“I am sorry to hear that! but—you are not going far, or to remain long, I hope,” said Colonel Compton.
“I am going back to England, sir,” replied the young man, with a sorrowful glance at Miss De Lancie, who seemed not quite unmoved.
“You astonish us, Lord William! Is this not a sudden resolution?” inquired Mrs. Compton.
“It is a sudden misfortune, my dear madam! Only this morning have I received a letter from my father, announcing the dangerous illness of my dear mother, and urging my instant return by the first homeward-bound vessel. The Venture, Captain Parke, sails for Liverpool at twelve to-day. I must be on board within two hours,” replied the young man, in a mournful voice, turning the same deeply-appealing glance toward Marguerite, whose color slightly paled.
“We are very sorry to lose you, Lord William, and still sorrier for the occasion of your leaving us,” said Cornelia Compton. And so said all the party except—Miss De Lancie.
Lord William then arose to shake hands with his friends.
“I wish you a pleasant voyage and a pleasant arrival,” said the colonel.
“And that you may find your dear mother quite restored to health,” added Mrs. Compton.
“Oh, yes, indeed! I hope you will, and that you will soon visit us again,” said Cornelia.
Marguerite said nothing.