He was gratified that she took after his
family. Bessie's expression as she regarded him again made him think of
that characteristic signature of her royal namesake, "Yours, as you
demean yourself, ELIZABETH," and he framed a resolution to
demean himself with all the humility and discretion at his command. He
experienced an impulse of affection towards her stronger than anything
he had ever felt for his sons: perhaps he discerned in her a more
absolute strain of himself. His sons had all taken after their mother.
Mrs. Carnegie's reception propitiated Mr. Fairfax still further. She
said a few words in extenuation of the delay there had been in replying
to his communication through Mr. John Short; and he was able to reply,
even sincerely, that he was glad it had occurred, since it had
occasioned his coming to the Forest. Bessie reddened; she had an almost
irresistible desire to say something gruff--she abominated these
compliments. She was vexed that Lady Latimer should be their witness,
and bent her brows fiercely. My lady did not understand the signs of her
temper. She was only amused by the flash of that harmless fire, and
serenely interposed to soothe and encourage the little girl. Oh, if she
could have guessed how she was offending!
"Can you spare Bessie for a few hours, Mrs. Carnegie? If you can, I will
carry her off to luncheon at Fairfield. Mr. Fairfax, whom I knew when I
was not much more than her age, will perhaps come too?" said my lady,
and Mr.
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