In the meantime, Robina herself had gone up the avenue to meet Mr Durrant.
He was just about to drive down to Sunshine Lodge when he met a pale girl with those remarkably steadfast and beautiful eyes which had always attracted him and which had always won his heart. She was waiting for him at the gates.
“Why, Robina!” he said.
“I want to speak to you, Mr Durrant, please,” said Robina.
Mr Durrant immediately motioned to the coachman to stop and sprang out of the carriage.
“What is it, dear?” he said. “Is anything wrong? Will you get in and drive down to the house or—what shall we do?”
“I would rather talk to you before we get to the house. I want to see you alone,” said Robina.
“Very well,” said Mr Durrant. He gave his servant directions, and the carriage disappeared towards the stables.
Mr Durrant then took Robina’s hand.
“Now what is it, my dear child?” he said. “You don’t look well, dear. Robina, what is wrong with you?”