"
"It certainly is."
"Just a moment," said Belle, as the voice of Mrs. Gough fell faintly on
her ear.
"What is it, dear?" said Belle bending down to catch her words. "Who is
that gentleman? His face and voice seem familiar."
"It is Mr. Clifford."
"Paul Clifford?"
"Yes. Do you know him?"
"Yes, I knew him years ago when I was young and happy; but it seems an
age since. Oh, isn't it a dreadful thing, to be a drunkard's wife?"
"Yes it is, but would you like to speak to Mr. Clifford?"
"Yes! Mam, I would."
"Mr. Clifford," said Belle, "Mrs. Gough would like to speak with you."
"Do you not know me?" said Mary, looking anxiously into his face.
"I recognized you as soon as you moved into the neighborhood."
"I am very glad. I feared that I was so changed that my own dear mother
would hardly recognize me. Don't you think she would pity and forgive
me, if she saw what a mournful wretch I am?"
"Yes, I think she has long forgiven you and longs to take you to her
heart as warmly as she ever did.
Pages:
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70