We have agreed upon one
thing at last, at any rate."
"I am sure it is for the best, Horace," said Mrs. Vavasour,
looking at him with her kind, gentle eyes.
"I don't see how anything should be for the best when one has
behaved like a brute, and knows it," he answered, getting up,
and beginning to walk up and down the room.
"Is it you who have been behaving like a brute, Horace? I
cannot fancy that."
"I don't know why not," he answered gloomily; then, pausing in
his walk, "No one knew of our engagement except ourselves and
Aunt Barbara?" he asked.
"No one else was told."
"Well, then, no great harm is done, so far as gossip goes. You
had better write to Aunt Barbara. I shall go abroad at once."
"To this town on the Mediterranean?"
"Yes, I shall write to-night to B----; and I will start by the
seven o'clock train to-morrow morning for London. No one need
get up; I will tell Jane to let me have some breakfast."
"We shall hear from you?"
"Yes, I will write when I am across the water. Good-bye."
He stooped down and kissed her as he spoke.
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