Somerset came in.
"I thought I might come in, Norah dear; I wanted to tell you how pleased
my husband and I are with the improvement in the children, they look so
well, and are so much more obedient. You have managed them very well,
and we are very grateful," and Mrs. Somerset bent forward and kissed
her. "Now, dear, we want you to accept a small present from us--it is
very commonplace--but there is little variety where we are stationed."
Norah undid the cedar box put into her hand and drew out a most lovely
gold bracelet of Indian workmanship.
"Oh, how very good of you, it is far too pretty!" she exclaimed,
returning Mrs. Somerset's embrace. "But, indeed, I have only done my
duty by the children: they are very good, and I love them dearly."
"Well, dear, I hope you will long remain with them--and yet--I cannot
wish it for your sake, for I wish a greater happiness for you. You
remember when you first came to me, telling me your history, Norah, and
begging me never to refer to it? Well, I have never done so, but
to-night I must break my promise, as I think I ought to tell you that I
have actually met Captain Wylie, though he did not know who I was."
Norah's colour came and went; she said nothing, only fixed her eyes on
Mrs. Somerset in speechless attention, while a tremor ran through her
being.
"Now, dear, listen to me; I believe you will see him in Gibraltar very
soon.
Pages:
403
404
405
406
407
408
409
410
411
412
413
414
415
416
417
418
419
420
421
422
423
424
425
426
427