'Service over, we clear the church,' he said, and Bryda rose hastily, and with heightened colour went out again into the summer noontide.
CHAPTER X
A LONG RESPITE.
Bryda had nearly reached the entrance to Dowry Square, fearing she might be reprimanded for delay, when her heart beat fast as she recognised the Squire, Mr Bayfield, crossing over it to meet her.
His manner had changed, and he was gentle and even deferential as he bowed low and addressed Bryda.
'Good-day to you, Miss Palmer. I have come, by your leave, to hear your decision.'
'My decision was made, sir, when I last saw you. I have no more to say.'
'Hearken, fair lady, I am not one to be beaten in the race. See here, I had determined, as you know, to get that money, my lawful due. When I saw you standing at the cross roads like an incarnation of spring's loveliness my courage forsook me. In our future interviews it grew fainter and ever fainter. I love you, madam, and if you will promise to be my wife I swear I will never press that old man again for the money. I will work honestly to redeem the neglect of the past, at my poor home, and I swear further I will see you its fair mistress ere another year is out.