Well, I
had made other forecasts for him," Mangan went on to say, with a little
hesitation. "I could have imagined another future for him. Indeed, at
one time, I thought that if ever he looked out for a wife it would be--a
little nearer home--"
Her eyes were swiftly downcast; but the next instant she had bravely
raised them and was regarding him.
"Do you mean me, Mr. Mangan?" she asked.
He did not answer; he left her to understand. Miss Francie shook her
head, and there was a slight smile on her lips.
"No, no," she said. "That was never possible at any time. Where was your
clear sight, Mr. Mangan? Of course I am very fond of Linn; I have been
so all my life; and there's nothing I wouldn't do to save him trouble or
pain. But even a stupid country girl may form her ideal--and in my case
Lionel never came anywhere near to that. I know he is good and generous
and manly--he is quite wonderful, considering what he has come through;
but on the other hand--well--oh, well, I'm not going to say anything
against Linn--I will not."
"I am sure you will not," said Mangan, quietly; and here they reached
the station.
The parcel had not arrived; there was nothing for it but to retrace
their steps; and on their way across the common they returned to Lionel
and his wretched plight.
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