You must forgive this, as
indeed each word I have to say is, forgive! She is so generous and
kind! You know I meant to do my best, but they were right, I was too
young.
'Forgive yours,
'A. K.'
The Dusautoys were somewhat taken by surprise, but they knew too well
the need of promptitude to dissuade her; and Sophia herself sat
aghast at the commotion, excited by the habitual discomfort of which
she had thought so little. The vicar, when he found Mrs. Kendal in
earnest, offered to go with them and protect them; but Albinia was a
veteran in independent railway travelling, and was rather affronted
by being treated as a helpless female. Mrs. Dusautoy, better aware
of what the journey might be to one at least of the travellers, gave
advice, and lent air cushions, and Albinia bade her good night with
an almost sobbing 'thank you,' and an entreaty that if Mr. Kendal
came home before them, she would tell him all about it.
At home, she instantly sent the stupefied Sophy to bed, astonished
the little nurse, ordered down boxes and bags, and spent half the
night in packing, glad to be stirring and to tire herself into
sleeping, for her remorse and her anticipations were so painful,
that, but for fatigue, her bed would have been no resting-place.
CHAPTER IX.
Winifred Ferrars was surprised by Mr.
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