal room just as you found me tonight Colonel Hubert Oh aunt Betsy the sight of you did not surprise me more Colonel Hubert walked in
That was hardly right though Agnes if he knew you were alone
He brought a letter from his aunt and sister most kindly asking me to take shelter with them immediately and I am quite sure that when he came he had no intention of speaking of anything but that But I believe I looked very miserable and his generous heart could not bear it so he told me that he loved me and asked me to be his wife
It was generous of him at such a dreadful moment said the spinster her eyes again twinkling through tears And how did you answer him my love
I told him replied Agnes trembling and turning pale as she spoke I told him that I could never be his wife
Why my dear I thought you said cried the old lady looking much disappointed I thought you said you admired him of all things and I am sure he seems to have deserved it but I suppose you thought he was too old for you
No no no replied Agnes vehemently He is young enough for me to love him oh so dearly It was because I could not hear that he should marry so beneath himself it was because I thought his aunt and sister would resent it
Humph That was very generous on your part too but I suppose he knows best And what did he say then Agnes
Oh aunt Betsy he said exactly as you did he said that he was too old for me to love him and remembering the agony of that moment she hid her face in her hands and wept
Miss Compton looked at her with pitying eyes and after a moment said And so you parted Agnes
Yes she replied removing her hands It was almost so and yet not quite I could not tell him you know how dearly how very dearly I loved him that was impossible but I said something about his sister and his aunt and then oh I shall never forget him something like hope pray do not think me vain aunt Betsy—but it was hope that shot into his eye again and changed the whole expression of his face yet he said no more about his love and only asked me to promise never to leave the shelter of that roof till I heard from his aunt again And I did promise him But could I keep it aunt It would have been obeying him in words and not in spirit And now Im coming to my reason for telling you all this so very soon What shall I say to them now How shall I write to them
It seemed that Miss Compton did not find this a very easy question to answer for she took many minutes to consider of it At length she said As to setting right the love part of the affair you need not alarm yourself my dear there will be no great difficulty in that If you know your own mind and really are in love with a general instead of an ensign I dont see why you should be contradicted though it is a little out of the common way He is a gentleman and that is the only point upon which I could have been very strict with you But there is another thing Agnes in which you must please to let me have my own way Will you promise me
How can there be any way but yours in what concerns me dear aunt Betsy
Bless you my dear I will not be a tyrant at least not a very cruel tyrant but my happiness will be injured for the rest of my life Agnes if the next time you see this gentleman and his family it is not in such a manner as to make them perceive without the necessity of their listening to an old womans long story about it that you are not an unworthy match for him in any way Let this be managed and everything will end well There will be no risk of your witnessing either in the words or looks of these noble ladies whom you call your friends any struggle between their partiality for you and their higher hopes for him He will ever remember with pleasure that he waited not for this to offer you his hand and heart and trust me YOU will never remember with sorrow that you did wait for it before you accepted him Do you agree with me
Indeed I do fervently replied Agnes But could they see me at this moment would not your wish be answered Could they doubt for a moment while seeing you and seeing the style of all about you that I am something more than the poor hopeless dependant of Mrs Barnaby
That is not it That would not do at all child replied the old lady sharply It shall not be the poor dependant of anybody that this noblehearted Colonel Hubert shall come to woo Love him as much as you will the world may say and his family may think too that his rank and station led you to accept him I will save you both from this danger Colonel Hubert shall not try his chance with you again till you are the independent possessor of fifteen hundred pounds ayear When I die Agnes if you behave well in the interim I will bequeath my bees to you and all the furniture of my two pretty rooms at Compton Basett as well as all the reserved rents in the shape of allowances coals wood attendance and the like which will be mine while I live This my dear shall come to you in the way of legacy in case I continue to be pleased with your behaviour but there is no way for me to atone for the injury I have done to the representative of my family by suffering her to remain six months with Mrs Barnaby but making her at once the independent possessor of the Compton property
My dear dear aunt said Agnes most unfeignedly distressed there can be no occasion at this moment to talk of your doing what in my poor judgment would be so very wrong Should I be so happy as to make Colonel Hubert known to you I would trust to him to discuss such subjects Oh what delight aunt Betsy for you to have such a man for your friend and all owing to me
There was something so ingenuous so young so unquestionably sincere in this burst of feeling that the old lady was greatly touched by it You are a sweet creature Agnes she replied and quite right in telling me not to discuss any matters of business with you I shall touch on no such subjects again for I see they are totally beyond your comprehension Nevertheless I must have my way about not introducing myself to Colonel Huberts family or himself either in lodgings Write to your kind friends my dear tell them that your old aunt Compton has left her retirement to take care of you and tell them also that she feels as she ought to do But no you write your own feelings and I will write mine But this must be tomorrow Agnes it is past twelve oclock love See that gay thing on the chimneypiece attests it I must shew you to your room my guest hereafter I shall be yours perhaps
Peggy being summoned the two ladies were lighted to the rooms above These were in a style of great comfort and even elegance but one being somewhat larger than the other and furnished with a dressingroom it was in this that Agnes found her trunk and bookbox and it was here that after seeing that her fire burned brightly and that Peggy was standing ready to assist in undressing her the happy Miss Compton embraced blessed and left her to repose
It was a long time however before Agnes would believe that anything like sleep could visit her eyes that night What a change what an almost incredible transition had she passed through since her last sleep It was more like the operation of a magicians wand than the consequence of human events From being a reprobated outcast banished from the roof that sheltered her she had become the sole object of love and care to one who seemed to have it in her power to make life a paradise to her How many blissful visions floated through her brain before all blended together in one general consciousness of happy security that at last lulled her to delicious sleep She was hardly less sensible than her somewhat proud aunt of the pleasure which a reunion with her Cheltenham friends under circumstances so changed would bring and her dreams were of receiving Lady Elizabeth Norris and her niece in a beautiful palace on the shores of a lovely lake while Colonel Hubert stood smiling by to watch the meeting
CHAPTER VIII
AGNES APPEARS LIKELY TO PROFIT BY THE CHANGE OF AUNTS
The first waking under the consciousness of new and not yet familiar happiness is perhaps one of the most delightful sensations of which we are susceptible Agnes had closed her eyes late and it was late when she opened them for Peggy had already drawn her window curtains and the gay hangings and large lookingglasses of the apartment met her eyes at the first glance with such brilliant effect that she fancied for an instant she must still be dreaming But by degrees all the delightful truth returned upon her mind Where was the blank cold isolation of the heart with which her days were used to rise and set Where were the terrors amidst which she lived lest her protectress should expose herself by some monstrous new absurdity Where was the hopeless future before which she had so often wept and trembled Was it possible that she was the same Agnes Willoughby who had awoke with such an aching heart but fourandtwenty hours ago All these questions were asked and gaily answered before she had resolution to spring from her bed and change her delightful speculations for a more delightful reality
Notwithstanding the various fatigues of the preceding day Miss Compton was not only in the drawingroom but her letter to Lady Elizabeth Norris was already written on the third side of a sheet of letter paper thus giving Agnes an opportunity of explaining everything before her own lines should meet her ladyships eye
The meal which has been slandered as lazy lounging and most unsocial was far otherwise on the present occasion The aunt and niece sat down together each regaling the eyes of the other with a countenance speaking the most heartfelt happiness and while the old lady indulged herself with sketching plans for the future the young one listened as if her voice were that of fate declaring that she should never taste of sorrow more
The carriage will be here at twelve Agnes said Miss Compton to take us into what our books tell us is called THE CITY as if it were the city of cities and about which I suppose you and I are equally ignorant seeing that you never did take that pleasant little walk the dowager Mrs Barnaby so considerately sketched out for you So now we shall look at it together But dont fancy my dear that any such idle project as looking at its wonders is what takes me there now I have got a broker Agnes as well as the widow and it is quite as necessary to my proceedings as to hers that I should see him But we must not go till our partnership letter is ready for the post Here is my share of it Agnes read it to me and if it meets your approbation sit down and let your own precede it
The lines written by Miss Compton were as follow—
Madam
Permit a stranger closely connected by the ties of blood to Agnes Willoughby to return her grateful thanks for kindness extended to her at a moment when she greatly needed it That she should so have needed it will ever be a cause of self-reproach to me nor will it avail me much either in my own opinion or in that of others that the same qualities in our common kinswoman Mrs Barnaby which produced the distress of Agnes produced in me the aversion which kept me too distant to perceive their effects on her respectability and happiness
I am Madam
Your grateful and obedient servant
Elizabeth Compton
Agnes wrote—
My kind and generous Friends
Lady Elizabeth Lady Stephenson I write to you as I never dared hope to do from under the eye and the protection of my dear aunt Compton It is to her I owe all the education I ever received and I might add all the happiness too for I have never known any happy home but that which her liberal kindness procured for me during five years spent in the family of my beloved instructress Mrs Wilmot For the seven months that have elapsed since I quitted Mrs Wilmot my situation as you my kind friends know but too well has been one of very doubtful respectability but very certain misery My aunt Compton blames herself for this but you if I should ever be so happy as to make you know my aunt Compton will blame me Her former kindness ought to have given me courage to address her before even though circumstances had placed me so entirely in the hands of Mrs Barnaby as to make the separation between us fearfully wide But thank God all this unhappiness is now over I did apply to her at last and the result has been the converting me from a very hopeless friendless and miserable girl as I was when you first saw me into one of the very happiest persons in the whole world I have passed through some scenes from the remembrance of which I shall always shrink with pain but there have been others there have been points in my little history which have left an impression a thousand times deeper and dearer too than could ever have been produced on any heart unsoftened by calamity And must it not ever be accounted among my best sources of happiness that the regard which can never cease to be the most precious as well as the proudest boast of my life was expressed under circumstances which to most persons would have appeared so strongly against me
My generous friends May I hope that the affection shewn to me in sorrow will not be withdrawn now that sorrow is past May I hope that we shall meet again and that I may have the great happiness of making my dear aunt known to you She is all kindness and would take me to Cheltenham that I might thank you in person for the aid so generously offered in my hour of need but I fear poor Mrs Barnabys adventures will for some time be too freshly remembered there for me to wish to revisit it
When Agnes had written thus far she stopped Where shall I tell them aunt Betsy that we are going to remain she said If if Colonel Hubert and she stopped again
If Colonel Hubert and what then Agnes
Why if Colonel Hubert were to pay us a visit aunt Betsy I cannot help thinking that he would understand me better now than when I was so dreadfully overpowered by the feeling of my desolate condition Dont you think so
I think it very probable he might my dear and as to your sensible question Agnes of where we are going to be I think you must decide it yourself We have both declared against Cheltenham and for reasons good Where then should you best like to go
To Clifton aunt Betsy It was there I saw him first and there too I was most kindly treated by friends who I believe pitied me because because I did not seem happy I suppose Oh I would rather go to Clifton than any place in the world excepting Empton
And to Empton we cannot go just at present Agnes it would be too much like running out of the world again which I have no wish at all to do To Clifton therefore we will go dear child and so you may tell your good friends
Agnes gave no other answer than walking round the table and imprinting a kiss upon the forehead of her happy aunt Then resuming her writing she thus concluded her letter—
My aunt Compton as soon as she has concluded some business which she has to settle in London will go to Clifton where I believe we shall stay for some months and should any of your family happen again to be there I may perhaps be happy enough to see them With gratitude to all I remain ever your attached and devoted
Agnes Willoughby
Poor Agnes She was terribly dissatisfied with her letter when she had written it Not all her generalizations could suffice to tell him THE him the only mortal him she remembered in the world—not all her innocent little devices to make it understood that he was included in all her gratitude and love as well as in her invitation to Clifton—made it at all clear that she wanted Colonel Hubert to come and offer to her again
Yet what could she say more She sat with her eye fixed on the paper and a face full of meaning though what that meaning was it might not be very easy to decide
What is my girl thinking of said Miss Compton
I am thinking replied Agnes and she shook her head I am thinking that Colonel Hubert will never understand from this letter aunt Betsy how very much I want to see him again
That is very true my dear
Is there anything else I could say to make him know how greatly he mistook me when he fancied I said NO from my want of love
Oh yes my dear certainly
Tell me then my dear dear aunt I feel as if I had no power to find a word Tell me what I shall say to him
You may say many things for instance you may say Tell my beloved Colonel Hubert
Oh aunt Betsy aunt Betsy you are laughing at me cried Agnes looking at her very gravely and with an air of melancholy reproach
So I am my dear an old spinster of three score is but a poor confidant in matters of this sort But if you seriously ask for my advice I will give it such as it is Let our letter go just as it is without any addition or alteration whatever If Colonel Hubert sees this letter as you seem to expect and if he loves you as you deserve to be loved he will find food enough for hope therein to carry him further than from one end of Gloucestershire to the other If he does not see it put what you will in it he would learn nothing thereby But if seeing it he determines to sit quietly down under your refusal then let him I for one should feel no wish to become better acquainted with the gentleman
Agnes said no more but folded the letter and directed it to Lady Elizabeth Norris Cheltenham
Now aunt I have folded up Colonel Hubert and put him out of sight till he shall choose to bring himself forward again I will tease you no more about him Shall I put my bonnet on The carriage has been waiting for some time
My darling Agnes said the old lady looking fondly at her how little I deserve to find you so exactly what I wished you should be You are right we will talk no more of this Colonel Hubert till he has himself declared what part he means to play in the drama before us We shall be at no loss for subjects Remember how much we have to settle between us our establishment our equipage our wardrobes all to be decided upon modelled and provided Get ready dearest the sooner we get through our business the earlier we shall be at Clifton and who knows which part of our dramatis personæ may arrive there first
A happy smile dimpled the cheek of Agnes as she ran out of the room to equip herself and in a few minutes the two ladies were en route towards the city
What makes you wear such very deep mourning my dear said Miss Compton fixing her eyes on the perennial black crape bonnet of her companion Is it all for the worthy apothecary of Silverton But that cant be either for now I think of it his charming widow had half the colours of the rainbow about her What does it mean Agnes
Agnes looked out of the window to conceal a smile but recovering her composure answered I have never been out of mourning aunt since Mr Barnaby died There was a great deal of black not worn out and as it made no difference to me
Oh monstrous interrupted Miss Compton I see it all while she wantons about like a painted butterfly she has thrown her chrysaliscase upon you my pretty Agnes in the hope of making you look like a grub beside her Is it not so
Oh no my aunt Barnaby loves dress certainly and greatly dislikes black and so
And so you are to wear it for her Well Agnes you shant abuse her if you think it a sin God forbid But do not refuse to let me into a few of her ways Did she ever ask you to put on her widows cap my dear It might have saved the expense of nightcaps at least
It was almost a cruelty in Agnes to conceal the many characteristic traits of selfish littleness which she had witnessed in her widowed aunt from the caustic contemplation of her spinster one for she would have enjoyed it But it was so much in her nature to do so that dearly as she would have loved to amuse aunt Betsy and give scope to her biting humour on any other theme she gave her no encouragement on this so by degrees all allusion to Mrs Barnaby dropped out of their discourse and if from time to time some little sample of her peculiarities peeped forth involuntarily in speaking of the past the wellschooled old lady learned to enjoy them in silence and certainly did not love her niece the less for the restraint thus put upon her
Considering how complete a novice our spinster practically was as to everything concerning the vast Babylon called London she contrived to go where she wished and where she willed with wonderfully few blunders It was all managed between William and herself and Agnes marvelled at the ease with which much seemingly important business was transacted
The carriage was stopped before a very duskylooking mansion at no great distance from the Exchange within the dark passage of which William disappeared for some moments and then returning opened the carriage door and without uttering a word gave his arm to assist Miss Compton to descend
I will not keep you waiting long my dear she said and without further explanation followed her confidential attendant into the house In about half an hour she returned accompanied by a baldheaded yellowfaced personage who somewhat to the surprise of Agnes mounted the carriage after her and placed himself as bodkin between them To the Bank was the word of command then given and in a moment they again stopped and Agnes was once more left alone
The interval during which she was thus left was this time considerably longer than the last and she had long been tired of watching the goers and comers all bearing however varied their physiognomy the same general stamp of busy anxious interest upon their brows before the active old lady and her baldheaded acquaintance reappeared
The old gentleman handed her into the carriage and then took his leave amidst a multitude of obsequious bows and assurances that her commands should always be obeyed at the shortest notice et cetera et cetera et cetera
Agnes said the old lady as soon as she had exchanged a few words with William as to where she next wished to go Agnes I look to you to supply the place of my bees and my flowers and I do not much fear that I shall lament the exchange but you must not continue to be dight in this grim fashion it might be soothing to the feelings of Mr Barnabys fond widow but to me it is very sad and disagreeable And so my dear here is wherewithal to change it
During the whole of this speech Miss Compton had been employed in extracting a pocketbook of very masculine dimensions from her pocket and having at length succeeded she opened it drew forth two banknotes of twentyfive pounds each and laid them in the lap of her niece
Agnes took them up and looked at them with unfeigned astonishment My dear aunt she said I am afraid you will find me a much younger and more ignorant sort of girl than you expected I shall no more know what to do with all this money than a child of five years old You forget aunt Betsy that I never have had any money of my own since I was born and I really do not understand anything about it
This is a trouble of a new and peculiar kind my dear and I really dont remember in all my reading to have found a precedent for it What shall we do Agnes Must you always wear this rustylooking black gown because you dont know how to buy another
Why no aunt I dont think that will be necessary either but dont you think it would be better for you to buy what you like for me It wont be the first time aunt Betsy I have not forgotten when my pretty trunk was opened by Mrs Wilmot or how very nicely everything was provided for the poor ragged little girl who never before as long as she could remember had possessed anything beside threadbare relics cobbled up to suit her dimensions It was you who thought of everything for me then and Im quite sure you love me a great deal better now and Agnes placed the notes in Miss Comptons hands as she spoke
I had prepared myself for a variety of new occupations replied the spinster but choosing the wardrobe of an elegant young lady was certainly not one of them However my dear I have no objection to shew you that my studies have prepared me for this too Nothing like novelreading depend upon it for teaching a solitary recluse the ways of the world You shall see how ably I will expend this money Agnes but do not turn your head away and be thinking of something else all the time because it is absolutely necessary I do assure you that a young lady in possession of fifteen hundred a year should know how to buy herself a new bonnet and gown
The value of Miss Comptons literary researches was by no means lowered in the estimation of Agnes by the results of the three hours which followed for though there were moments in which her thoughts would spring away in spite of all she could do to prevent it from discussions on silks and satins to a meditation on her next interview with Colonel Hubert she was nevertheless sufficiently present to what was passing before her eyes to be aware that an old lady who has herself lived in a grogram gown for half a century may be capable of making a mighty pretty collection of finery for her niece provided that she has paid proper attention to fashionable novels and knows how to ask counsel as to what artistes to drive to from so intelligent an aidedecamp as William
In short by the united power of the money and the erudition she had hoarded Miss Compton contrived in the course of a fortnight to make as complete a change in the equipments of Agnes as that performed of yore upon Cinderella by her godmother Nor was her own wardrobe neglected she had no intention that the rusticity of her spinster aunt should draw as many eyes on Agnes as the gaudiness of her widowed one and proved herself as judicious in the selection of sable satins and velvets for herself as in the choice of all that was most becoming and elegant for the decoration of her lovely niece
Never certainly was an old lady more completely happy than the eccentric proud warmhearted aunt Betsy as with a wellfilled purse she drove about London and found everything she deemed suitable to the proper setting forth of her heiress ready to her hand or her order She could not indeed have a carriage built for her she could not afford time for it but William the indefatigable William ransacked Long Acre from one end to the other till he had discovered an equipage as perfect in all its points as any order could have made it and on this the wellinstructed Miss Compton whose heraldic lore was quite sufficient to enable her with perfect accuracy to blazon her own arms had her lozenge painted in miniature which being all that was required to render the neat equipage complete this portion of their preparation did not cause any delay
To Miss Peters Agnes wrote of all the unexpected good which had befallen her with much freer confidence than she could indulge in when addressing the relations of Colonel Hubert Her friend Mary already knew the name of Miss Compton of Compton Basett and no fear of appearing boastful rendered it necessary for her to conceal how strangely the aspect of her worldly affairs was changed
