"I do not see Charles," she said, laughing and blushing; "did you not say he promised to be here?"
"Yes," murmured Mowbray.
"He's a great idler, but I love him very much," she said, laughing. "Tell me, Mr. Mowbray, as a friend—you know him well—could I find a better husband?"
Mowbray colored.
"He has a noble heart," he said; "do I understand that——"
"I love him! Yes, I cannot deny it truly; and why should I not make him happy?—for he loves me sincerely."
Mowbray felt his heart sink. Then that new-born hope was doomed to disappointment—that fancy was all folly! His miseries would be only deeper for the brief taste of happiness. He could not reply; he only muttered some inarticulate words, which Philippa did not seem to hear.
"I will decide finally on the day of the party at Shadynook," she said, smiling; "and now let us leave the subject. But do not forget to tell me when Charles enters," she added, laughing.
Poor Mowbray! he felt his heart oppressed with a new and more bitter emotion. The company thought him happy in exclusive possession of the lovely girl's society—his side was pierced with a cruel, rankling thorn.[(Back to Table of Content.)]