“Yes.”
And the thoughtless little lady, totally forgetful that the communication had been confidential, imparted to her the contents of Mark’s letter to India, and the indignation she had expressed at its contents, and the fear she had betrayed lest her father and uncle should discover her lover’s change of sentiments.
Mrs. Sutherland heard the story with a thoughtful brow, and at its close, said—
“And do you not think, Valeria, that the discussion of this subject between them at present would end fatally for our hopes?”
“I do not know, indeed. I cannot estimate the strength of Mr. Sutherland’s convictions and purposes.”
“But you think that India will never yield to them?”
“Never!”
“And so think I. Yet Mark, dear, deluded child, would stake his soul on what he calls her heroism. Well, Valeria, now will you promise me to prevent an interview as long as you can, to give me an opportunity of trying to bring that poor boy to reason?”
“Ha! ha! ha! It is a thankless task, but I will undertake it. But you must give me an assistant, to relieve me sometimes, and to better insure the success of your enterprise. Confide in Uncle Billy, and let him be on duty while I am off.”
“I intend to have a talk with my brother upon the subject, but in the mean time I rely mainly upon you. Promise me again that you will be vigilant.”