The hearts of all were too full for connected discourse; for even the doctor himself was more moved by the incidents in which he had that day performed so prominent a part, than ever he had felt before.
At length Tamar turned towards her sister, and said in a low, tremulous tune, "Do you think, dear Esther, that Lord Ellingham will succeed—can you hope it?"
"I have every hope," replied Esther, firmly. "His lordship suggested a plan by which all our father's scruples may be overcome."
"And by which we shall not be separated, save for a few days, Tamar," observed Rainford.
"I would not quit you even for an hour," answered the elder sister, emphatically; "were it not that I was previously assured of being speedily re-united to you."
Rainford pressed her hand tenderly.
"If my friend Arthur does not succeed with Mr. de Medina," said Dr. Lascelles, "I must go myself, and see what I can do. But I confess that I should despair of producing any effect, were Arthur's eloquence to fail."
"Hark!" cried Jacob Smith: "the front door opens!"
The physician hastened to assure himself that no unwelcome step was approaching; and the sisters exchanged looks indicative of the most acute suspense.
"Bravo!" cried the good doctor, returning in a few moments, and clapping his hands together.