But, there,
we'll say no more. I like you, Frank Charnock! and only wish you
had ten thousand a year, or were any one else; but you see--you see.
Well, let's eat our luncheon."
"Does she know this decision?" asked Frank, aside, as he held open
the door for Lady Tyrrell.
"Yes, she knows it can go no further; though we are too merciful to
deny you the beatific vision, provided you are good, and abstain
from any more little tendresses for the present.--Ah!"--enter Cecil--
"I thought we should see you to-day, my dear!"
"Yes; I am on my way to meet my husband at the station," said Cecil,
meeting her in the hall, and returning her kiss.
"Is Raymond coming home to-day?" said Frank, as he too exchanged
greetings. "Ah! I remember; I did not see you at breakfast this
morning."
"No!" and there was signification in the voice; but Frank did not
heed it, for coming down-stairs was Eleonora, her face full of a
blushing sweetness, which gave it all the beauty it had ever lacked.
He could do no more than look and speak before all the rest; the
carriage was ordered for the sisters to go out together, and he
lingered in vain for a few words in private, for Sir Harry kept him
talking about Captain Duncombe's wonderful colt, till Cecil had
driven off one way, and their two hostesses the other; and he could
only ride home to tell his mother how he had sped.
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