“Not a bit of it; she was the peacemaker, always on the side of the weak; and though she was a delicate child, she 'd fight against oppression with the passion of a tigress. Wasn't it strange?” said he, after a pause. “There we were, five of us, treated and reared exactly alike; in early life, certainly, there were no distinctions made, nor any favoritism practised. We were of the same race and blood, and yet no two of us were alike. Temple had, perhaps, some sort of resemblance to Marion, but he had not her bold, daring spirit. Where she was courageous, he 'd have been crafty. Whatever good there was amongst us, Nelly had it.”
Another and longer pause now succeeded. “I say, George,” cried Jack, at last, “how do you mean to break it to the girls that I 'm here? I take it, poor Nelly's nerves must have suffered sorely of late. Is she likely to stand a shock without injury?”
“It is exactly what I 'm trying to resolve this moment. Flushed with the walk, and cheered by the fresh air, you don't look sickly now.”
“Ah, my dear fellow, that's not the worst of it. It is the sight of me as recalling my fallen fortune—that's what I fear for her; her last good-bye to me was blended with joy at my promotion—I was going to take up my command! She has never seen me since my disgrace.”
“Don't call it that, Jack; we all know there is no other blame attaches to you than rashness.”
“When rashness can make a man forget his condition, it's bad enough; but I 'll not go back to these things. Tell me how I am to meet her.”
“Perhaps it would be best I should first see Julia, and tell her you are here. I always like to ask her advice.”
“I know that of old,” said Jack, with a faint smile.
“I 'll leave you in the summer-house at the end of the garden, there, till I speak with Julia.”
“Not very long, I hope.”