"The proud old man is humbled; he fears the extinction of
his ancient line, and must make overtures now to me. My boy is the
heir; they cannot resist his rights; his claim is undeniable. He shall
be amply provided for; I shall insist on the most liberal terms."
Fully satisfied of the cause of her summons to Lincoln's Inn, Mrs.
Wilders presented herself punctually at twelve. Although she still
schooled her face to sorrowful commiseration with the old peer whom
fate had so sorely stricken, the elation she felt was manifest in her
proud, arrogant carriage, and the triumphant glitter of her bold brown
eyes.
Lord Essendine was with the senior partner, Mr. Burt, when she was
shown in; and although he arose stiffly, but courteously, from his
seat, did not take her outstretched hand, while his greeting was cold
and formal in the extreme.
There was a long pause, and, as neither of the gentlemen spoke, Mrs.
Wilders began.
"You sent for me, my lord--"
His lordship waved his hand toward Mr. Burt, as though she must
address herself to the old lawyer.
"Mrs. Wilders," said Mr. Burt, gravely and with great
deliberation--"Mrs. Wilders, if that indeed be your correct
appellation--"
And the doubt thus implied, reviving her worst fears, sent a cold
shock to her heart.
But she was outwardly brave.
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