He hurried out.
“What is the matter with you. Leslie?” he said.
“My head is very bad. I cannot go to the picnic.”
“Leslie! you will upset us all, and as to mother——”
“Listen, Lew, I cannot give you any reason; but neither can I go, and I want you to help me.”
“But I fail to understand. You were full of going a moment ago.”
“I know, but with a headache like mine there is nothing for it but rest and quiet. Do help me, please. I am most anxious that mother should have this one delightful, happy day. Let Kitty and Mabel go in the carriage, and Dan too, if there is room, and will you take Hester by train? Let mother think that I am coming with you. Then, when you meet by the river, you must just tell her that I had a bad headache, and was obliged to stay at home. I cannot go, Lew; there is no use in coaxing me; and I do not wish mother to know until she gets to Richmond.”
“Well, of course, I’ll manage it if it must be managed,” said Llewellyn; “but I cannot imagine what is up. I am certain it is more than a mere headache; but of course, Leslie, I have no intention of forcing your confidence.”
“Don’t, like a darling,” said Leslie. She touched him on the arm, and looked into his face.
“Then, you are in trouble, dear old girl?”