 Chapter 9 of our friend the charlatan. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Our friend the charlatan by George Gissing. Chapter 9. It was natural that Lady Ogrum should from the beginning have suspected Miss Bride of a peculiar interest in Lashmar. When first she introduced her friend's name, Constance a little exaggerated the tone of impartiality, and in subsequent conversation she was never quite herself on this topic. Evidently she thought of the young man more often than she cared to have it known, a sort of subdued irritation now and then betrayed itself in her when she assented to a favorable comment regarding him, and a certain suspense of judgment quite unlike her familiar attitude of mind always marked her agreement in hopes for his future. The old woman of the world interpreted this by her own lights at moments of vexation for she did not like to be mystified at others that touched a chord of sympathy in some very obscure corner of her being. And as no practical problem could be put before her without her wishing to solve it autocratically, Lady Ogrum soon formed a project with regard to these two persons, a project which took firmer consistency and pleased her more the more she pondered it. On the appointed day Lashmar arrived at Rivenoke. He was allowed to spend an hour in reposeful solitude ere being admitted to his hostess's presence. Conducted at length to the green drawing room he found Lady Ogrum alone, she scrutinized him with friendly but searching eye, gave him her hand and bat him, be seated near her. I have another visitor coming from London today and old friend of mine, Mrs. Toplady, where had Dice heard that name, somewhere certainly he tried hard to remember but without success. I think you will like her pursued Lady Ogrum and she will perhaps be useful to you. She likes to know everybody who is or is going to be somebody. She'll ask you no doubt to her house in Pond Street where you'll meet a great many fools and some reasonable people. She herself I may tell you is no fool but she has a good deal more patience with that sort than I ever had and so of course has many more friends. She's what they call a leader of society yet she doesn't grudge leaving London for a day or two in the beginning of the season to do me a service. I seem to know her name, said Dice. Of course you do if you ever read about what society is doing. Lady Ogrum always uttered the word with a contemptuous lip but plainly she did not dislike to have it understood that society and certain of its representatives took respectful account of her. And now she continued I want to tell you about some other friends of mine you're to meet at dinner tomorrow. Most of them belong to Howling Ford and you will have to know them. Very pungently did she sketch these personages when her listener showed amusement Lady Ogrum was pleased. If he seemed to find the picture too entertaining she added but he or she is not a fool remember that. So did the talk go on until a servant entered to announce the arrival of Mrs. Top Lady who had gone to her room and being rather tired would rest there till dinner time. Whereas Miss Bride asked Lady Ogrum Miss Bride has just returned from Howling Ford my lady. I remember said the hostess to her guest she had an appointment with Mrs. Gallantry who has her eye on a house for the training school. I suppose we must set the thing going there's no harm in it. Constance entered in a few minutes greeted Lashmar as if she saw him every day and began to talk about Mrs. Gallantry's project. Soon a couple of hours later dice came down dressed for dinner Mrs. Top Lady was already in the drawing room. He heard her voice a well modulated contralto which held the ear and looking in that direction saw a tall dark robed woman of middle age with a thin face. Its lines rather harsh but in general effect handsome and a warm complexion brightly red upon the prominent cheekbones. Jewelry sparkled in her hair from her white throat and on her fingers as Lashmar came forward she finished what she was saying and turned her eyes upon him with expectant interest. A smile at the corner of her lips had a certain mischievousness quite good humid but a little perturbing to one who encountered it together with a direct dark gaze for the first time. Introduction having been performed with Lady Ogrum's wanted carelessness Mrs. Top Lady said at once, I know a friend of yours Mr. Lashmar Mrs. Wolstan perhaps she has spoken to you of me. She has dice replied remembering now that it was from Mrs. Wolstan he had heard her name. Why how's that exclaimed the hostess you never told me about it Mr. Lashmar? Dice had much to do to conceal his annoyed embarrassment. He wondered whether Mrs. Wolstan had made known the fact of his tutorship which he did not care to publish preferring to represent himself as having always held an independent position. With momentary awkwardness he explained that Mrs. Top Lady's name had but once casually passed Mrs. Wolstan's lips in his hearing and that till now he had forgotten the circumstance. I saw her yesterday said the lady of the roguish lips she's in trouble about parting with her little boy just been sent to school. Ah yes very sweet face hasn't she is the child like her I never saw him perhaps you never did either. Mrs. Top