'I never saw no one look iller, as you may say,
than the young lady.'
'Yes, yes, I will go,' said Jane, rising. 'My trouble's nothing to
hers. Oh, I shall go at once.'
'But remember your father's coming at half-past nine,' urged Bessie,
'and he said he wanted to speak to you particular.'
'What is the time now? A quarter to nine. I can be back by
half-past, I think, and then I can go again. Father wouldn't mind
waiting a few minutes. I must go at once, Mrs. Byass.'
She would hear no objection, and speedily left the house in Mrs.
Griffin's company.
At half-past nine, punctually, Mr. Snowdon's double knock sounded at
the door. Joseph looked more respectable than ever in his black
frock-coat and silk hat with the deep band. His bow to Mrs. Byass
was solemn, but gallant; he pressed her fingers like a clergyman
paying a visit of consolation, and in a subdued voice made
affectionate inquiry after his daughter.
'She has slept, I hope, poor child?'
Bessie took him into the sitting-room, and explained Jane's absence.
'A good girl; a good girl,' he remarked, after listening with
elevated brows, 'But she must be careful of her health.
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