“But he has been led to expect more,” said Mrs. Calverley.
“Yes; that is unfortunate. His expectations having been raised so highly, a disappointment may ensue. But I do not anticipate a rupture is to be apprehended. Let me state that I did my best to prevent the introduction of this objectionable clause into the will. But my remonstrances were ineffectual, Mr. Calverley was determined. 'If she marries again, the property shall return to my family,' he said. So I was obliged to carry out his instructions. I know not what are your plans, madam, but my advice to you is to delay the marriage as long as you can, so that some arrangement may be made with Miss Calverley.”
“I will follow your advice, Mr. Carteret. But, when Mildred discovers her power, I think she will prove impracticable.”
“It may be so,” he rejoined. “But you are still mistress of the situation. She may prevent your marriage, but she can do nothing more. Evidently, she is in the dark at present. Keep this matter secret till you have concocted your plans; you will then be able to make a better arrangement.”
“But you forget that I have an enemy in the house. Whoever abstracted the will—and I still suspect Norris—-is in possession of the important secret, and will communicate it. That is certain.”
Struck by what she said, Mr. Carteret reflected for a few minutes.
“Under the circumstances, it may be well to keep on good terms with old Norris,” he said. “Chetwynd and Mildred, I find, are both absent, so that you need not apprehend immediate interference from either of them. Summon me, if you require my counsel, and I will come at once. I can render you no service just now. But mind! make no proposition to Mildred without consulting me.”
And he left the cabinet.
As he went out, he found Norris in the hall, and took the opportunity of speaking to him.
“Well, Norris,” he said, “you're going to have a great change in the house before long. How does it suit you?”