On
this occasion, I invited him into my sitting-room.
He came in, with a large parcel under his arm. When he put the parcel
down, it appeared to frighten him. "My lady's love, Miss; and I was to
say that you would find a letter inside." Having given that message, the
fresh-coloured young footman surprised me by looking as if he would have
liked to run away.
I detained him to make a few kind inquiries. Could I see my aunt, if I
called in Montagu Square? No; she had gone out for a drive. Miss Rachel
had gone with her, and Mr. Ablewhite had taken a seat in the carriage,
too. Knowing how sadly dear Mr. Godfrey's charitable work was in arrear,
I thought it odd that he should be going out driving, like an idle man.
I stopped Samuel at the door, and made a few more kind inquiries. Miss
Rachel was going to a ball that night, and Mr. Ablewhite had arranged to
come to coffee, and go with her. There was a morning concert advertised
for to-morrow, and Samuel was ordered to take places for a large party,
including a place for Mr. Ablewhite. "All the tickets may be gone,
Miss," said this innocent youth, "if I don't run and get them at once!"
He ran as he said the words--and I found myself alone again, with some
anxious thoughts to occupy me.
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