To her and her goodnatured mother was confided the task of choosing lodgings for them and so ably was this performed that exactly in one fortnight and three days from the time Colonel Hubert had left Agnes so miserably alone in Mrs Barnabys melancholy lodgings in HalfMoon Street she was established in airy and handsome apartments in the Mall of Clifton with every comfort and elegance about her that thoughtful and ingenious affection could suggest to make the contrast more striking
The happiness of this meeting with the kind friends who had conceived so warm an affection for her even when presented by Mrs Barnaby was in just proportion to the hopeless sadness with which she had bid them farewell and the reception of her munificent aunt among them with the cordial good understanding which mutually ensued did all that fate and fortune could do to atone for the suffering endured since they had parted
CHAPTER IX
BRINGS US BACK AS IT OUGHT TO MRS BARNABY
It may be thought perhaps that the vexed and as she thought herself the persecuted Mrs Barnaby had sufficiently tried what a prison was to prevent her ever desiring to find herself within the walls of such an edifice again but such an opinion however likely to be right was nevertheless wrong for no sooner had the widow recovered from the fit of rage into which the triumphant exit of Miss Compton had thrown her and settled herself on her solitary sofa with no better comforter or companion than a cup of tea modified with skyblue milk than the following soliloquy though she gave it not breath passed through her brain
Soh Here I am then after six months trial of the travelling system and a multitude of experiments in fashionable society just seven hundred pounds poorer than when I set out and without having advanced a single inch towards a second marriage This will never do My youth my beauty and my fortune will all melt away together before the object is obtained unless I change my plans and find out some better mode of proceeding
Here Mrs Barnaby sipped her vile tea opened her workbox that she had been constrained to leave so hastily ascertained that the exquisite collar she was working had received no injury during her absence and then resumed her meditations
Heigh ho It is most horribly dull sitting in this way all by onesself even that goodfornothing stupid ungrateful Agnes was better to look at than nothing and even in that horrid Fleet there was some pleasure in knowing that there was an elegant interesting man to be met in a passage now and then whose eyes spoke plainly enough what he thought of me Poor fellow His being in misfortune ought not to produce illwill to him in a generous mind How he looked as he said Adieu then madam With you vanishes the last ray of light that will ever reach my heart And I am sure he said exactly what he felt and no more Poor ODonagough My heart aches for him
And here she fell into a very piteous and sentimental mood indeed Had her soliloquy been spoken out as loud as words could utter it nobody would have heard a syllable about love marriage or any such nonsense her heart was at this time altogether given up to pity compassion and a deep sense of the duties of a Christian and before she went to bed she had reasoned herself very satisfactorily into the conviction that as a tenderhearted woman and a believer it was her bounden duty now that she had got out of trouble herself to return to the Fleet for the purpose of once more seeing Mr ODonagough and inquiring whether it was in her power to do anything to serve him before she left London
Nothing more surely tends to soothe the spirits and calm the agitated nerves than an amiable and pious resolution taken as this was done during the last waning hours of the day and just before the languid body lays itself down to rest Mrs Barnaby slept like a top after coming to the determination that let the turnkeys think what they would of it she would call at the Fleet Prison and ask to see Mr ODonagough the following morning
The following morning came and found the benevolent widow stedfast in her purpose and yet to her honour be it spoken it was not without some struggles with a feeling which many might have called shame but which she conscientiously condemned as pride that she set forth at length upon her adventurous expedition
Nothing I am sure it was thus she reasoned with herself nothing in the whole world could induce me to take such a step but a feeling that it was my duty Heaven knows I have had many follies in my day—I dont deny it I am no hardened sinner and that blessed book that he lent me has not been a pearl thrown to swine The Sinners Reward what a comforting title I dont hope ever to be the saint that the pious author describes but Im sure I shall be a better woman all my life for reading it and the visiting this poor ODonagough is the first act by which I can prove the good it has done me
Then came some doubts and difficulties respecting the style of toilet which she ought to adopt on so peculiar an occasion It wont do for a person looking like a woman of fashion to drive up to the Fleet Prison and ask to see such a man as ODonagough He is too young and handsome to make it respectable But after all what does it signify what people say And as for my bonnet Ill just put my Brussels lace veil on my black and pink that will hide my ringlets and make me look more matronly
In her deep lace veil then and with a large silk cloak which concealed the becoming gaiety of her morning dress Mrs Barnaby presented herself before the gates she had so lately passed and in a very demure voice said to the keeper of it I wish to be permitted to see Mr ODonagough
The fellow looked at her and smiled Well madam he replied I believe there will be no difficulty about that Walk on if you please Youll find them as can send you forward
A few more barriers passed and a few more wellamused turnkeys propitiated and Mrs Barnaby stood before a door which she knew as well as any of them opened upon the solitary abode of the brokenhearted but elegant Mr ODonagough The door was thrown open for her to enter but she paused desiring her usher to deliver her card first with an intimation that she wished to speak to the gentleman on business She was not kept long in suspense for the voice of the solitary inmate was heard from within saying in soft and melancholy accents It is very heavenly kindness Beg her to walk in And in she walked the roomdoor being immediately closed behind her
Mr ODonagough was a very handsome man of about thirty years of age with a physiognomy and cerebral developement which might have puzzled Dr Combe himself for impressions left by the past were so evidently fading away before the active operation of the present that to say distinctly from the examining eye or the examining finger what manner of man he was would have been exceedingly difficult But the powers of the historian and biographer are less limited and their record shall be given
Mr Patrick ODonagough was but a halfbreed and that a mongrel half of the noble species which his names announce He was the natural son of an Englishman of wealth and consequence by a poor Irish girl called Nora ODonagough and though his father did what was considered by many as very much for him he never permitted him to assume his name The young ODonagough was placed as a clerk to one of the police magistrates of the metropolis and shewed great ability in the readiness with which he soon executed the business that passed through his hands He not only learned to know by sight every rogue and roguess that appeared at the office but shewed a very uncommon degree of sagacity as to their innocence or guilt upon every new occasion that enforced their appearance there His noble father never entirely lost sight of him and finding his abilities so remarkable he was induced again to use his interest in those quarters where influence abides and to get him promoted to a lucrative situation in a customhouse on the coast where he made money rapidly while his handsome person and good address gave him access to the society of many people greatly his superiors in station who most of them were frequenting a fashionable wateringplace at no great distance from the station where he was employed
This lasted for a few years much to the satisfaction of his illustrious parent and it might have continued till an easy fortune was assured to him had he not unluckily formed too great an intimacy with one or two vastly gentlemanlike but decidedly sporting characters From this point his star began to descend till step by step he had lost his money his appointment his fathers favour and his own freedom Having lain in prison for debt during some weeks he found means again to touch the heart of his father so effectually as to induce him to pay his debts and restore him to freedom upon condition however of his immediately setting off for Australia with five hundred pounds in his pocket and with the understanding that he was never more to return The promise was given and the five hundred pounds received but the young man was not proof against temptation he met some old acquaintance lost half his money at ecartè and permitted the vessel in which he was to sail to depart without him This was a moment of low spirits and great discouragement but he felt nevertheless that a stedfast heart and bold spirit might bring a man out of as bad a scrape even as that into which he had fallen
Some people told him to apply again to his father but he thought he had better not and he applied to a gentleman with whom he had made acquaintance in prison instead This person had like himself been reduced to great distress by the turf but having fortunately found means of satisfying the creditor at whose suit he was detained he was now doing exceedingly well as preacher to an independent congregation of ranting fanatics He bestowed on his old associate some excellent advice as to his future principles and conduct giving him to understand that the turf even to those who were the most fortunate never answered so well as the line of business he now followed and assured him moreover that if he would forthwith commence an assiduous study of the principles and practice of the profession he would himself lend him a helping hand to turn it to account ODonagough loved change novelty and excitement and again manifested great talent in the facility with which he mastered the mysteries of this new business He was soon seen rapidly advancing towards lasting wealth and independence one of the wealthiest merchants in London had offered him the place of domestic prayer and preacher at his beautiful residence at CastawaySaved Park when an almost forgotten creditor who had lost sight of him for many years unluckily recognised him as he was delivering a most awakening evening lecture in a large wareroom converted into a chapel near Moor Fields Eager to take advantage of this unexpected piece of good fortune the tailor for such was his profession arrested the inspired orator in the first place and then asked him if he were able to settle his account in the next Had the manner of transacting the business been reversed it is probable that the affair would have been settled without any arrest at all for Sir Miles Morice of CastawaySaved Park was one of the most pious individuals of the age and would hardly have permitted his chaplain elect elect in every sense to have gone to prison for thirtyseven pounds nine shillings and eight pence but being in prison ODonagough was shy of mentioning the circumstance to his distinguished patron and was employed at the time Mrs Barnaby first made acquaintance with him in composing discourses on the preternatural powers over the human mind accorded to the chosen vessels called upon to pour out the doctrine of the new birth to the people There is little doubt that these really eloquent compositions would have sold rapidly and perfectly have answered the object of their clever author But accident prevented the trial from being made for before the projected volume was more than half finished success of another kind overtook Mr ODonagough
Mrs Barnaby on entering found the poor prisoner she had so charitably come to visit seated at a writingdesk with many sheets of closelywritten manuscript about it He rose as she entered and approached her with a judicious mixture of respectful deference and ardent gratitude
May Heaven reward you madam for this blessed proof of christian feeling How can I suitably speak my gratitude
I do assure you Mr ODonagough that you are quite right in thinking that I come wholly and solely from a christian spirit and a wish to do my duty said Mrs Barnaby
Mr ODonagough looked extremely handsome as he answered with a melancholy smile Alas madam what other motive could the whole world offer excepting obedience to the will of Heaven sufficiently strong to bring such a person as I now look upon voluntarily within these fearful walls
That is very true indeed There is nothing else that could make one do it Heaven knows I suffered too much when I was here myself to feel any inclination for returning but I thought Mr ODonagough that it would be very unfeeling in me who witnessed your distress to turn my back upon you when my own troubles are past and over and so I am come Mr ODonagough to ask if I can be of any use to you in any way before I set off upon my travels for I intend to make a tour to France and perhaps to Rome
The widow looked at Mr ODonagoughs eyes to see how he took this news for somehow or other she could not help fancying that the poor young man would feel more forlorn and miserable still when he heard that not only the walls of the Fleet Prison but the English Channel was to divide them nor did the expression of the eyes she thus examined lessen this idea A settled gentle melancholy seemed to rise from his heart and peep out upon her through these windows of the soul
To France To Rome A deep sigh followed and for a minute or two the young man remained with his eyes mournfully fixed on her face He then rose up and stepping across the narrow space occupied by the table that stood between them he took her hand and in a deep sweet voice that almost seemed breaking into a sob he said—May you be happy whithersoever you go My prayers shall follow you My ardent prayers shall be unceasingly breathed to heaven for your safety and my blessing my fervent tender blessing shall hover round you as you go
Mrs Barnaby was exceedingly affected Dont speak so Pray dont speak so Mr ODonagough she said in a voice which gave her very good reason to believe that tears were coming I am sure I would pray for you too when I am far away if it would do you any good and here one of her worked pockethandkerchiefs was really drawn out and applied to her eyes
If Mrs Barnaby exclaimed the young man fervently IF oh do not doubt it do not for a moment doubt that I should feel the influence of it in every nerve Let me teach you to understand me Mrs Barnaby for I have made an examination into the effects of spiritual sympathies the subject of much study Lay your hand upon my heart nay let it rest there for a moment and you will be able to comprehend what I would explain to you Does not that poor heart beat and throb Mrs Barnaby and think you that it would have fluttered thus had you not said that you would pray for me Then can you doubt that if indeed you should still remember the unhappy ODonagough as you pursue your jocund course oer hill and vale if indeed you should breathe a prayer to Heaven for his welfare can you doubt that it will fall upon him like the soft fanning of a seraphs wing and heal the tumult of his soul een in this dungeon
There was so much apparent sincerity as well as tenderness in what the young man uttered that a feeling of conviction at once found its way to the understanding of Mrs Barnaby and little doubt if any remained on her mind as to the efficacy of her prayers Indeed Mr ODonagough I will pray for you then and Im sure I should be a very wicked wretch if I did not But is there nothing else I could do to comfort you
Mr ODonagough had often found his handsome and expressive countenance of great service to him and so he did now No answer he could have given in words to this kind question could have produced so great effect as the look with which he received it Mrs Barnaby was fluttered agitated and did not quite know what to do or say next but Mr ODonagough did He rose from his chair and raising his arms above his head to their utmost length he passionately clasped his hands and stood thus—his fine eyes communing with the ceiling—just long enough to give the widow time to be aware that he certainly was the very handsomest young man in the world and then he drew his chair close beside her took her hand and fixed those fine eyes very particularly upon hers
Comfort me he murmured in a soft whisper which had it not been breathed very close to her ear would probably have been lost Comfort me you ask if you could comfort me Oh earth Oh heaven bear witness as I swear that to trace one single movement of pity on that lovely face would go farther towards healing every sorrow of my soul than all the wealth that Plutus could pour on me though it should come in ingots of gold heavy enough to break the chains that hold me
Oh Mr ODonagough was all Mrs Barnaby could utter but she turned her face away nor was the fascinating prisoner again indulged with a full view of it though he endeavoured to make his eyes follow the way hers led till he dropped down on his knees before her and by taking possession of both her hands enabled himself to pursue his interesting speculations upon its expression in spite of all she could do to prevent it This brought the business for which Mrs Barnaby came namely the inquiry into what she could do to be serviceable to Mr ODonagough before she left London to a very speedy termination for with this fair index of what he MIGHT say before his eyes the enterprising prisoner ventured to hint that nothing would so effectually soothe his sorrows as the love of the charming being who had already expressed such melting pity for him He moreover made it manifest that if she would with the noble confidence which he was sure made a part of her admirable character lend him wherewithal to liquidate the paltry debt for which he had been so treacherously arrested he could find means again to interest his noble father in his behalf and by giving him such a guarantee for his future steadiness as an honourable attachment was always sure to offer he should easily induce him to renew his intention of fitting him out handsomely for an expedition to Australia to which as he confessed he was more strongly inclined than even to persevere in listening to the call he had received to the ministry
Notwithstanding the tender agitation into which such a conversation must inevitably throw every lady who would listen to it Mrs Barnaby did not so completely lose her presence of mind as not to remember that it would be better to look about her a little before she positively promised to marry and accompany to Australia the captivating young man who knelt at her feet But this praiseworthy degree of caution did not prevent her from immediately deciding upon granting him the loan he desired nay with thoughtful kindness she herself suggested that it might be more convenient to make the sum lent 40l instead of 37l 9s 8d and having said this with a look and manner the most touching she at length induced Mr ODonagough to rise and after a few such expressions of tender gratitude as the occasion called for they parted the widow promising to deliver to him with her own fair hands on the morrow the sum necessary for his release while he as he fervently kissed her hand declared that deeply as he felt this generous kindness he should wish it had never been extended to him unless the freedom thus regained were rendered dear to his soul by her sharing it with him
Give me time dear ODonagough Give me time to think of this startling proposal and tomorrow we will meet again were the words in which she replied to him and then permitting herself for one moment to return the tender glances he threw after her she opened the roomdoor and passed through it too much engrossed by her own thoughts hopes wishes and speculations to heed the variety of amusing grimaces by which the various turnkeys hailed her regress through them
It would be unreasonable for any one to desire better sympathy than that which existed between my heroine and Mr ODonagough when they thus tore themselves asunder he remaining in durance vile till such time as fate or love should release him and she to throw herself into a hackney coach there to meditate on the pleasures and the pains either promised or threatened by the proposal she had just received
The sympathy lay in this that both parties were determined to inform themselves very particularly of the worldly condition of the other before they advanced one step farther towards matrimony for which state though the gentleman had spoken with rapture and the lady had listened with softness both had too proper a respect to think of entering upon it unadvisedly
CHAPTER X
GIVES SOME ACCOUNT OF COLONEL HUBERTS RETURN TO CHELTENHAM
We must now follow Colonel Hubert to Cheltenham to which place he returned in a state of mind not particularly easy to be described The barrier he had placed before his heart the heavy pressure of which he had sometimes felt to be intolerable was now broken down and it was a relief to him to remember that Agnes knew of his love But excepting this relief there was little that could be felt as consolatory and much that was decidedly painful in his state of mind He knew but too well that not all the partial affection esteem and admiration entertained for him by his aunt would prevent her feeling and expressing the most violent aversion to his marrying the niece of Mrs Barnaby he knew too what sort of reception the avowal of such an intention was likely to meet from his amiable but proud brotherinlaw and remembered with feelings not very closely allied to satisfaction the charge he had commissioned Lady Stephenson to give him that he should keep watch over his thoughtless younger brother in order to guard him if possible from bringing upon them the greatest misfortune that could befall a family such as theirs—namely the introducing an inferior connexion into it Neither could he forget the influence he had used in consequence of this injunction to crush the ardent generous uncalculating attachment of his confiding friend Frederick for her whom in defiance of the wishes of his whole family he was now fully determined to make his wife All this gave materials for very painful meditation and when in addition to it he recalled those fearful words of Agnes I will never be your wife it required all the power of that master passion which had seized upon his heart to keep him steady to his resolution of communicating his wishes and intentions to Lady Elizabeth and to sustain his hopes of engaging her actively to assist him in obtaining what he felt very sure she would earnestly desire that he should never possess
With all these heavy thoughts working within him he entered the drawingroom of his aunt and rejoiced to find her têteàtête with his sister Sir Edward being absent at a dinnerparty of gentlemen They both welcomed him with eager inquiries concerning their young favourite the tone of which at once determined him to enter immediately upon the tremendous subject of his hopes and wishes and the affectionate interest expressed for her warmed him into a degree of confidence which he was far from feeling when he entered the room
Pretty creature exclaimed Lady Elizabeth and that wretched woman has actually left her alone in London lodgings Why did you not make her return with you Montague It was surely no time to stand upon etiquette
I dared not even ask it replied Colonel Hubert his voice faltering and his manner such as to make the two ladies exchange a hasty glance with each other
You dared not ask Agnes Willoughby poor little thing to come down with you to my house Colonel Hubert said the old lady You surely forget that you went up to London with an invitation for her in your pocket
My dear aunt replied Colonel Hubert hesitating in his speech as neither of his auditors had ever before heard him hesitate I have much to tell you respecting both Agnes Willoughby and myself
Then tell it in Heavens name said Lady Elizabeth sharply Let it be what it may I would rather hear it than be kept hanging thus by the ears between the possible and impossible
Colonel Hubert moved his chair and seating himself beside Lady Stephenson took her hand as if to shew that she too was to listen to what he was about to say though it was their aunt to whom he addressed himself From suspense at least I can relieve you Lady Elizabeth and you too my dear Emily who look at me so anxiously without saying a word at least I can relieve you from suspense I love Miss Willoughby and I hope with as little delay as possible to make her my wife
Lady Stephenson pressed his hand and said nothing but a deep sigh escaped her Lady Elizabeth who was not accustomed to manifest her feelings so gently rose from her seat on the sofa and placing herself immediately before him said with great vehemence Montague Hubert son of my dead sister you are come to years of discretion and a trifle beyond Your magnificent estate of thirteen hundred a year and I beg your pardon some odd pounds shillings and pence over is all your own and you may marry Mrs Barnaby herself if you please and settle it upon her No one living that I know of has any power to prevent it But sir if you expect that Lady Elizabeth Norris will ever receive as her niece a girl artful enough to conceal from me and from your sister the fact that she was engaged to you and that too while receiving from both of us the most flattering attention nay such affection as might have opened any heart not made of brass and steel if you expect this you will find yourself altogether mistaken
