The sun was hidden by dark clouds,
yet no snow fell on the frozen ground. She had wakened in the
morning with a start, oppressed by a disagreeable yet forgotten
dream. Hastily dressing, she consoled herself with the hope of a
long letter from Martine, explaining everything and assuring her
of his welfare; but the early mail brought nothing. As the morning
advanced, a telegram from Washington, purposely delayed, merely
informed her that her affianced was well and that full information
was on its way.
"He has evidently found his cousin very low, and needing constant
care," she had sighingly remarked at dinner.
"Yes, Nellie," said the banker, cheerily, "but it is a comfort he
is well. No doubt you are right about his cousin, and it has
turned out as Hobart feared. In this case it is well he went, for
he would always have reproached himself if he had not. The evening
mail will probably make all clear."
"It has been so unfortunate!" complained Mrs. Kemble. "If it had
only happened a little earlier, or a little later! To have all
one's preparations upset and one's plans frustrated is
exasperating.
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