“You ought to know,” said he, hurriedly, “she will be long away, perhaps. He is very ill; has had an accident; lost the use of both legs—may be in great danger. Think what you will do in her absence.”
“Stay here,” said Gwyneth, decidedly.
“No, dear Miss Duncan, your brother mentioned it, approved my plan; let Lady Rupert fetch you to-morrow. I will arrange it all.”
“Oh, what matters about us! it is for Hilary we must think; you go back with her?”
“I will take charge of her to Portsmouth; will you not let me provide for your comfort too?”
“You are very good to think of me! Now let me go to Hilary!”
Mrs. Hepburn looked bewildered, stunned; she was trying to dress for her journey, while Sarah and Nest were packing a small carpet-bag.
“Law, ma’am, don’t take on so; I dare say it is not so bad. Why should you expect the worst?”
“I do not know what I expect, Sarah; please make haste. What I do not take, Gwyneth, you must send, if I want it. I don’t know now. Surely, it is time to go.”
“Your shoes, Hilary, those slippers will not do for traveling,” said the sharp-eyed Nest. “Give them to me that I may pack them up; here are your boots!”