This harangue which her ladyship intended to be overpoweringly severe was in fact very nearly the most agreeable one that Colonel Hubert could have listened to for it touched only on a subject of offence that he was perfectly able to remove All embarrassment immediately disappeared from his manner and springing up to place himself between his aunt and the door to which she was approaching with stately steps he said in a voice almost of exultation My dearest aunt How like your noble self it is to have made this objection before every other And this objection which would indeed have been fatal to every hope of happiness I can remove by a single word Agnes was as ignorant of my love for her as you and Emily could be till last night I have loved her longer it may be than I have known it myself perhaps I might date it from the first hour I saw her but she knew nothing of it Last night for the first time I confessed to her my love And what think you Lady Elizabeth was her answer
Nay Mr Benedict I know not I thank you sir and a low courtesy I suppose
I was less happy Lady Elizabeth he replied half smiling adding a moment after however with a countenance from which all trace of gaiety had passed away The answer of Miss Willoughby to my offer of marriage was Colonel Hubert I can never be your wife
Indeed Then how comes it Montague that you still talk of making her so
Because before I left her I thought I saw some ground for hope that her refusal was not caused by any personal dislike to me
Really interrupted Lady Elizabeth
Nay my dear aunt resumed Hubert you may in your kind and longenduring partiality fancy this impossible but unhappily for my peace at that moment I remembered that I was more than fiveandthirty and she not quite eighteen
But she told you I suppose that you were still a very handsome fellow Only she had some other objection—and pray what was it sir
She feared the connexion would be displeasing to you and Lady Stephenson
And you assured her most earnestly perhaps that she was mistaken
No Lady Elizabeth I did not There are circumstances in her position that MUST make my marrying her appear objectionable to my family and though my little independence is as your ladyship observes my own I would not wish to share it with any woman who would be indifferent to their reception of her All my hope therefore rests in the confidence I feel that when the first unpleasing surprise of this avowal shall have passed away you both of you for there is no one else whose approbation I should wait for you will suffer your hearts and heads to strike a fair and reasonable balance between all that my sweet Agnes has in her favour and all she has against her Do this Lady Elizabeth but do it as kindly as you can Emily will help you tomorrow morning you shall tell me your decision I can resolve on nothing till I hear it
Colonel Hubert as soon as he had said this left the room nor did they see him again that night
The morning came and he met Lady Stephenson at the breakfast table but Lady Elizabeth did not appear sending down word as was not unusual with her that she should take her chocolate in her own room Sir Edward was not in the room when he entered and he seized the opportunity to utter a hasty and abrupt inquiry as to the answer he might expect from herself and their aunt
From me Montague she replied you cannot fear to hear anything very harshly disagreeable In truth I have been so long accustomed to believe that whatever my brother did or wished to do was wisest—best that it would be very difficult for me to think otherwise now besides I cannot deny though perhaps it hardly ought to be taken into the account that I too am very much in love with Agnes Willoughby and that though I would give my little finger she had no aunt Barnaby belonging to her I never saw any woman in any rank whom I could so cordially love and welcome as a sister
In reply to this Colonel Hubert clasped the lovely speaker to his heart and before he had released her from his embrace or repeated his inquiry concerning Lady Elizabeth Sir Edward Stephenson entered and the conversation became general
For many hours of that irksome morning Colonel Hubert was kept in the most tantalizing state of suspense by the prolonged absence of the old lady from the drawingroom But at length after Sir Edward and his lady had set off for their second morning ramble without him he was cheered by the appearance of the ancient maiden who was his aunts tirewoman bringing in her lapdog and the velvet cushion that was its appendage which having placed reverently before the fire she moved the favourite fauteuil an inch one way and the little table that ever stood beside it an inch the other and was retiring when Colonel Hubert said Is my aunt coming immediately Mitchel
My lady will not be long Colonel But her ladyship is very poorly this morning and with a graceful swinging courtesy she withdrew
The Colonel trembled all over very poorly as applied to Lady Elizabeth Norris having from his earliest recollection always been considered as synonymous to very cross
She will refuse to see her thought he pacing the room in violent agitation and in that case she will keep her word She will never be my wife
Bless me How you do shake the room Colonel Hubert said a very crabbed voice behind him just after he had passed the door in his perturbed promenade If you took such a fancy early in the morning when the house maid might sweep up the dust you had raised I should not object to it for it is very like having ones carpet beat but just as I am coming to sit down here it is very disagreeable indeed
This grumble lasted just long enough to allow the old lady who looked as if she had been eating crab apples and walked as if she had suddenly been seized with the gout in all her joints to place herself in her easy chair as she concluded it during which time the Colonel stood still upon the hearthrug with his eyes anxiously fixed upon the venerable but very hostile features that were approaching him A moments silence followed during which the old Lady looked up in his face with the most provoking expression imaginable for cross as it was there was a glance of playful malice in it that seemed to say—
You look as if you were going to cry Colonel
He felt provoked with her and this gave him courage—May I beg of you Lady Elizabeth to tell me what I may hope from your kindness on the subject I mentioned to you last night said he
Pray sir do you remember your grandfather was her reply
The Earl of Archdale Yes madam perfectly
You do Humph And your paternal grandfather with his pedigree from Duke Nigel of Normandy did you ever hear of him
Yes Lady Elizabeth replied the Colonel in a tone of indifference I have heard of him but he died you know when I was very young
There was a minutes silence which was broken by another question from Lady Elizabeth
And pray sir will you do me the favour to tell me who was the grandfather of Miss Willoughby
I have little or indeed no doubt Lady Elizabeth that Miss Willoughby is the granddaughter of that Mr Willoughby of Greatfield Park in Warwickshire who lost the tremendous stake at piquet that you have heard of and two of whose daughters married the twin sons of Lord Eastcombe I think you cannot have forgotten the circumstances
Lady Elizabeth drew herself forward in her chair and fixing her eyes stedfastly on the face of her nephew said in a voice of great severity Do you mean to assert to me Colonel Montague Hubert that Agnes Willoughby is niece to Lady Eastcombe and the Honourable Mrs Nivett
I mean to assert to you madam that it is my firm persuasion that such will prove to be the fact But I have not considered it necessary Lady Elizabeth Norris for the son of my father to withhold his affections from the chosen of his heart till he was assured he should gain all the honour by the selection which a union with Lady Eastcombes niece could bestow nor should I have mentioned my belief in this connexion by way of a setoff to the equally near claim of Mrs Barnaby had you not questioned me so particularly
Had Colonel Hubert studied his answer for a twelvemonth he could not have composed a more judicious one there was a spice of hauteur in it by no means uncongenial to the old ladys feelings and there was too enough of defiance to make her take counsel with herself as to whether it would be wise to vex him further It was therefore less with the accent of mockery and more with that of curiosity that she recommenced her interrogatory
Will you tell me Montague from what source you derived this knowledge of Miss Willoughbys family Was it from herself
Certainly not If the facts be as I have stated and as I hope and believe they will be found Miss Willoughby will be as much surprised by the discovery as your ladyship
From whom then did you hear it
From no one Lady Elizabeth as a matter of fact connected with Agnes But something I know not what introduced the mention of old Willoughbys wild stake at piquet at the club the other day The name struck me and I led old Major Barnes to talk to me of the family He told me that a younger son a gay harumscarum sort of youth married some girl when he was in country quarters whom his family would not receive that ruined and brokenhearted by this desertion he went abroad almost immediately after his marriage and has never been heard of since
And this is the foundation upon which you build your hope that Mrs Barnabys niece is also the niece of Lady Eastcombe Ingenious certainly Colonel as a theory but somewhat slight as an edifice on which to hang any weighty matter Dont you think so
I hang nothing on it Lady Elizabeth If I did not feel that Miss Willoughby was calculated to make me happy without this supposed relationship I certainly should not think her so with it However that your ladyship may not fancy my imagination more fertile than it really is I must add that when at Clifton I did hear from the Misses Peters whom I have before mentioned to you that the father of Agnes went abroad after his marriage and moreover that no news of him in any way ever reached his wifes family afterwards
Lady Elizabeth for some time made no reply but seemed to ponder upon this statement very earnestly At length she said in a tone from which irony and harshness levity and severity were equally banished—Montague there are some of the feelings which you have just expressed in which I cannot sympathise but a very little reflection will teach you that there is no ground of offence to you in this for it would be unnatural that I should do so You tell me that your fathers son need not deem the honour of a relationship to Viscountess Eastcombe necessary to his happiness in life So far I am able to comprehend you although Lady Eastcombe is an honourable and excellent personage whose near connexion with a young lady would be no contemptible advantage at least in my mind upon her introduction into life But we will pass this When however you proceed to tell me that your choice in marriage could in nowise be affected by the rank and station of those with whom it might bring you in contact and that too when the question is whether a Mrs Barnaby or a Lady Eastcombe should be in the foreground of the group you must excuse me if I cannot follow you
Nothing is so distressing in an argument as to have a burst of grandiloquent sentiment set aside by a few words of common sense Colonel Hubert walked the length of the drawingroom and back again before he answered he felt that as his aunt put the case he was as far from following his assertion by his judgment as herself but ere his walk was finished the image of the desolate Agnes as he had seen her the night before arose before him and resumed its unconquerable influence on his heart He took a hint from her ladyship threw aside all mixture of heat and anger and replied—
Heaven forbid Lady Elizabeth that I should attempt to defend any such doctrine believe me it is not mine But in one word I love Miss Willoughby and if I can arrive at the happiness of believing that I am loved in return nothing but her own refusal will prevent me from marrying her This is my statement of facts I will attempt no other and throw myself wholly upon your judgment to smooth or render more rugged the path which lies before me
The old lady looked at him and smiled very kindly Montague said she resolve my doubts Is it the mention of your pleasant suspicions respecting Miss Willoughbys paternal ancestry or your present unvarnished frankness that has won upon me Upon my honour I could not answer this question myself but certain it is that I do feel more inclined to remember what a very sweet creature Agnes is at this moment than I ever thought I should again when our conversation began
Colonel Hubert kneeled down upon her footstool and kissing her hand said in a voice that spoke his happiness It matters not to me what the cause is my dearest aunt I thank Heaven for the effect and now do not think that I am taking an unfair advantage of this kindness if I ask you to remember the position of Miss Willoughby at this moment With such views for the future as I have explained to you is it not my duty to remove her from it
What then do you propose to do demanded Lady Elizabeth
I can do nothing he replied whatever aid or protection can be extended to her must come from you or Lady Stephenson and that I should rather it came from you who have long been to me as a mother can hardly surprise you Sir Edward is an excellent young man but he has prejudices that I should not like to battle with on this occasion It is from you and you only Lady Elizabeth that I either hope or wish to find protection for my future wife
Again Lady Elizabeth pondered Did not Agnes tell us she said at length did she not say in her letter to Lady Stephenson that she had applied to some aged relation in Devonshire by whom she hoped to be extricated from her present terrible embarrassment
It is very likely replied Colonel Hubert for she spoke to me of such a one and hoped that Thursday that is tomorrow is it not would bring an answer to her application
Then Montague we must wait to hear what this Thursday brings forth before we interfere to repeat the offer of protection which it is possible she may not want And Heaven grant it may be so for if she is to be your wife Colonel Hubert and it is pretty plain she will be will it not be better that you should follow her with your addresses to the lowliest roof in Devonshire than that she should take refuge here where every gossips finger will be pointed at her
It was impossible to deny the truth of this and Colonel Hubert cared not to avow that all the favour she had bid him hope for was but conditional and that till the avowal of his love should be sanctioned by his aunt and sister he was still to hold himself as a rejected man He dared not tell her this lest the feelings he had conquered with so much difficulty should return upon learning that it was not yet too late to encourage them
As patiently as he could therefore he awaited the expected letter from Agnes and well was he rewarded for doing so The letter itself modest and unboastful as it was gave a sufficiently improved picture of her condition to remove all present anxiety on her account and though he certainly had no idea of the transformation she had undergone from a heartbroken penniless dependant into a petted cherished heiress he was soothed into the belief that it would now cost his aunt and sister infinitely less pain than he had anticipated to extend such a degree of favour to his Agnes as might lead her to confirm the hope on which he lived
But it was not the letter of Agnes that produced the most favourable impression upon Lady Elizabeth the postscript of Miss Compton was infinitely more powerful in its effect upon her mind Of Agnes personally she never thought without a degree of partial admiration that nearly approached to affection and vague as the hope was respecting the family of her father it clung very pertinaciously to the old ladys memory while a certain resemblance which she felt sure that she could trace between the nose of Agnes and that of the honourable Miss Nivett Lord Eastcombes eldest daughter was doing wonders in her mind by way of a balanceweight against the rouge and ringlets of Mrs Barnaby yet nevertheless the notion that not horrid Mrs Barnaby only but a host of aunts and cousins of the same breed might come down upon her in the event of this illassorted marriage kept her in a sort of feverish wavering state something between good and ill humour that was exceedingly annoying to her nephew
The keensighted old lady at once perceived that the postscript to Agness letter was not written by a second Mrs Barnaby and from that moment she determined much more decisively than she chose to express that she would torment Colonel Hubert with no farther opposition
After a short consultation between the aunt and niece that letter was despatched the receipt of which was mentioned before Miss Compton and Agnes left London for Clifton Had Colonel Hubert been consulted upon it he would perhaps have suggested as an improvement that the proposed meeting should take place the following week in London but on the whole the composition was too satisfactory for him to venture upon any alteration of it and again he called patience to his aid while many miserably long days were wasted by the very slow and deliberate style in which the man and maid servant who managed all Lady Elizabeths worldly concerns set about preparing themselves and her for this removal It was with a degree of pleasure which almost atoned for the vexation of this delay that he learned Sir Edwards goodnatured compliance with his beautiful brides capriciousseeming wish of revisiting Clifton Colonel Hubert pertinaciously refused to let his gay brotherinlaw into his confidence till the time arrived for presenting him to Miss Willoughby as to his future wife Did this reserve arise from some unacknowledged doubt whether Agnes when the pressure of misfortune was withdrawn would voluntarily bestow herself on a man of his advanced age Perhaps so That Agnes was less than eighteen and himself more than thirtyfive were facts repeated to himself too often for his tranquillity
CHAPTER XI
AGNES APPEARS AT CLIFTON IN A NEW CHARACTER
At as early an hour on the morning after her arrival at Clifton as Agnes could hope to find her friend Mary awake she set off for Rodney Place It was a short walk but a happy one even though she had yet to learn whether Lady Elizabeth Norris and her party were or were not arrived
But there was something at the bottom of her heart that made her very tolerably easy more so perhaps than she confessed to herself on this point Every day made the mysterious fact of Miss Comptons being a woman of handsome fortune more familiar to her and every hour made it more clear that she had no other object in life than to make that fortune contribute to the happiness of her niece It followed therefore that not having altogether forgotten the fact of Colonel Huberts declaration at a moment when all things but his own heart must have pleaded against her some very comfortable ground for hope to rest upon was discoverable in the circumstances of her present position There will be no danger thought she that when he speaks again my answer should be such as to make him fancy himself too old for me
The servant at Rodney Place who opened the door to Agnes was the same who had done her the like service some dozen of times during her last visit at Clifton but he betrayed no sign of recognition when she presented herself In fact the general appearance of Agnes was so greatly changed from what he had been accustomed to see it when she was clothed in the residuum of the Widow Barnabys weeds that till she smiled and spoke her inquiry for Miss Peters he had no recollection of her
As soon however as he discovered that it was the Miss Willoughby who had left all his ladies crying when she went away he took care to make her perceive that she was not forgotten by the manner in which he said Miss Peters maam is not come down stairs yet but she will be very happy to see YOU maam if you will please to walk up
As the early visitor was of the same opinion she scrupled not to find her way to the wellknown door and without even the ceremony of a tap presented herself to her friend It is probable that Mary looked more at the face and less at the dress of the visitor than the servant had done for uttering a cry of joy she sprang towards her and most affectionately folded her in a cordial embrace
My sweet Agnes This is so like you At the very instant you entered I was calculating the probabilities between today and tomorrow for your arrival Ah little girl Did I not tell you to address yourself to Miss Compton of Compton Basett long ago What say you to my wisdom now
That you were inspired Mary and that I deserved to suffer a good deal for not listening to such an oracle But had I done so I should have never known
The difference between the extreme of Barnaby misery and Compton comfort said Mary finishing the sentence for her
Agnes blushed but said with a happy smile Yes assuredly I may say so
Miss Peters looked at her and laughed There is something else you would not have known I am very sure Agnes by that conscious face and it must be something very well worth knowing by that look of radiant happiness which I never saw on your fair face before no not even when for the first time you looked down upon Avons dun stream for then if I remember rightly your joy shewed itself in tears but now my dear you are dimpling with smiles though I really believe you are doing all you can to hide them from me Say why is this wherefore what should it mean
Mary There is not an event of my life nor a thought of my heart that I would wish to hide from you But how can I begin telling you such very long and incredible stories as I have got to tell just as you have finished dressing and are ready to go down to breakfast said Agnes
Breakfast replied her friend I would rather go without breakfast for a month than not hear the beginning middle and end of all your adventures from the moment you left this house in crape and bombasin with your cheeks as white as marble and your eyes full of tears up to this present now that you have entered it again in as elegant a morning toilet as London can furnish with your cheeks full of dimples and your eyes dancing in your head with happiness notwithstanding all your efforts to look demure Come sit down again Agnes and tell me all
Tell you all I will depend upon it but not now dear Mary Think of all your mothers kindness to me Shall I sit here indulging in confidential gossip with you instead of paying my compliments to her and the rest of the family in the breakfastroom No positively no So come down stairs with me directly or I will go by myself
Aunt Compton is spoiling you child that is quite clear You used to be obedient to command and ever ready to do as I desired but now you lay down the law like a Lord Chancellor Come along then Miss Agnes but remember that as soon as breakfast is over I expect first to be taken to the Mall have I not got nice lodgings for you and introduced to Miss Compton of Compton Basett and then taken to our old seat on the rock then and there to hear all that has befallen you
To this Agnes agreed and they descended together The interest and the pleasure that her entrance excited among the family group already assembled round the breakfasttable was very gratifying to her Mrs Peters seemed hardly less delighted than Mary the two girls kissed her affectionately and gazed at her with as much admiration as astonishment which is tantamount to saying that they admired her much good Mr Peters welcomed her very cordially and inquired with the most scrupulous politeness for the health of Mrs Barnaby and James told her very frankly that he was delighted to see her and that she was fifty times handsomer than ever
The conversation that followed was perfectly frank on the part of Agnes in all that related to the kindness of her aunt Compton and the happiness she enjoyed from being under her care but from delicacy to them she said as little as possible about Mrs Barnaby and from delicacy to herself made no mention whatever either of Colonel Hubert or his family
As soon as the breakfast was over Mrs Peters declared her intention of immediately waiting on Miss Compton an attention to her aunt which Agnes welcomed with pleasure though it still farther postponed the muchwished for conversation with her friend Mary The whole family declared their eagerness to be introduced to the old lady of whom Miss Willoughby spoke with such enthusiasm but as the discreet Mrs Peters declared that at this first visit her eldest daughter only must accompany her the rest yielded of necessity and the three ladies set out together
I expect to find this new aunt a much more agreeable personage my dear Agnes than your former chaperon though she was my dear sister But on one point I flatter myself I shall find them alike
I hope this point of resemblance is not of much importance to your happiness my dear Mrs Peters replied Agnes for if it be you are in a bad way since night and day are infinitely less unlike than my two aunts in all things
Yes but it is of great importance to my happiness particularly for this evening Agnes replied Mrs Peters The point of resemblance I want to find is in the trusting you to my care We are going to a party this evening where I should particularly like to take you and it will be impossible you know to arrange exchange of visits and manage that an invitation shall be sent and accepted by aunt Compton on such very short notice Do you think she will let you go with us
Ask her my dear Mrs Peters replied Agnes with a very happy smile and see what she will say to it
I will if I do not find her too awful was the answer
The manner in which Miss Compton received and entertained her visitors was a fresh source of surprise to Agnes Though thinking very highly of her intellect and even of her conversational powers she had anticipated some symptoms of reserve and shyness on the introduction of so perfect a recluse to strangers But nothing of the kind appeared Miss Compton was pleased by the appearance and manner of both mother and daughter and permitted them to perceive that she was so rather with the easy flattering sort of courtesy with which a superior treats those whom he wishes should be pleased with him than with any appearance of the mauvaise honte which might have been expected Nor must this be condemned as unnatural for it was in fact the inevitable result of the state of mind in which she had lived With keen intellect elastic animal spirits and a position that places the owner of it fairly above the reach of annoyance from any one an elevation by the by that few of the great ones of the earth can boast it is not an introduction to any ordinary society that can discompose the mind, or agitate the manners
