He left her smarting under that suggestion.
While he was smoking his cigar in the garden, Mrs. Bassett came home. She was in raptures with Lady Bassett, and told her daughter all that had passed; and, in conclusion, that she had promised Lady Bassett to take her to Huntercombe to-morrow.
“Me, dear!” cried Ruperta; “why, what can she want of me?”
“All I know is, her ladyship wishes very much to see you. In my opinion, you will be very welcome to poor Lady Bassett.”
“Is she very ill?”
Mrs. Bassett shook her head. “She is much changed. She says she should be better if we were all at peace; but I don't know.”
“Oh, mamma, I wish it was to-morrow.”
They went to Huntercombe next day; and, ill as she was, Lady Bassett received them charmingly. She was startled by Ruperta's beauty and womanly appearance, but too well bred to show it, or say it all in a moment. She spoke to the mother first; but presently took occasion to turn to the daughter, and to say, “May I hope, Miss Bassett, that you are on the side of peace, like your dear mother and myself?”
“I am,” said Ruperta, firmly; “I always was—especially after that beautiful sermon, you know, mamma.”
Says the proud mother, “You might tell Lady Bassett you think it is your mission to reunite your father and Sir Charles.”