We sailed until I was ten years old,
when his ship--"
"I know," interrupted Madam Lee gently. She gave a long sigh. "We--we
must speak more of this later," murmured she. "I am tired now."
As she dropped back against the cushions, Celestina rose softly and
motioned the others to follow her; but when Delight attempted to slip
away the hand resting on hers tightened.
"You are not leaving me!" pleaded the old lady faintly.
"I will come back again," answered the girl in a soothing tone.
"When? To-morrow?"
"If you wish it, Madam L--"
"Call me grandmother, my child," said the woman, a smile rare in its
peace and beauty breaking over her drawn countenance.
CHAPTER XVI
ANOTHER BLOW DESCENDS
The ride home from Belleport was a subdued one, bringing to an
afternoon that had been rich in sunshine a climax of shadow. The
Galbraiths were far too stunned by the startling revelations of the day
to wish to prolong a meeting that had lapsed into awkwardness, and
until they had had opportunity to readjust themselves they were eager
to be alone; nor did their delicacy of perception fail to detect a
similar craving in the minds of their guests.
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