Lady had a habit not of looking steadily at an interlocutor but of casting a succession of quick glances which seemed to the person thus inspected much more searching than a fixed gaze. Though vastly relieved by the assurance that Mrs. Wolstan had used discretion concerning him, Dice could not become at ease under that restless look. He felt himself gauged and registered though with what result was by no means discernible in Mrs. Top Lady's countenance. Those eyes of hers must have gauged a vast variety of men. Her forehead told of experience and meditation thereon of all the women he could remember she impressed him as the least manageable according to his method. Compared with her Lady Ogrum seemed mere ingenuousness and tractability and pray who is Mrs. Wolstan the hostess was asking with a rather dry insistence. A charming little woman replied Mrs. Top Lady sincerity in look and voice I knew her before her marriage which perhaps was not quite but the poor man is dead. A sister of hers married into my husband's family she plays beautifully an exquisite touch. They were summoned to dinner at table it was Mrs. Top Lady who led the conversation but in such a way as to assume no undue prominence rather she seemed to be all attention to other talk and her smile notwithstanding to listen with the most open-minded interest to whatever was said. Her manner to Lady Ogrum was marked with deference at times with something like affectionate gentleness. To Ms. Bright she paid the compliment of amiable gravity and towards Lashmore she could not have borne herself more respectfully at all events in language if he had been a member of the cabinet. Every word which fell from him she found suggested, illuminated and seemed to treasure it in her mind. After dinner Dice received from her his cue for drawing room oratory he was led into large discourse and Mrs. Top Lady's eyes beamed the most intelligent sympathy. Nonetheless did Rogary still lurk at the corner of her lips so that from time to time the philosopher fidgeted a little and asked himself uneasily what that smile meant. At nine o'clock next morning Lashmore and Constance sat down to breakfast alone. Mrs. Top Lady rarely showed herself much before noon. If the sky clears said Constance Lady Ogrum will drive at eleven and you are invited to accompany her. And you, as Dice, I have worked for two or three hours. Lashmore chipped at an egg a thoughtful smile upon his countenance. Can you tell me anything about Mrs. Top Lady he inquired? Only what I have heard from Lady Ogrum. Constance sketched a biography the lady had been twice married first in early youth to a man who had nothing and who became fethysical. During his illness they suffered from dire poverty and at her husband's death the panelist widow received great kindness from Lady Ogrum whose acquaintance she had made accidentally. Two years afterwards she married a northern magnateur of more than twice her age. An instance remarked Mrs. Bright of natural reaction. It chanced that a royal personage on a certain public occasion became the guest of the manufacturer who had local dignities. And so well did Mrs. Top Lady play her part of hostess that royalty deigned to count her henceforth among his friends. Her husband would have received a title but an inopportune malady cut short his life. A daughter of the first marriage still lived she had wedded into the army and was little heard of. Mrs. Top Lady a widow unattached took her ease in the world. She has seven or eight thousand a year said Constance and spends it all on herself. Naturally she is a very polished and ornamental person. Something more than that I fancy return dice musing. Oh as Lady Ogrum would say she is not a fool. Dice smiled and left the topic pass. He was enjoying his breakfast and under this genial influence presently felt moved to intimate speech. You live very comfortably here don't you? You have no objection on principle to this kind of thing. His waving hand indicated the well spread table. I certainly not. Why should I object to civilization? I'm not quite sure that I've got at your point of view yet answered dice could humbly. You know mine the tools to him who can use them. A breakfast such as this puts us at an advantage over the poor world for the rest of the day. But the advantage isn't stolen. How came we here? Is it merely the cost of the railway ticket that transports me from my rasher in a London lodging to reindeer's tongue and so on in the breakfast room at Rivenoke? I fancy not. He paused. Was it wise to hint before Constance that he had lived rather poorly? He hoped and believed that she knew nothing definite as to his circumstances. Why no, she assented with a smile. I, for example, have perhaps some part in it. Dice gazed at her, surprised at this frankness. You certainly have and it reminds me that I may seem very ungrateful. I've hardly said thank you. Shake hands and believe that I am not ungrateful. She hesitated not till the hand had been extended to her for an appreciable moment. Did she give her own? In doing so, she wore a hard smile. So this evening went on dice. I meet my supporters. Lady Orgum gave me an account of them yesterday. Tell me what you think. May I be myself with these people or must I talk twaddle? I dislike twaddle as you know, but I