As the hour was late, the party now separated and retired to their respective rooms.
The last thought of Colonel Eastworth, in sinking to sleep, was:
“It will come to this—that my beloved Minie must choose between her loyalty and her lover—and her lover will be quite sure to triumph!”
CHAPTER XXI.
ELFRIDA’S ARRIVAL.
As soon as the early family breakfast was over, Mr. Goldsborough got ready to go to the convent to fetch away his daughter.
“You will bring her immediately here, I hope?” said Erminie.
“Oh, of course—of course he will,” added Erminie’s father.
“Thank you both. I certainly intend to call with Alberta before leaving town,” replied Mr. Goldsborough.
“Call with her? Bring her here and make a visit with her. You surely cannot mean to take her direct from the convent to the country without giving her a sight of the city!” exclaimed the old doctor.
“We must leave Washington this evening at the latest. The necessity for our return is imperative!” answered Mr. Goldsborough, gravely.