IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) Si 1.0 I.I 125 ■ 2.2 1 1^ IL ^ \^ lllllio 1.8 1.4 <^ 'm /a m. '/a % > o' >v '/ /A Photographic Sciences Corporation 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, NY. 14580 (716) 872-4503 i/j h , CIHM/ICMH Microfiche Series. CIHIVI/ICMH Collection de microfiches. Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques Technicar and Bibliographic Notas/Notes tachniquas at bibliographiquas Tha inatituta haa attamptad to obtain tha baat original copy availabia for filming Faaturas of thia copy which may ba bibllographically uniqua, which may altar any of tha imagaa In tha raproduction, or which may aignificantly changa tha uaual mathod of filming, ara chackad balow. D D n n □ D Coiourad covara/ Couvartura da couiaur I I Covars damagad/ Couvarture andommagia Covars rastorad and/or iaminatad/ Couvartura rastauria at/ou paiiiculAa I I Covar titia missing/ La titra da couvartura manqua Coiourad maps/ Cartas gAographiquas en couiaur Coiourad inic (i.a. other than blue or black)/ Encre de couleur (i.e. autre que bieue ou noire) I I Coloured plates and/or illustrations/ Planches et/ou illustrations en couleur Bound with other material/ Ralii avec d'autres documents Tight binding may cause shadows or distortion along interior margin/ La reliure serrie peut causer de I'ombre ou de la distortion la long da la marge intArieure Blank leaves added during restoration may appear within the text. Whenever possible, these have been omitted from filming/ II se peut que certaines pages blanches ajoutias lors d'une restauration apparaissent dans la texte, mals, lorsque cela Atait possible, ces pages n'ont pas AtA film4es. Additional comments:/ Commentaires supplAmentaires: L'Instltut a microfilm^ la mellleur axemplaira qu'll lui a f t4 poaaibia de aa procurer. Lea d6talls da cat axemplaira qui sont paut-Atra unlquaa du point da vua bibliographlqua, qui peuvent modifier une image raproduite, ou qui peuvent exiger une modification dans la m6thode normale de filmaga sont indlqute cl-dessous. I — I Coloured pages/ D Pages de couleur Pages damaged/ Pagea andommagiaa □ Pagea restored and/or laminated/ Pages restaur6es et/ou pelliculAes Pages discoloured, stained or foxed/ Pagea dAcolories, tachat^es ou piqu6ea □ Pages detached/ Pages dAtach^as 77] Showthrough/ iSJ Transparence r~~| Quality of print varies/ Quality in6gala de I'impression Includes supplementary material/ Comprend du matiriai suppl^mentaira Only edition available/ Sauir Edition disponibia Pages wholly or partially obscured by errata slips, tissues, etc., have been refllmed to ensure the best possible image/ Les pages totaiement ou partiellement obscurcies par un fauillet d'errata, une pelure, etc., ont At* filmAes k nouveau de fa9on A obtenir la mailleure image possible. The( to th The poss of th fiimi Origi begii the I sion, othe first sion, or ill The shall TINl whic Map diffe entii begi right requ metl This item is filmed at the reduction ratio checked below/ Ce document est film* au taux de reduction indiquA ci-dessous. 10X 14X 18X 22X 26X aox J 12X 16X 20X 24X 28X 32X 1 re l«tails M du nodiffiar »r una llmage The copy filmed here has been reproduced thanks to the generosity of: National Library of Canada The images appearing here are the best quality possible considering the condition and legibility of the original copy and in keeping with the filming contract specifications. L'exemplaire film6 fut reproduit grflce d la g6n6rosit6 de: Bibliothdque natlonale du Canada Las images suivantes ont 6t^ reproduites avec le plus grand soin, compte tenu de la condition et de la netteti de l'exemplaire film6, et en conformity avec les conditions du contrat de filmage. Original copies in printed paper covers are filmed beginning with the front cover and ending on the last page with a printed or illustrated impres- sion, or the back cover when appropriate. All other original copies are filmed beginning on the first page with a printed or illustrated impres- sion, and ending on the last page with a printed or illustrated impression. es Les exemplaires originaux dont la couverture en papier est imprimie sent filmds en commen9ant par le premier plat et en terminant soit par la dernidre page qui comporte une empreinte d'impression ou d'illustration. soit par le second plat, salon le cas. Tous les autres exemplaires originaux sent filmds en commenqant par la premiere page qui comporte une empreinte d'impression ou d'illustration et en terminant par la dernidre page qui comporte une telle empreinte. The last recorded frame on each microfiche shall contain the symbol — ^> (meaning "CON- TINUED"), or the symbol V (meaning "END "), whichever applies. Maps, plates, charts, etc., may be filmed at different redu'^tion ratios. Those too large to be entirely included in one exposure are filmed beginning in the upper left hand corner, left to right and top to bottom, as many frames as required. The following diagrams illustrate the method: Un des symboles suivants apparaitra sur la dernidre image de cheque microfiche, selon le cas: le symbole -^> signifie "A SUIVRE", le symbole V signifie "FIN". Les cartes, planches, tableaux, etc., peuvent dtre filmds A des taux de reduction diffdrents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour dtre reproduit en un seul clich6, il est film6 d partir de Tangle supdrieur gauche, de gauche d droite, et de haut en bas, en prenant le nombre d'images ndcessaire. Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la mdthode. errata i to e pelure. son A n 1 2 3 32X 1 2 3 4 5 6 FO i A.\ FORGING THE FETTERS i BT Mrs. ALEXANDER, ACTKOX OP " lUB vrooixa O'T " "XIB I>li.SI8T POl," BTO. TORONTO : WILLIAM BRYCE. Entered accorrlipt^ to Act of l*jirlianicnt of ( ■anuda, in the Ottice of the Minister of Agriculture, by William Buyce, in tho year one thousand cigUt hundred and ninety. FORGING THE FETTERS CHAPTER L HIS carriage is engaged, sir/* The speaker was a stout, elderly lady, with a florid complexion, piercing black eyes, and very white hair. She was well dressed in a travelling costume of black serge, and had an air of importance and decision. " I beg your pardon," said the intruder, with a glance at the rugs, books, baskets, scent-bottles, and newspapers which strewed the seats, indicating that the compartment had been for some time in possession of the occupants. " I beg vour pardon/' and be tried to open the door with the intention of retreating ; but the lock 2 FOllGIAG THE FETTERS was stiff, and while hpi atieinpted to turn the handle, a shrill whistle sounded, and they were off. " I am exceedingly sorry for my intrusion," he said, with a sort of smile in his eyes, which abundant beard and moustache prevented from showing on his lips, and he took a seat next the obdurate door, as far as possible from the lady who had addressed him. His voice, though deep and harsh, was nevertheless refined. It seemed to attract the attention of another lady, who was comfortably ensconced in the opposite corner, and nearly hidden behind a newspaper. "Pray do not trouble yourself about it, "she said, smiling. " Twenty minutes will end our journey." She lay down her paper as she spoke, and looked with calm scrutiny at the offender. As their eyes met, the smile died oat of his, and was replaced by an expression of intense, displeased observation. Yet the face and form which attracted his notice were pleasant to the eye, and suggestive to the imagination. A pair FOliGINO THE FETTERS f of velvety brown eyes gazed at him frankly, wide opened and clear of their long lashes, a delicate, but firm, red-lipped mouth was still slightly parted, and a stray lock or two of ripe chestnut- coloured hair curled, tendril-like, over the edge of a dark velvet toque, which matched an admir- ably fitting tweed travelling dress, artistic in its simplicity. Nevertheless, the lady was no regular beauty; decidedly tip-tilted nose, and a colourless, though clear, soft complexion, were drawbacks which some dear friends considered insuperable ; while others, less sound in judgment, pronounced these defects infinitely more charming than faultlessness of feature. She was not very young either; that is, she had left her teens behind her, and might have been five or six-and- twenty; there was the composure of some ex- perience and an assured position in her quiet pose and steady eyes. '* The trains are so crowded at tl is Beason, and there is '•j little time allowed for changing, that one is glad to jump in anywhere," said the FORGING THE FETTERS stranger, who did not seem in the least em- barrassed by a sense of being unwelcome. And the white-haired lady with some dignity, and much animation, exclaimed : "These Scotch lines are exceedingly ill- managed. The guards are most negligent, and the insuflficiency of porters most annoying. I have never found travelling more unpleasant than in Scotland." "I suppose the staff is seldom quite equal to the demands of the busy time," said the intruder, mechanically, as he watched the news- paper behind which the younger lady had again sheltered herself, as if on the qui vive for another glance at her face. " There is mismanagement somewhere," asserted the first speaker, with a " can you deny it ? ** air, and then the two were silent for some time. The younger lady presently lay down her paper, and sat in thought with downcast eyes. Seen thus, there was a pathetic look in her face, FOBGINO THE FETTERS i for which her sparkling, intelligent expression, when speaking or smiling, did not prepare you. Their unwelcome companion gazed at her as if lost in contemplation ; but there was nothing admiring or presumptuous in his eyes, and when she suddenly raised hers, he looked away im- mediately. His notice did not appear to disturb her. " I fancy we are almost at our journey's end. I see a few houses and a spire or two," she exclaimed, presently. " Well, so far, I don't see much beauty ! " cried the other lady. " I suppose that long, melancholy stretch of green, with the hillocks between it and the sea, are the links Sir Frederic told us of 1 There are some men in red coats standing about,'' and she began to fold up the papers and collect the books. A few minutes later the train slackened speed, and came to a standstill, tickets were collected, and they were slowly propelled into the little shed-like station, which was the anworthy haltins^- FOBOmO THE FETTEBS place for the ancient, learned, and picturesque city of St. Cuthberts — the home of golf — the seat of a university, the favourite bathing-place of the neighbouring county families, of