don't want to spoil my chances. You understand how I look at this business. My object in life is to gain influence that I may spread my views. Parliament, I take it, is the best means. Considering the nature of the average elector, I don't think one need worry about the method one pursues to get elected. I won't tell lies that goes against the grain with me, but I must be practical. Constance watched him and seemed to weigh his remarks. As for twaddle, she said, I shouldn't advise much of it than Mrs. Toplady's hearing. You are right, that would never do. I suppose that woman may be of real use to me. Yes, I think so, replied Constance, seriously. You are, of course, aware that a man doesn't become Parliamentary candidate by just walking into a town and saying, Behold me, your votes. There is such a thing as party organization. Dice looked at her with involuntary respect. He reminded himself that twaddle was as little likely to have weight with Miss Bride as with Mrs. Toplady. She knows political people, he asked. She knows everybody or can know. I confess I don't understand why. In any case, it'll be well for you to have her good word. Lady Ogrum can do a good deal here, but I'm not sure that she could make your acceptance by the Liberals a certain thing. Of course, I thought of that, said Dice. Then fearing he had spoken in too offhand away, he added graciously, I needn't say that I regard your advice as valuable. I shall often ask for it. Constance was mute. I suppose I may take it for granted that you wish for my success. To be sure, I wish for it because Lady Ogrum does. Dice felt inclined to object to this, but Constance's face did not invite to further talk on the point. At all events, he continued, it seems no other candidate has been spoken of. The party isn't sanguine. They look upon Rob as an unassailable. Said it in Aitir Namkwe said a bit, but we shall see about it. Presently, I should like to talk over practical details with you. I suppose I call myself unionist. These questions of day-to-day politics, how paltry they are. Strange that people can get excited about them. I shall have to look on it as a game and amuse myself for certain hours of the day, a relaxation from thought and work. You haven't told me by the Bible what you think of my bio-sociological system. I've been considering it. How was it suggested to you? Constance asked the question so directly and was so keen a look that she all but disconcerted the philosopher. Though it grew out of my reading and observation grew bit by bit. No armed pal is sleeping to sudden life. You have worked it out pretty thoroughly. In outline, yes. Dice read the newspapers and walked a little in the garden. Punctually at 11, Lady Ogrum descended. The carriage was at the door. This stately drive, alone with the autocrat of Rivenoke animated the young man, he felt that the days of his insignificance were over that his career, the career so often talked about, had really begun. A delightful surprise gave Piquantcy to his sensations. Had he cared to tell himself the truth, he would have known that whatever his self-esteem he had never quite believed in the brilliant future of which he liked to dream. It is one thing to merit advancement, quite another to secure it. Yet here he was driving with a great lady, his friend, his admirer, driving towards the excitement of political contest, perhaps towards a seat in Parliament and who could say what subsequent distinctions. Lady Ogrum was not the woman to aid half-heartedly where her feelings were interested. Pretty surely he could count upon large support so long as he did not disappoint his benefactress. For the present he had no anxieties thanks to another woman, of whom in truth he thought scarcely once for hours he lived at ease. His faculties were expanding under this genial sunshine of prosperity. Even in aspect he was a man of more importance than a few weeks ago. His cheeks had colored, his eyes rested with a new dignity on all they saw. They returned and as Lady Ogrum was entering the hall, a servant made a respectful announcement. Mr. Kirchever is here, my lady. Mr. Kirchever, indeed. With an unusually quick step, the old lady moved towards the library. There, occupied with a newspaper, sat a man whose fifty years still represented the prime of life, a tall, athletically built man, his complexion that of a schoolboy after summer holidays, his brown hair abundant and crisp, spring and stay declared in every muscle his limbs and frame. Lightly he arose, gracefully he swung forward with the bow and smile of one who knows not constraint. Mr. Kirchever followed the law, but he also, whenever a chance offered, followed the hounds and with more gusto. At school and university he had won palms that his place in the academic list was less glorious, mattered little to one who had a comfortable seat waiting him in the paternal office. And what brings you here? Asked Lady Ogrem, unable to subdue an agitation which confused her utterance. I've made a discovery which will interest you, replied Mr. Kirchever, in a voice which sounded very strong and melodious by contrast. What is it? Don't keep me waiting. I have found a granddaughter of your brother Joseph Tomlin. The listener drew a deep, tremulous sigh. Can't you go on? She exclaimed, thickly, just as