Mabel's roses returned in profusion, when, upon entering the
arbiter's dread presence, she saw Frederic Chilton, standing on the
opposite side of the table from that at which sat her brother at his
ease, his white fingers still idly interlaced, his pale patrician
face emotionless as that of the bust of Apollo upon the top of the
bookcase behind him. It was Frederic who led her to a chair, when
she stopped, trembling midway in the apartment, and his touch upon
her arm inspirited her to raise her regards to Winston's countenance
at the sound of his voice.
"I have sent for you, Mabel, that I may repeat in you hearing the
reply I have returned to Mr. Chilton's application for my sanction
to your engagement--I should say, perhaps, to your reciprocal
attachment. The betrothal of a minor without the consent, positive
or implied, of her parent or guardian is, as I have just explained
to Mr. Chilton, but an empty name in this State. I have promised,
then, not to oppose your marriage, provided the inquiries I shall
institute concerning Mr. Chilton's previous life, his character, and
his ability to maintain you in comfort, are answered satisfactorily.
He will understand and excuse my pertinacity upon this point when he
reflects upon the value of the stake involved in this transaction."
In all their intercourse, Frederic had no more gracious notice from
Mabel's brother than this semi-apology, delivered with stately
condescension, and a courtly bow in his direction.
It sounded very grand to Mabel, whose fears of opposition or
severity from her Mentor had shaken courage and nerves into pitiable
distress. Frederic could desire nothing more affable than Winston's
smile; no more abundant encouragement than was afforded by his
voluntary pledge. Had not the thought savored of disloyalty to her
lover, she would have confessed herself disappointed that his reply
did not effervesce with gratitude, that his deportment was distant,
his tone constrained.
"I appreciate the last-named consideration, Mr. Aylett, I believe,
thoroughly, as you do. I have already told you that I invite, not
shirk, the investigation you propose. I now repeat my offer of
whatever facility is at my command for carrying this on. No
honorable man could do less. Unless I mistake, you wish now to see
your sister alone."
He bent his head slightly, and without other and especial salutation
to his betrothed, withdrew.
Odd, white dints came and went in Winston's nostrils--the one and
unerring facial sign of displeasure he ever exhibited, if we except
a certain hardening of eye and contour that chiselled his lineaments
into a yet closer resemblance to marble.