"Never more," she determined, "shall my own folly be
answerable for it, if he and I meet again."
She had returned to Mrs. Lewson, and had read over the letter to
Arthur, when the farm clock, striking the hour, reminded them that it
was time to retire. They slept badly that night.
At six in the morning, one of the two labourers who had remained
faithful to Arthur was sent away on horseback with the housekeeper's
reply, and with orders to wait for an answer. Allowing time for giving
the horse a rest, the man might be expected to return before noon.
IX
IT was a fine sunshiny day; Mrs. Lewson's spirits began to improve. "I
have always held the belief," the worthy old woman confessed, "that
bright weather brings good luck--of course provided the day is not a
Friday. This is Wednesday. Cheer up, Miss."
The messenger returned with good news. Mr. Arthur had been as merry as
usual. He had made fun of another letter of good advice, received
without a signature. "But Mrs. Lewson must have her way," he said. "My
love to the old dear--I'll start two hours later, and be back to dinner
at five."
"Where did Mr. Arthur give you that message?" Iris inquired.
"At the stables, Miss, while I was putting up the horse.
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