But I don't know what to do, no one can tell how long
it may go on, and we have no right to trifle with his feelings.'
'If he had any feelings for you, he would not ask it.'
'No, mamma, indeed!' cried Lucy, earnestly; 'it was his feeling for
me; he said I was looking quite languid and emaciated, and that he
could not allow my--good looks and vivacity to be diminished by my
attendance in a sick chamber. I told him never to mind, for it did
not hurt me; but he said it was incumbent on him to take thought for
me, and that he could not present me to his friends if I were not in
full bloom of beauty; yes, indeed, he said so; and then he said it
would be the right season for Italy.'
'It is impossible you can think of going so far away! Oh, Lucy! you
should not have consented.'
'I could not help it,' said Lucy, sobbing. 'I could not bear to
contradict him, but please, mamma, let papa settle it for me. I
don't want to go away; I told him I never would, I told him I had
promised never to leave dear grandmamma; but you see he is so
resolute, and he cannot bear to be without me. Oh! do get him to put
it off--only if he is angry and goes to Italy without me, I know I
shall die!'
'We will take care of you, my dear. I am sure we shall be able to
show him how impossible a gay wedding would be at present; and I do
not think he can press it,' said Albinia, moved into soothing the
present distress, and relieved to find that there was no
heartlessness on Lucy's side.
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