Afterwards he will
see you alone. If these plans distress you,--if you find the delay
hard, I am to say that it is even harder for him than it can be
for you. But circumstances compel him to act thus, and he expects
you to understand and be patient. Mr. Black, assure Mr. Ostrander
that I am not likely to overstate the judge's commands, or to add
to or detract from them in the least particular--that I am simply
the judge's mouthpiece."
"You may believe that, Mr. Ostrander." Young Ostrander bowed.
"I have no doubt of the fact," he assured her, with an
unsuccessful effort to keep his trouble out of his voice. "But as
my father allows me some explanation, I shall be very glad to hear
what has happened here to occasion my imperative recall."
"Do you not read the papers, Mr. Ostrander?"
"I have not looked at one since I started upon my return."
Mr. Black glanced at Deborah, who was slipping away. Then he made
a move towards the parlour.
"If you will come in and sit down, Mr. Ostrander, I'll tell you
what you have every right to know."
But when they found themselves alone together, Oliver's manner
altered.
"One moment," said he, before Mr. Black could speak. "I should
like to ask you first of all, if Miss Scoville is better. When I
left you both so suddenly at Tempest Lodge, she was not well. I--"
"She is quite recovered, Mr. Ostrander."
"And is here?"
"Not yet. I came back quickly--like yourself."
Involuntarily their glances met in a question which perhaps
neither desired to have answered.
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