The thoughts which occupied the mind of Mrs. Lenoir and the Duchess when they met at the railway-station were of too disturbing a nature to allow of conversation. Only a few words were exchanged. Mrs. Lenoir, who was the first to arrive, accosted the Duchess immediately she entered the waiting-room.
"You are the young lady I am to accompany to Sevenoaks?"
The uttermost power of her will could not prevent her voice from trembling.
The Duchess glanced at the speaker, but her agitation prevented her from closely observing Mrs. Lenoir. She saw, however, that Mrs. Lenoir's dress and manner were those of a lady.
"Mr. Temple told me I should meet a lady here," said the Duchess.
"I saw him to-day," returned Mrs. Lenoir, "and it was arranged that I should come to you."
The gentle voice acted soothingly upon the Duchess.
"I have the tickets; the train starts at a quarter to seven. What a dreadful night it is! We must be quick, or we shall miss the train."
"We have ample time," said Mrs. Lenoir, looking at the clock; "it is not half-past six. You look faint and weary, my dear; have you had tea?"
"No."