“And so you kindly show what is passing in yours. However, these young ladies may soon be able, perhaps, to tell us more about Hope than we can tell them.”
“My dear, what do you mean?”
“I saw a glance between them, a smile, when you were silencing Sophia. I believe you may prepare yourself for some news, my dear.”
“I have no doubt of Hester’s state of mind—”
“And I feel confident of Hope’s; so here is the case, pretty well made out between us.”
Mrs Grey was in raptures for a moment; but she then resumed her system of mysterious tokens. She shook her head, and owned that she had reason to think her husband was mistaken.
“Well, just observe them the next time they are together; that is all.”
“And my poor Hester looks wretchedly, Mr Grey. It really makes my heart ache to see her.”
“How differently people view things! I was just thinking that I never saw her so lovely, with such a sprightliness, such a glow in her face, as five minutes ago.”
“Just this evening, she does not look so pale; but she is sadly altered—grievously changed indeed. Seeing this, is the only thing which reconciles me to parting with her. Now, Mr Grey, I should like to know what sets you smiling in that manner at the poor girl.”