His manner was convincing. For a minute her joy overcame her, then she burst into questions. "Why had she not known,—why had he not come to her?"
"You shall ask him, Derrice, but you will be cautious. He is ill."
"Yes, yes, but what do you mean by ill,—not very ill?—oh, don't say that, Justin, dear Justin," and in a tremor of fear she clung to his arm, and wildly scrutinised his face.
"Rather ill, I fear, but you will be brave. You will not make him worse. Come, let me see you compose yourself; we shall soon arrive."
She hid her face on his shoulder, and cried quietly, but when the carriage stopped she put her handkerchief in her pocket, and took on a resolute expression.
Prosperity ushered them into the untenanted reception-room, and said that his mistress had gone out.
"She has some guests?" said Justin.
They had gone with her, Prosperity assured him, also Captain White.
"Is Miss Chelda at home?"
"Yes, sir."