Rhoda colored high at the compliment.
“Wells, cows, granary, real education—what you like” said he. “I know your mind. Begin abolishing the lower orders in the only way they can be got rid of—by raising them in comfort, cleanliness, decency, and knowledge. Then I shall not be missed. I'm going abroad.”
“Going abroad?”
“Yes. Here are my plans: alter them for the better if you can. All the work to be done by the villagers. Weekly wages. We buy materials. They will be more reconciled to improved dwellings when they build them themselves. Here are the addresses of the people who will furnish money. It will entail traveling; but my people will always meet you at the station, if you telegraph from Taddington. You accept? A thousand thanks. I am afraid I must be off.”
She went into the hall with him, half bewildered, and only at the door found time to ask after Zoe Vizard.
“A little better, I think, than when she came.”
“Does she know you are going abroad?”
“No; I don't think she does, yet. It was settled all in a hurry.”
He escaped further questioning by hurrying away.
Miss Gale was still looking after him, when Ina Klosking came down, dressed for a walk, and leaning lightly on Miss Dover's arm. This was by previous consent of Miss Gale.