Edinburgh lawyers, and even of successful Caledonians, weary with the battle of life in distant London town. *' Ah ! there are Sir Frederic and Miss Onslow," cried the white-haired lady, standing up, and waving her hand. The next moment they had stopped, and a gentleman, a fashionable, good- looking man, picturesquely got up in knicker- bockers and a deerstalker's hat, was opening the door, and greeting the new arrivals with great warmth, an unmistakable look of pleasure in his sleepy blue eyes. " You are quite half an hour behind time ; it is past six ! But that is nothing new on this line. How do, Mrs. Bayley ? You are looking better than ever ! It is quite reviviug to see you both." While he spoke, he assisted the ladies to alight. Their companion was at the further side \ i FOBQINQ THE FETTERS 7 of the carriage from the platform, and when he got out he discovered his fellow-travellers the centre of an animated group, while a smart lady's- maid and a broad-faced German courier proceeded to collect and renmve the various properties which littered the carriage. The man who had been so nearly ejected from it, stood still with a puzzled look for a minute, then he followed the two servants to the luggage van, and, while securing his own port- manteau, read the name on the boxes they were claiming — "Mrs. C. Fane, St. Cuthberts, vid Dundee." " Oh, here you are I I fancied you were left behind at that infernal junction,'' exclaimed a stout, red-faced, "country gentleman" looking man, coming up behind him. "Here, give the baggage to this fellow, he belongs to the hotel, and come along with me to the club; I should like to introduce yoa to the Captain before we dine. He'll be so taken up to-morrow I may not get a chance, and—'* FORGING THE FETTERS TO * Never mind, Dalrymple/* returned the other, slipping his arm through his friend's, "I want to have a talk with you before you introduce me to any one. Let ns go and secure rooms and order (inner ; when I have said my say and had your adv'ce, you may take me where you like." "Very well! But what's wrong with you?" asked Dalrymple. Yielding to his friend's pressure, he walked briskly towards the new " Royal Crescent Hotel," which crowned an abrupt h?\ between the town and the station. Meanwhile, the ladies so warmly welcomed, were chatting with their friends. "Dearest Mrs. Fane, how very good of you to come round all this way to see me ! " cried Miss Onslow, a bright, eager-looking girl, not pretty, but ladylike and pleasing. "I scarcely hoped you would grant my request," **I was very glad to come," said Mrs. Fane, kissing her kindly, but glancing round to see what had become of their fellow-traveller. "I fancy this is a nice old place to spend a week in." FCBOING THE FETTERS 9 "It is indeed. Let me introduce my dear uncle, Dr. Methvin, to you." She motioned to a thin, gray-haired old gentle- man, with a massive head and a kindly face, who bowed and raised his hat, greeting his niece's friend with old-fashioned but well-bred cordiality. " We have been fortunate in securing a plea- sant suite of rooms for you, and as soon as we have inducted you we shall leave you to the repose you no doubt need,'' he said. "I was greatly surprised to hear you had appeared in these remote regions," said Mrs. Fane to Sir Frederic, when she had courteously thanked the old professor for his attention. " Were you ! " elevating his eyebrows. ** Well, I am rather surprised to find myself here. It is some seven or eight years since I visited this scene. You know I am a Drumshire man ; but, alas ! parted with all my interest in the county long ago — threw the cargo overboard to keep the ship afloat in stress of weather, eh ? " lie laughed pleasantly. 10 FORGING THE FETTERS " Well, I am glad you are here. You must be our guide, philosopher, and friend in this strange country." " Oh ! here is your philosopher/' exclaimed Sir Frederic, waving his hand towards Dr. Methvin. "In him you will find unfathomed depths of knowledge and wisdom. I only ask to be the humble but devoted friend." *' Then I am right royally provided," said Mrs. Fane, and she moved on between Miss Onslow and her uncle, followed by Mrs. Bayley and Sir Frederic Morton. " Well, and how have you been carrying on the war since we parted ? " asked the former, turning her keen black eyes on her companion. " I have been keeping within my entrench- ments, though not retrenching, and I can tell you time is nearly up with me. Your notion of a rendezvous at this quaint corner is first- rate. It will go hard but between us we'll contrive some telling coup before we part. How deucedly well she's looking!'' with a nod in the direction FORGING THE FETTERS 11 of Mrs. Fane. " I don't know what it is in her, but I never lost my head in the same way about any one else, and yet there are times when I hate her ! " " Oh, if you go into heroics, I'll have nothing to do with you. Common sense and fixed purpose are the only levers to lift you out of your difficulties." "And your help, most thorough - going of allies/' he added. " If all goes right, you'll find I'll keep faith faithfully." "You had better," replied Mrs. Bayley, with a pleasant smile, but a sharp, warning look from her black eyes, of which he took little heed. After seeing her rooms, with which she de- clared he.'self delighted, and bidding good evening to Miss Onslow and her uncle, who promised to see her next day, Mrs. Fane asked Sir Frederic Morton to dine with Mrs. Bayley and herself. "Jlorrid nuisance! I can't," he returned. I * 12 FORGING THE FETTERS I " I am staying with a thirty-third cousin, once removed — old Leslie Morton, the captain of the golf club. He has a dinner to-day in honour of the great golf gathering to-morrow, and I must not absent myself; but — may I have a cup of coffee with you at nine ? " *' Yes, certainly ; and bring me all the St. Cuthberts news. By the way, did yoa notice our fellow-traveller ? " " I saw no one and nothing but your- self." Mrs. Fane held up a warning finger, and went on : '* I want to find out who he is. He came into our carriage at that tiresome Lochty Junction, and Mrs. Bay ley tried to turn him out. He i& a very tall, gaunt-looking man, very dark — or sun - burnt — with nearly black hair, and sombre, angry eyes. He has rather a ghastly scar across the side of his brow and cheek-bone, just missing his left eye." *' What an appalling object!'* «xclaimed Morton, laughing. FORGING THE FETTERS 18 " No ; he was not exactly ugly," said Mrs. Fane, laughing too. " He is rather distinguished in style. He has a thick, short, dark-brown beard and long moustache, and looks like a soldier. You can't mistake him. Do find out who he is, for his voice is oddly familiar to me — at least sometimes; but I cannot recall him to my memory." "I will do my best. You know the place is crammed with strangers for the meeting, so I may not succeed in seeing your incognito." Unpacking, dressing, and dining filled np the time till it was almost nine o'clock, and while Mrs. Bayley settled herself in the easiest chair she could find, with a cushion that sup- ported her head nicely, took up a ** fortnightly," which she did not read, Mrs. Fane stood in a wide, projecting window, and watched the moon rising over the sea. Mrs. Fane was not a widow, nor was she separated from her husband. But, years before, ehe and her young lord parted — why, no on© f ■t u FORGING THE FETTERS 1 II ; 1 , . t ' ii M^' I 1 i ' i knew. He went to India, where he was rarely heard of; she retained her fortune, and lived chiefly abroad. Soon Sir Frederic Morton's entrance broke in upon her meditations. Coffee followed, and then a long and lively conversation ensued. Mrs. Bayley slumbered peacefully over a profound article on " The Feeling Intellect," and Mrs. Fane was virtually alone with her guest. Never had he been more interesting, or talked so delight- fully. From satirical sketches of the people he had met since they had parted in Paris, he passed gradually into a graver, softer mood. He spoke of himself and his past follies with manly regret, and betrayed aspirations after better things which surprised his tolerably experienced hearer, and almost persuaded her that a true, wise friend might pierce through the stones and rubbish which choked the outlets of his better nature, and release the imprisoned well-spring of higher things within him, especially if that friend were a woman. 1 FORGING THE FETTERS 15 St. Cntliberts' great festival, the autumn golf meeting, when the medal is played for, had never attracted larger numbers or pre- sented a brighter aspect than on this memorable dny — memorable, at least, to some of our characters. The first ball had been struck off at ten o'clock, and the morning's play had sufficed to winnow the competitors, and scatter the chaff of indifferent players. Public interest was now con- centrated on the trial between the two successful players, who had scored equally, and were to try their skill again after luncheon. It was a splendid, mellow, sunny September afternoon, the wide bay, blue as the Mediterranean, the mountains opposite a shade darker, with here and there a fleecy cloud sleeping on their summits. The wide space of the grassy Links, dotted with gaily-dressed groups of people, stretched between gently rising uplands, partially wooded, and a broad belt of golden sands, fringed by little curling, caressing waves that ran in, murmuring 16 FORGll^'Q THE FETTERS i ! I m lovingly, to kiss its edge and steal back again, the air pure, balmy, and just tinged with the delicious, briny fragrance of the sea, gave bloom to the cheek and vigour to the step. Mr. Dalrymple and his companion had been on the ground in the morning, and had returned in the afternoon, as the former was feverishly interested in the play of young Morton — the son of his friend, the captain of the club. A second time they walked round the course and watched each drive, each skilful stroke in the more difficult task of putting. At length, amid loud cheering, young Kenneth Morton was declared the winner, having made the round in eighty-three, an un- usually low score. Every one crowded to congratulate the winner, who was a great favourite, and as soon as Mr Dalrymple had complimented him on his success, and clapped him on the shoulder, he introduced his friend. " I am glad Colonel Carrington had his first experience at golf under such favourable circum- 9 tl FORGING THE FETTERS 17 un- Mr stancea. He bas never harJ a chance of <»eeing ^he game before," he said. "I hope you will join our ranks/* replied the young man, courteously. "There's more play in the game than you would think," " I see that/' returned Carrington. ♦* Where's your father, Kenneth ? " cried Dalrymple. " He has just gone into the club-house." " Come along, then, I want to introduce Car- rington to him ; he is quite a stranger here, and I am obliged to leave by the next train." '* I'm sure my father will be delighted/' young Morton was beginning, when otlier and more noisy sympathisers claimed his attention. " Come on," said Dalrymple, " I haven't much time to spare. If I can catch old Leslie Moicon he'll do all you want, and set you in the right .