We have
had a remarkably pleasant walk, and a most instructive interchange of
ideas. Now, my dear girl, your aunt is waiting for us."
While Mrs. Lecount stepped aside to open the garden gate, Noel Vanstone
seized his opportunity and shot a last tender glance at Magdalen, under
shelter of the umbrella, which he had taken into his own hands for
that express purpose. "Don't forget," he said, with the sweetest smile;
"don't forget, when you come this evening, to wear that charming hat!"
Before he could add any last words, Mrs. Lecount glided back to her
place, and the sheltering umbrella changed hands again immediately.
"An excellent morning's work!" said Captain Wragge, as he and Magdalen
walked on together to North Shingles. "You and I and Joyce have all
three done wonders. We have secured a friendly invitation at the first
day's fishing for it."
He paused for an answer; and, receiving none, observed Magdalen more
attentively than he had observed her yet. Her face had turned deadly
pale again; her eyes looked out mechanically straight before her in
heedless, reckless despair.
"What is the matter?" he asked, with the greatest surprise. "Are you
ill?"
She made no reply; she hardly seemed to hear him.
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