A Life's Lessons (Volume 1) (Paperback)

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. 1857 edition. Excerpt: ... resolution, taken that night, remains unchanged. I am not so mutable as yourself. In 1ess__than an hour, I shall have quitted Middledale." Already shocked by the almost insolent demeanour of the stranger, Eugenie's disgust was not lessened by perceiving that his ungraciousness was drawing tears down the cheeks not alone of Nannie, but of the poor cripple. Even amidst her tears, however, Mrs. Varnham found voice enough to intercede with her son for at least the delay of a single night. "I assured you, on my arrival, mother," he replied, "that it was impossible; and nothing I have since heard or seen, tends to make me even desire the extension of my visit. But enough of this. We have much to talk over together during the short space of time that remains; Miss Balfour and her friend must excuse me for reminding them that, at such moments, a mother and son should be alone." A sudden glow of indignation overspread the face of Eugenie de Lanville, less at finding herself thus abruptly dismissed, than from seeing her young companion so grossly insulted. Taking Nannie hurriedly round the waist, she rather supported than led her from the cottage. Unresistingly, however. The poor girl was fully aware that she had no longer a right to be there. While deliberating whether the strength of her trembling companion would enable her to reach Gridlands, Mademoiselle de Lanville heard on the causeway the sound of their horses approaching; the groom having been instructed by her to meet them at Hawyer's Cottage. "You are not well enough to ride back to Hawkshill, chere petite swur," whispered she. "Remain to night at your father's. To-morrow, I will return hither to fetch...