Mrs Peters did not find aunt Compton too awful and therefore prefered her request which like every other that could have been made likely to promote the pleasure of Agnes was not only graciously but gratefully complied with A question being started as to the order in which the party should go Mr Peterss carriage not being able to take them all at once Miss Compton settled it by saying—Agnes has her own carriage and servants here but she must not go alone and perhaps if she calls at your house Mrs Peters you will have the kindness to let her friend Mary accompany her and permit her carriage to follow yours
This being settled Mrs Peters and her daughter rose to take leave and Mary then hoped that Agnes by returning with them would at length give her the opportunity she so earnestly desired of hearing all she had to tell But she was again disappointed for when the young heiress asked her indulgent aunt whether she would not take advantage of the lovely morning to see some of the beauties of Clifton she replied—I should like nothing so well Agnes as to take a drive with you over the beautiful downs you talk of Will you spare her to me for so long Miss Peters
I think you deserve a little of her Miss Compton answered the young lady and with the hope of the evening before me I will enter no protest against the morning drive
The mother and daughter then took leave and as they left the house they exchanged a glance that seemed to express mutual congratulation on the altered condition of their favourite
Well mamma you will be rewarded this time for obeying my commands like a dutiful mother and permitting me to make a pet of this sweet Agnes There is nothing in the Barnaby style here I was sure Miss Compton of Compton Basett must be good for something said Mary
If I may venture to hope as I think I may replied her mother that she will never be the means of bringing me in contact with my incomparable sisterinlaw again I may really thank you saucy girl as you are for having so taken the reins into your own hands I delight in this Miss Compton There is a racy originality about her that is very awakening And as for your Agnes what with her new young happiness her graceful loveliness now first seen to some advantage her proud and pretty fondness for her aunt and her natural joy at seeing us all again under circumstances so delightfully altered I really do think she is the most enchanting creature I ever beheld
CHAPTER XII
A PARTY—A MEETING—GOOD SOMETIMES PRODUCTIVE OF EVIL
The superintending the toilet of Agnes for the party of that evening was a new and very delightful page in the history of the spinster of Compton Basett The fondest mother dressing a fair daughter for her first presentation never watched the operations of the toilet more anxiously and in her case there was a sort of personal triumph attending its success that combined the joy of the accomplished artist who sees the finished loveliness himself has made with the fond approval of affection
Partly from her own native good taste and partly from the wisdom of listening with a very discriminating judgment to the practical counsels of an experienced modiste the dress of Agnes was exactly what it ought to have been and the proud old lady herself could not have desired an appearance more distinguée than that of her adopted child when turning from Peggy and her mirror she made her a sportive courtesy and exclaimed—
Have you not made a fine lady of me aunt Betsy
When Miss Comptons carriage stopped at Rodney Place it was Mrs Peters instead of her daughter who took a place in it
Mary is excessively angry with me said she as they drove off for not letting her be your companion but I think it more comme il faut Agnes that I should present you to Mrs Pemberton myself She is a vastly fine lady not one of us humble Bristolian Cliftonites who pique ourselves rather upon the elevation of our limestone rock above the level of the stream that laves our merchants quays than on any other species of superiority that we can lay claim to Mrs Pemberton is none of us She has a house in London and a park in Buckinghamshire and flies over the Continent every now and then with firstrate aristocratical velocity but she has one feeling sometimes shared by more ordinary mortals which is a prodigious love of music This and a sort of besoin to which she pleads guilty of holding a salon every evening that she is not from home forces upon her as I take it the necessity of visiting many of us who might elsewhere scarcely be deemed worthy to approach her footstool We met her at the Parslowes where the girls performances elicited a very gracious degree of approbation An introduction followed she has honoured me by attending a concert at my own house and this is the fourth evening we have passed with her Now you have the carte du pays and I think you will agree with me that it is much better I should make my entrée with you on my arm than permit you to follow with the damsels in my train
Agnes confessed that she thought the arrangement much more conducive to the dignity of her approach and thanked her companion for her thoughtful attention
Perhaps it is not quite disinterested Agnes I am rather proud of having such an exotic to produce What a delightful aunt Compton it is Carriage perfect servants evidently townmade white satin and blonde fit for an incipient duchess If your little head be not turned Agnes you will deserve to be chronicled as a miracle
I have had enough to steady the giddiest craft that ever was launched my dear Mrs Peters replied Agnes and it would be silly indeed to throw my ballast overboard because I am sailing before the wind
Then your head is not turned that is what you mean to say is it not
No replied Agnes laughing my head is not turned—I feel almost sure of it But why do you make such particular inquiries respecting the state of my head at present Mrs Peters Shall I be called upon to give some illustrious proof of its healthy condition tonight
Yes my dear You will assuredly be called upon to sing and you must prove to my satisfaction that you are not grown too fine to oblige your friends
Is that all Depend upon it I will do whatever you wish me
Mrs Pembertons drawingroom was full of company when they entered it but that lady espied them the moment they arrived and stepped forward with so much eagerness to receive them that Agnes thought Mrs Peters had in her account of the acquaintance between them hardly done justice to the degree of favour she had risen to But a few minutes more convinced her that even she unknown as she was might flatter herself that some portion of this distinguished reception was intended for her for Mrs Pemberton took her hand and led her to a seat at the upper end of the room with an air of such marked distinction as spite of the philosophy of which she had just been boasting brought a very bright flush to her cheeks if it did not turn her head A few words however spoken by that lady to one of those beside whom she placed her explained the mystery and proved that Mrs Peters had deemed it prudent to intimate her intention of bringing a young friend with her beforehand
Miss Eversham you must permit me to introduce this young lady to you—Miss Willoughby Miss Eversham From a little word in Mrs Peters note this morning I flatter myself that I shall have the gratification of hearing you sing together This ladys voice is a contralto Miss Willoughby and from what I have heard of your performance at Mrs Peters before I had the pleasure of being acquainted with her your voices will be delightful together
This most unexpected address was not calculated to restore the composure of Agnes and it was not without some effort that she summoned courage enough to answer the numerous questions of Miss Eversham an elderly young lady too much inured to exhibition to have any mercy upon her when as an excuse for withdrawing her attention for a moment from the ceaseless catechism that tormented her she turned away her eyes to look upon the company and beheld the profile of Colonel Hubert as he bent to speak to a lady seated on a sofa near which he stood This was not an occurrence very likely to restore her composure but at least it spared her any farther anxiety respecting the effort necessary for receiving the attentions of her neighbour properly for she altogether forgot her vicinity and became as completely incapable of hearing her farther questions as of answering them
Had he seen her Did he know she was at Clifton Was his aunt—was Lady Stephenson there How would he address her Would their intercourse begin from the point at which it had broken off or would her altered circumstances by placing each in a new position lead to a renewed proposal and an answer Oh how different from her former one
These were the questions that now addressed themselves to her making her utterly incapable of hearing the continued string of musical interrogatories which went on beside her The short interval during which Colonel Hubert retained his attitude and continued his conversation seemed an age and expectation was growing sick and almost merging in despair when at last the lady turned to answer a question from her neighbour and Colonel Hubert stood upright and cast his eyes upon the company
Her emotion was too powerful to permit bashfulness to take any part in it she sought his eye and met it In a moment all suffering was over and all anxiety a thousand fold overpaid for the look she encountered was all her heart could wish At the first glance indeed he evidently did not know her it was that of a wandering speculative eye that seemed looking out for occupation and had she quite understood it aright she might have perceived that it was arrested by a sort of sudden suspicion that it had found something worth pausing upon But this lasted not above the tenth part of an instant and then he darted forward his fine proud countenance expressive of uncontrollable agitation and the rapidity with which he approached her was such as to show pretty plainly that he forgot it was a crowded drawingroom he was traversing
By the time he reached her however short as the interval was the glow that had lighted up her face when it first arrested his eye had faded into extreme paleness and when he spoke to her she trembled so violently as to be quite unable to articulate Colonel Hubert perceived her agitation and felt that it approached in some degree to his own Had he been twentyfive this would have probably been all he wished to see as it was he felt a dreadful spasm at the heart as the hateful thought occurred that after what had passed there might be two ways in which it might be interpreted But it was a passing pang and longing to present her to his aunt and sister and at the same time release her from the embarrassing curiosity so conspicuous in the manner of her neighbour he held the hand she extended to him while he said—
Let me lead you to Lady Elizabeth Miss Willoughby both she and Lady Stephenson are in the next room and will be delighted to see you
Agnes rose and though really hardly able to stand replied with all the voice she had that she should be greatly obliged if he would lead her to them taking his offered arm as she spoke At this moment Sir Edward Stephenson crossed the room with his eyes fixed upon her and with evident curiosity to find out who it was his stately brotherinlaw was escorting so obsequiously The extreme beauty of Agnes and the remarkable elegance of her dress and appearance had in truth already drawn all eyes upon her and the whispered enquiries of many had been answered by Mrs Pemberton with the information that she was an heiress and the first amateur singer in England The foundation of these assertions had reached her by the note of the judicious Mrs Peters who while asking permission to bring a young friend took the opportunity of hinting the two interesting facts above mentioned and the effect of their repetition among her guests doubtless added not a little to the interest with which Agnes was looked at
Sir Edward Stephenson was among those who had heard of the heiressship and the voice but the name had not reached him and while looking at the elegant girl in white satin who lent upon Colonel Huberts arm not the slightest resemblance between her and the fair girl in deep mourning that he had once or twice seen at Cheltenham occurred to him
There was a stoppage in the doorway between the two rooms and it was at this moment Sir Edward said in the ear of the colonel Who is your fair friend
Do you not know her Sir Edward It is Miss Willoughby
What the girl the person we saw at Nonsense Montague Who is it
Colonel Hubert shrugged his shoulders at the incredulity of his brotherinlaw and quietly replying I have told you all I know took advantage of a movement among the crowd in the doorway and led his fair companion through it
In the short interval occasioned by this stoppage Agnes so far recovered her composure as to become very keenly alive to the importance of the next few moments to her happiness Should Lady Elizabeth look harshly or Lady Stephenson coldly upon her of what avail would be all the blessings that fate and affection had showered upon her favoured head And then it was that for the first time she felt the full extent of all she owed to Miss Compton for the consciousness that she was no longer a penniless desolate dependant came to her mind at that moment with a feeling ten thousand times more welcome than any display of her aunts hoarded wealth had ever brought and the recollection that in speaking of her to Mrs Peters Miss Compton had almost pompously called her my heiress and the inheritor of my paternal acres and some twenty thousand pounds beside which at the time had in some sort been painful for her to listen to was at that agitating moment recalled with a degree of satisfaction that might have been strangely misinterpreted had those around been aware of it Some might have traced the feeling to pride and some to vain selfconsequence but in truth it arose from a deepseated sense of humility that blessed anything likely to lessen the awful distance she felt between herself and Hubert in the eyes of his relations
But with all the aid she could draw from such considerations her cheek was colourless and her eyes full of tears when she found herself standing almost like a culprit before the dignified old lady whose favour she had once gained in a manner so unhoped for whom she feared she had deeply offended since and on whose present feelings towards her hung all her hopes of happiness in life
It was not at the first glance that her timid but enquiring eye could learn her sentence for the expressive countenance of the old lady underwent more than one change before she spoke At first it very unequivocally indicated astonishment then came a smile that as plainly told of admiration at which moment by the way her ladyship became impressed with the firmest conviction that the nose of the honourable Miss Nivett and that of Miss Willoughby were formed on the same model and at last whatever intention of reserve might have possessed her it all melted away and she held out both her hands with both aspect and words of very cordial welcome
The heart of Agnes gave a bound as these words reached her and the look of animated happiness which succeeded to the pale melancholy that sat upon her features when she first approached touched the old lady so sensibly that nothing but the presence of the crowd around prevented her throwing her arms around her in a fond embrace
Lady Stephenson was from the first instant all affectionate kindness and even Sir Edward who had hitherto never appeared to think it necessary that his ladys singing favourite should occupy much of his attention now put himself forward to claim her acquaintance apologizing for not having known her at first by saying—
The change of dress Miss Willoughby must be my excuse you have left off mourning since I saw you last
Agnes smiled and bowed and appeared not to have been in the least degree affronted in fact she was at that moment too happy to be otherwise than pleased with everybody in the world
Meanwhile Colonel Hubert stood looking at her with love admiration and astonishment that fully equalled that of his aunt but the contemplation did not bring him happiness Without settling the balance very accurately in his own mind perhaps he had hitherto felt conscious that his station and fortune independent at least if not large might be set against her youth that constant stumblingblock of his felicity and her surpassing beauty But there was something in the change from simplicity of dress that almost approached to homeliness to the costly elegance of costume that was now before him which seemed to indicate a position to which his own no longer presented so very favourable a contrast She no longer appeared to be the Agnes to obtain whom he must make a sacrifice that would prove beyond all doubt the vastness of his love and he trembled as he beheld her the principal object of attention and the theme of avowed admiration throughout the room
Lady Elizabeth very unceremoniously made room for her next herself by desiring a gentleman who occupied the seat beside her which was on a small sofa filling the recess by the chimney to leave it
I beg a thousand pardons sir but I see no other place in the room where we could hope for space to sit thus têteàtête together and did you know how near and dear she was to me you would I am sure excuse me
The gentleman though not a young one assured her with the appearance of much sincerity that to yield a seat to such a young lady could be considered only as honour and happiness by every man Having thus established her restored favourite at her side Lady Elizabeth began to whisper innumerable questions about Miss Compton
How came it my dear said she that when opening your heart to Emily and me upon the subject of your unfortunate situation with Mrs Barnaby you never referred to the possibility of placing yourself under the protection of Miss Compton
Because my aunt Compton having quarrelled with my aunt Barnaby had refused to take any further notice of me—Mrs Barnaby at least led me to believe during the six or seven months I passed with her that every application on my part to Miss Compton would be vain and it was only the dreadful predicament into which Mrs Barnabys arrest threw me that gave me the desperate courage which I thought necessary for applying to her But I have since learned Lady Elizabeth that at any time one word from me would have sufficed to make her leave her retirement as she now has done and remove me from my dreadful situation
But it appears that she is not only a kind aunt but a wealthy one my dear child Excuse the observation Agnes situated as we now are together you cannot deem it impertinent but your dress indicates as great and as favourable a change in pecuniary matters as your letter and your happy countenance announces in all others Miss Compton I presume is a woman of fortune
Her fortune is larger than I imagined it to be replied Agnes She lived with great economy before she adopted me
And do you know what her intentions are Agnes rejoined the persevering old lady It is only as the aunt of Colonel Hubert remember this my dear it is only as Colonel Huberts aunt that I ask the question
Agnes blushed with most happy consciousness as she replied The interest you so kindly take in me confers both honour and happiness and however averse to boast of the kindness bestowed and promised by my dear aunt I can have no wish to hide from you Lady Elizabeth all she has said to me She knows the honour that has been done me by Colonel Hubert and knows too that nothing but the fear of your displeasure could have made me hesitate to accept it and she says that should no such displeasure interfere she would bestow a fortune on me
Well my dear I dont believe that any such displeasure is likely to interfere When will you introduce us to her
Tomorrow Lady Elizabeth Agnes eagerly replied if you will give us leave to wait upon you
Yes that is right my dear quite right She must call on me first and yet I am not quite sure of that either I rather think the friends of the gentleman should wait upon the friends of the lady and so I will call upon her tomorrow morning and remember when you have introduced us to each other you may go away we must talk on business What is her address
Agnes gave the address very distinctly which was repeated in the same manner by Lady Elizabeth just as Mrs Pemberton approached to entreat her permission to lead her to the pianoforte You are going to sing my dear child Very good I shall be delighted to hear you And you must get me a place where I can both look at and listen to her Mrs Pemberton said Lady Elizabeth
Considerably surprised but much pleased to find that the acquaintance she had condescended to make with Mrs Peters had led to her having the honour of receiving so intimate a friend and favourite of her most illustrious guest Mrs Pemberton rather ostentatiously performed the service required of her and Agnes once more stood up to sing with Lady Elizabeths armchair almost as near to her as on the happy night when she first won the old ladys heart at Cheltenham
But where was Colonel Hubert He had stood anxiously watching the first few words that passed between his aunt and Agnes and when he saw her cavalier dismission of her neighbour and the cordial style of amity with which she pursued her conversation with the beautiful interloper he almost forgot his doubts and fears in the happiness of seeing one obstacle so decidedly removed and prudently denying himself the pleasure of being near them lest his presence might render the conversation less confidential he withdrew to the other room and only appeared again before the eyes of Agnes when he took his place beside her to turn over the pages of her song
For the first few moments Agnes feared that she was too happy to sing but she tried and found that her voice was clear and was determined that it should soon be steady for she wished let youthful ladies judge how ardently to renew the impression which she had made on Colonel Hubert on that nevertobeforgotten morning when she first dared to fancy he loved her
Nor were her wishes vain She sang as well and he felt as strongly as before Her pleasure as she watched this was perfect but his was very far from being so he saw that she was the centre of attraction and not only as before the admired of every eye and the enchanter of every ear but also the most distinguished fashionable and important young lady present
There was not however a shadow of the paltry feeling called jealousy in this the pang that smote his heart arose from memory and not from imagination Could he as he now saw this elegant girl the centre of fashion and the petted favourite of his own proud aunt forget the generous devoted passion of the unfortunate Frederick Could he forget that he had used all the influence which the young mans affection to himself had lent him to make him abandon an attachment so every way calculated to ensure his happiness Could he forget that Frederick was now living an exile from his country the victim of unhappy love while he his trusted confidant but most pernicious adviser remained to profit by the absence he himself had caused and to drain the cup of happiness which his hand had dashed from the lips of his wretched friend
As long as Mrs Barnaby continued to hang about her and in some degree to overshadow her with the disgrace of her vulgar levity Agnes could not be loved without a sacrifice and the youth and splendid fortune of Frederick Stephenson as well as the peculiarly strong feelings of his family on the subject might have stood as reasons why another less fettered by circumstances might have married her though he could not But how stood the matter now Agnes had been snatched from Mrs Barnaby and borne completely beyond the sphere of her influence Stephensons proud brother seemed to bow before her while his wife selected her as a chosen friend and worse a thousand times worse than all the rest he had learnt while he wandered among the company before the music commenced that Agnes was the proclaimed heiress of fifteen hundred ayear This last however for his comfort he did not believe but there was enough without it to make him feel that should he even be so blessed as to teach her to forget the difference of their age and make her young heart his own he must by becoming her husband appear to the friend who had trusted him as one of the veriest traitors under heaven
Such thoughts were enough to jar the sweetest harmony and the evening was altogether productive of more pain than pleasure to the unfortunate Colonel Hubert who having staked his happiness on a marriage only to be obtained by the consent of his aunt was now suffering martyrdom from a plethora of success and would have gladly changed his condition back to what it had been when regardless of consequences he had laid his heart at the feet of Agnes by the light of her one tallowcandle in Halfmoon Street while her sole protectress lay imprisoned in the Fleet
When the party broke up Colonel Hubert leaving his aunt to the care of Sir Edward escorted Mrs Peters and the four young ladies down stairs where another shock awaited him on hearing her servant enquire which carriage should be called up first for before answering Mrs Peters turned to Agnes and said—
To which name are your servants accustomed to answer my dear Miss Compton told me you would have your own carriage here but perhaps this might only be another mode of saying you would have hers Shall they call Miss Comptons carriage or Miss Willoughbys Agnes
They will answer to either I believe replied Agnes carelessly for she was waiting for Colonel Hubert to finish something he was saying to her
Call Miss Willoughbys carriage then said Mrs Peters to the servants in waiting And Miss Willoughbys carriage Miss Willoughbys carriage resounded along the hall and through the street
CHAPTER XIII
DEMONSTRATING THE HEAVY SORROW WHICH MAY BE PRODUCED BY A YOUNG LADYS HAVING A LARGER FORTUNE THAN HER LOVER EXPECTED
Miss Compton was not long kept waiting for the appearance of her promised visitor on the following morning for before twelve oclock Lady Elizabeth Norris arrived Agnes very punctually obeyed the commands that had been given her and having properly introduced the two old ladies to each other left them together and hastened at length to satisfy the anxious curiosity of her friend Mary by giving her a full account of all the circumstances that had led to the happy change in her prospects
