Just then a bell was rung, and Norris instantly prepared to answer the summons.
“My young master wants to see me before he sets out for Brackley,” he said. “Stay where you are for a few minutes. I may have something to tell you.”
When Norris reappeared, he had a very joyful expression of countenance.
“I can tell you something you don't know, Laura,” he said--“something about Lady Thicknesse.”
“I know what it is. The wedding-day is fixed.”
“When is it to be?” she exclaimed, eagerly.
“Then her ladyship will get the start of the others,” said Laura.
“I'm not sure of that,” replied Norris, significantly. “I can't tell you any more now. All I know is, my young master and Captain Danvers have just ridden off to Brackley.”
|When Chetwynd and Captain Danvers were about half a mile from Brackley Park, they saw Sir Bridgnorth and Lady Thicknesse coming slowly along in the phaeton.
The pair looked so happy, and so completely engrossed by each other, that the two young men scarcely liked to interrupt them. However, Sir Bridgnorth pulled up, and then the others stopped likewise.
After a few words had passed, her ladyship signed to Chetwynd to come close to her, and said, in a low voice:
“I have had some talk with Lady Barfleur this morning, and I think she has consented that your marriage with Emmeline shall take place immediately. Sir Bridgnorth, who was present at the time, lent his aid, and spoke so urgently, that I think he decided the point.”
“I am infinitely indebted to you both,” said Chet-wynd, glancing at Sir Bridgnorth.
“You will find Emmeline in the garden,” said Lady Thicknesse; “and by the time we come back from our drive, I hope all will be satisfactorily settled.”
“This day week, mind!--not later!” added Sir Bridgnorth, leaning towards him. “All is ready for us at Charlton.”
The baronet then moved on, while the others rode off in the opposite direction.
Arrived at Brackley, our friends ascertained that both young ladies were in the garden, and immediately went in quest of them, and found them seated near the bowling-green.
This being the first time we have seen them since their deliverance from Teresa, we are bound to say they were both looking charmingly, and in capital spirits. Mildred's illness hadn't left a trace on her fair countenance. On the contrary, she seemed prettier than ever.