Within the Maze: A Novel, Vol. 2 (of 2)

Transcriber's Notes: 1. Page scan source: Google Books https://books.google.com/books?id=0nrlugEACAAJ (the Bavarian State Library)
Transcriber's Notes: 1. Page scan source: Google Books https://books.google.com/books?id=fdJTAAAAcAAJ (the Bavarian State Library)
The previous night's black cloud had culminated in a thunder-storm, and the morning air felt fresh and cool; but the blue sky was clear, the sun as bright as ever.
Lucy came down with sad eyes and a pale face. Her night had been one of mental pain. She was wondering how much longer she could keep up this mask of cheerfulness--which she would especially have to wear that day; and she knew that she could not have done it at all, then or at any other time, but for the very present help of God. Karl, waiting in the breakfast-room, turned to shake hands with her. But for their being alone, he would not have ventured on this eminently suggestive action.
How are you to-day, Lucy?
Oh, quite well, thank you. Did you hear the storm?
Yes. It has cleared away some of the sultry heat. We shall have a lovely day.
The Lloyds were expected from Basham. When at the flower-show the previous day, Lucy had remarked that some of the hot-house plants were not as fine as those at Foxwood: upon that, the General and one of his daughters had simultaneously expressed a wish to see those at Foxwood. Lucy at once gave the invitation; and it was arranged that they should spend the next day at the Court. She had told her husband of this while Captain Lamprey was present; but it had not been alluded to afterwards. She spoke again now, while she and Karl were waiting breakfast for Miss Blake, who was at Matins at St. Jerome's.
I could not do less than ask them, she observed. I hope you are not vexed.
You did quite right, Lucy, he cheerfully answered. I shall be glad to see them.
I don't know how many will come. Perhaps all; except Mrs. Lloyd, who never goes out anywhere. I hope Theresa will give up St. Jerome's for the rest of the day, and stay at home to help me entertain them.