Old Wyat repeated in her sour laconic way that
there was 'nothing to speak of amiss with him.' But there remained with
me a sense of pain and fear. Doctor Bryerly, notwithstanding my uncle's
sarcastic reflections, remained, in my estimation, a true and wise friend.
I had all my life been accustomed to rely upon others, and here, haunted by
many unavowed and ill-defined alarms and doubts, the disappearance of an
active and able friend caused my heart to sink.
Still there remained my dear Cousin Monica, and my pleasant and trusted
friend, Lord Ilbury; and in less than a week arrived an invitation from
Lady Mary to the Grange, for me and Milly, to meet Lady Knollys. It
was accompanied, she told me, by a note from Lord Ilbury to my uncle,
supporting her request; and in the afternoon I received a message to attend
my uncle in his room.
'An invitation from Lady Mary Carysbroke for you and Milly to meet Monica
Knollys; have you received it?' asked my uncle, so soon as I was seated.
Answered in the affirmative, he continued--
'Now, Maud Ruthyn, I expect the truth from you; I have been frank, so shall
you.
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