Edith took the seat, and waited in wonder for her further speech.
"Where is Marian?" asked Miss Thornton, in an agitated voice.
"Where? Why, I believed her to be at your house!" answered Edith, in surprise and vague fear.
"Good heaven!" exclaimed the lady, growing very pale, and trembling in every limb. Edith started up in alarm.
"Miss Thornton, what do you mean? For mercy's sake, tell me, has anything happened?"
"I do not know—I am not sure—I trust not—tell me! when did you see her last? When did she leave home? this morning?"
"No! last evening, about sundown."
"And she has not returned? You have not seen her since?"
"No!"
"Did she tell you where she was going?"