"Bravo, young sir," said the Squire; "but you must get back the strength to do it first."
"May I ask for time to think, to consider?" said Mrs. Falconer. "It is too true that we are not in the best of health, but I have accepted an engagement which may greatly conduce to our improvement—"
"It is impossible for you to undertake anything at present, madam," said Mr. Hazelwood, rising. "You have not the strength of a kitten left amongst you, if I'm any judge of appearances. I must candidly say that I cannot breathe for a week myself in this smoky wilderness of chimneys, and mean to quit it as soon as possible. Still, I am willing to wait your pleasure, if you consent to return with me."
"Dear sir, you must be aware that to accept or refuse would be either unwise or ungrateful, without due consideration. May I write to you this evening?"
"Pray do, and I will book places by the mail to-morrow. And I would suggest, with all due respect to you, madam, that you come at once on a visit for three months, and consider the rest afterwards. I can understand some pain for a while at coming home, but I really believe that the pleasure you will confer must make some compensation. Now farewell until to-morrow."
"Sir," said Guy as the Squire gave his address in London, "I am very sorry for my rudeness, and I beg your pardon."
"Granted, young sir; and the best proof of good terms between us will be that you accept my invite, and come at once. Our good young parson will see that it is not lost time in your preparations for work. I protest against everything until we see the country bloom on your cheeks again."
"I am at a loss to thank you as I ought, Mr. Hazelwood," said Mrs. Falconer as she followed her visitor down the stairs, "but you must not think me ungrateful."
"Leave that word out of the case, if you please, madam. We are selfish, as you will find; but I wish my Dorothy had been here to show you the facts." And never in his life having been able face any eyes that glittered in tears, the Squire hastened off, to beguile his time until the Member for his county called at the hotel and took him to "the House" to hear a debate on some important question of the day.
"Dear mother, you will go," said Guy, as Mrs. Falconer returned to the room and looked anxiously at her children for some indication of their wishes.