"
A cloud came over her beautiful face, and her lips quivered. I sat down
in sore perplexity with my inheritance. I had not certainly expected
this. What was I to say to her--this beautiful and radiant woman, who
seemed thrown upon my hands like a child? There was silence between us
for some time, then she said, suddenly:
"How sad this is about poor Sir Barnard and his son, is it not? I
thought at first that I should never recover from the shock. Miles was a
very handsome man; so clever and full of spirits. I am told," she
continued, "that the bodies are to be brought home to-night. Is it true,
Sir Edgar?"
"I believe so. I am here to receive them and to preside at the funeral."
Her face grew a shade paler.
"I am so frightened and nervous at everything connected with death," she
said.
"Your best plan will be to remain in your own room until it is all
over," I suggested, and she seemed very grateful for the thought.
"Will you take some tea?" she asked, suddenly. "I always made tea for
Sir Barnard and Miles."
Then she drew back shrinkingly, her face crimson.
"I beg your pardon," she said.
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