“Oh, she is one of the dearest creatures in the world, a sort of protégé, or adopted daughter of Mrs. Ford’s, up at the old stone house, yonder. Don’t be impatient, she will be in time.”
Mrs. Judson shook her head very pleasantly, for she was in high good humor that day.
“Ah! I understand; some young girl, without advantages, that you want to bring out. One of these days you will see how foolish such things are.”
Mrs. Oakley was about to offer some good-natured protest. But as she turned to speak, they both heard a slight commotion in the upper hall.
CHAPTER LXXVI.
RIGHTED AT LAST.
“Here she comes!” exclaimed the bride, opening the door. “Ah, I was sure of it! Come in! come in! How late you are; fortunately your dress is all laid out.”
Mrs. Oakley held out her hand cordially. Catharine did not touch it, but with a gentle inclination of the head, entered the chamber followed by old Mrs. Ford.
Mrs. Oakley drew back, surprised and almost offended; for, standing in the hall, directly behind the old lady, she saw a white-haired gentleman, leaning upon his cane, as if waiting for something.
“Of course, I am delighted to see your friends. They have given me a pleasant surprise. I scarcely hoped—”
Mrs. Oakley stopped suddenly. She had caught a glimpse of Catharine’s white face, and drew slowly back, terrified by its expression.