But again Lilith smiled and shook her head.
In the course of the forenoon a note came from the baroness to Lilith.
“Come to me this evening, my dear, and I will tell you why I changed my ship. The news will astonish you, I think, and it may indeed change my whole destiny. Tell your good landlady not to expect you back soon, as I shall keep you until a late hour, and then return you safe, as before, under the escort of Monsieur Le Grange. Answer by the messenger.
“Affectionately, L. V. B.”
Lilith wrote a note to the effect that she would wait on the baroness at seven o’clock that evening, and sent it by the page who had brought the first.
Then she showed the baroness’ note to Aunt Sophie, who, after hearing it read, was filled with curiosity.
“Now what on earth can she have to tell you that will astonish you so much? Maybe she is going to marry the old secretary, and wants you to be bridesmaid!” said Aunt Sophie.
Lilith looked at the simple woman and laughed. It was the first time she had laughed since her heavy sorrow.
“Well, now, stranger things than that has happened, honey; let alone the fact that nobody can ever account for the whims of these fine ladies. And come to think of it, didn’t she marry an old man for her first husband? Maybe she has a fancy for old men. Some women have, I know,” said Aunt Sophie, nodding her head sagaciously.
“Perhaps,” said Lilith, remembering Mrs. Jab Jordon, and being unable to gainsay Aunt Sophie’s declaration—“perhaps; but I do not think Madame Von Bruyin is one of those women. She married the Herr Baron to please her father.”