Mr. Rockharrt alighted and then gave his hand to his companion, who tripped lightly to the pavement, and let him lead her up stairs and into the house. Cora stood at the door of the drawing room. Mr. Rockharrt led his visitor up to his granddaughter, and said:
"Mrs. Stillwater is very much fatigued, Cora. Take her at once to her room and make her comfortable; and have dinner on the table by the time she is ready to come down."
He uttered these words in a peremptory manner, without waiting for the usual greeting that should have passed between the hostess and the visitor.
Cora touched a bell.
"Oh! let me embrace my sweet Cora first of all! Ah! my sweet child! You and I both widowed since the last time we met!" cooed Rose, in her most dulcet tones, as she drew Cora to her bosom and kissed her before the latter could draw back.
"How do you do?" was the formal greeting that fell from the lady's lips.
"As you see, dearest—'Not happy, but resigned,'" plaintively replied the widow.
"You quote from a king's minion, I think," said Cora, coldly.
Rose took no notice of the criticism, but tenderly inquired.
"And you, dearest one? How is it with you?"