'He'll miss her very much,' she said, sadly.
'Cicely?'
'Yes—she's been a great deal more to him lately than she used to be.'
Nelly stood silently looking out over the lake for a while. In her mind and Hester's there were thoughts which neither could express. Suddenly, Nelly turned to Hester. Her voice sounded strained and quick. 'I never told you—on my way here, I went to see Bridget.'
Hester was taken by surprise. After a moment's silence she said—
'Has she ever repented—ever asked your forgiveness?
Nelly shook her head.
'But I think—she would be sorry—if she could. I shall go and see her sometimes. But she doesn't want me. She seems quite busy—and satisfied.'
'Satisfied!' said Hester, indignantly.
'I mean with what she is doing—with her way of living.'