“My dear,” and he put the other hand so that he completely encircled the little slim waist, “I do quite believe that Mr. Wardour taught you all the good you have. There is nothing I am so glad of as that you love and reverence him as he deserves—as far as such a child can do. I hope you always will, and that your gratitude will increase with your knowledge of the sacrifices that he made for you.”
It was too much of a speech for Kate to answer; but she nestled up to him, and felt as if she loved him more than ever. He added, “I should like to see Mr. Wardour, but I can hardly leave your aunt yet. Would he come to London?”
Kate gave a gasp. “Oh dear! Sylvia said he would have no money for journeys now! It cost so much his coming in a first-class carriage with me.”
“You see how necessary it is to learn consideration,” said the Colonel; “I must run down to see him, and come back at night.”
By this time they were at the aunts’ door, and both entered the drawing-room together.
Lady Barbara anxiously hoped that Katharine had behaved well.
“Perfectly well,” he answered; and his face was really brighter and tenderer.
It was Kate’s bed-time, and she was dismissed at once. She felt that the kiss and momentary touch of the hand, with the “Bless you,” were far more earnest than the mere greeting kiss. She did not know that it had been his wonted good-night to his own children.
When she was gone, he took a chair, and explained that he could remain for a little while, as Lord de la Poer would bear his wife company. Lady Jane made room for him on the sofa, and Lady Barbara looked pleased.
“I wished to talk to you about that child,” he said.
“I have been wishing it for some time,” said Lady Barbara; “waiting, in fact, to make arrangements till your return.”
“The child’s natural home is with you or with me.”
There was a little silence; then Lady Jane nervously caught her brother’s hand, saying, “O Giles, Giles, you must not be severe with her, poor little thing!”
“Why should I be severe, Jane?” he said. “What has the child done to deserve it?”
“I do not wish to enter into particulars,” said Lady Barbara. “But she is a child who has been so unfortunately brought up as to require constant watching; and to have her in the house does so much harm to Jane’s health, that I strongly advise you not to attempt it in Emily’s state of spirits.”