I
dare say now, were I to hold myself to a strict account, I could
reckon up many an hour stolen from the dull routine of duty to devote
it to Lady Mabel's service."
"I am surely deeply indebted to you for the hours you so borrowed to
bestow on me," Lady Mabel answered, much at a loss what to say, and
looking every way but at L'Isle. "When I look back, I cannot but be
surprised at the amount of my gains, the knowledge and amusement I
have crowded into three short months, and chiefly through you."
"That time has passed, however," said L'Isle; "I can no longer be at
hand to afford you amusement. And as for knowledge, although older
than you, and knowing more of life, the world, and perchance of books,
I doubt whether you have been the greatest gainer in our intercourse.
But feeling a deep interest in you, I sincerely hope that you may gain
one precious lesson through me."
"What is that?" asked Lady Mabel eagerly--for the first time looking
fully at him.
"Never again heartlessly to throw away a friend!!" L'Isle said this
more gravely than bitterly. Then rising, he bowed respectfully but
formally, and was turning to go away.
Can she let him go without one word? But what can she say? She, at
length, gasped out, "It was papa's doing.
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