the lawyer was resuming. I'll tell you how I came upon her track. I don't care anything about that, cried the old lady with violent irritation. What is she? Where is she? Miss May Tomlin is 25 years old. Her parents are dead. She lives with relatives of her mother in the town of Northampton. She has been well educated, well brought up all together and has become about a hundred a year. Again, Lady Ogrem drew a deep breath. Her face was hotly flushed. Her hands trembled. A great joy shone from the transformed countenance. Thank goodness broke from her hoarsely. Thank goodness. Then with some alarm, I suppose you're making no idiotic mistake. That kind of mistake, Lady Ogrem, responded Mr. Kirchever, with a tolerant motion of the eyebrows, is not quite in my way. I'm not in the habit of making mistakes of any kind. You may be sure I've taken every precaution before coming here with such news as this. All right, what are you angry about? Lawyers and doctors and Parsons. There's no talking with them. They're so touchy. Can't you go on? Here's a girl falls out of the clouds and I'm to show no curiosity about her. You drive me crazy with your roundabout nonsense. Go on, can't you? Mr. Kirchever eyed his client curiously. He was not offended for he'd known Lady Ogrem long and had received traditions regarding her from a time before he was born, but he could not help being struck just now with her face and manner. They made him uneasy. I will tell you everything forthwith. He resumed, but I must beg you to control yourself, Lady Ogrem. I do so out of regard for your health. Emotion is natural, but now that you know the news is all good, your excellent sense should tranquilize you. Let us talk quietly. Lady Ogrem glanced at him, but not at acquiescence. I'm as cool as you are. Talk as much as you like. A few days ago, I had occasion to look through the lists of our London University calendar. I fell on the name Tomlin, and of course I was interested. May Tomlin matriculated at London three years ago. I could find no further record of her, but inquiries were easy and they guided me to Northampton. There, I made the acquaintance of a Mr. Rook, a manufacturer in whose house Miss Tomlin is resident and has been for a good many years to be precise since she was nine years old. Without trouble, I discovered the girl's history. Her grandfather, Joseph Tomlin, died in Canada 47 years ago. How do you know it was Joe? My brother asked the listener sharply. All these things you can follow out for yourself in detail in the papers I will leave with you. This Joseph had a brother, Thomas, and his age corresponds very well with that of your own brother, Joseph. Thomas Tomlin has left no trace except the memory of his name preserved by the wife of Joseph and handed on to her son, who in turn spoke of Thomas to his wife, who has been heard by Mrs. Rook, her sister, to mention that fact in the family history. What is more, I find a vague tradition that a sister of Joseph and Thomas made a brilliant marriage. How is it that your advertisements were never seen by these people, these Rooks? So it happened, that's all one can say. I've known many such failures. Mae Tomlin was born in Toronto where her father, also a Joseph, died in 80. Her mother, an English woman, came back to England in 81, bringing Mae the only child. She settled at Northampton and on her death in the following year Mae passed into the care of the Rooks. She had no surviving relative of her own name. Her father, a builder, left a little money which now provides the young lady with her income. From a state of caloric glory, Lady Orgum was passing into irritable delight. Better late than never, she exclaimed, but I can't see why you didn't find the girl ages ago. Haven't you advertised in Canada? No. We knew that your brother's went to Australia. Thomas, no doubt, died there. The story of Joseph's wanderings is irrecoverable. We must be content to have satisfactory evidence of his death and of this girl's descent from him. Well, and why haven't you brought her? I saw no need for such precipitancy. Miss Tomlin has not yet been informed of what is going on. Of course, she is her own mistress, free to accept any invitation that may be offered her. The Rooks seem to be quiet people in easy circumstances. No trouble of any kind is to be feared from them. You may act at your leisure. Here's the address. Of course, if you would like me to return to Northampton. She must come at once, said Lady Orgum, starting up. Would the Crows understand a telegram? The Rooks, you mean. I think it would be better to write. Naturally, I've not let them know your name. At first I found Mr. Rook rather disposed to stand upon his dignity, but a firm of Northampton solicitors vouched for my bona fides, and then things were smoother. No, I don't think I would telegraph. Then go to Northampton and bring the girl back with you. If you wish it. When is there a train? Oh, there's the luncheon bell. Of course, you must eat. Come and eat. I have someone staying here that I should like you to know. Our liberal candidate at the next election. Oh, so you've found one. Of course I have. Didn't I write to tell you? A lot of people dying here this evening to meet him. Perhaps you could stay overnight. Yes, now I come to think of it. I should like