I wished to explain the matter myself. This
trifling affair, it seems, has made Fanny very unhappy. I am really
sorry. But it is over now, and I trust her spirits will rise again.
You understand me fully, and can easily see why I might naturally
fall into this trifling error.
"I wrote you yesterday, and hope you acted upon my suggestion. I
proceed South in an hour. Every thing looks bright."
CHAPTER XXII.
"IT must be done this evening, Fanny," said Mrs. Markland, firmly.
"The week has expired."
"Wait until to-morrow, dear mother," was urged in a manner that was
almost imploring.
"My promise was for one week. Even against my own clear convictions
of right, have I kept it. This evening, your father must know all."
Fanny buried her face, in her hands and wept violently. The trial
and conflict of that week were, to Mrs. Markland, the severest,
perhaps, of her whole life. Never before had her mind been in so
confused a state; never had the way of duty seemed so difficult to
find. A promise she felt to be a sacred thing; and this feeling had
constrained her, even in the face of most powerful considerations,
to remain true to her word.
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