And so Father Time, who to Vaura for once seemed to walk with stealthy
step, still with inevitable tread brought the world and humanity to
the fourth day of a new year.
On the third a letter had come from Col. Haughton to Lady Esmondet,
which ran thus:
"MY DEAR OLD FRIEND,--
"Your letters are so full of health that I don't think I'm selfish in
saying to let nothing tempt you and my hearts-light, Vaura, to stay
away any longer; when you come you will not blame me for wanting you
both; my married life has not been of very long duration, and yet, and
yet my new made wife ... but you will see if there is anything to see;
you are not a curious woman, Alice, God forbid; but you will know in
the social atmosphere which surrounds me, if I needlessly fear for the
honour of my name.
"The preparations for the ball are on a gorgeous scale and my _bete
noire_, Major Delrose, is up to the neck in, floral decorations. And
my lady's gown, mine and yours, too; did we say him yea; his nose is
broad enough to enter into everybody's business; and his back is broad
enough to bear anything I may write you.
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