you to die with us. You shall go to Northampton tomorrow. Write to Rookie this afternoon. Lady Ogrum grew sportive. Prepare him. Come along now to lunch. You look hungry. Just one word. You are quite sure it would be wise to bring this young lady at once to Rivenoke. You say she knows how to behave herself. Certainly, but the change in her position will be rather sudden, don't you think? And if I may venture, how can you be sure that Miss Tomlin will recommend herself to you? Isn't she of my own blood, cried Lady Ogrum, in a high croak of exasperation? Isn't she my brother's grandchild, the only creature of my own blood living? I merely urge a little prudence. Is the girl a fool? I have no reason to think so, but she has led a quiet, provincial life. Come and eat, cried Lady Ogrum. We'll talk again afterwards. Mrs. Toplady joined them in the dining room as she seated herself. Everybody's late today. Mr. Kirchever, Mr. Lashmar, I want you to know each other. Mr. Lashmar, what have you been doing all the morning? Why, of course, you had a drive with me. I'd forgotten. Do sit down and let a seat, if everyone's as hungry as I am. For all that, she satisfied her appetite with one or two mouthfuls and talked on in a joyously excited strain to the astonishment of Constance. We saw that Mr. Kirchever must have brought some very important news. Lashmar also exhilarated, kept up conversation with Mrs. Toplady. It was a vivacious company, mispride being the only person who spoke little. She was commonly silent amid general talk, but her eyes traveled from face-to-face reading commenting. Mr. Kirchever consented to stay overnight. In the afternoon, he had a stroll with Lashmar, but they did not much enjoy each other's society. Dice took no interest in whatever in sports or games, and the athletic lawyer understood by politics a recurring tussle between two parties, neither of which had it in his power to do much greater harm to the country. A philosophy in science other than that of boxing, he knew about as much as the woman who swept his office. Privately, Mr. Kirchever opined that this young man was a conceited pedant who stood no chance whatever of being elected to Parliament. When questioned by Lady Ogrem, he inquired whether Mr. Lashmar had means. Oh, he has money enough was the careless answer, but it's his brains that pound upon. I never heard they went for much in politics of Mr. Kirchever. End of Chapter 9. Chapter 10 of Our Friend, The Charlotin. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Our Friend, The Charlotin by George Gissing. Chapter 10. The dinner went off very well indeed. It was not merely her animus against Mr. Robb, which supported Lady Ogrem's belief in the future of the Liberals at Hollingford. A certain restiveness could be noted in the public mind, heretofore so obedient to the long Tory tradition. Mr. Rakespeare's paper certainly had an increasing sale and an attention to Mr. Robb in public gatherings, other than political, was not so sure of cordial response as formally. This might only imply a personal dissatisfaction with the borough's representative, who of late had been very visibly fossilizing. It would be difficult to explain a marked reaction in Hollingford against the tendencies of the country at large. Still, a number of more or less active and intelligent persons had begun to talk of contesting the Tory seat. And with these, the Lady at Rivenoke held active communication. They gathered about her this evening, enjoyed the excellent meal provided for them, inspected Mr. Dice Lashmar and listened attentively even to his casual remarks. Mr. Lashmar might or might not prove to be the candidate of their choice. There was plenty of time to think about that. In the meantime, no one more suitable stood before them and having regard to Lady Ogrum's social authority, considerable from one point of view, they were very willing to interest themselves in a man of whom she thought so highly. Very little was definitely known about him. He was understood to be a gentleman of means and erudite leisure, nor did his appearance conflict with this description. Known then, Dice's talk had an impressive quality. He spoke for the most part in brief, pregnant sentences, which seemed the outcome of solid thought and no little experience. Constance Bright, observing him studiously, often admired his grave yet easy bearing, his facile yet never careless speech. Herself in doubt as to his real weight, whether as man or politician, she carefully watched the impression he produced on others. On the whole it seemed to be favorable, and once or twice she caught a remark decidedly eulogistic. This pleased her, like everybody else this evening, she was in good spirits. Mrs. Toplady, much observed and courted, but seemingly quite indifferent to homage, watched the scene with her eyes of placid good humor, the roguish smile ever and again appearing on her lips. She lost no opportunity of letting fall a lavatory word concerning Dice's slash mark. Her demeanor with humdrum persons was courteous amiability almost in excess. To the more intelligent she behaved with a humorous frankness which was very captivating. At a certain moment of the evening she found occasion to sit down by Constance Bright, and Constance would have been more than human had she