For a few moments they walked on in silence. Then Mr. Stanhope
turned, and with some hesitation said:
"Miss Alford, I did very wrong to stay after--after last evening.
But my better judgment was borne down by invitations so cordial
that I hardly knew how to resist them. At the same time I now
realize that I should have done so. Indeed, I would go away at
once, would not such a course only make matters worse. And yet,
after receiving so much kindness from your family, more than has
blessed me for many long years--for since my dear mother died I
have been quite alone in the world--I feel I cannot go away
without some assurance or proof that you will forgive me for being
such a kill-joy in your holiday."
Elsie's vexation with herself now knew no bounds. She stopped in
the path, determining that she would clear up matters, cost what
it might.
"Mr. Stanhope," she said, "will you grant a request that will
contain such assurance, or rather, will show you that I am
heartily ashamed of my foolish course? Will you not spend next
Thanksgiving with us, and give me a chance to retrieve myself from
first to last?"
His face brightened wonderfully as he replied, "I will only be too
glad to do so, if you truly wish it.
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