Sharp, with a tremulous
smile, obeyed. The smile faded gradually as he listened, and an
expression of anxious astonishment took its place. He shook his head as
she proceeded, and twice ventured a faint suggestion that she was only
speaking in jest. Convinced at last, against his will, he walked on in
silent consternation.
"But," he said at last, as Miss Garland paused for breath, "your uncle
would never forgive me. He'd never let me come near the house again."
"Aunt will see to that," said the girl, confidently. "But, of course, if
you don't wish to please me--"
She turned away, and Mr. Sharp, plucking up spirit, ventured to take her
hand and squeeze it. A faint, a very faint, squeeze in return decided
him.
"It will come all right afterwards," said Miss Garland, "especially with
the hold it will give aunt over him."
"I hope so," said the young man. "If not, I shall be far--farther off
than ever."
Miss Garland blushed and, turning her head, gazed steadily at the river.
"Trust me," she said at last. "Me and auntie."
Mr. Sharp said that so long as he pleased her nothing else mattered, and,
in the seventh heaven of delight, paced slowly along the towpath by her
side.
"And you mustn't mind what auntie and I say to you," said the girl,
continuing her instructions.
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