The Argosy — page 258: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

Mrs. Carr’s C ompanion. 239 It was only a few days after this that the even tenor of life under the Archdeacon’s roof was interrupted by Viola’s announcement of her intention of leaving St. Brenda’s. If the Dean and Chapter in a body had suddenly proposed taking their departure, the suggestion could not have roused more opposi- tion in Lady Mary’s breast. “Going away! What are you dreaming of, Viola! Going away when Miles is already homeward bound, and every day, please Heaven! brings him nearer to us! Are you tired of us, and of St. Brenda’s, pray ?” ‘Neither, dear Lady Mary. You know I should never leave you from choice, but—but—-—” blushing hotly—‘‘I don’t wish tobe here when Captain Egerton returns.” It was noteworthy that Lady Mary’s son, who, during the weeks of their distress and anxiety had been always “ Miles” with Viola, was now transformed into “Captain Egerton,” and spoken of with formal respect. “My dear child, don’t you understand that I have withdrawn all objection to your engagement? Miles could not bring me a daughter whom I could love more dearly—for her own sake!” Lady Mary’s honesty prompted the conclusion, and the half-sigh which accompanied it. / “You are very good”—Viola returned the pressure of the hand which held hers—‘‘ but—I must go. Do you forget that your son is absolutely free? He may have changed his mind.” You think it likely ?” The hot colour mounted once more in Viola’s face. ‘No, I don’t. But,” with some spirit, ‘I will not stay here to be thrust upon him whether he will or no.” “And where may Your Independence think of going to?” enquired Lady Mary. ‘To my old governess in Bloomsbury, where I was staying before I came here. I have written to say I will be with her on Tuesday week—if that will suit you, Lady Mary ?” ‘Of course it will not suit me to lose you, but a wilful woman must have her way.” Time sped swiftly, while the Avgyl/ was riding the high seas bringing their wounded hero, as they hoped, day by day nearer to them and convalescence. Thorold undertook to meet him at Southampton. The Archdeacon was glad to be spared the journey, and Lady Mary was not yet equal to so much fatigue and excite- ment. Viola’s spirits sank to zero as the day for her departure approached, but no persuasion would induce her to delay it. Even the very last evening Lady Mary once more tried to shake her resolution as they Sat in the fire-light after dinner, depressed and melancholy under the - shadow of the approaching separation. ECORnNICOOOKS.EO