„ » way. *' I am infinitely oblirred to you," Carrington began, when he suddenly interrupted himself. " Look, Dalrymple, do you see those ladies coming ! I f 18 FORGING THE FETTERS iiif l\:\\ down the steps, from the chib ? They were my travelling companions yesterday." "By George! And thnt man in the dark knickerbocker suit, walking beside the lady in gray, is Sir Frederic Morton — no end of a scamp, unless he is terribly belied ; as to the lady, you don't see such style every day. She movea like a thoroughbred." Carrington made no reply. His eyes were riveted on Mrs. Fane, with the same searching questioning glance he had first fixed upon her. She was talking and laughing easily with Sir Frederic, and looking brighter and better than the day before. Her dress was, perhaps, the simplest of the many toilettes donned to do honour to the day. She wore a costume of soft, pearly- gray woollen stuff, the drapery bordered with narrow lines of silver braid, and a gray hat turned up at one side with a tuft of short gray feathers fastened by a silver butterfly ; under it was a thick naturally-curled fringfe, neither crisp nor fluffy, the colour of a chestnut ; her eyes were !!|1 :l,i FOnaiXG THE FETTEB3 10 were my le dftrk lady in scamp, ^Jy you ves like 38 were arching on her. ith Sir )r than >s, the honour pearly- l with turned Jathera was a p nor were turned to Sir Frederic as they passed — but Mrs. Bayley, on whose arm she leaned, and who was as gorgeous as a profusion of bugle trimming could make a black silk dress, and glittered like a cut- glass chandelier, evidently drew her attention to Carrington — for she glanced in his direction, but made no sign of recognition. " It was the elderly one in black that tried to turn you out of the carriage, hey?" said Dalrymple. " Well, she looks a jolly dame.'* Still no answer from his companion, who turned, and looking after them, saw that they were joined by a young lady, and the old clerical-looking gentleman who had met them at the train. " Yes," returned Carrington, after a pause, so long that Dalrymple scarcel/ remembered to what he was replying. " I dare say she can be remarkably jolly, but I dou^t fancy her." '^Very likely; mfjn seldom like the Hallo I here'fci our noble Captain. I'm right glad, Morton, ■;■» M! I j lli'ii ' M 1^' 20 FORGING THE FETTERS your boy won — won cleverly, too." Then after a little technical talk, Dalryinple presented his friend. " Carrington was a great chum of mine in India," he said, " before ray poor brother's death called me back to be a laird. He has been staying with us up in the Highlands, and came on with me to see the golf meeting. I am obliged to return to-night ; but he will stay a fow days before he goes south — so " " I understand. Very happy to make your acquaintance ; any friend of Dai's is welcome to me. Do me the pleasure of dining with us to-night — we have a golf dinner and a ball on these grand occasions." Colonel Carrington accepted readily, and after a little conversation, other matters claimed the Captain's attention, and Carrington, turning with his friend, walked slowly to the railway station, where they stood in somewhat grave and absorb- ing talk till told by the guard to take their j[>lMcea. I FUiLUlSG THE FLTTEiiS 21 t* ^ Well, you'll be aure to let mo hear how you get on — you have my best wishes/* cried Dalrymple, from the window of his carriage. " Great bore being obliged to go off home again ; but I must be there to receive some guests, as you know.'* Carrington walked back to his hotel, and before dressing for dinner wrote several letters which he took to the post himself. The banquet was a long affair, given in the large dining-room of the club. Here Carrington found himself next to Sir Frederic Morton, who proved an amusing companion, helping to enliven the intervals of the heavy speeches, eulogising the victor, the Captain, the game, the local insti- tutions, the visitors, every one, until some unlucky individual mentioned a local grievance, where- upon an angry discussion broke out, which took all the Captain's tact and social skill to smooth over. *'I think we have had enough of this,'* said Morton. " The atmosphere is stifling — and the ;3i! 22 FORGING THE FETTERS m wine no great things — shall we escape to tlie billiard-room ? There is a door just behind us." " By all means/' returned Carrington, and they managed to escape unperceived. " You play, I suppose ? " said Morton, be- ginning to knock the balls about; "all Indian officers do." " Yes, I am rather fond of the game." In a few minutes they were trying their strength. Sir Frederic soon found his opponent knew what he was about, and roused himself to exercise all his skill, which was of no mean order. Nevertheless, but for one or two ovuisights on Carringtou's part, he would not have risen, as he did, the winner of all his antagonist's loose cash, aud a five-pound note into the bargain. " You would be a foeman worthy of one's steel," observed Morton, as they strolled out on the terrace before the club to smoke a last cigar, " if you kept your attention fixed on your game; but you made one or two mistakes." " I know I did. My hand is out. 1 11 come M FORGfNG THE FETTERS 2;; some all right with a little practice. You must give me my revenge." *' With great pleasure. When?" asked Morton. " My movements are very uncertain, but I shall stay on a few days." " Let us dine together quietly to-morrow," said Morton, " if you will give me the pleasure of your company, and we will have a trial of strength afterwards." ''Thanks, I shall be very happy." A little more talk of cards and billiards, and then, after a brief pause, Carrington asked : " Who was that pretty woman m gray you were talking to on the Links to-day ? " " It must have been Mrs. Fane." "Mrs. Fane? Who is she — a widow?" " A grass widow ; rich, charming, spirituelle, everything a woman ought to be, except that she is encumbered with an unreasonable husband, who will neither enjoy his own good fortune, nor clear out of the way and let some more sensible fellow have a chance." !ii 24 FORGING THE FETTERS :l 1 Carrington smiled, grimly. " A dog in the manger, eh ? I fancy I have met this man Fane in India. He commands a corps of irregular cavalry, doesn't he?" " I know nothing about him ; probably you have met. Our Indian Empire is a big place, yet every one seems to run against every one else there." "I should like to speak to the lady if it is not intrusive to ask for an introduction." " No ; by no means. I shall be happy to present you. But do not mention the husband. I fancy she does not care to have him brought to her notice — a case of mutual repulsion, I fancy." " She does not look like a repulsive woman," said Carrington, thoughtfully, as he Hicked the ash from the end of his cigar. *' No, not exactly ; quite the other way round," returned Morton, with a laugh that somehow jarred upon his companion. " Well, if you are on the Links to-morrow about twelve o'clock," resumed Sir Frederic, FORGING THE FETTERS (t I have lands a )ly you place, )ry one if it IS ppy to iisband. -ighfc to cy y> )i )maii, 3d the )und," lehow lorrow ^deric. you will meet the wLoJe party. Mrs. Fane is going to watch her friend, Miss Onslow, play against myself. I'll introduce you to them all. Mrs. Fane generally has a sort of confidential friend with her, to do propriety, and that sort of thing. The present incumbent is a capital, jolly old woman, a sort of relation of mine. Oh, you are going ? Wtll, good night, we'll try our luck to-Diorrovv,'' and Morton turned back to the club to see if he could find any other adversary at billiards. Carrington, left to himself, strolled along the beach by the light of a splendid moon, thinking, dreaming, hoping perhaps, though his memory was generally more active than his imagination. He had a warm appreciation of such beauties as are offered by a glorious night — the music of murmuring waves, the still grandeur of the starry heavens — and wandered on in a vague reverie rather than consecutive thought, till the striking of a distant church clock warned him to return to his hotel. f 26 FORGING THE FETTERS I ! Ill) I >! t t Mrs. Bayley, though fresh and smiling out- wardly, was internally bored and disappointed with the result of their first day in St. Cuthberts. They had had only an hour or two of Sir Frederic's company on the whole. He had been quite taken up with that stupid golf. It was all very well his saying that his old boyish love of the game had revived. She (Mrs. Bayley) shrewdly suspected that he had backed some of the players, and hence arose his interest. He was not too lucky, and might seriously diminish his supply of ready money. Mrs. Fane only pro- posed to stay a week, and he should not throw away a chance, and it was such a chance to have Mrs. Fane all to themselves in that sleepy little out- of-the-way corner. If only the rich grass- window could be moved to use the intormatiou Mrs. Bayley was willing and able to bestow, she might free herself from the loosened, yet still hampering fetters of her unfortunate marriage, and form an alliance which would give her rank and assured posi- tion, and really not a bad husband, as husbands go. f Jf-UUGIYG THE FETTERS 27 So she mused as she stood in the pleasant window of Mis. Fane's sitting-room, waiting for that lady, who was putting on her hat, in expecta- tion of Sir Frederic Mortou^s arrival to escort them to the Links. " Well, my dear Mrs. Bayley, what profound problem occupies your mind ? " cried Morton, entering unperceived. " Those who lie down with the dogs, eh ? You know that graceful proverb. Yon dined with a brace of professors yesterday, didn't you ? " " A brace — a trio ! I never was more bored. We bad the humanity man, and the Greek pro- fessor, who succeeded Dr. Methvin, and they talked quiie over my head. One of them had a terrific accent ! I was almost piovoked with Mrs. Fane, she was quite interested and animated, and asked all sorts of questions, and the old creatures — at least two were old — seemed ready to eat her up ; she is such a puzzling woman. I never know when she is in earnest ; wasting her money too, as she does. She sent off a cheque this Hi ! ! ^t,i !ii i; , ii I' I ( !ii u 28 FOliGING THE FETTERS morning for £200 — I saw it myself — to that desitrning woman, Mrs. Eiddell, who used to be with her, for the girls' refuge she worries herself about. She really wants a husband to guide her " ** What hideous waste of money ! " cried Sir Frederic, laughing. " But here she comes. Mrs. Bayley has just been abusing you for enjoying your dinner yesterday, and for tn Iking over her head. I suspect you did not give her a chance with either Herr Professor.'