altogether resisted the charm of that fine contralto modulating graceful compliments. Mrs. Toplady had read the report of the social work at Shaw. It interested her keenly. She could not sufficiently admire the philanthropic energy which had been put into this undertaking in so great a part as she heard due to Miss Bride's suggestions. I'm glad to hear from Lady Ogrum she said that there is a probability of your being in town before long. If so, I hope you will let me have a long talk with you about all sorts of things. One of them, of course, must be Mr. Lashmar's candidature. Saying this, Mrs. Toplady beamed with kindness. Constance noted the words and the look for future reflection. At this moment she was occupied with the news that Lady Ogrum thought of going to London. No hint of any such intention having before this reached her ear. In the course of the afternoon Lady Ogrum had held private colloquy with her guests from the brilliant world, a conversation more intimate on her part than any that had ever passed between them. Such expansion was absolutely necessary to the agitated old lady, and she deemed it good fortune that a confidant in whom she put so much trust chance to be near her. Speaking of Lashmar, she mentioned his acquaintance with Lord Dim Church and inquired whether Mrs. Toplady knew that modest peer. He is only a name to me, was the reply, and I should rather like to see him in the flesh. Mr. Lashmar must bring him to Pond Street if he can. That's what I'm a little doubtful about, said Lady Ogrum. I've been thinking it might help us if a real-life Lord casually walked about hollering forth with our candidate. We have to use means, you know. The old lady grimaced to her scorn, and the leader of society smiled. One thing Mrs. Toplady had learned, which interested her, that her autocratic friends Faith and Dice Lashmar as a coming man was unaffected and sturdy. She amused upon this, that the oak had often supplied entertainment to her sport of mind. Now, as shadows of night were gathering over it, there seemed to be preparing in this corner of the human stage a spectacle of unforeseen pecan sea. Also, with Mr. Kirchever, the old lady had had an afternoon's talk. Her emotion being now more under command, she could listen to the solicitor's advice, which dissuaded from abrupt action with reference to Ms. Tomlin. Mr. Kirchever thought it would be unwise to reveal all the interest she felt in this late discovered representative of her family. Had he not better write to Mr. Rook, saying that his client, a widowed lady living at her country house, hoped to have the pleasure of making her young relatives acquaintance and address a letter to Ms. Tomlin. This course finally met with Lady Ogrem's approval. She agreed to let a week pass before taking the next step. Whatever the ultimate effect of her joyous agitation for the present, it seemed to do her nothing but good. She walked with lighter step for herself as though she had thrown off years and all through the evening was a marvel of untiring graciousness and cordiality. The reaction came when she found herself at liberty to feel weary, but no, I say that of the confidential maid, beheld her collapse. Even whilst being undressed like a helpless infant, the old lady did not lose her temper even whilst gulping an unpleasant draft while aware that she was not likely to sleep until dawn if then she smiled at her thoughts. The maid wondered what it all meant. Dij Lashmore was abundantly satisfied with himself. Am I doing it well? He quietly asked of Constance somewhere about ten o'clock and on receiving the reply, very well he gave his friend a morbid, ignorant smile than he had bestowed upon her since the old days of semi-sentimental intimacy. He would much have liked to talk over the evening before he went to bed as that was impossible. He pressed her hand very warmly at leave taking, looking her steadily in the eyes and said in a low voice, tomorrow. He was greatly satisfied with himself and in consequence felt overflowing with kindness towards all the sons and daughters of men. One by one he reviewed the persons with whom he had conversed how pleasant they were, how sensible and well-meaning, what excellent material for the formation of a really civilized state they had evidently been impressed with him and on going home would make him the subject of their talk. Tomorrow his name would sound frequently in several houses always with complimentary adjunct the thought made his pulses throb. To be talked of, to be admired was the strongest incentive known to him. Of Lady Ogrum he thought with positive affection to the end of his life he would revere her memory, Constance Bright he esteemed as a loyal friend, never would he fail in gratitude to her. She should have his confidence and he would often seek her counsel, a good able girl of the best modern type. Last of all there came into his mind the visage of a small impulsive woman with freckled oval face and hair the color of an autumn elm leaf, Iris Wolstan. To her too how much he was beholden, good foolish fidgety Iris Wolstan. Never again could he be impatient with her. Of course he must pay back her money as soon as possible brave little creature lightheartedly sending him her check for 300 pounds while there was something heroic in it. Yes