"Nay," said she, soothingly, "I shall still rely on somewhat of protection and of kindness from you."
"And that, indeed, you shall have. I have power and wealth,—both shall be at your command. I will do everything I can to promote your future happiness. You will, of course, fix your abode at Avonleigh."
"In that," replied Francesca, "I shall be ruled by you. Here, certainly, I cannot remain; for Lucy Aylmer's marriage takes place in a week."
"You shall see me again this evening," answered Lord Avonleigh. "By that time, preparations shall have been made for your reception and welcome to the house of a father, whom you must learn to forgive ere you learn to love."
He kissed her brow, and left her. She watched him unconsciously, till the winding walk hid him from her sight, and then sank back on her seat, every nerve relaxing from its high-strained excitement into utter and still despondency.
