It reminds me of some part of Wales." He breathed deeply, and
then added, "You have been in Wales, I believe?"
He spoke low; almost in a whisper. The little church-bell began
to call the lagging people with its quick, sharp summons. Ruth
writhed in body and spirit, but struggled on. The church-door
would be gained at last; and in that holy place she would find
peace.
He repeated in a louder tone, so as to compel an answer in order
to conceal her agitation from the girls--
"Have you never been in Wales?" He used "never" instead of
"ever," and laid the emphasis on that word, in order to mark his
meaning to Ruth, and Ruth only. But he drove her to bay.
"I have been in Wales, sir," she replied, in a calm, grave tone.
"I was there many years ago. Events took place there which
contribute to make the recollections of that time most miserable
to me. I shall be obliged to you, sir, if you will make no
further reference to it."
The little girls wondered how Mrs. Denbigh could speak in such a
high tone of quiet authority to Mr. Donne, who was almost a
member of Parliament. But they settled that her husband must have
died in Wales, and, of course, that would make the recollection
of the country "most miserable," as she said.
Mr. Donne did not dislike the answer, and he positively admired
the dignity with which she spoke. His leaving her as he did must
have made her very miserable; and he liked the pride that made
her retain her indignation, until he could speak to her in
private, and explain away a good deal of what she might complain
of with some justice.
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