She had lost--he realized it--the bloom of first youth. How thin was the
hand which gathered up her dress!--the hand once covered with his
kisses. Yet she seemed to him lovelier than ever, and he divined her
more woman than ever, more instinct with feeling, life, and passion.
* * * * *
Sir James's messenger met them half-way. At the door the ambulance
waited.
Chide, bareheaded, and a group of doctors, gardeners, and police stood
beside it.
"I follow you," said Marsham to Sir James. "There is a great deal to
do."
Chide assented coldly. "I have written to Broadstone, and I have sent a
preliminary statement to the papers."
"I can take anything you want to town," said Marsham, hastily. "I must
go up this evening."
He handed Broadstone's telegram to Sir James.
Chide read it and returned it in silence. Then he entered the ambulance,
taking his seat beside the shrouded form within. Slowly it drove away,
mounted police accompanying it. It took a back way from Beechcote, thus
avoiding the crowd, which on the village side had gathered round
the gates.
Diana, on the steps, saw it go, following it with her eyes; standing
very white and still.
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