“Perhaps they do not even think it, Will. How can you tell?”
“Well enough, Aspatria. How many women come to Ambar-Side now? If you gave a dance next week, you could not get a girl in Allerdale to accept your invitation.”
“Will!”
“It is the truth. You must stop all this by marrying Ulfar Fenwick. He saw it was only just and right: I will say that much for him.”
“Let me alone until morning. I will do what you say.—Oh, mother! mother I want mother now!”
“My poor little lass! I am only brother Will; but I am sorry for thee, I am that!”
She tottered to the bedside, and he lifted her gently, and laid her on it; and then, as softly as if he was afraid of waking her, he went out of the room. Outside the door he found Brune. He had taken off his shoes, and was in his stocking-feet. Will grasped him by the shoulder and led him to his own chamber.