Rowland was unconscious of the approach of Gladys, and was startled from his trance by the words,—
'Mr Rowland, sir, I think the mistress will be expecting you home.'
He looked at her half unconsciously for a moment, and then rousing himself, said,—
'Oh! Gladys, is it you? Yes, I will go directly. Where? Home? Of course it is time. I will walk with you.'
These were the only words spoken between the pair. Rapidly he strode down the avenue, inwardly resolving never to enter it again; as rapidly along the road that led to the farm, until he reached the house, with Gladys breathless by his side.
'I am afraid I have walked too quickly, Gladys, I am very sorry. I was anxious to get home, I do not feel very well.'
With these words he hurried through the passage, and was going to his room, when his father met him and called him into the parlour. He felt so bewildered that he scarcely knew what his mother said, when she told him how proud and happy he had made her by his conduct that day.
'All, my dear son, church-people and dissenters were pleased with your sermon, and the way you managed everything. Your aunt repeated it word for word to me, and it was just what I like. This is the first comfort I have felt since—'
Mrs Prothero pressed her son's hand, and her eyes filled with tears.
'Thank you, mother, I am glad,' was all Rowland could say.