Her tale was listened to with unbroken attention and when it was ended Miss Peters exclaimed—
Now then I forgive you Agnes and only now for not returning the love of that very pleasant person Frederick Stephenson for I do believe it is nearly impossible for a young lady to be in love with two gentlemen at once and I now perceive beyond the shadow of a doubt that the superb colonel turned your head from the very first moment that you looked not up on but up to him How very strange it is she continued that I should never have suspected the cause of that remarkable refusal I imagine my dulness arose from my humility I was conscious myself that I should quite as soon have taken the liberty of falling in love with the autocrat of all the Russias as with Colonel Hubert and it therefore never occurred to me that you could be guilty of such audacity nevertheless I will not deny that he is a husband to be proud of and so I wish you joy heartily But do tell me she added after a moments meditation how you mean to manage about Mr Stephenson Your first meeting will be rather awkward will it not
I fear so replied Agnes gravely But there is no help for it and I must get over it as well as I can fortunately none of the family have the slightest idea of any such thing and I hope they never will
I hope so too dear But it would be very unpleasant would it not if upon hearing what is going on he were to burst in among you and insist upon shooting Colonel Hubert
This was said playfully and without a shadow of serious meaning but it rendered Agnes extremely uneasy and it required some skill and perseverance on the part of Miss Peters to remove the effect of what she had said There were however too many pleasant points of discourse among the multitude of subjects before them for her young spirits to cling long to the only one that seemed capable of giving her pain and on the whole their long and uninterrupted conference was highly gratifying to them both
While this was going on in Rodney Place something of the same kind but without any drawback at all was proceeding in the Mall between the two old ladies the result of which may be given more shortly by relating what passed between Lady Elizabeth and her nephew afterwards than by following them through the whole of their very interesting but somewhat desultory conversation
Colonel Hubert was awaiting the return of his aunt with much anxiety an anxiety by the way which proceeded wholly from the fear that what she might have to report should prove his Agnes to be un meilleur parti than he wished to find her This singular species of uneasiness was in no degree lessened by the aspect of the old lady as she entered the drawingroom in which he was waiting to receive her
This is a very singular romance Montague as ever I remember to have heard of she began Here is this pretty creature who was introduced to us as niece and adopted child as I fancied of the vulgarest and most atrociously absurd woman in England without money or wit enough to keep her out of jail and now she turns out to be a young lady of large fortune perfectly well educated and well descended on both sides of her house and all this too without any legerdemain denouements or discoveries I wish you joy heartily Montague Her fortune is exactly what was wanted to make yours comfortable she has fifteen hundred a year part of which is by Miss Comptons account a very improvable estate in Devonshire—but I suspect the old lady will like to give a name to your second son or should you have no second son to a daughter Nor can I blame her for this By her account Compton of Compton Basett has endured long enough in the land to render the wish that it should not pass away a very reasonable one especially for the person who holds and has to bequeath the estate to which it has for centuries been annexed so that point I presume you will not cavil at You must take care however that the liberalminded old gentlewoman in making this noble settlement on her niece does not leave herself too bare She talked of the trifle that would follow at her death This ought not to be a trifle and were I you Montague I would insist that the amount settled on Agnes at your marriage should not exceed one thousand ayear This with the next step in your profession will make your income a very sufficient one even without the regiment which you have such fair reason to hope for
During the whole of this harangue Colonel Hubert was suffering very severely till by the time her ladyship had concluded his imagination became so morbidly alive that he almost fancied himself already in the presence of his injured friend he fancied him hastening home to be a witness at his marriage and gazing with a cold reproachful eye as the beauty the wealth the connexions of Agnes were all shewn to be exactly what his friends would have approved for him had not a false a base an interested adviser contrived to render vain his generous and honourable love that he might win the precious prize himself
What a picture was this for such a mind as Huberts to contemplate Had not Lady Elizabeth been exceedingly occupied by the curious and unexpected discoveries she had made concerning the race and the rents of the Comptons she must have perceived how greatly the effect of her statement was the reverse of pleasurable to her auditor but in truth her attention was not fixed upon him but upon Miss Compton whom she considered as one of the most remarkable originals she had ever met with and ceased not to congratulate herself upon the happy chance which had turned her yielding kindness to her nephew into a source of so much interesting speculation to herself Receiving no answer to the speech she had made she added very goodhumouredly—
Thats all Mr Benedict Now you may depart to look for the young lady and you may tell her if you please that upon the whole I very much doubt if the united kingdoms might not be ransacked through without finding any one I should more completely approve in all ways as the wife of Montague Hubert Poor Sir Edward How he will wish that all his anxieties respecting his harebrained brother had been brought to a termination by the young mans having had the wit to fall in love with this sweet girl instead of you but I doubt if Frederick Stephenson has sufficient taste and refinement of mind to appreciate such a girl as Agnes He probably overlooked her altogether or perhaps amused himself more by quizzing the absurdities of the aunt than by paying any particular attention to her delicate and unobtrusive niece It required such a mind as yours Montague to overcome all the apparent obstacles and objections with which she was surrounded I honour you for it and so perhaps will your giddyheaded friend too when he comes to know her She is a gem that we shall all have reason to be proud of
Colonel Hubert could bear no more but muttering something about wishing immediately to write letters he hurried out of the room and shut himself into the parlour which had been appropriated to his morning use Without giving himself time to think very deliberately of the comparative good and evil that might ensue he seized a pen and wrote the following letter to Mr Stephenson
Dear Frederick
We parted painfully and my regard for you is too sincere for me to endure the idea of meeting again with equal pain I have had reason since you left England to believe that notwithstanding the very objectionable manners and conduct of Mrs Barnaby her niece Miss Willoughby is in every way worthy of the attachment you conceived for her nay that her family and fortune are such as even your brother and sisters would approve I will not conceal from you that there are others who have discovered though not so early as yourself the attractions and the merits of Miss Willoughby but who can say Frederick that if your early and generous devotion were made known to her she might not give you the preference over those who were less prompt in surrendering their affections than yourself If then your feelings towards her continue to be the same as when we parted at our breakfast table at Clifton and this I cannot doubt for Agnes is not formed to be loved once and then forgotten if you still love her Frederick hasten home and take the advantage which your early conceived and unhesitating affection gives you over those who saw her more than once before they discovered how important she was to their happiness
Notwithstanding the impatience with which you listened to my remonstrances on the subject of a connexion with Mrs Barnaby I believe that they were in truth the cause of your abandoning a pursuit in which your heart was deeply interested and so believing I cannot rest till I have told you that a marriage with Miss Willoughby no longer involves the necessity of any personal intercourse with Mrs Barnaby They are separated and probably for ever
Believe me now and for ever
Very faithfully your friend
Montague Hubert
The effort necessary for writing and dispatching this letter by the post was of service to him it tended to make him feel more reconciled to himself and less impatient under the infliction of hearing the favoured position of Miss Willoughby descanted upon But much anxiety much suffering still remained How should he again meet Agnes Despite a thousand dear suspicions to the contrary he could not wholly conquer the belief that it was her indifference or some feeling connected with the disparity of their age which dictated the toowellremembered words I never will be your wife and his best consolation under the terrible idea that he had recalled a rival to compete with him arose from feeling that if when his own proposals and those of Frederick were both before her she should bestow herself on him he might and must believe that spite of his thirtyfive years she loved him but though he hailed such comfort as might be got from this it could not enable him to see Agnes while this uncertainty remained without such a degree of restraint as must convert all intercourse with her into misery
Agnes meanwhile was indulging herself with all the happy confidence of youthful friendship in relating to her friend everything that had happened since they parted and returned to the Mall soon after Lady Elizabeth had left it with a heart glowing with love gratitude hope and joy The narrative with which Miss Compton welcomed her was just all she wished and expected and when told that the evening was to be passed at the lodgings of Lady Elizabeth Norris she thanked the delighted old lady for the intelligence with a kiss that spoke her gladness better than any words could have done
The evening came and found the aunt and niece ready to keep their engagement with such an equality of happiness expressed in the countenance of each as might leave it doubtful which enjoyed the prospect of it the most The pretty dress of Agnes with all its simplicity was rather more studied than usual and it was the consciousness of this perhaps which occasioned her to blush so beautifully when Miss Compton made her a laughing compliment upon the delicate style of it
You look like a lily my Agnes said the old lady gazing at her with fond admiration You have certainly got very tired of black my dear child for I perceive that whenever you wish to look very nice you select unmixed white for your decoration
I think it best expresses the change in my condition replied Agnes Oh my dear aunt how very very happy you have made me
Nothing could be more gratifying than the manner in which they were received by Lady Elizabeth Lady Stephenson and Sir Edward but Colonel Hubert was not in the drawingroom when they entered For a short time however his absence was not regretted even by Agnes as she was not sorry for the opportunity it gave her of receiving the affectionate congratulations of her future sister and it was with a feeling likely to produce much lasting love between them that the one related and the other listened to the history of Colonel Huberts return from London of his first bold avowal of his love to his aunt and of the comfort he had found in the reception given to this avowal by Lady Stephenson herself but still Colonel Hubert came not and at length Lady Elizabeth exclaimed with a spice of her usual vivacity
Upon my word I believe that Montague is writing an account of his felicity to every officer in the British army He darted out of the room this morning before I had half finished what I had to say to him He hardly spoke three words while dinner lasted and off he was again as soon as the cloth was removed and each time something about writing letters was the only intelligible words I got from him I wish you would go Sir Edward and see if he is writing letters now and I will ring for tea I mean to make Montague sing tonight with Agnes Emily has taken care that you should have a good piano my dear and you must take care that while I stay here I have music enough to make up for the loss of my menagerie for I dont think I shall begin collecting again just yet
Sir Edward obeyed the old ladys wishes and when the tea was half over returned with his brotherinlaw This was the first time that Colonel Hubert had been seen by Miss Compton and the moment was not a favourable one for removing the idea which she had originally conceived of his being too old for the lover and husband of her beautiful niece He was looking pale harassed and fatigued but while Agnes feared only that he might be unwell her aunt though she could not deny that he was a gentleman of a most noble presence it was thus she expressed herself in speaking of him to Mrs Peters thought that it was strange so young a girl should have fixed her fancy upon him in preference to all the world beside In fact Miss Comptons notions of a lover being drawn solely from the imaginary models she had made acquaintance with among her bees and flowers she would have been better pleased to see a brighteyed youth of twentyone as the hero of her own romance than the dignified but melancholy man who now stood before her Having received his salutation and returned it with that tone and look of intelligent cheerfulness which redeemed all she said from any imputation of want of polish or deficiency of highbred elegance she turned her eyes on the face of Agnes and there she read such speaking testimony of love and admiration that all her romantic wishes for her perfect bliss were satisfied and following the direction of those speaking eyes and once more examining the features and person of Hubert she satisfied herself by the conviction that if not young he was supremely elegant and that if his complexion had lost its bloom his manners had attained a degree of dignity superior as she thought to anything described among the young gentlemen whose images were familiar to her imagination
It was slowly that Colonel Hubert approached Agnes and mournfully that he gazed upon her but there was to her feelings a pleasure in his presence which for a long time prevented her being fully conscious that he on his part was not so happy as she had hoped it was in her power to make him By degrees however the conviction of this sad truth made its way to her heart and from that moment her joy and gladness faded drooped and died away like a flower into which a gnawing worm has found its way and nestled in the very core This did not happen on this first evening of their meeting under the roof of Lady Elizabeth for Agnes indulged her with every song she desired to hear Lady Stephenson sang too nor could Colonel Hubert refuse to join them so that to the unsuspicious Agnes that evening seemed delightful but a silent melancholy walk on the following morning made her ask herself where was the ardent love for which he had pleaded in HalfMoon Street Had she mistaken him when he said that his happiness depended wholly on her And if not what was it had turned him thus to stone
Poor Agnes she could have no confident in this new sorrow Her aunt Compton and her friend Mary had both spoken of him as too old to be a lover and did she breathe to either a fear that his affection had already grown cold might they not tell her that it was but natural Such words she thought would break her heart for every hour he became dearer to her than before as she saw he was unhappy and thinking more of him than of herself mourned more for his sorrow of which she knew nothing than for her own though it was rapidly undermining her health and destroying her bloom
CHAPTER XIV
RETURNS TO MRS BARNABY AND RELATES SOME OF THE MOST INTERESTING AND INSTRUCTIVE SCENES OF HER LIFE TOGETHER WITH SEVERAL CIRCUMSTANCES RELATIVE TO ONE DEARER TO HER THAN HERSELF
The real heroine of this love story has been left too long and it is necessary we should return to see in what way her generous friendship for Mr ODonagough was likely to end Having kept her promise and paid the debt for which he had been detained as well as comforted him by the farther loan of 2l 10s 4d she stated to him her intention of remaining for a month longer at her lodgings in Half Moonstreet adding with a degree of naïveté that ODonagough felt to be extremely touching—
Let this be a month of probation my dear friend for us both We met under circumstances too much calculated to soften the heart for either of us perhaps to be able fairly to judge how we may feel when those circumstances are past Let me see as much of you as your occupations will permit I shall dine at five oclock because the evenings are drawing in and I dont love candlelight before dinner You will always find a steak or a chop and a little brandy and water or something of that sort And now adieu This is a disagreeable place to pay or receive visits in and I flatter myself that I now leave it for ever
Let the most glowing gratitude that heart can feel be set forth in words of fluent eloquence such as befit the class to which Mr ODonagough belonged and the answer which he gave to this speech will be the product
Nevertheless Mr ODonagough knew what it meant perfectly well It meant that the Widow Barnaby although she had made up her mind to give herself and whatever she might happen to possess to a husband and although she was exceedingly well inclined to let that husband be Mr Patrick ODonagough she did not intend to go thus far in manifesting her favour towards him without knowing a little more than she did at present respecting the state of his affairs In a word he perceived as he repeated to himself with an approving smile—
That though on marriage she was bent
She had a prudent mind
Nor was he notwithstanding the little irregularities into which he had heretofore fallen unworthy of becoming an object of tender attention to Mrs Barnaby Much as he admired her he had steeled his soul to the virtuous resolution of putting a sudden stop to all farther intercourse between them should he find upon inquiry that prudence did not justify its continuance
Whatever deficiency of wisdom therefore the conduct of either had before shown it was evident that both were now actuated by a praiseworthy spirit of forethought that ought to have ensured the felicity of their future years
It will be evident to all who study the state of the widows mind at this period that she had considerably lowered the tone of her hopes and expectations from the moment she became aware of the defection of Lord Mucklebury The shock which her hopes had received by the disagreeable denouement of her engagement with Major Allen had been perfectly cured at least for a time by the devotion of the noble Viscount and so well satisfied was she herself at an escape which had left her free to aim at a quarry so infinitely higher that what had been a mortification turned to a triumph and she enjoyed the idea that when she seemed to slip she had so gloriously recovered herself as to leave Mrs Peters and other envious wonderers cause to exclaim She rises higher half her length But from the time this coroneted bubble burst her courage fell Her arrest was another blow Mr Morrisons desertion one heavier still and little as she cared for Agnes or in truth for anybody living but herself the manner of her departure vexed and humbled her
That crooked hag thinks she has made me truckle to her she exclaimed as her aunt and her niece drove off on the night that Agnes first took up her abode with Miss Compton She thinks that because she spent some of her beggars money to hire a carriage in order to bully me I shall count myself despised and forsaken But the spiteful old maid shall hear of my being married again and that will be wormwood Ill answer for it
It was in this spirit that she set about inquiring into the private character and prospects of young Mr ODonagough and her first step in the business showed at once her judgment and her zeal
In the history he had given of himself he had spoken of a certain most respectable bookseller who as he modestly hinted knowing his worth and the exemplary manner in which he had turned from horseracing to preaching had exerted himself in the kindest manner to obtain some situation for him that should atone for the severity of his father It was to him he had owed the engagement as domestic chaplain in the family of the nobleman formerly mentioned and it was to him Mrs Barnaby addressed herself for information that might lead to an engagement of still greater importance
It was not however her purpose that her real object should be known and she therefore framed her inquiries in such a manner as to lead Mr Newbirth to suppose that her object was to obtain either a teacher or a preacher for her family circle
Having made it known that she wished a few minutes private conversation with the principal she was shown into a parlour by one of the clerks and civilly requested to sit down for a few minutes till Mr Newbirth could wait upon her It must be the fault of every individual so placed if such few minutes have not turned to good account for the table of this exemplary publisher was covered elbowdeep in tracts sermons missionary reports mystical magazines and the like but as Mrs Barnaby was not habitually a reader she did not profit so much as she might have done by her situation and before Mr Newbirths arrival had begun to think the few minutes mentioned by his clerk were unusually long ones
At length however he appeared and then it was impossible to think she had waited too long for him for the gentle suavity of his demeanour made even a moment of his presence invaluable
You have business with me madam he said with his heels gracefully fixed together and his person bent forward in humble salutation as far as was consistent with the safety of his nose Pray do not rise I have now five minutes that I can spare without neglecting any serious duty and so saying he placed himself opposite to the lady in act to listen
I have taken the liberty of waiting upon you sir replied Mrs Barnaby a little alarmed at the hint that her business must be completed in the space of five minutes in order to make some inquiries respecting a Mr ODonagough who is I believe known to you
Mr ODonagough The Reverend Mr ODonagough madam
The widow though well disposed to enlarge her knowledge and extend the limits of her principles was not yet fully initiated into the mysteries of regenerated ordinations and therefore replied as the daughter of an English clergyman might well be excused for doing—No sir the gentleman I mean is Mr Patrick ODonagough he was not brought up to the church
But there was something in the phrase brought up to the church that grated against the feelings of Mr Newbirth and his brow contracted and his voice became exceedingly solemn as he said I know Mr Patrick ODonagough who like many other shining lights was not brought up to the church but has nevertheless received the title of reverend from the congregation which has the best right to bestow it even that to which he has been called to preach
Mrs Barnaby was not slow in perceiving her mistake and proceeded with her inquiries in such a manner as to prove that she was not unworthy to intercommune either with Mr Newbirth himself or any of those to whom he extended his patronage The result of the interview was highly satisfactory for though it seemed clear that Mr Newbirth was aware of the vexatious accident which had for some months checked the young preachers career it was equally evident that the circumstance made no unfavourable impression and Mrs Barnaby returned to her lodgings with the pleasing conviction that now at least there could be no danger in giving way to the tender feeling which had so repeatedly beguiled her The reverend Mr ODonagough would look very well in the paragraph which she was determined should record her marriage in the Exeter paper and being quite determined that the three hundred and twentyseven pounds per annum which still remained of her income should be firmly settled on herself she received her handsome friend when he arrived at the hour of dinner in a manner which showed he had lost nothing in her esteem since they parted
It had so happened that within half an hour of the widows quitting the shop of Mr Newbirth Mr ODonagough entered it His patron received him very graciously and failed not to mention the visit he had received which though not elucidated by the ladys leaving any name was perfectly well understood by the person principally concerned
There are some men who might have felt offended by learning that such a means of improving acquaintance had been resorted to but its effect on Mr ODonagough was exactly the reverse His respect and estimation for the widow were infinitely increased thereby for though still a young man he had considerable experience, and he felt assured that if Mrs Barnaby had not something to bestow besides her fair fat hand she would have been less cautious in letting it follow where it was so certain her heart had gone before
The conviction thus logically obtained assisted the progress of the affair very essentially Having learnt from Mr Newbirth that the place he had lost by the illtimed arrest was filled by another who was not likely to give it up again he once more contrived to make his way to the presence of his father and gave him very clearly to understand that the very best thing he could do would be once more to furnish the means for his departure from Europe
That you may spend it again at the gamingtable you audacious scamp responded his noble but incensed progenitor
Not so sir replied the softvoiced young preacher you are not yet aware of the change in my principles or you would have no such injurious suspicion
As to your principles Pat replied his lordship beguiled into a smile by the sanctified solemnity of his versatile son I do not comprehend how you could change them seeing that you never had any
