Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1875 edition. Excerpt: ... 40 chapter iv. A welcome telegram. tt was a strange welcome to bestow on the man--who had travelled all the way up from Somersetshire to comfort him in his suspense. George West hardly knew what to make of it. He thought Fane must have been drinking. 'I have come, Laurence, ' he said, almost timidly, ' because I thought I might be of use to you. This sad news only reached us yesterday.' 'What sad news?' 'Why of Daisy's--of the fact of my sister--of the boat in which 'replied, George, stammering. 'Of the fact of the boat which carries your sister not having touched shore quite so soon as the others, I suppose you mean? What is there sad in that? They'll take good care of her, George, you may depend upon it. Nothing can exceed their kindness to the women and children. And she'll be here to-morrow or next day at latest--certainly the next day--at the very latest, ' continued Fane, half to himself, as he rose from his chair and began to walk up and down the room. 'Oh, no doubt, ' replied George, 'but meanwhile, old fellow, don't you think it would be as well if you were to run down with me to Maple Farm? My father and Rita feel awfully for you of course, and' 'Feel for me? Why?' This question was as difficult to answer as the other. 'Feel for your suspense, I mean, and the bother of waiting and all that, and would like to make you as comfortable in the interim as they can. I am sure you would pass the time away more pleasantly with us than here.' 'There will be no time to pass away. I am perfectly comfortable as it is. And I cannot leave the spot. I may be wanted at any moment.' 'You could return at an hour's notice.' 'An hour would be too long. My wife will want me directly she lands. Besides, I have no wish to leave town.' 'Well, I won't.