* " I do not believe you, Sir Frederic ! ** returned Mrs. Fane., smiling, as she buttoned her glove. *' I assure you the dinner was charming ; and the humanity professor is an old dear ! His profound book-learning seems only equalled by his ignorance of the world; and he said such quaint, original things.*' " Well, I honestly confess I did not care for the conversation," said Mrs. Bayley, with her accustomed good-humoured candour — candour was her line. "But the mere material dinner was excellent. The doctor gave us a glass of really w FORGING THE FETTERS 29 — to that 3ed to be es herself aide her." cried Sir les. Mrs* enjoying over her a chance * returned er glove, and the profound gnorance original care for with, her iour was iner was of really ^'ood port wine, which is not to be despised, in my opinion. Good port is very rare now," and Mrs. Bayley laughed in her pleasant, hearty way, as she often did in the pauses of her speech, which had just enough Scotch accent to give raciness to a good story. " What will you say to your diligent emfloye,'^ said Morton, bending an admiring glance on Mrs. Fane, " if 1 have found and captured the bold intruder of your story ? " *' Have you, really ? How, and where ? '* asked Mrs. Fane, with some interest. *' He sat next me at the golf dinner last night, and we had a game of billiards after ; then he confided to me his wish to make your acquaintance ; and as old Leslie Morton, who seems to know him, said he was all right, I shall, if you will permit me, present him to you. I believe he has been walking about the Links since daybreak, lest he sl'ould lose a chance of meeting you. Another admirer added to your long list, Mrs, Fane." I [I I ; 1 h ,, .!: ■;': Ml: 30 FORGING THE FETTERS • Admirer ! " she exclaimed, laughing. " I never saw eyes express doubt and disapprobation more distinctly. It is this that has roused my curiosity. How can I have offended him ? " " Clever fellow ! " cried Sir Frederic. " He knows how to make himself interesting ! But if you are ready, let us come on. I fear Miss Onslow will be waiting tor us/* The weather was still fine, but the sky was more overcast, and the shadows of slow-sailing clouds gave variety to the aspect of the bay. On their way to that portion of the ground called " The Ladies' Links," tliey overtook Miss Onslow, who was accompanied by her uncle — himself an enthusiastic golfer. He had devoted some hours each day since she was his guest to instructing his niece in the mysteries of the game. As they grouped themselves to see Miss Onslow strike off, a tall figure came up from the beach between two sand-hills and approached them; but it was not till iie had put his ball safely into the first hole, that Sir Frederic exclaimed: I FUROING THE FETTERS 81 I never a more iriosity. "He Bat if Onslow ky was r-sailing bay. ground 3k Misa uncle — devoted ruest to le game. Onslow e beach em ; but into the *'Ha? have you come to see this exciting match ? I assure you I expect to be shamefully beaten. Mrs. Fane, allow me to present my friend, Colonel Carrington. Mrs. Bayley, Colonel Carring- ton. Mrs. Bayley understands the game, and will expound its complications. Now, Miss Onslow, for No. 2. Capital ! Well driven I " and the com- batants moved to the next hole, followed by Dr. Methvin and Mrs. Bayley. "I am glad to have an opportunity of explnining to you that my intrusion the day before yesterday was involuntary," said Colonel Carrmgton, " The guard opened the door, and " "You were in the hon's den," put in Mrs. Fane, with a pleasant smile, as he paused. " Pray do not think it necessary to apologise, or if you will, address yourself to Mrs. Bayley, who is more disposed to uphold her rights than I am." She looked with friendly frankness into hia grave eyes, instinctively seeking to disperse what- ever prejudice against herself might exist in his mind, and endeavouriug to recall his face and 32 F0UG1N(J THE FETTERS iiiilii: IM 1 ! figure to her memory. She had met so many people, she had had sentimental, platen ic friend- ships with so many men, that it might be possible her now acquaintance had been the friend of some one who had quarrelled with her, thougli in truth she had a knack of retaining the regard of her admirers. But the steely blue-gray eyes that looked into hers did not change or soften a he replied : " It is a sound principle to uphold one's rights. People come to grief who lose grip of what is justly theirs." " Provided they do not clutch what belongs to others. Rights overlap sometimes, you know." "Not often," he returned, and they walked on a few paces in silence, which Mrs. Fane broke by asking : " Is this your first visit to St. Cuthberts f " It is. 1 came with an old friend, a man of this country, who is an enthusiast in golf. The attraction of the game is rather a mysterj to outsiders," I'! 'III 1 FORGING THE FETTERS 83 ongs '*Yes, I am told there are moa here who spend their lives on the Links. I canuot under- stand It.'' "There is a certain fascination in the effort to win anything/' said Carrington. As he spoke, their eyes met, and Mrs. Fane was startled, even annoyed, at the new expression in his — and at the effect it produced on hersolf. A sudden glow, a gleam of sudden resolution, lit up the deep-set windows of his soul, and sent a thrill of apprehen- sion through her veins. " Come on ! " said Morton, waving his driver towards them. " It is mortifying to see how indifferent you are to the splendid play going on under your eyes ! Miss Onslow is beating me hollow. She is beating me hollow — three holes up." "I am proud of my pupil," said Dr. Methvin, in high delight. "I^Jow, then, Sir Frederic, it is your turn. You roust go on : ther« are others behind us." They all Jtept cogether tor the remainder of the ■;!P )^:i;i 'IH 1' I'l ,!;i 34 FORGJNG TUB FETTEliS course, and talked only ot the game, finally, to the great exultation of her uncl«. Mis** Onslow came off victorioua. " (Suppose," said Dr. MethviD, " we walk on to the flagstaff and go down on the sands. The wind has gone round to the east, and is rising. We will have a view of the waves beating over the castle rocks. I am afraid we shall have a wet day to-morrow." "A terrible prophecy," exclairne'l Mrs. Fane, "but I have a French novel, so am fore- armed." Still conversing with the ex-prf>fp«?'?or, she walked on over the short, elastic turf, Garrington keeping at the other side, so that it was impossible for 8ir Frederic to approach. When the flagstaff was reached, they all grouped round Dr. Metlivin^ who pointed, out some of the daugerous reeis^ and then Mrs. Bayley said : ** We had better go homewards ; the wind is getting disagreeabie." '* }fery disagreeable, indeed," cned ^Irs. Fane, 1 Fnnnixa the fetters 35 ally, to Onslow t on to le wind r. We ^er the a wet . Fane, \ fore- T, she 'ington (ossible agstaff etli vin^ s^ and ind is J^'ane, as A sharp gust caiip^ht a light shawl she was trying to wrap round her and nearly carried it iiway. " Allow me," RRid Sir Frederic, endeavouring to lay hold of it; but Carrington bad it already in his grasp. " Allow lYif,^* he said, with grave emphasis, and not seeming- to hear or see Morton, he wrapped it carefully lound its owner, with a touch of autho- ritative decision in hia care, that partly amused, partly piqued her, and made Morton vow to himself that the grim Indian should pay for his cool audacity at billiards that night. " If you don't mind a steep descent we can get II pen the sands at once, and be sheltered by these liiilooks." He led tlie way, gallantly assisting Mrs. Bay ley. Miss Onslow, accustomed to the ground, tii[)ped lightly down; but when Mrs. Fane found herself on the edge of some huge rough stones, which lay at the foot of the little eminence, Carrington again stepped before Morton with an 36 FOIiGING TUB FETTERS \\i ■ sfr ! !. * 1 ! indescribable air of decision, saying quietly : " Take my hand/' and she did so, smiling to herself. Mrs. Bayley, turning to see how matters were going on, noticed the little by-play, and compressed her lips with a confirmed dislike of the bold stranger, whom she resolved most firmly to roat and unmask. She therefore attached herself to Mrs. Fane in their homeward walk, and proceeded to cross-examine the foe. " Pray, have you any relations in the South of England ? I knew some Devonshire Carringtons years ago." " No, I have not," rather shortly. ** Then there are the Herefordshire Carringtons, rather an old family^perhaps you belong to that branch ? " " I can't say I do." " Ah ! There was a rich old Bombay merchant of that name who died lately, and made a curious win, leaving his money to some stranger. Did yon know him ? " ■* I have heard of him." FOUQINQ THE FETTERS 37 r : " Take herself, ars were n pressed he bold to rout Brself to roceeded South of 'ringtons ^ to that "It must be a great bore having hosts of cousins," said Mrs. Fane. "Oh! do you think so? "cried Miss Onslow. **I dote on some of my cousins! Then Aunt Julia and Uncle Methvin are delightful." " I suspect," said Sir Frederic, " there is soma- thing in yourself that attracts the better part of even cruity cousins." " I am afraid that is nonsense." Here, being close to the hotel, Carrington thought it wise to say good morning. " There is something original about your friend," said Mrs. Fane, as she parted with Morton at the door ; " bring him to coffee any evening you like." Mrs. Bayley snified. lerohant curious Did yon :li II ii! l\V I I CHAPTER IT. ONFIDEXT as Mortoa was in Lis powers of pleasing, in his superiority in looks, youth, knowledge of the world, and general attractiveness, to the grim soldier, who had somehow made a place for him- self in their party, it caused him no little uneasiness to observe that his society was not unacceptable to Mrs. Fane. It was absurd to suppose he could be a rival, or, if he w.re, a formidable