‘No, no!’ said she. ‘Just once, while I was in London, I happened to be at a regatta, with my friends, and Otho was there too. And I saw a disagreeable-looking man come up to him, who did not know I had anything to do with him. They talked together for a little while, and I did not hear what they said, till suddenly the man said, “But mind you, Askam, none of your tricks. You are a slippery customer at the best.” I felt so indignant that I turned round quite angrily; and then he saw that I knew Otho, and they laughed, and moved a little to one side.’
‘I don’t see that that incident has any necessary connection with this,’ said he, quietly. ‘You can do nothing, you know, Miss Askam. Do not distress yourself needlessly. To do that is to render yourself powerless when any real emergency arises.’
‘Yes, I know,’ said she, and paused. He looked at her, and saw that she looked worn and anxious.
‘Is there anything else I could do for you?’ he began. ‘Because I should be so glad——’
‘No, thank you, nothing, except to promise that should you hear anything more about the thing, you will let me know.’
‘That I certainly will,’ said he, and rose to take his leave. ‘You still remain amongst us, in Bradstane,’ he observed, gravely, but kindly, as he held out his hand.
‘Yes,’ said Eleanor, with a quick flush. ‘I do not wish to go away. I—I intend to stay here.’
‘Always?’
‘I think—always.’ She spoke steadily, but did not look at him.
‘I am very glad to hear that,’ replied Michael, quietly. ‘Now I know you are strong when you choose to be so. Will you promise not to fret foolishly over this thing—not to brood and mope over it; or else I shall be sorry I complied with your request?’