Part 7 (1/2)
'You might do both if you would only seek aright.'
'There, enough! I am past being preached to as a naughty boy, and can now look forward to some enjoyment without robbing my own father, or getting my mother to rob him, to procure it. But I shall never forget that last struggle? no, never.'
Here, with a face of horror, Howel began his restless walk again.
Rowland sat in melancholy silence.
'Rowland,' suddenly broke in Howel, 'how is Netta?'
'Quite well, I thank you,' answered Rowland gravely.
'I have not seen her for a long time? will you remember me to her?'
'I cannot promise to do so.'
'Do you think me a fiend, sir, that my name cannot be mentioned to my cousin? I will manage to convey my own remembrances.'
'Howel, you know how it is? I do not mean to be unkind. If only you would give up your old life, enter your profession, and begin another--'
'That is as I choose. I shall be glad of the paper you wrote for my father, and then you and I, Rowland, are best apart.'
'Good-bye then, Howel? perhaps some day you may know that I wish you well. I will bring the paper at the funeral.'
'For heaven's sake stay, or send some one else! I cannot bear to be alone here? his ghost will haunt me.'
'Then let me read to you.'
Howel a.s.sented gloomily and threw himself on the bed in the corner of the room. Rowland took a small Testament from his pocket and resolutely read several chapters.
During the reading Howel fell asleep.
CHAPTER V.
THE FARMER'S SON.
At about ten o'clock on Monday morning Miss Gwynne rode up to the door of Glanyravon Farm, and, dismounting, entered the house. She was attended by a groom, and told him that she should not be long.
'How is that poor girl, Netta?' were her first words on entering the house.
'Very ill indeed, I believe,' said Netta, rather sulkily.
'Where is your mother?'
'She has been with the Irish beggar all the morning, and all night too.
I don't know what father and uncle and aunt will think.'
'Will you ask your mother whether I can see her for a few minutes?'