rival. In truth. Sir Frederic Morton's affairs were in a desperate condition ; Lot only was he m love Tith Mrs. Fane after the headstrong fashion natural to him, but hife chief hope of retrieving his fortunes lay in his chance of appropriating hers. Hitherto he had felt himself compelled to play a waiting m POUQINO THE FETTERS 89 in bis periority of the he grim or him- easiness ceptable le could lival. were in ID love natural iortuoes itherto [waiting game, bub now events were pressing. He must lose no time in persuading her to give him a conditional promise, and commence that suit for a divorce, iu which she was certain to succeed. It was impossible that she could be indifferent to him. It suited her intolerable pride to fence herself round with platouic affections, but let things only come to a crisis, and she would soon make up her mind ; he must have a consultation with his ally, Mrs. Bay ley. However, as a sort of acknowledgment of the money he had won from Carrington, he telt obliged to introduce him at Mrs. Fane s unceremonious " at homes." Here he was silent and unobtrusive enough, but as ho sat with half -closed eyes, lulled by sweet sounds, when Mrs. Fane and Miss Onflow played or sang, he was watchmg with keen observation the aspect of the society into which he had been unexpectedly thrown. Violet Onslow, he decided, was an ordi- nary young lady — less sharp and more kindly than the generality. Mrs. Bayley — somehow he did not take to that frank and lively widow — 11? Ml ;! r ' i ; I ■I ; lip ■ I 1 ' j'l ! Ml ! :\\ -I ! ■ I t I 40 FORGING THE rmrrjuUS " not to be trusted," was the verdict of his instincts; but Sir Frederic Morton excited his strong aversion as he watched his graceful^ sym- pathetic manner^ and noticed, with a bitterness that surprised himself, the confidential tone exist- ing between him and Mrs. Fane. He knew all her songs and which suited her best; he was full of reminiscences of little adventures at Nanles A. and rencontres at Rome ; and though there was profound and pleasant repose in Mrs. Fane's way of speaking to him, might not that arise from too complete a mutual understanding? Was it possible a woman so long separated from her husband would be proof against the sustained attentions, flatteries, arts of so accom- plished and good-looking a man ? Tet she ought to be true to herself, if not to the husband who had deserted her. One had <* right to expect a high standard in women— even while he thought so, a wave of indignation swept over his heart, as Mrs. Fane raised her eyes to Morton's, with a smile bo sweet, so confiding, that Carrington •ll FORGING TUB FETTERS 41 5t of his cited his ful, sym- i)itterD08ft ne exist- knew all he was it Naples lere was ne'a way Prom too sparated Dst the accom- e ought nd who pect a hought heart, i, with •ington could have put her in a penitentiary on the spot. Still, he had an ingrained sense of justice, and told himself the next moment that had he been the recipient of such a glance he could amply forgive the infidelity. Nevertheless, the dangers surrounding so attractive a woman were too clearly visible. He longed for the power to banish Morton, whom he saspected of being a gambler and a scamp. It was too bad of any man to have deserted such a woman, when she must have been a mere girl. What had her life been since ? He would watch and try to discover if she were true and high-minded, or a merely frivolous, lightly-conducted coquette. Brooding over these ideas, he was almost staitlcd by Mrs. Bay ley, who brought Jierself and her knitti^ ^ to a seat beside him. *^ I suspect 1 have rousod you from a pleasant doze,'' she said, smiling benignly on him. " Far from it ; I have been enjoying the duet Mrs. Fane and Miss Onslow have just sung. I was keenly awake.' it ■!l i; :! ; !■ n I i'iti. I -, I :i '1 11' .'I' ': 11' 1 1 .> I ;. ft' 1 |i I' 11' : ' H i I ii I !l ■I't' ,:! i: 1' '! 'I '.J , ;i I -I i I J' m 42 FORGING THE FETTERS " So you are the reverse of the weasels — they sleep, on dit, with their eves open, and you wake with your eyes shut" "The latter is least fatiguing." "Ah, people learn to be very indolent in India. You have been a long time in India, have you not, Colonel Carrington ? " *' Yes, a long time.'* " It must be very pleasant to find yourself in England — I should say Great Britain — again." "I have no objection to Great Britain; but 1 am not overjoyed." " Ah, some people grow enamoured of India, and find the restraints of English society in- tolerable." "I assure you we are stiff enough in India." "Indeed! I fancied everything was as free as air. 1 am sure the accounts Frank Bay ley, a nephew of mine, who was for some time at a station on the frontier — I forget the name of the place — the stories he tells about the * goings on ' oi tho men — -and women, too, for that matter-^ FORGING I'HE FETTEU8 48 easels — and you ^lent in I iDdia, yourself fi ?ain.' in; but P India, ety in- Tndia." is free a-yley, at a of the ^s on' tter— are enough to turn your luiir gray; mine has become a shade or two whiter since 1 listened to him." "Frank Bayley ?" repeated Carringfcon, looking at her with unusual attention. " Is he a doctor ? " " Yes, in the Indian service. Did you know him ? " " I have met him,*' a slight frown contracting his brow. " Yes J he is a very clever fellow," said Mrs. Bayley, picking up a stitch with much dexterity, and continuing the conversation in an imperative kind ol whisper, as Miss Onslow began to play a dreamy nocturne. " A very clever fellow. He is not going back to India ; he is going to practise at Hudderstield. Ah, what queer experiences ne has had!'* ** He seems to have been communicative," said Carriugton, with a tinge of contempt. "To me, yes. You see we had a sort of pro- fessional intimacy. After I lost my poor husband, having no ties, I turned hospital nurso, and was u FOBQINO THE FETTERS i'.f 11 ;i!<' i 1 ■ ' I. 3 ■,;i \r^ ! ! -il U ,; :i'' i- ! i ' ; 1 able in that way to do a little good. I was fortunately in the same hotel with Mrs. Fane, when she had that frightful attack of Roman fever — through which I nursed her — about two years ago. We have stuck to each other ever since. Poor dear ! Her life has been cruelly spoilt. That wretch of a husband of hers, I don't know what he deserves ! You should hear Frank Bayley's account of him I " No answer. Carrington, his eyes fixed on the ground, his brows sternly knit into a frown, prompted no doubt by righteous wrath, was pulhng his long moustaches. After waiting in vain for a reply, Mrs. Bayley recommenced. "Do you think of making any stay here?" Still no answer. He seemed lost in thought, and then, as though he did not hear her, sud- denly rose and crossed to where Mrs. Fane was sitting in her favourite window. The chair beside her was tenanted only by a little pert black Pomeranian dog. !l i«^ s;.uHi. w> FOliGIA'G THE FETTERS 45 I was •s. Fane, Koman )out two lier ever cruelly hers, I lid hear on the frown, ih, was Bayley re?" lought, f, sud- Fane chair pert " This is a little beauty,'* said Carringte-proud person ; but you know my indepemiunce." " I do, Mrs. Bayley, and 1 am much gratified by your flattering opinion ; but really 1 had no intention of stini^j-ing." " I forgive you," said Mrs. Bayley, laughing ; " but I reiterate my opinion that Colonel Car- rington is not thorough-bred, or he would not treat me wiih such scant ceremoiiy. Oh, don't be afraid to laui^h, I dare say you think me an exacting old woman; but a man's conduct to a person in the position he imuginea I hold, is a very good test. He fancies, I dure say, that you pay me tt No donbt he thinks T orijrht. Nor do I see wny you should decline i9 ■-gj;, ' \il 1 1 1 ; I IHi'^l I m mm • Ui. '1 '.:■ 'i'l 'I M' ■!! j ■ I ''I ; . III.' li .1. 50 FORGING THE FETTEHS "No, no: I never will ncce*^*- » salary. Tree- t\om and independence * is my mottO; and equality is the soul of friendship. Wh;^ sLoald you pay for what is a pleasure to me to give ? " '•Well, as you please; and so good night. My head aches a little; I shall be glad to be in darkues3." Though Mrs. Fane soon dismissed her maid aihl put out the lights, she did not go to bed. She sat long in an extremely easy chair, musing vaguely, first, with a slight smile, on Mrs. Bayley's independence, and remembering, not in an^ nig- gard spirit, but with a certain sense of humour; that during tlie years in which she had given a salary of a hundred pounds to a lady for whom she had a sincere regard, her general expenses were considerably less than during the Bayley reyime. This was merely a passing thought. The young grass widow was truly liberal ; but whether from indolence, or some reluctance of the heart to avail iUself of its comrade intellect's shrewdness, she was often taken in with her eyes open. Thus, FORGING THE FETTERS 51 ' Free- equality ^ou pay 1 night, i to be er maid to bed. musing Bayley's m^ nig- humour- d given )r whom xpenses Bayley ht. The whether le heart 3wdness. . TbU3, m in a way, she caw through the lively, impulsive Mrs. Bayley, and recognised that her independence was a slam. Nevertheless, sho imagined her sincere in her shamming, that she herself be- lieved in her own assumptions. Her depreciation of Colonel Carrington did that gentleman no injury in Mrs. Fane's estimation ; in fact, it did not recur to her mind. Yet she thought a good deal of him. He puzzled her. She had been used to admiration — to the most overt and trouble- some devotion, and that he should seek her with perseverance, carefully masked as it was, c''d not surprise or move her. But why was it' that his watchful eyes only expressed scrutiny, not un- tinged with disapprobation or distrust ? Why should he, a stranger, approach her with pre- conceived prejudices, certainly not in her favour ? Some one must have spoken against her, but who ? She would try and find out. ThoutJfh she had often been imprudent, she had never knowingly hurt any one, or deserved enmity. Perhaps, after all, \t was oply Colonel Carrington's 111;- ' ()' Ik li* i! i; l:i 52 JBQma TEE FETTERS way of looking at people and things. He woald probably smile and look pleasant oftener if he knew how much better he looked. Certainly when silent and thoughtful he looked rugged and stern enough. I wonder how old he is ? Thirty -eight or forty, I am sure. There I why should I trouble my head about him ? ** Yes, Sir Frederic is very nice to Mrs. Bayley. Why is he trying to persuade Violet Onslow that he is in love with her ? I hope she will not listen to him. He would not make a good husband to a girl of her simple character. ^^ hy, it iw half-past eleven ! If the morning is fine I will have a stroll on the sands, and frame quite a new set oi resolutions for my future conduct and pursuits. I am too self-iudulgeut — too fond of pleasure." ■M \^5 I, , :ili 'I . The next morning was fine and fresh. The blue waters of the bay glittered in the sunshine, crisped by a light breeze into ripnling life, and (iuhhiiig oil the beach in short, quick waves, full oi youlhlul vi;j[our. '■'I ± FORGING THE FETTERS 53 why The shine, I, and J, full Mrs. Fane's maid found her mistress nearlv dressed when she camo to call her. She wac immediately despatched to find Midge. " I will take him for a run on the sands," said Mrs. Fane. "Don't let Mrs. Bayley wait break- fast, though I'm pretty sure to be back before she appears." It was deliciously invigorating as Mrs. Fane descended the low range of sand-hills, covered with coarse grass, which separate the Links from the beach. A few schoolboys, loitering about, or wading with joyous ''Ties into the advancing tide, were the only living creafcures to be seen; and Mrs. Fane, with a keen sense of enjoyment, walked briskly on. Midge barking and gambolling before her in wild delight. "Come along. Midge," she cried to the dog; " we shall get as far as the wreck and back before your mistress is out of her room ! *' The wreck was the remains of an old vessel half buriad in the sand, from which its skeleton ribs protruded in a ghastly fashion. m m m I '.t :j mm '•li'^iii'i'! i ';■■■■•, hhl \\'\ n IvM !J !!:■ 54 FORGING THE FETTERS She had left the boys behind, and seemed the only person moving on the wide stretch of dry, firm sand ; but before she had gone many paces further, a large, fierce -looking, ill-conditioned dog, of no particular breed, came trotting out of one of the hollows between the grassy hillocks, and paused a moment, with an ominous growl, to watch the pert, busy little Pomeranian who was scampering hither and thither, and barking aggressively. To him ran Midge, full of innocent pleasure and with the most friendly intentions. But the low-bred ruffian returned his advances with a 3urly snarl, and then, urged by some in- explicable doggish antagonism, ponnced with a growling bark on the unoffending little creature- A scuffle, a cloud of sand torn up in the conflict, despairi ag yelps from Midge, loud growls from his foe terrified Mrs. Fane, but she was too generously brave to let her poor little protege be destroyed. Armed only with her sunshade she ran to his succour. More potent aid, however, was at hand. A tall man, in a dark shooting-dress. !^i > .! led the of dry, J paces litioned out of lillocks, growl, m who barking nnocent entious. dvances )me in- with a reature- onflict, from as too eijG be ie she 3r, was -ilresa. I ^* •if 1? FORGING THE FETTERS 55 rushed up from behind her. In a twinkling the mongrel assailant was seized by the back of the neck, shaken violently till he released his little victim, and then hurled to a distance, whence he fled howling and discomfited. " I don't; think the poor little fellow is mucli hurt. His neck has had a squeeze, that's all.'' "Oh, Colonel Carrington ! You came just in time. Poor little Midge! It would have been all over with him in another moment. What a savage, ill-natured brute ! " cried Mrs. Fane, taking the little animal from him. Midge was all trembling and palpitating, and trying to express his thanks by frantic attempts to lick her face and hands. " Quiet. Poor little thing. You are safe now. I am so very much obliged to you. How lucky that you should have been here! Do you always walk before breakfast ? " *' Not often. Let me carry him, Mrs. Fane." ** Thank you, I don't think he likes to leave ill 56 FORGING THE FELTEl.S Uiii [•! ^h: til '^is':. me. He will go down and run soon. Are you sure lie is not much hurt?" "Yes, the brute hadn't time to harm him. He will soon forget all about it. Injuries do not rankle in a dog's heart." " Happy creatures," returned Mrs. Fane, laugh- ing. *• Wliat a wonderful balm there is in forget- f ulness ! " " I suppose there is," said Carriugton, walking on beside her. *' Peril aps you do not forget or forgive readily. I fancy there is a tinge of implacability about you," she returned, looking up in his face with a sweet, arch smile and glance from her speaking brown eyes. " Why ? " very gravely, meeting it with a look, half sad, half resentful. ** Ah ! that is puzzling,'' she exclaimed. " It is so hard to account for these vague, yet vivid impressions, which are none lube less irresistible because they are perhaps illogicaL There is some- thing in year eyes, in the way you carry year FORGING THE FETTERS 67 re you 1 him. do not laugb- forget- ^alking readily. ^ about ce with peaking a look, >d. "It et vivid esistible is some- ry your head, that makes me feel that you would not easily forgive. I fear I am impertinent f M I Colonel Carrington smiled, keeping his eyes fixed on hers. " I don't ^^ancy I am worse than other professing Christians of my sort ! But you are very active for a fine lady, Mrs. Fane. Do you always get up at six or seven tuid walk before breakfast ? " " I fear I am not very methodical. Sometimes I am very late — sometimes I am guilty of reading in bed ! I am quite sure the absence of a con- trolling necessity is a terrible want. The great incentive to these early walks is that I can be free and alone ; at other times I hardly belong to myself. Here I am at my own disposal." "I can understand the charm your solitary rambles must possess, and" — raising his hat — " will intrude no longer." He paused. "I did not mean any hint," she said, colouring slightly. *'If you care to walk with me to the ' "|p;l^ !!.• It ■ "Hi , 1 ill I J I I 'I ; mn. I', ■'';! Hi! ill 'i ! 'I :.! ."-i: II ri :| ■ : i8 FORGING THE FETTERS vMOcW,** and she pointed to it, "pray do; besides,*' laughing, * you must guard Midge aud myself past the cruel moruster's haunt." *' True J I mjiy be of some use/* he said, gravely, resuming his place beside her. " Suppose you let Master Midge run ; he seems anxiou3 to get down." For a few minutes Mrs. Fane wris occupied in observing that the little dog limped slightly and seemed stiff; but gvadnally these symptoms dis- appeared, and he ran about as inquisitively as evev. Then his guardians fell into pleasant discarsive talk on many subjects, Caningrou's somewhat sombre views calling forth much bright and play- ful contradiction trom his companion, whose keen, pictu'^esque observations roused him to think before he replied. She was frank and thoroughly at ease, holding her own with mfiuite good breed- ing, and C'lrbing her latent enthusiasm with grace- ful tact, yet through all her brightness sounded tiiti echo o£ a minor chord, a subtle breath of * -■w'hiti tiU FORQirG THE FLL L'ER8 59 esides/' myself le said, Suppose xiou3 to occupied sliglitly )oms (lis- iively as iscarsive luewhat d play- .se k^en, think loroughly Id breed- tb gracO" sounded ireath of resignation that suggested some loss, some bruised place in her full harmonious being. Carrington listened and looked with all his soul, and thought that never had an hour passed so swiftly. " I shall report your gallant rescue," said Mrs. Fane, as she parted with him when they reached the road. "Pray come in to luncheon and let Mrs. Bayley thank you in person." " I shall be most happy," returned Carrington, as iie stood aside to let her pass. " I have got a footing," he muttered to himself as he turned back to the beach, "and it will go hard if I do not make it a fooihold." As the luncheon party included Sir Frederic, Miss Ouslow, and Dr. Methvin, besides Colonel Cai ington, Mrs. Fane took the opportunity of org iiiisin^if an expedition to visit an old castle, which, with the adjoining fishing village and some caves, were one of the few excursion points avi: table for visitors at St. Cuthberts. The preliminaries were -oon settled, and ten 60 FORGING THE FETTEHS I ' ti ' ;, o'clock the next day but one fixed apon as the hour of departure. ** There is a tolerable little inn at Craigtoan/* said the ex-professor, " and I will write to the landlord to have luncheon provided." "Pray do," cried Mrs. Bay ley. "I find that the contemplation ot scenery in keen sea air has an alarming effect on the appetite." **I think I'll get old Morton to let me hare his wife's ponies to drive you over, Mrs. Fane. She has been away all the summer, and the little brutes are eating their heads off.*' "How many will the carriage hold?" asked Mrs. Fane. "Four, I think." "Then you can take Mrs. Bayley, Violet, and myself," said Mrs. Fane. "And leave Dr. Methvin and me without a lady to escort I " exclaimed Carrington. " That is a most unfair division of good things." ** It is indeed too bad," said Mrs. Bayley. " I cannot countenance such an injustice. If the ■^^lUidiL. ■'n* *% FOBOINO THE FETTERS 61 1 M the aigtoun," ,6 to the find that la air has me haTe Irs. Fane. the little T" aaked Tiolet, and without a " That is lyley. " I >. If the gentlemen will have me, I shall be delighted to go in Colonel Carriiigton*s carriage, and you had better come too, dear," to Miss Onslow, "then Sir Free] eric can take a groom." " Weil, you will see about the ponies, and we can arrange details aftojwards/* said Mrs. Fane, and the party rose from table, dispersing soon afterwards. Mrs. Bnyley declared her intention of finishing a novel in which she was deeply in- terested, and Mrs. Fane said she must return the visits of some old ladies — friends of Dr. Methvin's — who had thought it necessary to call UDon her. Left alone, Mrs, Bayley found her novel and settled herself in the sitting-room, but she was not absorbed by her bor)k. She laid it dowvi at intervals, and went to the window, which com- manded the approach to the hotel on one side ; she looked at tlie clock, she compared it with her own watch. She took a note from her pocket and read it over, tearing it careful l\r into little bits, and placing the scraps in the waste-paper 62 FOUGING THE FETTEBS 1, ■ I ::'! 'Ml. I-.. ;■' •'''r: 'i \i 1 i; '■'i"i i i ' ': '■ basket. At length the door opened, and Morton came in. He walked to the window, kicking a chair out of his way as he went. After a glance through the open sash he turned, muttering sometliing — not a blessing, "What is the matter? You seem to be in a tajitnim," said Mrs. Bayley. Hor voice sounded harder, commoner than it did when she talked genially with Mrs. Fane. " Pntbubly I am. I am coming to the end of everytlnng. I had a warning from Jephson that Mosenthal, the brute who holds nearly all my paper, is determined to smash me ; and at the first breath ai h^gal pi'oceedings, the whole fabric ot my fortunes, of my present chances, will crumble to dust like the skeletons at Pompeii when exposed to light and air." He threw himself on a sofa as he spoke, his -good looking face completely changed by an angry scowl, and the sleepy blue eyes, which many a maid and matron considered irresistible, lit up with baleful fire. "This is bad, very bad," returned Mrs. Bayhy. , ,. ' ' !