Another time she was entreated to
give a lock of her hair, and she of course did so, though it was
strange that it should confer any pleasure on her suitor in the dark.
CHAPTER XX. THE MUFFLED BRIDEGROOM.
This old fantastical Duke of dark corners.--
_Measure for Measure._
There was some coming and going of Mr. Hargrave in the ensuing weeks;
and it began to be known that Miss Delavie was to become the wife of
the recluse. Mrs. Aylward evidently knew it, but said nothing; Molly
preferred a petition to be her waiting maid; Jumbo grinned as if over-
powered with inward mirth; the old ladies in the pew looked more sour
and haughty than ever to discourage "the artful minx," and the little
girls asked all manner of absurd and puzzling questions.
My Lady was still at Bath, and Aurelia supposed that the marriage would
take place on her return; and that the Major and Betty would perhaps
accompany her. The former was quite in his usual health again, and
had himself written to give her his blessing as a good dutiful maiden,
and declare that he hoped to be with her for her wedding, and to give
himself to his honoured friend.
She was the more amazed and startled when, one Sunday evening in spring,
Mr.
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