She hesitated. "No, papa, not to inquire; mamma forbade my asking questions."
"What were you to do, then, Chrystal, since your mother wished to know my sentiments?"
Christobelle hesitated again. She was not prepared for this close investigation.
"Chrystal, whenever you speak, let it be strictly in truth, and with open-heartedness; God and your father, my child, hate insincerity, and untrue lips; speak without fear, and without evasion. What is this all about?"
Christobelle became alarmed at her father's grave observation, and lost all presence of mind; she repeated at once her mother's injunction.
"Papa, I was told to glean your intentions, without sentimentality, that was all; only I don't know what 'glean' means."
"Go to bed, now, my dear child, and I will visit your mother," said her father, in a melancholy tone of voice, which surprised her. "You and I have a journey before us, Chrystal; the day after to-morrow we shall set out for Brierly; you will be useful to Isabel, and improved by Boscawen's society and tastes. Good night, and go to your bed, my love."
She went to her room, and slept soundly, innocent of wrong, and ignorant of the scene which took place in her mother's room, in consequence of her unfortunate disclosure. Christobelle was summoned to Lady Wetheral's bed-side after breakfast; Clara was seated reading near the window, and a small table covered with essence-bottles told her at a glance there had been strife. Christobelle was accosted with much irony.
"Peacemakers are desirable people, Bell, and, doubtless, your heart is enjoying the harmony you have created; pray advance, and behold your delightful work. Am I quite as miserable as you wish, Christobelle? or have you any little poisoned arrow to apply, by way of completing my distress? Pray do me the honour to inform me what my next annoyance shall be!"
Christobelle stood in astonishment; her mother was very seldom bitter in her remarks.