“Be that as it may, the General retired from the world to Castle de Werve,” observed the old lady.
“Where, now, Major Frank has the command,” put in the spinster.
“And spends her time in riding and shooting,” added the little widow, turning up her nose superciliously.
“I venture to contradict the latter part of the assertion with regard to the shooting,” said Overberg; “for the General has not renewed his shooting license and has leased the shooting over his own estates to a client of mine, who, however, leaves the hares and partridges in perfect peace.”
This latter remark led to a long conversation amongst the gentlemen about the shooting and fishing in the neighbourhood, whilst the ladies set to work to sharpen their tongues on other absent victims.
Chapter IX.
Notwithstanding all my efforts to appear calm and unconcerned, Overberg observed that the hard judgment passed on Francis had made a deep impression on my mind. Taking me aside, he whispered in my ear—
“We will talk this subject over to-morrow morning before your departure; in the meantime don’t let it trouble you. You know the proverb: ‘The devil’s not so black as he is painted.’”
It was easy for him to talk; but, alas! he knew not yet the reasons I had for being so deeply interested in this young lady.