“I am positive. I have been to the Arbuthnots’. I received the news from the Colonel himself. He had a letter from Florence in his hand. He spoke of it as a test—a test; but I call it the vilest of all conspiracies! I could still have had those girls with me, and your son would have married Florence and been rich.”
“Good Heavens!” said the Major. “If I thought—but it isn’t too late. Michael—that young dog! Mrs Fortescue; don’t say a word; don’t breathe anything. Keep my secret and I vow I will help you in the future. I will go to London to see Michael this evening. All is not lost.”
The Major, trembling exceedingly, crossed the room. He rang the bell and desired the servant to bring him an A B C. He looked up a train in Mrs Fortescue’s presence. She was no longer hateful to him. If she could help him at this juncture, he would be her friend for the rest of her life.
“Never mind the Arbuthnots,” he said. “Yes; they doubtless did know. Just like the Colonel. It is a conspiracy—it is shameful! But let me make an effort in my poor boy’s cause. Don’t breathe to any one that I have gone to London. I will just walk in the direction of the station, and slip in when no one is observing, and take the next train to town.”
“I will keep your secret, trust me,” said Mrs Fortescue.
Chapter Fifteen.
Turning over a New Leaf.
The Major arrived in town towards evening.