he acknowledged himself lucky in his woman friends few men could be so fortunate. To be sure it was the result of his rational views of his straightforward honest method. He saw his way to do noble service in the cause of womanhood and that by following the path of mere common sense all sentimental and so-called chivalrous humbug cast aside all exaggerated new conception simply disregarded. His bosom swelled with glorious faith in his own future and in that of the world. Among the guests had the you muster break spear looking a trifle fresher than usual in his clean linen and ceremonial black hearing that Lashmore was to spend a couple of days more at Rivernoke. He asked him to dine on the following evening Lady Ogrem readily permitting the invitation. I say dine separate beat the better word for I can offer you only simple entertainment. We shall be alone. I want the full advantage of your talk. Afterwards if you approve we will look in upon an old friend of mine who would have great satisfaction in exchanging ideas with you. Something of an original. At all events you will find him amusing. To this relaxation dice look forward with pleasure nearly the whole of the next day he spent in solitude for Lady Ogrem did not appear until the afternoon and then only for an hour. Mrs. Toplady took her leave before midday. Miss Bride showed herself only at breakfast and luncheon when she was friendly indeed but not much disposed for talk. Dice had anticipated a growth of intimacy with Constance. He was prepared for a long confidential gossip in the library or the garden but his friend briefly excused herself. She had a lot of reading and extracting to do. You have told me very little about yourself he remarked when she rose to withdraw after luncheon. What's there to tell? It would interest me to know more of your own thoughts apart from the work you are engaged in. Oh, those are strictly for home consumption said Constance with a smile and went her way. So Dice spaced the garden by himself or read newspapers and reviews or lolled indolently in super comfortable chairs. He had promised to write to Mrs. Wolstan and in the morning said to himself that he would do so in the afternoon but he disliked letter writing shrank at all times indeed from use of the pen and ultimately the duty was postponed till tomorrow. His exertions of the evening before had left a sense of fatigue. It was enough to savor the recollection of triumph. He mused a little from time to time on Constance whose behavior slightly piqued his curiosity that she was much occupied with the thought of him he never doubted but he could not feel quite sure of the color of her reflections, a vexatious insertitude. He lazily resolved to bring her to clear a vow before quitting ribbon oak. At evening the coachman drove him to Hollingford where he alighted at Mr. Brake Spears' newspaper office. The editor received him in a large ill-kept, barely furnished room the floor littered with journals. How will that do? Mr. Lashmore was as greeting as he held out a printed smith. Dice perused a leading article which without naming him contained a very flattering sketch of his intellectual personality. So at least he understood the article ostensibly, a summing of the qualifications which should be possessed by an ideal liberal candidate, large culture, a philosophical grasp of the world's history, a scientific conception of human life, again thorough familiarity with the questions of the day, a mind no less acute in the judgment of detail than broad in its vision of principles. Moreover, genuine sympathy with the aspirations of the average man yet no bias to sentimental weakness, with all this the heaven-sent gift of leadership, power of speech, calm and justified self-confidence, Lashmore's face beamed as he recognized each trait. Brake Spear the Law regarded him with half-closed eyes in which twinkled a world of humor. A little too generous, I'm afraid, Dice remarked at length thoughtfully, not a bit of it cried the editors scratching the tip of his nose where he had somehow caught a spot of ink. Bald facts on his portraiture doesn't displease you. How could it I only hope I may be recognized by such of your readers as have met me? You certainly will be. I shall follow this up with a portrait of the least acceptable type of conservative candidate wherein all will recognize our parliamentary incubus. Thus do we open the great campaign. If you would care to, pray keep that proof. Someday it may amuse you to look at it and to recall these early days of our acquaintance. Now I will take you to my house which I need not say you honor by this visit. You are a philosopher and simplicity will not offend you. They walked along one or two main streets. Journalists still ink-spotted on the nose, nodding now and then to an acquaintance and turned it lengthened to a byway of dwelling houses which did not indeed suggest opulence, but were roomy and decent. At one of the doors break spear paused, turned the handle and ushered in his guest. Almost immediately Dice was presented to his hostess on whose thin but pleasant face he perceived with satisfaction a reverential interest. Mrs. Break Spear had few words at her command and was evidently accustomed to be disregarded. She knew that her husband admired intellectual