"
There was a cry of, "My own, my dearest life," and she was clasped as
she had been immediately after her strange wedding.
However, the sound of a servant's step made them separate instantly,
and Betty begged that the supper might not be removed, since it was
many hours since her sister had tasted food.
Sir Amyas and Betty hovered about her, giving her whatever she could
need, in the partial light, while the others stood apart, exchanging
such explanations as they could. Mr. Wayland said he must report
himself to Government on the morrow; but intended afterwards to take
his wife to Bowstead, whither she had sent all her children with Mrs.
Dove. There was a great tenderness in his tone as he spoke of her,
and when he took leave Mr. Belamour shrugged his shoulders saying,
"She will come round him again!"
"It is true enough that he ought not to have left her to herself,"
said the Major.
"You making excuses for her after the diabolical plot of to-day?"
said Mr. Belamour; "I could forgive her all but that letter to you."
"My Lady loves her will," quoted the Major; "it amounts to insanity
in some women, I believe."
"So I might say does men's infatuation towards women like her,"
muttered Mr. Belamour.
By this time Aurelia had finished her meal, and Betty was anxious to
carry her off without any more excitement, for she was still drowsy
and confused.
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