At the
psychological moment he would present himself and exact his pound of
flesh.
Christine's attitude toward her father changed forever on the night of
David's luckless appeal. She had the whole story of her mother's life
before she went to bed that night. From that unhappy hour of truth she
gave all of her love to the abused gentlewoman whose willfulness and
folly had resulted in her own appearance in the world. The knowledge
that David knew the story, with all others, at first raised a sombre
barrier between them, which was broken down by the young man's tender
consideration and devotion.
She was no longer the gay, sprightly creature he had known at first.
Now she lived well within herself, a curb on her spirits that seldom
relaxed except when she was happily alone with her mother and David.
Then she breathed freely and cast off the weight that oppressed her.
There was no mistaking David's attitude toward this dainty, bewitching
comrade of those troublous, trying days. The whole company saw,
approved, and was delighted.
Joey alone spoke to him of what was in the minds of all. "Jacky," he
said one blustering evening, "I see how it is with you now; but is it
going to endure? Don't blush, my lad, and don't flare up.
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