Mabel's roses returned in profusion, when, upon entering the

arbiter's dread presence, she saw Frederic Chilton, standing on the

opposite side of the table from that at which sat her brother at his

ease, his white fingers still idly interlaced, his pale patrician

face emotionless as that of the bust of Apollo upon the top of the

bookcase behind him. It was Frederic who led her to a chair, when

she stopped, trembling midway in the apartment, and his touch upon

her arm inspirited her to raise her regards to Winston's countenance

at the sound of his voice.

"I have sent for you, Mabel, that I may repeat in you hearing the

reply I have returned to Mr. Chilton's application for my sanction

to your engagement--I should say, perhaps, to your reciprocal

attachment. The betrothal of a minor without the consent, positive

or implied, of her parent or guardian is, as I have just explained

to Mr. Chilton, but an empty name in this State. I have promised,

then, not to oppose your marriage, provided the inquiries I shall

institute concerning Mr. Chilton's previous life, his character, and

his ability to maintain you in comfort, are answered satisfactorily.

He will understand and excuse my pertinacity upon this point when he

reflects upon the value of the stake involved in this transaction."

In all their intercourse, Frederic had no more gracious notice from

Mabel's brother than this semi-apology, delivered with stately

condescension, and a courtly bow in his direction.

It sounded very grand to Mabel, whose fears of opposition or

severity from her Mentor had shaken courage and nerves into pitiable

distress. Frederic could desire nothing more affable than Winston's

smile; no more abundant encouragement than was afforded by his

voluntary pledge. Had not the thought savored of disloyalty to her

lover, she would have confessed herself disappointed that his reply

did not effervesce with gratitude, that his deportment was distant,

his tone constrained.

"I appreciate the last-named consideration, Mr. Aylett, I believe,

thoroughly, as you do. I have already told you that I invite, not

shirk, the investigation you propose. I now repeat my offer of

whatever facility is at my command for carrying this on. No

honorable man could do less. Unless I mistake, you wish now to see

your sister alone."

He bent his head slightly, and without other and especial salutation

to his betrothed, withdrew.

Odd, white dints came and went in Winston's nostrils--the one and

unerring facial sign of displeasure he ever exhibited, if we except

a certain hardening of eye and contour that chiselled his lineaments

into a yet closer resemblance to marble.




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