But I do not wish to forget. I am in no
hurry to obliterate the image of one who was most dear to me."
Jane Payland looked very searchingly at the pale, earnest face
reflected in the glass.
"For me, that which the world calls pleasure never possessed any
powerful fascination," continued Honoria, gravely. "My childhood and
youth were steeped in sorrow--sorrow beyond anything you can imagine,
Jane Payland; though I have heard you say that you have seen much
trouble. The remembrance of it comes back to me more vividly than ever
now. Thus it is that I shrink from society, which can give me no real
pleasure. Had I no special reason for remaining at Raynham, I should
not care to leave it"
"But you have a special reason, my lady?" inquired Jane, eagerly.
"I have."
"May I presume to ask--"
"You may, Jane; and I think I may venture to trust you fully, for I
believe you are my friend. I mean to stay at Raynham, because, in this
hour of sorrow and desolation, Providence has not abandoned me entirely
to despair. I have one bright hope, which renders the thought of my
future endurable to me. I stay at Raynham, because I hope next spring
an heir will be born to Raynham Castle."
"Oh, what happiness! And you wish the heir to be born at the castle, my
lady?"
"I do! I have been the victim of one plot, but I will not fall
blindfold into a second snare; and there is no infamy which my enemies
are not base enough to attempt.
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