 to be so uneasy about it. I don't say that it is not a disagreeable
business - but things might be much worse. - If we walk fast, we shall soon be
at Randall's.«
    Emma found that she must wait; and now it required little effort. She asked
no more questions therefore, merely employed her own fancy, and that soon
pointed out to her the probability of its being some money concern - something
just come to light, of a disagreeable nature in the circumstances of the family,
- something which the late event at Richmond had brought forward. Her fancy was
very active. Half a dozen natural children, perhaps - and poor Frank cut off! -
This, though very undesirable, would be no matter of agony to her. It inspired
little more than an animating curiosity.
    »Who is that gentleman on horseback?« said she, as they proceeded - speaking
more to assist Mr. Weston in keeping his secret, than with any other view.
    »I do not know. - One of the Otways. - Not Frank; - it is not Frank, I
assure you. You will not see him. He is half way to Windsor by this time.«
    »Has your son been with you, then?«
    »Oh! yes - did not you know? - Well, well, never mind.«
    For a moment he was silent; and then added, in a tone much more guarded and
demure,
    »Yes, Frank came over this morning, just to ask us how we did.«
    They hurried on, and were speedily at Randall's. - »Well, my dear,« said he,
as they entered the room - »I have brought her, and now I hope you will soon be
better. I shall leave you together. There is no use in delay. I shall not be far
off, if you want me.« - And Emma distinctly heard him add, in a lower tone,
before he quitted the room, - »I have been as good as my word. She has not the
least idea.«
    Mrs. Weston was looking so ill, and had an air of so much perturbation, that
Emma's uneasiness increased; and the moment they were alone, she eagerly said,
    »What is it my dear friend? Something of a very unpleasant nature, I find,
has occurred; - do let me know directly what it is. I have been walking all this
way in complete suspense. We both abhor suspense. Do not let mine
