The gentleman and
lady were closeted together for more than an hour, and so amicably was the
conversation carried on that when the time was half over Gager stepped
down-stairs and interested himself in procuring Miss Crabstick's
breakfast. He even condescended himself to pick a few shrimps and drink a
glass of beer in her company. A great deal was said and something was even
settled, as may be learned from a few concluding words of that very
memorable conversation. "Just don't you say anything about it, my dear,
but leave word for him that you've gone up to town on business."
"Lord love you, Mr. Gager, he'll know all about it."
"Let him know. Of course he'll know if he comes down. It's my belief he'll
never show himself at Ramsgate again."
"But, Mr. Gager----"
"Well, my dear."
"You aren't a perjuring of yourself?"
"What; about making you my wife? That I ain't. I'm upright and always was.
There's no mistake about me when you've got my word. As soon as this work
is off my mind you shall be Mrs. Gager, my dear. And you'll be all right.
You've been took in, that's what you have."
"That I have, Mr. Gager," said Patience, wiping her eyes.
Pages:
862
863
864
865
866
867
868
869
870
871
872
873
874
875
876
877
878
879
880
881
882
883
884
885
886