Part 20 (2/2)
”But are you sure? Wouldn't you really rather be alone? It isn't for my sake, is it? because--”
”It is for mine. I want you to remain here and keep me company.”
She spoke without a trace of smile or any softening of her face, and Cicely still hesitated.
”But would it really be convenient? You have been very kind to me, and if you really want me here--”
”I do,” interrupted Lady Cromarty in the same even voice. ”I want you particularly to remain.”
”Very well then, I shall. Thank you very much--”
Again she was cut short.
”That is settled then. Perhaps you will excuse me now, Cicely.”
The girl went downstairs very thoughtfully. At the foot the young baronet met her.
”Have you settled where to go?” he asked.
”Lady Cromarty has asked me to stay on with her.”
His face fell.
”Stay on in this house of mourning? Oh, no, Cicely!”
”I have promised,” she said.
The young man grew curiously agitated.
”Oh, don't stay here!” he besought her. ”It keeps me in such dreadful suspense!”
”In suspense!” she exclaimed. ”Whatever do you mean, Malcolm?”
Again she saw that look in his eye, and again he raised a sympathy-beseeching wail. Cicely's patience began to give way.
”Really, Malcolm!” she cried tartly, ”if you have anything to say, say it, but don't go on like a baby!”
”Like a baby!” repeated the deeply affronted baronet. ”Heavens, would you liken me to _that_, of all things! I had meant to confide in you, Cicely, but you have made it impossible. Impossible!” he repeated sombrely, and stalked to the door.
Next morning, Sir Malcolm left for London, his confidence still locked in his breast, and Cicely was alone with Lady Cromarty.
XVI
<script>