She
too had grown--by the mere contact with Diana's fate. Within her tiny
frame the soul of her had risen to maternal heights, embracing and
sustaining Diana.
He would have given the world to question her. But after her first
answer to his first inquiry he had fallen tongue-tied on the subject of
Diana, and Nigeria had absorbed conversation. She, on her side, wished
him to know many things, but did not see how to begin upon them.
At last she attempted it.
"You have heard of our election? And what happened?"
He nodded. His mother had kept him informed. He understood Marsham had
been badly hurt. Was it really so desperate?
In a cautious voice, watching the window, Muriel told what she knew. The
recital was pitiful; but Hugh Roughsedge sat impassive, making no
comments. She felt that in this quarter the young man was adamant.
"I suppose"--he turned his face from her--"Miss Mallory does not now go
to Tallyn."
"No." She hesitated, looking at her companion, a score of feelings
mingling in her mind. Then she broke out: "But she would like to!"
His startled look met hers; she was dismayed at what she had done. Yet,
how not to give him warning?--this loyal young fellow, feeding himself
on futile hopes!
"You mean--she still thinks--of Marsham?"
"Of nothing else," she said, impetuously--"of nothing else!"
He frowned and winced.
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