‘Too late for that, certainly,’ said Louis; and the smile was a relief to both.  ’At any rate, it shows that he can spare you.  Only give him time.  When he has my father’s explanation—­and my father is certain to be so concerned at having cast any imputation on a lady.  His first thought was to apologize—­’

’That is not all!  I remember now that dear mamma always said she did not know whether he would consent.  Oh! how weak I was ever to listen—­’

’No, Mary, that must not be said.  It was my presumptuous, inveterate folly that prevented you from trusting my affection when she might have helped us.’

’I don’t know.  It would have caused her anxiety and distress when she was in no state for them.  I don’t think it did,’ said Mary, considering; ‘I don’t think she ever knew how much I cared.’

The admission could only do Louis’s heart good, and he recurred to his arguments that her father could be persuaded by such a letter as he felt it in him to write.

‘You do not know all,’ said Mary.  ’I could not show you his letter; but, from it and from my aunt, I better understand what impressions he has of you all, and how hopeless it is.’

‘Tell me!’

She could not help giving herself the relief, when that most loving, sympathizing face was pleading with her to let him comfort her.  She knew there was no fiery nor rancorous temper to take umbrage, and it was best for him to know the completeness of the death-blow.

’Oh, Louis! he fancies that my dear mother’s fondness for her own family destroyed his domestic peace.  He says their pride and narrow notions poisoned—­yes, that is the word—­poisoned her mind against him; and that was the reason he insisted on my being brought up here, and kept from you all.’

’But I don’t understand why he let you come straight home to us, and live in Dynevor Terrace?’

’Then he was really sorry mamma was so ill; and—­and for all that was past; I am sure he felt it was the last parting, and only wished to do anything that could make up to her.  He freely gave her leave to go wherever she pleased, and said not a word against Northwold.  It was one of her great comforts that he never seemed in the least vexed at anything she had done since we went home.  Besides, my aunt says that he and Mr. Dynevor had some plans about James and me.’

’He will have that out of his head.  He will come to reason.  Fond of you, and sorry for the past, he will listen.  No wonder he was in a passion; but just imagine what it would be to heed half Jem Frost says when he is well worked up!’

‘Papa is not like James,’ said Mary; ’things go deeper with him.  He never forgets!  I shall never forgive myself for not having spoken to Robson!  I know his manner, seeming to assent and never committing himself, and I ought to have gone through anything rather than have taken such an accusation for granted.’