Then instead of principles sir let me speak of practice it is now several months since I exchanged the racecourse the billiardtable and the dicebox for the course of an extemporary preacher I am afraid my lord that your taste rather leads you to performances of a different kind or I would ask you to attend the meeting at which I am to expound next Wednesday evening after which you could hardly doubt I imagine the sincerity of my conversion
It would be putting your eloquence to rather a severe test Master Patrick But if you have really got a church to preach in at home why in the devils name should you bother me again about going abroad
Because my lord I have no fixed stipend or any other honest and safe means of getting my bread and also because there are many other reasons which make it desirable that I should leave this country
That at least is likely enough to be sure Mr ODonagough But have the kindness to tell me what security you would give me for taking yourself off if I were again to furnish the means for it
This was exactly the point to which the reformed son wished to bring the yielding father for it was not difficult to show many reasons for believing that he was in earnest in his intention to depart with as little delay as possible It was with great caution however that he hinted at the possibility of his taking a lady with him as his wife whose fortune was sufficient to prevent the necessity of his returning again to beg for bread even at the risk of liberty or life for he feared that if he confessed the prosperous state of his matrimonial hopes they might be held sufficient for his necessities But here he was mistaken for no sooner did his father discover that his case was not quite desperate than he manifested a considerable softening and before a fortnight had expired Mr ODonagough was able to convince the enamoured widow that in uniting her destiny to his she would be yielding to no sinful weakness but securing both her temporal and eternal felicity on the firmest footing possible And now every thing went on in so prosperous a manner as almost to disprove the truth of the oftquoted assertion of the poet
The course of true love never did run smooth
for the loves of Mr ODonagough and Mrs Barnaby met with not even a pebble of opposition as they ran evenly on towards matrimony
This peaceful and pleasant progress was not a little assisted by a visit which the prudent peer deemed it advisable to make to the intended bride Nothing could be more agreeable to the feelings of the lady than this attention nothing more advantageous to the interests of both parties than the result His lordship ascertained to a certainty that the widow had wherewithal to feed his son and most obligingly took care that it should be so secured as to place her fortune beyond the reach of any relapse on his part while the fair lady herself amidst all the gentle sweetness with which she seemed to let his lordship manage every thing took excellent care of herself
One thing only now remained to be settled before the marriage took place and this was the obtaining an appointment as missionary to a congregation newly established in a beautiful part of Australia where there was every reason to suppose that a large and brilliant society would soon give as much éclat to the successful efforts of an eloquent preacher as could be hoped for in the most fashionable réunion of saints in the mother country The appointment was in effect left in the hands of one or two whose constant exertions and neverletany-thing-escapethem habits made them of personal importance in every decision of the kind This little committee agreed to meet at Mr Newbirths on a certain evening for the purpose of being introduced to Mrs Barnaby and it was understood among them that if they found reason to be satisfied with her principles and probable usefulness in a new congregation the appointment should be given to Mr ODonagough whose approaching marriage with her was well known to them all
Mrs Newbirth who was quite a model of a wife and who therefore shared all her husbands peculiar notions respecting things in heaven and earth very obligingly lent her assistance at this important session both to prevent Mrs Barnabys feeling herself awkward as being the only lady present and because it was reasonably supposed that she might be useful in giving the conversation such a turn as should elicit some of the more hidden but not therefore the least important traits of female character
It was not intended that either Mr ODonogough or his intended bride should be aware of the importance attached to this teadrinking in Mr Newbirths drawingroom but the expectant missionary had not lived thirty years in this wicked world for nothing and though the invitation was given in the most impromptu style possible he instantly suspected that the leaders of the congregation who were about to send out the mission intended to make this an opportunity for discovering what manner of woman the future Mrs ODonagough might be Considerable anxiety was the consequence of this idea in the mind of Mr ODonagough He liked the thoughts of preaching and lecturing to the ladies and gentlemen of Modeltown and therefore determined to spare no pains in preparing the widow for the trial that awaited her He found her by no means unapt at receiving the hints he gave respecting several important articles of faith which although new to her she seemed willing enough to adopt without much inquiry but he had a hard struggle before he could obtain the straightening of a single ringlet or the paling in the slightest degree the tint of her glowing rouge At length however the contest ended by his declaring that without her compliance on this point he should feel it his duty passionately as he adored her to delay their marriage till she could be induced for his sake to conform herself a little more to the customs and manners of the sect to which he belonged Mrs Barnabys heart was not proof against such a remonstrance as this her resolution melted into tears and she promised that if he never would utter such cruel words again he should dress her hair himself in any manner he would choose As to my rouge she added I have only worn it my dear ODonagough because I consider it as the appendage of a woman of fashion but I will wear much less that is to say almost none at all for the fashion if such shall be your wish
Thank you my dear thats all right and Ill never plague you about it after I once get the appointment only do what I bid you tonight and well snap our fingers at them afterwards
The party assembled at Mr Newbirths consisted of himself and his lady and four gentlemen belonging to the congregation which was to be propitiated After the tea and coffee had disappeared Mr Newbirth who was the only gentleman in the company except her own ODonagough with whom Mrs Barnaby was personally acquainted opened the conversation by asking if the change of residence which she contemplated from one side of the world to the other was an agreeable prospect to her
Very much so indeed was the reply
I suppose you are aware maam observed Mr Littleton who was senior clerk in a banking house and the principal lay orator of the congregation—I suppose you are aware that you are going among a set of people who though decidedly the most interesting portion of the human race in the eyes of all true Christians are nevertheless persons accustomed heretofore to habits of irregular not to say licentious living How do you think maam that you shall like to fall into habits of friendship and intimacy with such
Mr ODonagough listened with a good deal of anxiety for the answer but it was a point on which he had given his affianced bride very ample instructions and she did not disgrace her teacher
My notions upon that point sir she replied are rather particular I believe for so far from thinking the worse of my fellow creatures because they have done wrong I always think that is the very reason why I should seek their company and exert myself in all ways to do them good and to make them take their place among the first and greatest in the kingdom of heaven
A murmur of applause ran round the little circle as Mrs Barnaby concluded her speech and Mr Littleton in particular expressed his approbation of her sentiments in a manner that inspired the happy ODonagough with the most sanguine hopes of success
I never heard better sense or sounder principles or more christian feelings in the whole course of my life than what this lady has now expressed and I will take upon me to say gentlemen without making any new difficulty about the matter that any minister going out to Sydney in the holy and reverend character of a missionary sent by an independent congregation of devotional men with such a wife in his hand as this good lady will be sure to make will do more good in his generation than all the bishops and archbishops that ever were consecrated after the manner of the wornout superstitions of bygone ages Gentlemen he continued rising from his chair I do therefore forthwith propose the immediate election of the reverend Patrick ODonagough to the office of missionary from the independent congregation of Antiwork Christians of London to the independent congregation of Antiwork Christians at Sydney with the privilege and undivided monopoly of tract and hymn selling to the said congregation together with a patent right not royal patent my brethren but holy patent to all fees donations contributions and payments of whatsoever kind made by the said independent congregation of Antiwork Christians at Sydney for and on account of the salvation of their souls This gentlemen is the resolution I would propose and I trust that some among you will readily be found to second it
That sir will I and most joyfully said Mr Dellant rising for I neither do nor can feel the shadow of a doubt that our beneficent objects in despatching this mission will be more forwarded by this appointment than by any other it is probable—gentlemen I might say POSSIBLE—we could make—for where I would ask shall we find another Mrs Barnaby May we not say in the language of scripture that she is a help meet for him even for the Reverend Patrick ODonagough whom we have chosen
Mr Newbirth followed on the same side giving many unanswerable reasons for believing that nothing which the stiffnecked unconverted obsolete ministers of the Church of England could do for the predestined army of saints at present located at Sidney could approach in utility and saving efficacy of absolving grace to what might be hoped from the ministry of Mr ODonagough assisted by the lady he was so happy as to have engaged to be his wife
It gives me the most heartfelt pleasure gentlemen he continued that my little humble drawingroom should have been made the scene of this happy election How many souls now most probably grovelling in the lowest depths of vice will have places secured them upon the highest seats of heaven by your work gentlemen begun continued and ended within this one propitious hour I would now propose that we do all stand up and sing a hymn to the glory of sinners made perfect Next that we do all kneel down to hear and join in an awakening prayer from our new missionary and finally that we walk into Mrs Newbirths back drawingroom there to partake of such creature comforts as she in her care shall have provided
This speech was also received with great applause Some few pleasant and holy remarks and observations were made by the other gentlemen present and all things proceeded to the happy finale suggested by their host in the most amicable and satisfactory manner so that before Mr ODonagough rose to escort Mrs Barnaby to the coach which was to convey her to Half Moon Street he was given to understand on the indefeasible authority of Mr Littleton that he might consider himself already as the antiwork missionary elect and might set about the preparations for his marriage and subsequent departure without farther uncertainty or delay
Mrs Barnabys troubles now seemed really at an end nothing could move onward with a smoother surer pace than did the business which she and her chosen companion had before them The bridegrooms noble father became liberal and kind under the certainty of his clever sons certain departure The lawyers behaved exceedingly well about the settlements influenced perhaps in some degree by the wishes of the peer who as it seemed was almost nervously anxious for the departure of the happy pair The dressmakers worked briskly and a very respectable subscription was raised among the ladies of the independent congregation for the purchase of several elegant little presents for the bride which they thought might prove useful during her voyage
In this happy state we will leave our heroine in order to see how matters were proceeding at Clifton
CHAPTER XV
AGNES GROWS MISERABLE—AN EXPLANATORY CONVERSATION WITH COLONEL HUBERT LEAVES HER MORE IN THE DARK THAN EVER—A LETTER ARRIVES FROM FREDERIC STEPHENSON
At this period of their history the star of Agnes appeared much less propitious than that of her aunt Barnaby Not all her inclination to construe every look and word of Colonel Hubert into something wiser and better more noble and more kind than the looks and words of any other mortal man could long prevent her from feeling that he was profoundly unhappy and that despite some occasional flashes of an emotion which her own heart taught her to know proceeded from love he evidently avoided being with her as much as it was possible for him to do without attracting the attention of others
Her aunt and his aunt went steadily on arranging between themselves a variety of preliminaries to the happy union they contemplated while no hint that such an union was possible ever passed the lips of the intended bridegroom during any moment that circumstances placed him near his promised bride More than once she saw him change colour when he approached her and sometimes but not often she had caught his melancholy eyes fixed earnestly upon her and it was at such moments that she felt persuaded he still loved her but wherefore he who had boldly wooed her when so many things conspired to make his doing it objectionable should seem to shun her now that everything was made so smooth and easy for him she vainly laboured to understand
For time nor place she exclaimed with something like bitterness did then adhere and yet he would make both
They have made themselves and that their fitness now
Doth unmake him
By melancholy degrees everything that had most contributed to her happiness became her torment The conversation of Miss Peters was inexpressibly irksome to her particularly when they found themselves in confidential têteàtête for then she could not help suspecting that her friend was longing to ask her some questions respecting the singularity of her lovers manner the flattering notice of the wellpleased Lady Elizabeth the sisterly affection manifested by the amiable Lady Stephenson and more than all the rest the happy bustling businesslike manner of her aunt Compton who never for a moment seemed to forget that they were all preparing for a wedding
So complete was this preoccupation that it was many days before the old lady perceived that her Agnes in the midst of all this joyful preparation looked neither well nor happy nay even when at last the sad eye and pale cheek of her darling attracted her attention she persuaded herself for many days more that lovemaking was too sentimental a process to permit those engaged in it to be gay She knew that the sighing of lovers was proverbial and though she did not remember to have read any thing upon the subject exactly resembling what she remarked in Agnes and to say truth in Colonel Hubert also she did not for she could not doubt that everything was going on just as it should do though her own want of practical experience rendered her incapable of fully understanding it
But if Agnes was wretched Colonel Hubert was infinitely more so for all the misery that she darkly feared without knowing either its nature or for how long it was likely to continue came to him with the tremendous certainty of a misfortune that had already fallen upon him and from which escape seemed less possible from day to day She knew not what to think of him and great no doubt was the unhappiness produced by such uncertainty but greater still was the suffering produced by looking in her innocent face and knowing as well as Colonel Hubert did why it grew daily paler Not seldom indeed was he tortured by the apprehension that the line of conduct he had pursued in recalling Frederick Stephenson was by no means so unquestionably right in its selfsacrificing severity as he had intended it should be Had he not endangered the tranquillity of Agnes while guarding with jealous care his own proud sense of honour If an unhappy concurrence of circumstances had involved him in difficulties that rendered his conduct liable to suspicion ought he not to have endured the worst degree of contempt that this could bring upon him rather than have suffered her peace to be the sacrifice
Night and day these doubts tormented him For hours he wandered through the roads on the opposite side of the river where comparatively speaking he was sure no Clifton idlers could encounter him and reviewing his own conduct in a thousand ways found none that would make him satisfied with himself At length in the mere restlessness of misery he determined to tell Agnes all
She shall know his love—his generous uncalculating love while I stood by and reasoned on the inconvenience her aunt Barnabys vulgarity might bring She shall know all though it will make her hate me
Such was the resolution with which he crossed the ferry after wandering a whole morning in Leigh Wood and climbing the steppath too rapidly to give himself leisure to meditate temperately on the measure he had determined to pursue he hurried forward to the dwelling of Miss Compton and was already in her drawingroom before he had at all decided in what manner he should contrive to get Agnes alone
In this however fortune favoured him for Miss Compton having some point on which she desired to communicate with Lady Elizabeth had ordered the carriage and invited Agnes to pay a visit to Lady Stephenson but the poor girl had no heart to sustain a conversation with a friend from whom she most earnestly desired to conceal all her thoughts—so she declined the invitation alleging her wish to write a letter to Empton
As much alone and if possible more melancholy still than when a few short weeks before he made his memorable visit in Half Moon Street Colonel Hubert found Agnes listlessly lying upon a sofa her eyes closed but their lashes too recently wetted by tears to make him fancy her asleep She was in an inner room to which he entered through the open door that led from the larger drawingroom and he was close beside her before she was aware of his approach
It was with a dreadful pang that he contemplated the change anxiety had wrought on her delicate features since the evening she first appeared to him in all the bright lighthearted joy of her new happiness under the protection of her aunt Love honour gratitude tenderness and remorse all rushed to his bosom and so completely overpowered the philosophy by which he had hitherto restrained his feelings that he dropped on his knees beside her and seizing the hand that languidly hung by her side covered it with passionate kisses
An iron chain is not a stronger restraint than timid delicacy to such a nature as that of Agnes and therefore she did NOT throw herself on the bosom of Colonel Hubert and thus obliterate by one moment of unrestrained feeling all the doubts and fears that had so long tormented them both she only opened her beautiful eyes upon him which seemed to say Is then the dark cloud passed that has divided us Hubert may I be happy again
The unhappy Hubert however dared not answer this appeal though he read it and felt it at the very bottom of his heart and what under happier circumstances would have tempted him to kneel beside her for ever now made him spring to his feet as if terrified at the danger that he ran
Agnes he said you must no longer be left ignorant of my misery you may you must have seen something of it but not all you have not seen you have not guessed what the struggle has been between a passion as fervent as ever warmed the heart of man and a sense of honour too late awakened perhaps which has made it a duty to suspend all pleadings for an avowed return till till
Till repeated Agnes agitated but full of hope that the moment was indeed come when the dark and mysterious cloud which had dimmed all her prospects should be dispelled
Hear my confession Agnes and pity me at least if you find it impossible to excuse me Do you remember the first time that I ever saw you It was at a shop at Clifton
Agnes bowed
Do you remember the friend who was with me
Agnes bowed again and this time she coloured too Colonel Hubert sighed profoundly but presently went on with the confession he had braced his nerves to make
That friend Agnes the generous noblehearted Frederick Stephenson saw even in that brief interview the beauty the grace the delicacy which it took me days to develop in short he loved you Agnes before almost before I had ever looked at you I was his dearest friend He hid no thought from me and with all the frankness of his delightful character he confessed his honourable attachment And how was it think you that I answered him
Agnes raised her eyes to his face with a very anxious look but spoke not a word and Colonel Hubert with a heightened colour that mounted to his temples went on
I told him Miss Willoughby that a young lady chaperoned by a person with the manners and appearance of your aunt Barnaby was not a fitting wife for him
The eyes of Agnes fell and her cheeks too were now dyed with crimson Colonel Hubert saw it and felt it all but he went on
The subject was repeatedly revived between us and as his attachment increased so did also my opposition to it I placed before him in the strongest manner I was capable of doing all the objections to the connexion as they then appeared to me and I did it as I thought purely from a sense of duty to himself and his family which had recently become so closely connected with my own But alas Agnes my peace has been and is destroyed by the dreadful doubt whether some selfish feelings unknown to myself might not at length have mingled with these strong remonstrances Knowing as I do the character of Sir Edward and his two sisters no remorse was awakened in my mind so long as you remained with Mrs Barnaby and the last time I conversed with my poor friend I used language so strong upon the subject that he left me in great anger But it appears that notwithstanding his just resentment these remonstrances had weight for he immediately left the kingdom and has I believe remained in Paris ever since Think then Miss Willoughby judge for me if you can with what feelings I contemplate the unlookedfor change in your position Oh Agnes would that your excellent Miss Compton had preserved her coldness to you till you had been my wife Even then I might have felt a pang for Stephenson—but the knowledge that his friends would not like mine have forgotten Mrs Barnaby in their admiration for her niece would have furnished a justification of the events which followed his departure too reasonable to be set aside But what must I feel now when I think of the banished Frederick Banished by me that I might take his place
Excepting to Mary Peters who had been aware of the attachment of Frederick Stephenson long before herself Agnes had never breathed a hint to any human being of the proposal she had received from him and it had not most assuredly been her intention ever to have named it to Colonel Hubert She had indeed but rarely remembered it herself and hoped and believed that before they met again the gay young man would quite have forgotten it but now she could preserve his secret no longer and eager to speak what she thought would entirely relieve his selfreproaches to hear she said with glowing cheeks and an averted eye
Let me then confess to you Colonel Hubert
These unlucky words however intended as a preface to the only intelligence that could effectively have soothed his agitation unfortunately increased it tenfold and raising his hand to arrest what she was about to say he replied with an impetuosity with which she could not at that moment contend—Confess nothing Miss Willoughby to me I see that I have awakened feelings which I ought to have foreseen would inevitably be called into existence by such a disclosure Suffer me to say a few words more and I have done A week ago I did what I ought to have done as soon as your present position was known to me I wrote to Mr Stephenson and told him that every obstacle was removed and that
You wrote to him Colonel Hubert exclaimed Agnes greatly disturbed Oh why did you not tell me all this before
It is not yet too late Miss Willoughby he replied bitterly another letter shall follow my first more explicit more strongly urging his return
But you will not hear me Colonel Hubert said Agnes bursting into tears Have patience for a moment and you will understand it all
At this moment a carriage stopped at the door and the knocker and the bell together gave notice of Miss Comptons return
It is my aunt cried Agnes Indeed she must not see me thus for how could I explain to her what must appear so strange as her finding me in tears and you beside me Let me see you again Colonel Hubert—I pray you to let me see you again when I may be able to speak to you but now I must go and so saying she escaped from the room just in time to avoid meeting Miss Compton at the door
From a very early period of their short acquaintance Miss Compton had made up her mind to consider Colonel Hubert as a very superior personage but of a remarkably grave and silent character so much so indeed that while she admired and approved her Agnes the more for loving and being loved by so dignified an individual she could not help wondering a little occasionally that so it should be But this feeling she carefully concealed and made it a point whenever a shade of gravity more profound than usual was perceptible on his features a circumstance not unfrequent to avoid interfering with his reserve by any loquacious civility This line of conduct had often been a great relief to him but never more so than on the present occasion when if any lengthened greetings had occurred to stop his retreat it would have been impossible for him to have preserved the outward semblance of cold composure in which he had hitherto found shelter from observation
