“And have you the locket and the two rings?”
“They were kept in the hospital for some years, but upon my retiring, I begged them of the governors, and they at once gave orders for them to be handed over to me. I have them now.”
“And do not intend to part with them, I hope?”
“Certainly not. I consider they belong to Aveline.”
“Why, Mrs. Maitland, this is indeed an extraordinary story.”
“I have thought it a duty incumbent on me to furnish you with all the particulars. If, after hearing them, you are still disposed to have Aveline—”
“If!” ejaculated the young engineer. “You do not for a moment suppose I have any desire to cancel our engagement. No, my dear madam, it is an additional reason for my cherishing and protecting her.”
“Well, Tom, I hope—nay, I am sure—you will make her a good husband; and I frankly admit, if it had been left to me to select one for her, I should have chosen you.”
Gatliffe sprang to his feet, put his arms round the speaker’s neck, and kissed her fondly.
“Tush, tush, you silly boy,” said the widow, “what do you want to be kissing an old woman like me for?”