■■ ■ ilifJi FORGING THE FETTERS 63 I Morton icking a a glance nuttering to be in I sounded he talked the end of »hson that y all my ,t the first 3ric ot n\y rumble to n exposed on a sofa 3ompleLely leepy blue considered rs. Bavloy. "What are you going to do? You have somo time before you. No steps can be taken till Michaelmas." " I must see Mosenthal. He is out of town disporting himself like his bettors. I trust and hope to have some positive proof to give him of an understanding with Mrs. Fane. I rather think he would prefer getting his money without a row and an expose. I have told Jephson to let me know the moment the rascal is in town. Meantime, I must make all the play I can here ; if I could but see my way. That woman maddens » me. " Who ? Mrs. Fane ? I always told you it is the greatest mistake you can make in such a game to let yourself go headlong into a passion for the prize." "That's all you know about it. I suspect the sort of insanity she has inspired gives an impetus which may bring me in a winner. I never met so l^ffiing a woman. By heavens, I sometimes hate herl I'd risk the hottest ire ji0 64 FORGING THE FETTERS m ■M^-' I 1 I .il's.^il ; :■!} !ii down bolow to have some bold upon her, to have her at my mercy." "If you talk such nonsense I shall think your brain is softening ! Be reasonable, and look at your real position. You are nearly at the end of your r?ady money, and your creditors are pressing. You have been trying for the last year and a half to kindle a responsive flame, such as would impel Mrs Fane to seek a release from her already half- broken fetters, to marry you, fjA let ycu squander her money .*' *'I shouldn't squander it. By Jove, I'd turn the biggest screw out if she were mine, and I had something to save ! " " Then the age of miracles is not past ! " returned Mrs. Bnyley. " Candidly speaking, I would give less for your chance now than when we were at Rome last winter. You seemed to make more way at first." " True ! " He paused. " But I had a gleam of encouragement just now. She was contradictory, and sliglitly ill-tem;:ered i*bout Violot Onslow, FORGING THE FETTERS 65 to have 1 think tnd look at the creditors the last e flame, I release arry you, I'd turn nd I had I' past ! " aking, I an when emed to j^Ieam of •adictory, Onslow, warning me that we were not calculated to make each other bappy, etc. I believe my best card IS to assume a good deal of devotion to that very harmless young person." •* Wouldn't she do ? " asked Mrs. Bayley. " I could assist you there also. You must own that 1 am a useful ally and not a costly one." *' rium, useful certamly, und / have been no end of use to you. But ?io — not Miss Onslow. She has a father, too, which might be troublesome. Now Mrs. Fane is, or might be, free. She has a solid fortune, and if she could get rid of the husband, might either openly as my wife, or secretly as my chere amie, deliver me from my dijQBculties, and enjoy life infinitely more than in her present widowed condition." He paused in a troubled walk and looked hard at his interlocutor. •'You are an exceedingly nice, well-brought- up youiig man," said Mrs. Bayley, quietly, returning his gaze. "Remember, I will have no- thing to do with any immoral scheme, from a 66 FORGING THE FETTERS ■iM M^i^t I ' ! i sincere desire for the happiness of dear Mrs. Fane and yourself. I wish you to be united in holy matrirr. .^y^ as her scamp of a husband deserves to be put out of court. If you had known how to win her, matters would have been en train now., and I should be almost within reach of that modest cr apetence which would assure me a peaceful and honoured old age; as it la, I have taken an infinitude of trouble to no avail." "Really, Mrs. Bayley, . am inclined to bow aown before the magnificent height of humbug to which you have attained ! I suppose the various retainers you have received don't count ? " "They were pleasant tokens of good- will/' said Mrs. Bayley, calmly, taking up her knitting, '* but they do not affect our final arrangement ! " Morton made no reply, but resumed his pacing to and fro, gnawing his moustaches with his sharp white teetL " I never failed in this way beiore," he explained. " But I am staking real com against ner counters ; she is bo wrapped ? i iiii» — - "-■' ii FORGING THE FETTERS 67 3. Fane n holy Leservea ^n how n train 3ach of assure IS it IS, to no to bow humbug )ose the count ? " od-will/' knitting, ement ! " med his hes with I in this staking wrapped up in her own vanity and dreams, and is so cold." "Shp> is not cold," interrupted Mrs. Bayley, emphatically. "No woman so well proportioned, mentally and physically, is. The fire is there, if you know how to reach it. My impression is that she might be fascinated by some daring coup," " You think so ? And you are a shrewd woman. We must make some plan as soon as I have seen Mosenthal, and ascertain what time he will give me. I will make some pUin. I am not going to give in yet." * " Very right ; and I have so far thrown in my lot with you, that if you succeed I look for my rewari. If you fail, I shall keep silence." " I am ready to stick to our origiaal agreement," said Morton, sullenly. " In one direction you have certainly behaved like a fool," resumed Mrs. Bayley, with much candour. " What induced you to introduce that Carriiigton ? He may prove a rival." m I H si l:i' 11 !i::!il 1 . I ' i ;iH.i i ;«!'[' !i ■■t t t I ■ I i 68 FORGING THE FETTEIiS it That ugly, rugged, taciturn fellow ! I am infinitely flattered, Mrs. Bayley." " Yes, I am certain he has produced a certain effect on Mrs. Fane's imagination. Moreover, I believe he has some object or attraction in seek- ing us.'* " By Jove ! " cried Sir Frederic, " yon may be right. I remember the first day I met him. He said he had known Fane in India." *' You don't say so ! Why did you not mention it before ? I shall use this against Carrington. She has an utter horror of her husband interfering with her. I am convinced she would give a great deal to escape from him ! ** " Well, I shall not despair yet. Her irritability about Violet Ouslow to-day was a good sign, and your astute remarks encourage me." Then, after a pause, he added : " I must hold myself ready to start at a moment's notice. By the way, I think young Kenneth Morton has come back. I'll ask him to join us on Thursday. He*ll do to escort Violet Onslow and leave me free to out- ^ FORGING THE FITTERS m I am certain >ver, I L seek- nay be n. He nention iDgton. prfering a great itability jn, and n, after f ready way, I Dk. I'll I do to to out- manoeuvre Carrington, who, by the way, puzzles me a good deal I must go now, so adieu for the present, Madame Benevolence ; the game is not up yet." "1 am afraid the weather is not very promis- ing," said Mrs. Fane, at breakfast on the morning fixed. " I hope the sun will come out. Light makes such a difference, and if the rain begins we shall have a great deal, I suspect, after so long a spell of fl"o weather. Then we shall see nothing, and I shall try to get away on Tuesday." " There is no reason why we should not," cried Mrs. Bayley, with alacrity. " We shall have a good deal of shopping to do, and if you think of Paris for the winter " " Sir Frederic Morton ! " interrupted a waiter, ushering in that gentleman. "A thousand pardons," exclaimed Morton, "for intruding at so early an hour; but I have just had a telegram — unfortunate devil that I am — summoning me to keep a very important appoint- 70 FOBGING 'f'HE FETTEB8 -.il'l i il '\M'\r .\W:t ISili'! i '■''■■ti .;; t ; I-;*., .!l hi ment in London to-morrow ; in fact, I have no choice, I must start at once, and endeavour to catch the night express at Perth." " I am so sorry." " It is most unfortunate/' exclaimed Mrs. Fane and Mrs. Bayley together. " For me, utterly unfortunate. Mrs. Fane, as I am so unfortunate as not to be able to drive you to-day, let me recommend my cousin Morton in my place : he knows the country and the ponies. Now I must not lose another minute. Good-bye for a few days. If you remain I shall return." " I shall be in town myself next week. Au revoir ! " " Pray let me know how you get on," continued Mrs. Bayley, following him out of the room. "I suppose it is the business you told me of." Then in a whisper : ** I will put a creditable construction on it, and keep Carrington at bay. Don't address your private letters in your own hand," and then raising her voice : *' Take care of yourself. Good- bye." !': iKH': '' ' i : 1 FOBGINQ THE FETTERS 71 we no our to 3. Fane ne, as I Lve you rton in ponies, ood-bye turn." 3k. Au 3ntinued om. " I " Then struction ) address lud then Good- *' How very sudden ! " exclaimed Mrs. Fane. " We shall miss him greatly. I hope he has no bad news." " Not on his own account," said Mrs. Bayley, mysteriously. " He is just too ready to help others. I only hope he may not suffer himself." *• I hope not, indeed. Come, Mrs. Bayley, we had better attire ourselves. I am afraid Violet Onslow will find the party dull." " Not when young Leslie is one of us I " The expressions of surprise and regret when the rest came to the rendezvous, were various and reiterated. Carrington was the only silent member of the group. " How shall we arrange ourselves ? " he asked young Morton, with whom he had a slight ac- quaintance. " Mrs. Fane, of course, has the pony carriage, but 1 fear Miss Onslow will find it dull, making the third with Dr. Methvin and Mrs. Bayley." **A11 right/' said the obliging holder of the medal " I'll go in their carriage, then you can 72 FORGING THE FETTERS I t !!|l \W I I lli have the groom, who will be useful in looking after the ponies." When Mrs. Bayley, who had re-entered the hotel to gi^- some last direc ons t,, t>ie lady's- maid, descended the steps, to h^r ri nnice annoy- ance and bewilderment she saw Colonel *\rrington taking his place beside Mrs. Fane, while Kenneth Morton, with ostentatious care, was handing Miss Onslow into Dr. Methvin's carriage. "Does Colonel Carrington know the way?" was the only objection that came to her aid. " Quite well," called back that gentleman, as he gathered up his reins. " I walked over there a couple of days ago — it's straight going.