Bologna will be better than Arcachon
for the winter."
"Yes, if the climate be suitable. We must find out what the climate is,
or you may alter your plans again. I have not heard yet when the great
event is to take place--when you are to be married."
"My father thinks that Harry should avoid the late autumn in the
Forest--the fall of the leaf," Bessie began with rosy diffidence.
"But you have made no preparations? And there are the settlements!"
exclaimed Lady Latimer, anxiously.
"Our preparations are going on. My uncle Laurence and Mr. Carnegie will
be our trustees; they have consulted Harry, I know, and the settlements
are in progress. Oh, there will be no difficulty."
"But the wedding will be at Abbotsmead, since Mr. Laurence Fairfax gives
his countenance?" Lady Latimer suggested interrogatively.
Bessie's blush deepened: "No. I have promised Harry that it shall be at
Beechhurst, and very quiet. Therefore when we return to the Forest I
shall have to ask you to leave me at the doctor's house."
Lady Latimer was silent and astonished. Then she said with emphasis:
"Elizabeth, I cannot approve of that plan. If you will not go to
Abbotsmead, why not be married from Fairfield? I shall be glad to render
you every assistance."
"You are very, very kind, but Harry would not like it," pleaded Bessie.
"You are too indulgent, Elizabeth. Harry would not like it, indeed! Why
should he have everything his own way?"
"Oh, Lady Latimer, I am sure you would not have the heart to cross him
yourself!" cried Bessie.
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