You are going Colonel Hubert she said Well I will not detain you for I am going to be busy myself—good morning And so he escaped
On reaching home he found a letter waiting for him which by no means tended to calm his spirits It was from Frederick Stephenson and ran thus—
My dear Hubert
Your letter puzzles me but not many hours after this reaches you I hope we shall mutually understand each other better than we do at present I am on my road to England and as all explanation must be impossible till we meet I will only add that I am yours ever
Frederick Stephenson
A few hours then and all doubt all uncertainty would be over A full explanation must take place and rather than endure a continuance of what he had lately suffered Colonel Hubert felt inclined to welcome the result be it what it might
CHAPTER XVI
A DISCOVERY SCENE—PRODUCTIVE OF MANY NEW RELATIONS AND VARIOUS OTHER CONSEQUENCES
The day next but one after this letter reached him Miss Compton and Agnes were engaged to dine with Lady Elizabeth Colonel Hubert had not ventured to present himself in the Mall during the interval for though on cooler meditation he did not believe that the unfortunate words Let me then confess to you Colonel Hubert were meant to usher a confession of love to his rival he doubted not that they would have been followed by an avowal of her agreeing with himself in deeming his own conduct most reprehensible and just then he felt he could not receive this notwithstanding its justice in such a manner as to assist in obtaining pardon for the fault To Sir Edward he had mentioned the probability of his brothers early return but without hinting at the chance of their seeing him at Clifton on his arrival in England
The ladies of the party namely Lady Elizabeth Lady Stephenson Miss Compton and Agnes were assembled in the drawingroom the two gentlemen not having yet quitted the diningparlour when a knock at the door announced company
Who can that be said Lady Stephenson Have you invited evening company
Not a soul my dear replied her aunt I mean to have a treat again I think I am growing sick of curiosities
Tant mieux dear aunt replied Lady Stephenson But invited or not you have visiters coming now I hear them on the stairs
Lady Stephenson was right the old butler opened the drawingroom door almost as she spoke and announced Mr Stephenson
Frederick exclaimed his fair sisterinlaw looking as if she meant to receive him very kindly
Young Stephenson said Lady Elizabeth I did not know that he was coming to Clifton
Sir Edwards brother I suppose said Miss Compton but Agnes said nothing though had any one laid a hand upon her heart they would have discovered that his arrival was not a matter of indifference To receive him with the appearance of it was however absolutely necessary and she very resolutely assumed an aspect of tranquillity it was not necessary that she should look towards the door to greet him as he entered and therefore she did not do it but notwithstanding the attention she devoted to the pattern of the hearthrug she became aware within a moment after this electrifying name had been announced that not one only but three people were in the room and that one of them was a lady
Agnes then looked up and the first figure which distinctly met her eye was not that of Frederick Stephenson but of a gentleman bearing the stamp of some forty years perhaps upon his handsome but delicate features He was not tall but slightly and elegantly formed which was perceptible though wrapped in a travelling frock trimmed with fur and his whole appearance was decidedly that of a gentleman
But who these might be who were with him or how they were received by Lady Elizabeth the eye of Agnes had no power to inquire for it was fascinated as it were by the earnest gaze of this stranger who having already stepped forward a pace or two nearer to her than the rest stood looking at her with very evident emotion
The first words she heard spoken were in the voice of young Stephenson which she immediately recognised though the purport of them was unintelligible
Yes my dear sir you are quite right he said that is our Agnes
But though these words were somewhat startling they drew her attention less than the expression of the large blue eyes that were fixed upon her there was admiration tenderness and a strange sort of embarrassment all legibly mingled in that earnest look but why was it fixed on her
What effect this mute scene produced on the other persons present Agnes could not know for she did not withdraw her eyes from those of the mysterious stranger till at length he turned from her and stepping back took the hand of a very young but very beautiful girl whom he led towards the sofa she occupied and placing her on it said
Agnes Willoughby receive your sister and let her plead for her father and yours You have been long long neglected my poor child but there has been some excuse for it Can you forgive me Agnes
Good God My father she exclaimed starting up and stretching out her hands towards him Is it possible sir that you are indeed my father
You speak as if you wished it were so Agnes he replied taking her in his arms and impressing a kiss upon her forehead and I will echo your words Is it possible
Possible O yes sir it is possible I have so longed to know that I had a father And is this sweet creature my sister she continued turning her tearful eyes upon the beautiful girl who upon this appeal sprang forward and enclosing both her father and Agnes in her arms replied to it by saying
Yes dearest Agnes I am your sister indeed I am and I know you very well and all about you though you know so little about me but you will not refuse to own me will you
For all reply Agnes bent forward and kissed her fondly
Miss Compton who as may be supposed had watched this discovery scene with no little interest now stepped towards them while young Stephenson was engaged in explaining it to Lady Elizabeth and his sisterinlaw and looking from one sister to the other and from them both to their father she said—You will perhaps hardly remember that we ever met Mr Willoughby but my name is Compton and I recal your features perfectly You once passed an hour at my brothers house when I was there and that these girls are sisters no one that sees them together will be likely to deny God bless them both pretty creatures I hope they will each be a blessing to the other But to be sure it seems to be a most romantic story and wonderfully like those I used to read in my bower Agnes
There is a good deal that is very sad in my part of it Miss Compton replied Mr Willoughby but at this moment I can hardly regret it as herein I hope to show some excuse for my long negligence respecting my poor girl Take this on trust my good lady will you he added holding out his hand to her that no displeasure towards me may destroy the happiness of this meeting
Miss Compton gave him her hand very frankly saying
I have no right to be very severe upon you Mr Willoughby for without any misfortunes at all to plead as an excuse for it our dear Agnes might tell you some naughty stories about me But she does not look as if she were much inclined to complain of anybody What a pair of happy lovely looking creatures And how very strong the likeness to each other and of both to you
Willoughby retired a step or two and leaning against the chimneypiece seemed disposed to enjoy the contemplation of the picture she pointed out in silence Lady Elizabeth claimed the attention of Miss Compton that she might express her interest satisfaction surprise and so forth Lady Stephenson slipped out of the room to communicate the news to her husband and brother and prepare them for the company they had to receive and then Frederick Stephenson approached the sisters and drawing a chair towards them very freely took a hand of each
That of Agnes trembled She felt that the happiness of her life would be for ever destroyed if this young man was come back in consequence of Colonel Huberts letter with the persuasion that it was her purpose to accept him and favourable as was the moment for a sort of universal philanthropy and unrestrained épanchement de coeur she could not resist the impulse which led her to withdraw her hand and return his affectionate smile with a look of coldness and reserve
Perfectly undaunted however the gay Frederick continued to look at her with an air of the most happy confidence but suddenly as it seemed recollecting that it was possible though they had all of them been at least ten minutes in the room together no explanation might have yet reached her he said in a manner to show that he was too happy to be very grave though quite sufficiently in earnest to deserve belief—If you accept my Nora for a sister Agnes you must accept me for a brother too She knows that till I saw her I thought you the most charming person in the world and as she forgives me for this I hope you will show as much resemblance to her in mind as in person and forgive me for thinking when I did see her that she was still more charming than you
And then it was that Agnes for the first time in her life felt wholly perfectly and altogether happy She saw in an instant with the rapid glance of love that all the misty cloud that had hung between her and Hubert was withdrawn for ever and then she felt how very delightful it was to have a father and such an elegant interestinglooking father and then she became fully aware what a blessing it was to have a sister and that sister so beautiful and so capable of inspiring love in every heart save one guarded as Huberts was guarded Her joy her newborn gladness of spirit danced in her eyes as she now freely returned the young mans laughing glance and restoring to him the hand she had withdrawn she exclaimed Oh Frederick why did you not answer Huberts letter and tell him this
It is so then it is as I hoped my sweet Agnes and you will be doubly our sister Why did I not answer Huberts letter Because it was the most mystical unintelligible dark and diplomatic performance that ever was put forth Did you see it Agnes
No I did not she replied with a smile but I can imagine that it might have been a little in that style Yet still you should have answered it
I did answer it—that is I replied to it by a line or two written in a prodigious hurry but you must perceive that I could not enclose Nora in a cover and as she is to all intents and purposes my answer I was obliged to let him wait till I could convey her properly and place her before his eyes and his understanding
And so convince him replied Agnes with another smile full of her newborn gaiety that the moment she is seen all other ladies must be forgotten prove that to Colonel Hubert Mr Stephenson and I will prove to you
What—you tremendouslooking sibyl what
A very fatal sister she replied and then the door opened and Lady Stephenson preceded the two gentlemen she had brought from the diningparlour into the room
Agnes no longer the fearful shrinking Agnes sprang forward to meet them and taking Colonel Hubert by the hand led him to her father saying in an altered accent that at once entered his heart and told him that all was right—Let me present you to my father Hubert—to my dear father Colonel Hubert he will indeed be doubly dear to us for he has brought with him a sister for both of us whom I feel sure we shall for ever love
But hardly did Agnes who seemed newly awakened from some heavy spell that had benumbed her heart—hardly did she give time for a courteous greeting between the gentlemen ere she passed her arm beneath that of Colonel Hubert and led him to the sofa Frederick started forward to meet him and laying a hand on each shoulder said in his ear yet not so low but that Agnes heard him too—It was lucky I did not take you to France with me Hubert or I should certainly never have got a wife at all as it is however permit me—he added aloud—to present you Colonel Hubert to Miss Nora Willoughby Nora dearest this gentleman is the best friend I have in the world—my brothers wife is his sister and your sister my fair bride elect will very soon be his wife or I cannot read the stars so as you may perceive our catastrophe is exceedingly like that great model of all catastrophes in which the happy hero says And these are all my near relations—ecce signum here is my own elder brother Sir Edward Stephenson Miss Nora Willoughby Is she not charming Edward I hope I have pleased you at last and their ladyships my sisters too for I assure you everything is very elegant wellborn and so forth But you are not to sit down by her though for all that unless you make room for me between you for she has already given away more smiles than I can at all afford to spare and besides I have a hundred things to say to her I want to ask her how she likes you all
Colonel Hubert as soon as his gay friend had reseated himself gave one speaking look to Agnes and then devoted himself entirely to Mr Willoughby
By degrees the party began to talk together with less of agitation and more of comfort but Frederick was not permitted wholly to engross his young fianceé for all the ladies crowded round her and vied with each other in giving a cordial welcome to this young foreigner on the land of her fathers She was in truth a very sweet young creature and soon converted the kindness which circumstances called for into very cordially liking Distant hopes were talked of without reserve and immediate arrangements canvassed Miss Compton kindly invited the young stranger to share her sisters apartment a servant was despatched to secure rooms for Mr Willoughby and Frederick at the hotel and the happiness their unexpected arrival had brought to two harassed hearts of the party seemed to diffuse itself very delightfully among them all
At length Miss Comptons carriage was announced and while the cloaks of the fair sisters were wrapped round them by their vowed servants Mr Willoughby performed the same office for her and took that opportunity of asking leave to wait upon her on the following morning in order to relate to her such passages of the history of his long exile as might in some degree account for his having left her adopted child for so many years without a father
While this appointment was making with the aunt the niece contrived unheard by all to whisper a word or two which led to an appointment for her also
Colonel Hubert had more than once that evening taught her to understand by the eloquence of looks the delightful change that had been wrought within him but it was Agnes who first found the opportunity of giving expression to it in words He stood behind her as he arranged her cloak and when this was done she turned suddenly round to him and said in an accent of playful reproach Hubert may I be happy now
His answer was Will you see me tomorrow and alone She blushed—perhaps at remembering how often she had before wished to converse with him in the manner he now for the first time proposed but she nodded her assent he handed her to the carriage pressed her hand and whispered eleven oclock as he put her into it and then mounted to his chamber without exchanging a word more with any living soul that he might enjoy for the first time since he had yielded up his heart the luxury of meditating on Agnes and her promised love without any mixture of self-reproach to poison the enjoyment
CHAPTER XVII
GREAT CONTENTMENT
Had not Nora Willoughby been an interesting and amiable creature her introduction at this moment to all the freedom of a sisters rights would certainly have been less agreeable than surprising to Agnes and perhaps notwithstanding the sweet expression of her lovely face the pretty tenderness of her manner and the lively interest which one so near in blood could not fail to awaken Agnes as she entered her bedroom on that eventful night would rather have entered it alone Her heart seemed too full to permit her conversing freely with any one and it was by an effort not made altogether without pain that she turned her thoughts from Hubert and all that vast world of happiness which appeared opening before them to welcome her fair sister to her bower and to begin such a conversation with her as sisters so placed might be expected to hold But she was soon rewarded for the exertion for it was quite impossible to pass an hour of intimate intercourse with Nora without loving her for she was made up of frankness warm affection lightheartedness and sweet temper
As soon as Peggy had performed all the services required of her and that the door was fairly closed behind her Nora threw her arms round the neck of Agnes and pressed her in a long and fond embrace
Dear dear Agnes she exclaimed I wish you could share the pleasure that I enjoy at this moment—but it is impossible I come upon you suddenly unexpectedly unintelligibly and must rather startle and astound than give you the delight that you give me For I have been preparing to love you for many weeks past and have been longing till I was almost sick to get to you And after such eager and sanguine expectations as mine it is so delightful to find oneself not disappointed
And is such the case with my sweet sister replied Agnes caressingly
Indeed indeed it is—Frederick told me you were very beautiful—but I did not expect to find you half so so elegant so finished so every way superior
I shall quarrel with you Nora if you say such very fine things to me Perhaps I think you very pretty too dear but if I do I must not say so because they tell us that we are so much alike it would be like admiring myself
Well and you cannot help admiring yourself it is impossible But sister Agnes what a blessing it was that you did not happen to fall in love with Frederick What would have become of me if you had for do you know I loved almost as soon as I saw him It was all so odd It was at the Italian opera that we first met and I could not help observing that the handsomest man I had ever seen was looking at me almost incessantly Papa never saw a bit about it for when he is listening to music he never cares for anything However I do assure you I tried to behave properly though if I had done quite the contrary papa would never have found it out I never looked at him at all above three or four times and that was accidentally from happening to turn round my head But whether I thought about it or not there were his beautiful large eyes always sure to be fixed upon me and when the opera was over he must have run out of his box the moment we left ours for I saw him as we got into the fiacre standing close beside it Well I hardly know how it happened but from that time I never stirred out without meeting him he never spoke of course but that did not prevent our knowing one another just as well as if we had been the oldest acquaintance At last however he managed very cleverly to find out that papa was acquainted with M Dupont who gives such beautiful concerts and receives all the English so hospitably and he asked as a great favour to be invited to meet us and so he was and then we were introduced and then everything went on beautifully for he knew you and the name of Willoughby and the likeness and all that convinced him that we must be the same family so he and papa very soon made it all out and then he came to call upon us every day and very very very soon afterwards I was engaged to be his wife as soon as possible after we all got back to England
Thank you dearest Nora replied Agnes who notwithstanding all her preoccupation had found no difficulty in listening very attentively to this narrative I cannot tell you all the pleasure your little history has given me There is nobody in the world I should like so well for a brother as Frederick Stephenson and there is nobody in the world I should like so well for a sister as Frederick Stephensons wife
That is delightful cried Nora joyfully and we certainly are two of the luckiest girls in the world to have everything just as we would wish But Agnes there is one thing I shall never understand How could you help falling in love with Frederick when he fell in love with you
Because I happened just then replied Agnes laughing to be falling in love with some one else
Well certainly that was the most fortunate thing in the world and Frederick himself thinks so now He told me that he had a great mind to shoot himself when you refused him but that the very first moment he saw me he felt certain that I should suit him a great deal better than you would have done
That I am sure is quite true Nora replied Agnes very earnestly for I too feel certain that I never could have suited anybody but Colonel Hubert And now my sweet sister let us go to sleep or we shall hardly be up early enough to meet the friends who I think will be wishing to see us again Good night dearest
Good night darling Agnes Is not it pleasant to have a sister Agnes It is so nice to be able to tell you everything I am sure I could never be able to do it to anybody else Goodnight
Bless you sweet Nora replied Agnes and then each nestling upon her pillow and giving some few happy dreamy thoughts to the object they loved best they closed their fair young eyes and slept till morning
The waking was to both of them perhaps somewhat like the continuance of a dream but Peggy came and threw the light of day upon them while each fair girl seemed to look at her own picture as she contemplated her pretty bedfellow and appeared to be exceedingly well pleased by the survey
It was already late and Agnes rapidly as she was learning to love her companion did not linger at her toilet but leaving Nora with a hasty kiss to the care of Peggy she hastened to the breakfasttable and made aunt Betsys heart glad by telling her at last that she expected Colonel Hubert would call about eleven oclock and that if she did not think it wrong she should like to speak to him for a few minutes alone
Wrong my child exclaimed Miss Compton why I never in my life read a work painting the manners of the age in which I did not find interviews sometimes occurring three or four times in a day entirely têteàtête between the parties
Then I may go into the back drawingroom presently may I aunt Betsy And perhaps you would tell William
Yes yes my dear Ill tell him everything But eat some breakfast Agnes or I am sure you will not be able to talk I suppose it is about your new sister and your father and all that that you want to speak to him
There are many things aunt Betsy But good heavens there is a knock Will it not look very odd for you to send him in to me
Without waiting to give an answer the agile old lady intercepted Williams approach to the door in time to give the order she wished and in two minutes more Colonel Hubert was ushered into a room where the happy but blushing Agnes was alone
His first few steps towards her were made at the pace at which drawingroom floors are usually traversed but the last part of the distance was cleared by a movement considerably more rapid for she had risen in nervous agitation as he approached and for the first time that he had ever ventured a caress he threw his arms around her and pressed her to his heart Agnes struggled not to disengage herself but wept without restraint upon his bosom
You do then love me Agnes At last at last our hearts have met and never can be severed more But still you must tell me very often that you have forgiven me dearest for is it not difficult to believe And does it not require frequent vouching
What is it Montague that you would have forgiven said Agnes looking up at him and smiling through her tears
This was the first time that her lips had pronounced his christian name to any ears but her own and she blushed as she uttered it
Agnes my own Agnes he exclaimed you have forgiven me or you would not call me Montague How is it possible he continued looking fondly at her that a word so hackneyed and familiar from infancy as our own name can be made to thrill through the whole frame like a touch of electricity
He drew her to the sofa from which she had risen and placing himself by her said Now then Agnes let us sit down soberly together and take an unvarnished retrospect of all that has passed since we first met Yet why should I ask for this I hate to think of it for it is a fact Agnes which his subsequent attachment to your sister must not make you doubt Frederick and his seven thousand a year would have been at your disposal had not my dissuasions prevented it And had this been so who knows
A shade of melancholy seemed once again settling on the noble countenance of Colonel Hubert Agnes could not bear it and looking earnestly at him she said
Montague answer me sincerely this one question which is the strongest feeling in your mind at this moment—the pleasure derived from believing that your influence on Frederick was so great or the pain of doubting how the offer you speak of would have been received
I have no pleasure in believing I have influence on any one save yourself he answered gravely
I am glad of that Montague she said because you somewhat overrated your influence with my brother elect Save for your foolish doubts infidel you never should have known it but Frederick Stephenson did propose to me Hubert before he went abroad
And you refused him Agnes
And I refused him Hubert
Oh had I known this earlier what misery should I have been spared cried Colonel Hubert You know not you could not know all I have suffered Agnes yet surely dearest when last we spoke together it was but yesterday in this very room you must then have guessed the cause of the dreadful restraint that kept us asunder
There was no need of guessing then replied Agnes smiling for you told me so distinctly
Then why not on the instant remove the load from my heart were you quite incapable of feeling how galling it must have been to me
Ill tell you how that came to pass said Agnes rising Do you sit still there as I did yesterday and say Let me then confess to you Colonel Hubert and then I will answer thus and raising her hand as if to stop his speech she added mimicking his impatient tone
Confess nothing Miss Willoughby to me And then you told me you had written to him and when I exclaimed with some degree of dismay at the idea of your having written to recall him you again interrupted me by saying that you would do it again and then my aunt came and so we parted Then whose fault was it that I did not tell you
My own Agnes it was my own and alas I did not suffer for it alone How wretched you must have been made by my vehemence But you have forgiven me and all this must be forgotten for ever There is however one subject on which I would willingly ask a few more questions—these I hope you will answer Agnes