*' He whipped up the spirited little steeds, and was soon clear of the roughly-paved streets. " I believe it is really going to be fine. I am so sorry Sir Frederic will lose this pleasant excursion," said Mrs. Fane, as soon as she could make herself heard. " I am not," returned Carrington, with the frank familiarity into which he always glided : i: ' • I FORGING THE FETTERS 78 king when they vt re alone, yet v/hicK was too natural to be offeisive. " I am too great a plainer to regret it." nd iiiey fell into conversation, which boon grew interesting. '3 i- turned on the curious effect Buddhism was producing on thoughtful and imaginative people in India, the strange ideas respecting thought-reading, and the irresistible influence some natures exert over others even when far apart. Mrs. Fane could hardly believe that they had accomplished ten miles of a hilly road when they arrived at Craigtoun. The usual routine of such an expedition followed. They were led through the ruined Castle by an extremely taciturn youth, who answered most queries with an impartial " I dunuo," and they were conducted to the entrance of the cave by an ancient and exceedingly fishy fisherman. Carrington suggested something in the way of torches, or other illumination, to show the height of the cave, which, their guide asserted, reached a hundred feet at one point. Mrs. Bayley had shown symptoms of fatigue, \ p'' II Hi' !;;!i!m 74 FORGING THE FETTERS and sat down on a large stone at a little distance from the entrance, to which the shingly beach sloped steeply. " Is it not getting late ? " she asked, as Miss Onslow, attended by her uncle and Kenneth Morton, approached her, " I fancy it is," returned Dr. Methvin. " But Colonel Carrington and Mrs. Fane are so deep in a discussion of Cave Temples, that I do not think they will be ready to start for some time. The old guide is trying to light some driftwood, to show the extent of the cave. But we are feeling chill." " Well, I will wait here," said Mrs. Bayley ; and the others went on to the hotel. " Cave Temples/' thought Morton's ally. " I don't believe a word of it. It won't do to have them too long together. I'll just go and interrupt their tete-d-tete'* She rose and began to scramble towards the entrance of the cave as fast as she could, when a treacherous stone gave way as she stepped upon it, I !ip'ii.i ,;,..l. FORGING THE FETTERS 75 stance beach ) Mis3 [ortoii, "But ) deep io not 3 time, ood, to feeling and she fell to the ground in great pain. Her foot twisted under her, and her ankle was severely sprained. The consequences of this unfortunate accident arrayed themselves formidably before her mind's eye; she screamed loudly for help, and Mrs. Fane and Carrington came quickly out of the dark- ness to her assistance. Bayley ; ly. "I bo have iterrupt rds the when a upon it, !*!!*ii! I I 5!'' M'' CHAPTER IIL ,rit^ ■\ iMj' UCH as Colonel Carrington disliked Mrs. Bayley, he could not help ap- proving the fortitude with which she bore considerable suffering, and the intelligence with which she suggested measures for her own relief. *' It is not a very bad sprain, I hope/' she said, as Carrington helped her to a very convenient stone. " You must get a chair or something to carry me on, and some men, for I am no trifling weight. Just get off my boot before the foot swells, my dear Mrs. Fane. Then take your hand- kerchief to that little rill trickling over the rocks up there, and we'll manage a cold compress. '^ " I'll return as quickly as I can. You don't lUll- 1:11 hi:, : ; Mi: ' FOIKHNO THE FETTEliS 77 disliked lelp ap-- lich she jlligence ler own jhe said, ivenient ihing to trifling ihe foot ir hand- le rocky JSS." X don't t .», mind being left hei'e ? ** said Carrington. " Mrs. Bayley has her wits about her, and is very plucky. I don't fancy you'll want anything while I am away a " Oh, no. Pray don*t lose any time ; go as fast as you can," cried Mrs. Fane, who was kneeling on the shingle at Mrs. Bayley'a feet. " She must be in dreadful pain." But the physical suffering was as nothing com- pared to the carefully hidden tempest of wrath, against herself and her ill-luck, which raged in the sufferer's heart. If she had only resisted that spiteful impulse to interrupt Mrs. Fane and Car- rington in their tete-d-tete explorations, she would not only have escaped pain and discomfort, but the worse result of a fortnight or three weeks of helplessness, during which an infinitude of mis- chief might be done, an i Morton absent, too ! There never was anything so unfortunate ; still her only plan was to make the best of it, and instil what poison she could into Mrs. Fuie's mind against Carrington. Whatever happened, she V •/ ^i! h •iliii. .1 ,. I I! rli i J:l'fc' 1 jnh I'M'' '•■ I III' .ip i ■ Ml; 78 FORGING THE FETTERS muHt keep cool and free from fever, either of mind or body. Meanwhile, under her directions, and with the help of a small silk scarf she had round her throat, Mrs. Fane contrived a very successful compress ; and, before long, Colonel Carrington re- appeared with a chair and bearers, followed by the ex-professor, Miss Onslow, and Kenneth, all full of dismay and sympathy. It was soon arranged that Miss Onslow, Car- rington, and Kenneth Morton should drive on quickly in the pony carriage and have due pre- parations m^de at the hotel for the arrival of the sufferer, and that Mi\s. Fane and Dr. Methvin should accompany Mrs. Bayley in the doctor's carriage, where an impromptu couch was made up to keep her foot in a horizontal position. '* Don't worry yourself too much," said Carring- ton aside to Mrs. Fane, with the kind of familiar interest which seemed curiously natural. " You are looking as wliite as the foam down there. I must insist on your taking a glass of wine." " It was only the start of seeing her fall,'' said ^f% m •> I ! Mute;:-: FOlUilNG THE FhriTERS 79 of mind IS, and I round ccessful ^ton re- wed by eth, all >w, Car- rive on ue pro- of the VIethvin doctor's lade up yarrmg- familiar "You lere. I ue." i/' said 1 Mrs. Fane, her colour retnrning quickly, for the tone of imperious tenderness in his voice and man- ner affected her strangely. " I fancied she was more seriously hurt. Do send for a doctor as soon as you reach St. Cuthberts. She fancies she can luanage herself, but I wish her to be properly cared for." ** I will see to it. Good-bye for the present ; " this with a lingering look, which suggested to Mrs. Fane the reflection, " I think he is getting over his objection to me,^' and having seen her swallow a little sherry, Carrinij^ton and his division of the party drove rapidly away. This accident changed the face of affairs. The local doctor insisted on treating the injury as decidedly serious, and though Mrs. Bayley stoutly contested this opinion, she found it practically impossible to disobey his sentence of seclusion and reposa All that the kindest forethought could devise to lighten her imprisonment was provided by Mrs. Fane and eagerly seconded by Violet Onslow, who postponed a Bwwised visit to a certain dear ■I ■ . ! H I, if I' ,.'. ' 't 'I -( ; 80 FORGING THE FETTERS Aunt Julia and a house full of company, in order to assist in nursing that nice, kind Mrs. Bayley. "^ I do not know that I am of much use," said she, plaintively; her opinion of her own powers was very humble. " But I am better than nothing. I can read aloud to you when Mrs. Fane goes out; and she must go out, you know. She is looking quite pale and ill. I would do anything for Mrs. Fane, she has been so good to me. Until I knew her I never had any pleasure. My mother is always ill, you know.^' " Of course, a bright, sympathetic creature like you is always of use, anc a comfort to a poor, disabled body such as I am ; both Mrs Fane and myself ought to be very much obliged to you," cried Mrs. Bayley, warmly. " Ah ! I can do very little for Mrs. Fane ; and I am always afraid she can't care much about me. I wish she were really fond of me." *' I am sure she is." " Not as fond as I am of her; but I can't expect that.** FORGING THE FETTERS 81 in order ase," said 1 powers nothiiig, ^oes out; looking for Mrs. 1 I knew is always iture like 3 a poor, Fane and to you," Qe; and I ibout me. n't expect " Oh ! don't be sentimental, my dear ; you ought to put a proper value upon yourself." But while time went heavily with Mrs. Bayley, it made itself swift wings for Mrs. Fane. Although she gave many hours to the invalid, there were many at her own disposal, and of these Carrington was the constant companion. Sir Frederic was still detained in London about his friend's busi- ness, and Carrington became Mrs. Fane's general adviser and agent. It was wonderful how familiar they grew. His grave, calm manner inspired confidence ; his unspoken but keenly-felt sym- pathy seemed to supply the lack of old acquaint- anceship ; and, spoiled as Mrs. Fane had been by admiration and flattery, she had seldom enjoyed any triumph so satisfactory as the gradual dis- appearance of the distrustful, disapproving ex- pression which originally attracted her notice, anil which was replaced by a wistful and at times almost pained look, when his eyes dwelt upon her. " And what does that Colonel Carrington do iv'f'i: 4: 82 FORGING THE FETTERS , 1 .:; . Ci', with himself now ? Why is he staying on here when hia ankle is all risfht ? *' asked Mrs. Bayley. three or four davs after her accident, in a tone half- querulous, half-jesting. *' Oh, he makes himself most useful, and he plays golf with Kenneth Morton and Violet." " Hem ! And gazes at you, I suppose, still, as if about to pass sentence of death for your many crimes." *'No. I suppose he has got used to my enormities/' said Mrs. Fane, hiughing. " You don't think you ever saw him before ? "" " No ; I don't think I ever did. I must remind him of some one he disliked, or " ** 1 can give you the key to the riddle if you like/* interrupted Mrs. Bayley, " But can you ? '* " I can. He is the spy of yonr husband, ^ent, no doubt, t.' find out whatever he can against you . and 1 consider' c mpa.n and ung9ntlemanlike td worm hir,i-i.;if inlo your confrden? e to betray " ** But w;m3h ih'jiu 8 nothing- to betray ? '' uilci- II FORGING THE FETTERS 88 rnpted Mrs. Fane in her tnrn, and ^^reatly surprised, "What has suggested this idea, Mr>. IJiyhy?'' "He himself told Sir Frederic th^u he knew Colonel Fane well, and Ke was evidoutly full of curiosity about you; then he has sought you so persistently ! " Mrs. Fane did not reply for a rninute, during which she sat with her clasped han .'-.