The
labour was great; the task was terrible; but now it was so nearly over!
And to Lizzie she was very courteous, never hinting by a word or a look
that there was any new trouble impending on the score of the diamonds.
She, too, as she received the greasy compliments of Mr. Emilius with
pretty smiles, had her mind full enough of care.
At last Sir Griffin went, again kissing his bride as he left. Lucinda
accepted his embrace without a word and almost without a shudder. "Eleven
to the moment, Sir Griffin," said Mrs. Carbuncle, with her best good-
humour.
"All right," said Sir Griffin as he passed out of the door. Lucinda walked
across the room and kept her eyes fixed on his retreating figure as he
descended the stairs. Mr. Emilius had already departed, with many promises
of punctuality, and Lizzie now withdrew for the night.
"Dear Lizzie, good-night," said Mrs. Carbuncle kissing her.
"Good-night, Lady Eustace," said Lucinda. "I suppose I shall see you to-
morrow?"
"See me, of course you will see me! I shall come into your room with the
girls after you have had your tea." The girls mentioned were the four
bridesmaids, as to whom there had been some difficulty, as Lucinda had
neither sister nor cousin, and had contracted no peculiarly tender
friendships.
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