Yes she replied gaily you may hope for an answer to all your questions provided that just when I am about to speak you do not raise your arm thus in order to prevent me
I will do my utmost to avoid it he replied and for the greater security will place the offending arm thus throwing it round her and now tell me Agnes why it was that you would not accept Frederick Stephenson
And will you be pleased to tell me Colonel Hubert why it was that you did not propose to to anybody else but me
Because I loved you and you only
Because I loved you and you only repeated Agnes
Is that an echo said Colonel Hubert
No replied Agnes it is only the answer to your question
Then exactly when I was occupied in finding reasons incontrovertible why the niece of Mrs Barnaby should never be loved by mortal man the young the lovely Agnes Willoughby was loving me
Even so said Agnes somewhat mournfully false impressions have worked us so much woe that it would not be wise to let a little feminine punctilio prevent you seeing things as they are Yet it is hardly fair Hubert to make me tell you this
Oh say not so he replied mistake not the source of this questioning for Agnes be secure
That Hubert for the wealth of all the world
Would not offend thee
But can you wonder that after all I have suffered my heart and soul thirsts for an assurance of your love What might well suffice another Agnes ought not to suffice me I am so much older
I cannot help it Montague nor could I help it when you took me out of the clutches of Major Allen upon the Windmillhill nor when you were pleased to be so gracious as to approve my singing nor upon a great many other occasions when it would have been wise for me to remember it perhaps But if I love you and you love me I cannot see how your age or mine either need interfere to prevent it
Perhaps at last Colonel Hubert arrived at the same satisfactory conclusion for the conversation was a long one and before it was ended some little sketchings of his feelings during the early part of their acquaintance brought to Agnes mind the soothing belief that after the evening of the Clifton ball her image had never forsaken his fancy more though it was by slow degrees that it had grown into what he called such terrible strength there as to conquer every other feeling
Agnes listened to him as he stated this with most humbleminded and unfeigned astonishment but also with most willing belief and then following his example he quoted Shakspeare exclaiming—
And if an angel should have come to me
And told me thus
I would have believed no tongue but Huberts
CHAPTER XVIII
A RETROSPECT AND CONCLUSION
Mr Willoughby was little less punctual to his appointment than Colonel Hubert and as the young Nora weary with her journey and exhausted from the excitement of the scenes which followed it had not yet left her bed he too had the advantage of a têteàtête
It is needless to enter upon any minute repetition of a narrative which had in fact little or no connexion with the personages of our drama It was evident that Mr Willoughby had suffered much both from the early loss of his fair young wife and the continued hostility or more properly speaking the continued neglect of his family He had exchanged into a regiment sent on a dangerous and disagreeable service and with broken spirits and failing health might very likely have perished before it was ended had not his good gifts very suddenly made captive the affections of a young girl almost as pretty as poor Sophia Compton and quite as rich as she was the contrary
This marriage converted him into the only son and heir of a wealthy merchant all his new family required of him in exchange for their daughter and their wealth was that he should live amongst them This he consented to do but his life was not a happy one With the prospect of great possessions before him he was kept in almost penniless dependence upon his fatherinlaw all his wants indeed profusely supplied but with no more power to assist in the maintenance of the child he had left in England than if he had been a slave chained to the oar
For sixteen years he had led this painful life of penniless splendour in the course of which he was again left a widower with one little girl but though his existence in his fatherinlaws family had lost its only charm by this event he was prevented from making any effort to change it as much by his total inability to support himself elsewhere as by consideration for the interest of his child As she grew up he began once more to feel that life was not altogether a bore and a burden and at length his passive submission to years of wearying annoyance was rewarded by finding himself at the death of the generous but tyrannical Mr Grafton the possessor of a handsome life income and the sole guardian of the young heiress his daughter
It was then that for the first time he felt disposed to recall himself to the memory of those he had left behind him in England and the desire to do so became so strong that he lost no time in finally arranging his affairs in the country of his exile and taking his departure for Europe For the sake of having a friend as commander of the ship in which he sailed he took his passage for Havre and once landed on the coast of France he yielded to Noras entreaties that they should pass a few weeks at Paris before they left it His accidental meeting with Mr Stephenson there was then related and its consequences as it respected his daughter and their journey home together concluded his narration
Your romance Mr Willoughby replied Miss Compton appears likely to come to a very happy conclusion but I confess I wonder that never during your sixteen years of what appears to have been very perfect leisure you could never have found time to make any single inquiry about your little Agnes
And I wonder at it too Miss Compton but it is more easy to recal the feelings that led to this than to explain them I believe that the total impossibility of my transmitting any share of the wealth amidst which I lived to a child whom I had great reason to fear might want it was the primary cause of it and then came the hope that at no very distant day my inquiries for her might be made in a manner less torturing to my feelings than by acknowledging myself to be alive in circumstances of highfed pauperism without the power of relieving any wants however pressing with which my inquiries might happen to make me acquainted Had I known that you Miss Compton had adopted my little girl I should not so long have suffered her to believe me dead because I had not the power of making my being alive a source of joy to her
Whether Miss Compton thought this apology a good one or the reverse does not appear for all the branches of the party who so unexpectedly met together at the house of Lady Elizabeth Norris continued from that time forward to live on terms of the most agreeable amity together and perhaps the only symptom by which some little feeling of disapprobation might have been perceived was Miss Comptons begging to decline on the part of all interested Mr Willoughbys proposal of insuring his life for ten thousand pounds as a portion for his eldest daughter
I do assure you sir there is no occasion for it said the little spinster with great goodhumour but also with a very evident intention of having her own way I believe that if you will mention the subject to Colonel Hubert or to Lady Elizabeth Norris his aunt you will find that they both agree with me in thinking such a sacrifice of income on your part quite unnecessary and decidedly unwise Your sisters have not behaved to you kindly but they have connected themselves well and I believe we all think it would be more advantageous to both your daughters that their favour should be propitiated by your appearing before them in a style which may show you have no need of their assistance than by anything else you can do for them The young ladies are both about to marry well and with fortunes very fairly proportioned to those of their respective husbands and any family coolness with such near relations as Lady Eastcombe and the honourable Mrs Nivett would be both disadvantageous and disagreeable
My noble sisters will be vastly well disposed to welcome me now Miss Compton I have little doubt replied Mr Willoughby with as much asperity as he was capable of feeling for any offence committed against him and I confess to you that the reconciliation would be particularly agreeable to me from the power your generous adoption of my poor girl gives me now of proving to them that my marriage with Sophia Compton was not such a connexion as to merit the severity with which they have treated it
I have no sort of objection to your proving this to them in any manner that you please replied Miss Compton and I rather think the most effectual mode of doing so will be by permitting the portion of Agnes to be furnished by Sophia Comptons aunt
Five thousand then let it be Miss Compton five thousand settled upon younger children said Mr Willoughby
No sir persisted the old lady it must not be if you please The property of Compton Basett with the name and a sum of money withal sufficient considerably to add to and improve the estate will be settled by me on the second son of your daughter Agnes Lady Elizabeth on the part of her nephew adds ten thousand pounds to the settlement on younger children which together with my property will of course belong to Agnes for her life I hope sir this statement will satisfy you repsecting the provision to be made for Miss Willoughby and prevent your feeling any further anxiety on the subject
It was impossible Mr Willoughby could declare himself dissatisfied and from this time he ventured no further allusion to the scheme of insuring his life
Preparations for the two marriages now immediately began and the interval necessary to the completion of settlements and the building of carriages and dresses was at the earnest request of Agnes to be spent at Clifton She loved the place for it was identified in her memory with the first sight of Hubert and she often declared that there was no spot on the earths surface she should ever love so well as that little esplanade behind the windmill on which Colonel Hubert first offered her his arm without deeming it necessary to utter a word of explanation for doing so The vicinity of Mary Peters too was another reason and no trifling one for this partiality and as not one of the party had any point of reunion to plead for in preference it was there that several weeks of present enjoyment and happy anticipation were passed
It was about midway between the time at which everything was settled between the lovers their beloveds and all parents friends and guardians interested therein and the happy day on which the double espousals were celebrated that Mr and Mrs Peters invited the whole party to dinner No strangers were permitted to disturb the freedom of the society thus assembled at dinner though to gratify Lady Elizabeths love of music one or two proficients in that science were invited for the evening The gentlemen who probably thought the society in the drawingroom more agreeable than that of good Mr Peters even though backed by his excellent wine were already partaking coffee with the ladies when a reduplicated knocking announced the arrival of visiters
The Chamberlains I suppose said Mrs Peters How very early they are
But she was mistaken it was not the Chamberlains for a footman threw wide the drawingroom door and announced Mr and Mrs ODonagough
Mr and Mrs who said Mrs Peters to Mary
Mr and Mrs what said Elizabeth to Lucy
But before the parties thus questioned could have found time to answer even had they been possessed of the information required a lady in sober coloured silk with little rouge and no ringlets followed by a handsome young man in black entered the room and considerably before many who had seen that lady before could recall the name by which they had known her or reconcile her much changed appearance to their puzzled recollections Mrs Peters was enfolded in her arms
My dear sister Peters said Mrs ODonagough you are surrounded by so large a party that I fear these last moments which I meant to dedicate to the affection of my kinsfolk may be more inconvenient than pleasurable to you But you cannot I am sure refuse me some portion of your society this evening as it is probably the last one we shall ever pass together Give me leave sister Peters to introduce you to my husband the Reverend Mr ODonagough Mr Peters Mr ODonagough Mr James Peters Mr ODonagough Mr ODonagough my dear Mary my husband young ladies Mr ODonagough my dear Elizabeth and Lucy Good Heaven Agnes here and my aunt Compton too Well so much the better my dear Patrick I shall now have the pleasure of presenting you to more relations and as I should be proud to introduce you to all the world this can only be an increase of pleasure to me Agnes Willoughby my dear I cant say you behaved very well to me when the cheerful sort of life I indulged in solely on your account was changed for sorrow and imprisonment but nevertheless my religious principles which are stronger my dear than even when you knew me lead me to forgive you and better still they lead me to introduce you to your excellent and exemplary uncle the Reverend Mr ODonagough
During the whole course of these speeches not a single voice had been heard to pronounce a syllable in reply excepting that of Mr Peters who put his heels together and made a bow when she paused husband in hand before him and said Your servant sir
But Agnes when her turn came though colouring most painfully at being so addressed and with her heart sinking under the unexampled annoyance of this intrusion contrived to say I hope I see you well aunt
Yes Miss Agnes well and happy too I promise you and I wish you were likely to be as well settled child as I am But I should like to know who it is has come forward with money to dress you up so You have not been singing on the stage I hope Your uncle would be dreadfully shocked at such a thing for he says that stageplays are an abomination And upon my word aunt Compton you are grown mighty smart too in your old age Mercy on me Vanity of vanities all is vanity And then looking into the inner room and perceiving that she had several more acquaintances there she again took her husband by the hand and led him into it presenting him to Lady Elizabeth her niece Colonel Hubert and the two Stephensons But when she came to Mr Willoughby who was standing with his youngest daughter at a window she stopped and looking at him very earnestly seemed puzzled
He bowed though evidently without knowing her and then turning from her unpleasantly curious scrutiny resumed his conversation with Nora
I beg your pardon sir said Mrs ODonagough but I should really be very much obliged if you would tell me your name
My name madam is Willoughby
Gracious heaven exclaimed the bride ODonagough dearest this is an eventful day indeed Behold your brother
The two gentlemen stared at each other with an expression of countenance more indicative of surprise than of fraternal affection Mr Willoughby indeed looked very much as if he suspected that the poor lady be she who she would was decidedly not in her right mind while her husband rather weary perhaps of such a continuity of introductions escaped from her side and stationed himself at another window
Willoughby dearest Willoughby Is it possible that you can have forgotten me Can you indeed have forgotten the sister of your wife
Miss Martha Is it possible I beg your pardon Mrs Donagough I certainly did not recollect you I hope that I have the pleasure of seeing you well
My dearest Willoughby You have no idea how exceedingly delighted I am to see you What has become of you all this time I always supposed that you had been sold for a slave on the coast of Barbary and I thank God and my excellent husband where is he I am sure the Reverend Mr ODonagough will thank God for your escape And who is that pretty young lady Dear me she looks very much as if she was the daughter of your cruel master and had fallen in love with you and set you at liberty Poor Sophy one could not expect you should remember her for ever even I you see have forced myself to forget my poor dear Mr Barnaby But now I think of it you cant know anything about Mr Barnaby Do my dear Willoughby sit down with me on this sofa and let us have a talk
It was impossible for Mr Willoughby to refuse even had he wished it which he really did not and the perfect security of being welcome which Mrs ODonagough displayed in her manner of establishing herself in some sort obliged Mrs Peters to act as if she were so The different groups which had been deranged by her entrance resumed their conversation coffee and tea included the intruders in its round and everybody excepting Miss Compton seemed once more tolerably at their ease She could not affect to recover her equanimity like the rest but placing a low chair immediately behind the sofa on which Lady Elizabeths tall figure was placed she sat down so as to be completely concealed by her saying Will your ladyship have the great kindness to let me hide myself here That horrible woman is I confess it my own brothers daughter but she is no matter what she is I am much to blame no doubt but I hate to look upon her
Put yourself quite at your ease Miss Compton replied Lady Elizabeth laughing I have not the least difficulty in the world in comprehending your feelings In you she has conquered the feeling of relationship in me an instinct stronger still perhaps namely that of finding amusement in absurdity But I almost think she has cured me of my menagerie caprice for ever Yet it is difficult too not to enjoy the spectacle she offers with her young husband in her hand But I dont mean to lose my music for her Miss Peters my dear—pray set your pianoforte going
This hint was immediately obeyed and proved extremely conducive to the general ease Goodnatured Mr Peters entered into conversation with the reverend missionary and soon learnt both his destination and the interesting fact that he and his bride were to sail from the port of Bristol the day but one following This he judiciously took an opportunity of speedily communicating to his lady who took care that it should not long remain a secret to any individual present excepting Mr Willoughby who continued in too close conversation with his sisterinlaw to permit his being made a sharer in the general feeling of satisfaction which this information produced Even Miss Compton on hearing it declared that if the bride were really going to set off immediately for Botany Bay there to remain for the term of her natural life she thought she should be able to look at her for the rest of the evening with great philosophy And in proof of her sincerity she moved her place and seated herself beside her friend Lady Elizabeth more than half inclined to share in the amusement which notwithstanding her good resolutions that facetious lady seemed inclined to take in contemplating the newlymarried pair
The conversation meanwhile between the two old acquaintances went on with considerable interest on both sides Mr Willoughby again related his adventures and introduced his pretty daughter and then recurring once more to Silverton Mrs ODonagough said in an accent that betokened considerable interest in the question—Willoughby—can you tell me anything about your old friend Tate
I have heard nothing of him of late years but of course you know that he married his cousin Miss Temple very soon after we left Silverton
Very soon said Mrs ODonagough with a sigh
Yes my dear sister replied Willoughby with a melancholy smile it is not often that hearts lost in country quarters fail to return to the losers as they march out of the town Happily both for the boys and girls concerned but few such adventures end as mine did
Happily indeed for me replied the bride with a toss of her head for aught I know Tate may be alive now and the happy wife of ODonagough may well rejoice that no such thraldom was the consequence of Captain Tates presumptuous attachment
Though Mr Peters was really very civil and though Mr James joined for several minutes in the conversation it is probable that the reverend missionary did not enjoy it so much as his lady did listening to Mr Willoughby for at an early hour he told her it was time to take leave She instantly obeyed and began making her circular farewell—a ceremony of rather an embarrassing nature to many of the party for out of the fifteen persons she left in the room she kissed eight Lady Elizabeth Sir Edward and Lady Stephenson Colonel Hubert and Frederick being permitted to escape without even an attempt at joining them in this valedictory greeting and Miss Compton rising at her approach making her by far the lowest courtesy her knees ever performed in a manner which effectually averted it from herself
Mrs ODonagoughs departure from England was a great blessing to all the connexions she left behind for had she continued within reach of them it is hardly possible but some annoyance would have been the consequence As it was however sorrow seemed to depart with her for seldom does so large a portion of happiness as fell to the lot of those she had formerly tormented attend the career of any
Colonel Hubert although he actually did very soon become a general never again felt any alarm on the score of his age but had the happiness of knowing that he was beloved with all the devoted tenderness that his heart desired and his noble character deserved Agnes never ceased to glory in her choice and loved nothing better than to make Aunt Betsy confess that her great nephew notwithstanding his being a general was more like a hero than any other man she had ever seen Miss Compton lived to see an extremely fine lad called Compton Hubert Compton becoming so fond of the fields and the pheasants of Compton Basett as to leave her no rest till she had persuaded the trustees of the settlement she had made to expend the money in their hands upon the purchase of some neighbouring lands—including the manor in which they were situated and the converting of the old roomy farmhouse into a residence which she confessed to be worthy of the representative of the ancient Compton race This alteration indeed took place several years before the old lady died and it was at Compton Basett thus metamorphosed that she had the pleasure of observing to Mrs Wilmot that the conversation they had held on that spot together had not been altogether without effect
Mr Willoughby and his elegant sisters become perfectly reconciled a circumstance extremely agreeable to Lady Elizabeth Norris as it gave her repeated opportunities of convincing herself that the nose of her niece Mrs General Hubert was decidedly an improvement upon that of the honourable Miss Nivett though the family resemblance was sufficiently remarkable Frederick and Nora were as gay and happy a couple as ever enjoyed ten thousand a year together Occasionally of course they were in debt as all people of ten thousand a year must be but on the whole they contrived to bring matters round wonderfully well and as their property was fortunately settled and Sir Edward happened to die without children their family of six sons and six daughters were left at last very tolerably provided for
Mrs ODonagoughs voyage to New England was quite as agreeable as such a voyage generally is and on arriving she was greatly consoled for any little inequalities in her young husbands temper by the great success of his preaching For at least six months after their arrival he was more in the fashion than any gentleman of any profession had ever been before but at the end of that time the reverend preacher unfortunately was present at a horserace upon which the recondite wisdom of the fable which treats of a cat turned into a woman must have become manifest to every reflecting mind acquainted with the circumstances of Mr ODonagoughs early life for no sooner did the race begin than almost unconsciously he offered a bet to one of his congregation who stood near him and before the end of the day he was seen mounted in a blue and yellow jacket riding for a jockey who had broken his leg in a hurdle race
It was then that Mrs ODonagough became sensible of the blessing of having a settlement and thankful was she to the noble father of her spouse for all the care bestowed to prevent his bringing himself again to penury when he was brought home dead to her one fine afternoon having lost his seat and his life together in a leap upon which he had betted considerably more than he possessed
She mourned for him as he deserved but not being upon this occasion very nice upon whom she could devolve the task of wearing black she announced to all her Sidney friends that it was not the fashion in the old world for ladies of distinction to wear that dismal colour for more than a month for any husband who died by accident and it was therefore once more in all the splendour of her favourite rainbow colouring that she met a few months afterwards her old friend Major Allen
He entered into no very tedious or particular details respecting the reasons for or the manner of his voyage out but testified much cordial satisfaction at the meeting while on the other hand Mrs ODonagough was as remarkably communicative as he was the reverse dilating largely on my Lord ——s careful attention to her interest on her marriage with his son who had insisted upon coming out in a fit of religious enthusiasm which as she sensibly observed was not at all likely to last
It was not very long after this meeting that Mrs ODonagough became aware of the truth of the song which says
Mais on retourne toujours
A ses premières amours
For it was evident that the sentiment which circumstances had so rudely shaken at Clifton a year or two before was again putting forth its leaves and flowers and that it depended upon herself alone whether she should not yet become the wife of the accomplished Major Allen
For a few weeks she struggled with her remaining affection but at the end of that time it overpowered all her doubts and fears and only stipulating that as before all she had should be firmly settled upon herself she once more entered the holy state of matrimony In justice to the peerage it ought to be stated that on this her third weddingday she wore around her neck a very handsome necklace of shell carefully sent out to her by the confidential agent of my Lord Mucklebury
THE END