'I mean it, if you will join me, that you and I should rejoice the heart of the dear old man—will you? He has been brooding over your loneliness here if you are unmarried, ever since his recovery. I owe my life to you, and every debt of gratitude to him. Now, Jenny!'
'Oh! Captain Beauchamp—Nevil, if you will . . . if I may have my hand. You exaggerate common kindness. He loves you. We both esteem you.'
'But you don't love me?'
'Indeed I have no fear that I shall be unable to support myself, if I am left alone.'
'But I want your help. I wake from illness with my eyes open. I must have your arm to lean on now and then.'
Jenny dropped a shivering sigh.
'Uncle is long absent!' she said.
Her hand was released. Beauchamp inspected his watch.
'He may have fallen! He may be lying on the common!'
'Oh!' cried Jenny, 'why did I let him go out without me?'