“It is no such uncommon occurrence. The less fuss made about it the better. She is not to blame, and I shall not be heard crying out misery and disgrace. Your family can very well follow my example. I have nothing to say against her, and I believe she has nothing to say against me. Nothing can prevent such publicity as a petition for divorce must entail. Your father will survive it, never fear.”
The clergyman, remembering how vainly he had tried to change Conolly’s intention when Marian was to be married, felt that he should succeed no better now that she was to be divorced. Silent and cast down, he sat dangling his handkerchief between his knees and leaning forward on his elbows toward the fire.
“You must excuse me if I see my way straight through to the end. I daresay you would rather realize it gradually, inevitable as it is,” added Conolly, looking down with some pity at his drooping figure. “I cannot help my habit of mind. When are you going to be married?” he continued, to Marmaduke.
“I dont know. The Countess is in a hurry. I’m not. But I suppose it will be some time in spring.”
“You have made up your mind to it at last?”
“Oh, I never had any particular objection to it, only I dont like to be hunted into a corner. Conny is a good little girl, and will make a steady wife. I dont like her mother; but as for herself, she is fond of me; and after all, I did lead her a dance long ago. Besides, old boy, the Earl is forking out handsomely; and as I have some notion of settling down to farm, his dust will come in conveniently as capital.”
The clergyman rose, and slowly pulled on his woolen gloves.
“If youre going, I will see you part of the way,” said Marmaduke. “I’ll cheer you up. You know you neednt tell the governor until to-morrow.”
“I had rather go alone, if you intend to behave as you did before.”
“Never fear. I’m as sober as a judge now. Come along. Away with melancholy! Youll have Douglas for a brother-in-law before this time next year.”