"It was mentioned. I do not know particulars."
"I cannot go, of course. May I come here for a time? Will you take me in?"
Her lips remained parted with a look of entreaty, but a motion of Mr. Fitzalan's hand checked the eager response springing from Marjory. "Why cannot you go?" he asked gravely.
"It is impossible."
"The change would be pleasant, and you are not absolutely tied to Westford by duties which cannot be laid aside. I suppose it will be a matter of a few weeks only."
"I don't know. It may be longer. But—"
"You have had very little variety as yet. It is good for both mind and body to come in contact with fresh scenes and fresh phases of life. There is a danger of getting cramped and narrowed by moving always in one small circle. I should be sorry if you did not take advantage of this opportunity."
"I cannot!" she said.
"There may be difficulties which I do not see. The thing itself is certainly desirable. East Bourne is a particularly bright healthy place, with a good deal going on. The change from this quiet country life will be thorough."
"I do not want change. I cannot go!"