The composure of her manner reassured her daughter and deceived Frank, who knew nothing of his host’s affairs, and was thoughtfully musing over the contents of his other missive. He was so absorbed in his musings that he did not hear Florence when she came to bid him good night.
Then he started up.
“Good night and good-by, dear little friend! I have received my summons, and shall be far away from here when you open your eyes in the morning.”
Florence looked aghast.
“So soon—so soon? Oh, mamma! Why must he go?”
“It is his duty, child,” her mother replied gravely. “Don’t distress him with vain regrets. Bid him adieu, and we will both pray for his successful career and safe return.”
Florence put out both her hands.
“Dear Mr. Dormer, good-by! And Heaven bless you! I shall greatly miss you. I shall never, never forget you!”
“You promise too much,” he answered, trying to laugh. “You will be a happy wife long before I return to England—if I ever do.”
Florence raised her eyes to his with dismay.