“I wish I could think so,” he rejoined, sadly. “But I cannot. With such a general as Forster we shall do no good. But where are Dorothy and Father Norham?”
“I left them in the large room opening from the hall,” she replied.
“I must go and bid them welcome,” said the earl. “I am rejoiced that Dorothy has come. She has great influence with her brother, and may extricate us from the dreadful dilemma in which we are placed.”
“Finding your quarters so good, I have asked her to stay with me here,” said the countess. “I don't think she will be in the way.”
“Not in the least,” replied the earl. “There is room for a dozen more. My brother Charles is the only person in the house with me, and nothing can be more agreeable to him than Dorothy's society. By-the-bye, I must tell you that since his arrival here, the general has fallen desperately in love with a fair widow—Mrs. Scarisbrick. I mention the matter because I have no doubt you will soon see her. She is really very handsome, as are all the Preston women, who have made sad work with most of the young men in my regiment. They are half crazed about them. But come along, sweetheart. We must not remain talking here. I want to see Dorothy and Father Norham.”
Newbiggin was standing in the passage as the earl came forth with the countess, and received a very kindly greeting from his lordship.
“I am very glad to see you, Newbiggin,” said Lord Derwentwater. “I haven't time to talk to you now, but I shall have a good deal to say to you, when I am more at leisure.”
“Has your lordship any orders to give me?” inquired the butler.
“Yes. Select a good room for Miss Forster, and another for Father Norham, and let all be got ready for them without delay.”
“It shall be done, my lord,” replied the butler. “Your lordship will find them in this room,” he added, opening the door of a spacious and well-furnished apartment.