“I must take my leave,” said Sir Bridgnorth, rising hastily. “You shall hear from me soon, or see me.”
“Let us see you, please!” said both young ladies.
Before he could depart, Mrs. Calverley entered, and stopped him.
“Ah, Sir Bridgnorth!” she exclaimed; “I'm delighted to meet you! I want to have a word with you.”
Sir Bridgnorth evidently wished to get away. But she begged him to remain for a few minutes; and he could not very well refuse.
Mrs. Calverley then went on to the young ladies. After the usual greetings had passed, she said to Mildred, “I have a letter for you; or, rather, a packet. It arrived this morning.”
Having given her the letter, she moved to a little distance.
Glancing at the superscription, Mildred turned pale.
“What is it that disturbs you?” inquired Emmeline.
“A letter from Chetwynd,” replied Mildred, in a low voice. “Come to my room, that we may read it together.”