Outside, the bells were ringing for Church: it was a quarter to eleven: Mrs. Arundel was already dressed for Church. She was one of those who do not see any incongruity between Church and a heart full of animosities. She was bitter against her daughter, and hard towards her son, and she hated her son-in-law elect with all the powers of her passionate nature. But, my brothers, what an array of bare benches should we see in every place of worship were those only admitted who came with hearts of charity and love!
'Do you wish to keep me long, Elsie? If so, we will sit down. If not, I am ready for Church, and I do not like to arrive late. People in our position should show a good example.'
'I do not think that I shall keep you very long. But if you sit down, you will be so much more comfortable.'
'Comfort, Elsie, you have driven out of this house.'
'I will bring it back with me, then. On Monday evening, mother, I am coming back.'
'Oh! What do you mean, child? Has the blow really fallen? I heard that it was impending. Is the young man—is he—a prisoner?'
'No, mother. You are quite mistaken. You have been mistaken all along. Yet I shall come back on Monday.'
'Alone, then?'
'I shall leave it to you whether I come back alone, or with the two men whom I most regard of all the world—my lover and my brother.'
'You know my opinions, Elsie. There has been no change in them. There can be none.'