'Why not? That could not possibly make any difference to me, Christina,' replied Gladys quite coldly, though a slight tremor shook her. 'Well, I must go and change my gown. Bourhill is looking lovely to-day, I think. I have seen many beautiful places since I went away, but none so satisfying as this; you will be glad to hear I still think Bourhill the sweetest spot on earth.'
And, with a smile and a nod, she left the little seamstress to her work; but it lay unheeded on her lap, and her eyes were heavy with a grey mist which came up from her heart's bitterness. Yes, life did indeed appear sad and hard to Teen, and all things moving in an entirely contrary way.
Miss Peck came bustling into her darling's dressing-room very shortly, and began to fuss about her in her tender, nervous fashion, as if it were not possible for her to show her gladness at having her back. Gladys did not say very much for a little; but at last, when she was brushing at her soft shining hair, she turned round suddenly, and looked into the old lady's face with rather an odd look on her own.
'Now, sit down, Miss Peck, and tell me every single, solitary thing about Walter.'
The little lady gave a nervous start. She had just been wondering how to introduce this subject.
'Christina has told you that he has been here. My dear, I was very sorry for him. He is a splendid young fellow, and I wish'—
She paused there, nor did Gladys ask her to finish her sentence.
'Teen tells me he is giving up his business. Do you think that is a wise step, Miss Peck?' Gladys asked, with a fine indifference which rather surprised the old lady.
'It may be wise for him, my dear. He seems to feel he cannot remain any longer in this country.'
'Did he ask any questions about me?'