“Yes, yes,” said Kate, sadly. “I should not have been told of your coming, or I would have insisted upon seeing you.”
“You would! Brave girl! I like to hear you speak out so firmly. Well, there was nothing for it but for me, middle-aged man as I am, to play the daring gallant at the lady’s window—lattice, I ought to say.”
“Please don’t talk like this, Mr Garstang,” said Kate. “It does not sound like you to be playful in your manner.”
“Thank you, my child, you are right; it does not I accept the reproof. Now, then, to be businesslike. You have been thinking deeply, of course, since you have been alone?”
“Yes, very, very seriously about my position. Mr Garstang, it is impossible for me to stay here.”
“Quite impossible. The conduct to you of your aunt and uncle makes them—no matter what promises they may give you—quite unworthy of your trust. Well?”
“I have pretty well decided that I shall go away to-morrow with Eliza, our old nurse and maid.”
“A most worthy woman, my dear. You could not do better; but—”
“But what?” said Kate, nervously.
“I do not wish to alarm you, but do you fully realise your position here?”