CHAPTER XXXIII.
THE SOUND OF WEDDING-BELLS.
It was a bright day at the seashore, and the beach was crowded.
Lord and Lady Quaintree were at Eastbourne, with the Honorable Gerald and “the two girls,” as Lois and Blanche were affectionately designated. Frank Amberley had come to spend his few weeks of holiday here.
Paul, by the advice of his colonel, had seen the Italian consul in London. The consul had looked grave, listened to his story, received the register, and said:
“The matter shall have every attention, and in all probability we shall communicate with you shortly respecting it.”
Some months, after all, elapsed before Captain Desfrayne received any communication, and then he learned the painful facts of the unhappy Lucia’s third marriage and the loss of her reason.
He made every effort to find her on settling the affair at the Italian consulate—but vainly, and was obliged to relinquish the attempt. Then he repaired to Eastbourne. The agitation of these last few weeks had told terribly on his health, although he was rejoicing with unspeakable joy over his recovered liberty.
He knew that the Quaintrees had chosen the place; indeed, that had been the attraction for him. And Frank Amberley had seen him during his visit to London, and mentioned his intention of coming.
Captain Desfrayne set off to pay a visit of ceremony to Lady Quaintree.