Now Edward Cossey was naturally somewhat moved at this sight. Of
course he did his best to console her, though with no great results,
for she was still sobbing bitterly when suddenly there came a knock at
the door. Mrs. Quest turned her face towards the wall and pretended to
be reading a letter, and he tried to look as unconcerned as possible.
"A telegram for you, sir," said the girl with a sharp glance at her
mistress. "The telegraph boy brought it on here, when he heard that
you were not at home, because he said he would be sure to find you
here--and please, sir, he hopes that you will give him sixpence for
bringing it round, as he thought it might be important."
Edward felt in his pocket and gave the girl a shilling, telling her to
say that there was no answer. As soon as she had gone, he opened the
telegram. It was from his sister in London, and ran as follows:
"Come up to town at once. Father has had a stroke of paralysis.
Shall expect you by the seven o'clock train."
"What is it?" said Mrs. Quest, noting the alarm on his face.
"Why, my father is very ill. He has had a stroke of paralysis, and I
must go to town by the next train."
"Shall you be long away?"
"I do not know. How can I tell? Good-bye, Belle. I am sorry that we
should have had this scene just as I am going, but I can't help it.
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