I thought she had
sent you her instructions; but I see you are over wearied and daunted,"
she added, more kindly; "you will be better when you have taken some
food. Molly, I say, you sluggard of a wench, bring the lady's supper,
and don't stand gaping there."
Mrs. Aylward hurried away to hasten operations, and Aurelia began
somewhat to recover her senses, though she was still so much dismayed
that she dreaded to look up lest she should see something frightful,
and started at the first approach of steps.
A dainty little supper was placed before her, but she was too faint
and sick at heart for appetite, and would have excused herself.
However, Mrs. Aylward severely said she would have no such folly,
filled a glass of wine, and sternly administered it; then setting
her down in a large chair, helped her to a delicate cutlet. She
ate for very fright, but her cheeks and eyes were brightened, the
mists of terror and exhaustion began to clear away, and when she
accepted a second help, she had felt herself reassured that she had
not fallen into unkindly hands. If she could only have met a smile
she would have been easier, but Mrs. Aylward was a woman of sedate
countenance and few words, and the straight set line of lips
encouraged no questioning, so she merely uttered thanks for each
act of hospitality.
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