"
Alas! it is an easy task for us to propose, but the Great Disposer
of our destinies finds it necessary to circumvent our plans and show
us how utterly helpless we are. But we will not forestall events. We
will calmly await the end, in a direct order comforted by the
cheering thought that patience is a virtue and worthy its reward.
"Hubert, have you ever thought of Phil Lawson lately. I must tell
you some news."
Mrs. Arnold then, with greater gusto, referred to the fortune, and
in sarcastic tones amused her friend with the great change it would
make in the heir's position, and the brilliant match he would also
secure from the same source.
"So much the better," said Hubert, "he'll not be poking his nose
where he's not wanted."
Hubert Tracy tried to appear as indifferent as possible, but in his
own mind he was ill at ease. Any allusion to Phillip Lawson opened
afresh a very tender spot in his memory.
"Would to God the fellow were dead," thought he, "though he never
did me any harm. Perhaps, after all, he never would have had courage
to propose to Madge--but then its best to be safe."
It would seem as if Mrs. Arnold had divined her friend's thoughts.
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