was also that one so weak and frail as she should shake this strong man
so, should have the whole course of his life waiting for her decision.
Her left hand was on the cushion at her side. He leaned forward and
took it gently in his own. She did not try to draw it back from him.

"May I have it," said he, "for life?"

"Oh, do attend to your steering," said she, smiling round at him; "and
don't say any more about this to-day. Please don't!"

"When shall I know, then?"

"Oh, to-night, to-morrow, I don't know. I must ask Clara. Talk about
something else."

And they did talk about something else; but her left hand was still
enclosed in his, and he knew, without asking again, that all was well.



----


CHAPTER VIII.


SHADOWS BEFORE.


Mrs. Westmacott's great meeting for the enfranchisement of woman had