“Yes.”
“Without reserve?”
“Entirely without reserve.”
“When that old woman comes to London, Carmina—and sees you, and sees Mrs. Gallilee—don’t you think the consequences may be serious? and your position between them something (if you were ten times stronger than you are) that no fortitude can endure?”
Carmina started up on the sofa. She was not able to speak. Miss Minerva gave her time to recover herself—after another look at the clock.
“I am not alarming you for nothing,” she proceeded; “I have something hopeful to propose. Your friend Teresa has energies—wild energies. Make a good use of them. She will do anything you ask or her. Take her with you to Canada!”
“Oh, Frances!”
Miss Minerva pointed to the letter on the desk. “Does he tell you when he will be back?”
“No. He feels the importance of completely restoring his health—he is going farther and farther away—he has sent to Quebec for his letters.”
“Then there is no fear of your crossing each other on the voyage. Go to Quebec, and wait for him there.”