women and that he often privately lamented his mistake in marriage, but nonetheless was she aware that he enjoyed the comfort of his home to her a sufficient recompense. Like many a man, Break Spear would have been quite satisfied with his wife if at the same time he could have had another. He hardly approved the domestic virtues. It would have exasperated him had the mother of his children neglected home duties for any intellectual pursuit, yet as often as he thought of his bride, contemptuous impatience disturbed his tranquillity. He desired to unite irreconcilable things. His practical safeguard was a humor which after all never allowed him to take life too seriously. A boy of sixteen, the eldest of seven children, sat down to table with them. Break Spear made a slight apology for his presence, adding genially, men a nissy, you wabbit. The meal was more than tolerable. The guest thoroughly enjoyed himself talking with as little affectation as his nature permitted and with a sense of his own graciousness, often addressing to Mrs. Break Spear a remark on the level of her intelligence. When you come down to holling forward, said the journalist, I suppose, you will generally stay at Lady Ogrum's. Possibly was the reply, but I think I'd better decide which is to be my hotel when I have need of one. Will you advise me in that matter? Break Spear recommended the house which Blashmore already knew and added hints concerning the political color of leading tradesfolk. When they rose, the host reminded Dice of his suggestion that they should go and see an old friend of his, one Martin Blades. We shall find him smoking his pipe with a jug of beer at his elbow. Martin is homely, but a man of original ideas, and he will appreciate your visit. So they set forth and walked for a quarter of an hour towards the outskirts of the town. Mr. Blades, who held a small municipal office, lived alone in a very modest dwelling, is attendant a woman of discreet years. As Break Spear had foretold, he was found sitting by the fire site. The evening was cool enough to make a fire agreeable, a church warden between his lips and a brown jug of generous capacity on the table beside him. As the door opened, he turned a meditative head and blinked my optically at his visitors before rising. His movements were very deliberate, his smile which had the odd effect of elevating one eyebrow and depressing the other made him look as if he were about to sneeze. Not without ceremony Break Spear presented his companion whom the old man his years touched on seventy greeted in the words of Abel Lazar to Daniel. I have heard of thee that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and wisdom and excellent understanding are found in thee. Be seated, Mr. Lashmar, be seated. Friend Break Spear, put your toes on the fender. Mr. Lashmar, my drink is ale. An honest tap which I have drunk for some three school years and which never did me harm. Will you join me? With pleasure, Mr. Blades. A touch upon the bell summoned the serving woman. Mrs. Ricketts, another jug of the right amber and two beakers. I know not if you smoke, Mr. Lashmar, why, that's right, two yards of grossly also, Mrs. Ricketts. Break Spear have produced his pouch which he opened and held to Martin. Here's a new mixture, my own blending which I should like you to try. I see your pipe is empty. Where mercy, replied the other with a wave of the hand, I stick to my own mandungus. Any novelty disturves my thoughts. Offer it to Mr. Lashmar a trifle rank. Here comes the jug. What say you to that for a head, Mr. Lashmar? A new nine-gallon tapped before breakfast this morning now running clear and cool as a mountain burn. What would life be without this? Elsewhere, our ale degenerates. Not many honest brewers are left, druggists, wine, and the fire of the distilleries will wreck our people. That's Mr. Lashmar speak a word for honest ale. Time enough is wasted at Westminster. They may well listen to a plea for the source of all right feeling and right thinking. Amber ale. Thy soon understood that here at all events he was not called upon for eloquence or disquisition. Martin Blades had become rather dull at ear and found it convenient to do most of the talking himself. Now and then he termed his well this way or that and a remark always claimed to his courteous attention but in general his eyes were fixed on the glow of the fireplace whilst he pursued a humorous ramble from thought to thought, topic to topic. Evidently of local politics seeming nothing and wrecked not at all. He seemed to take for granted that Lashmar was about to sit in Parliament for howling forth and that the young man represented lofty principles rarely combined with public ambition. You may do something. I don't know. I don't know. Things are bad. I fear and likely to be worse. We had hopes, Mr. Lashmar, when the world and I were young. In those days there was such a thing as zeal for progress and progress didn't necessarily mean money. You know my view of the matter, friend breaks spear. Two causes explain the paths we've come to the power of women and the tyranny of finance. How does that you, Mr. Lashmar? Finance, yes, Dice replied. It's the curse of the modern world but women, yes, yes the monstrous regiment of women as the old writer hath it look at the diseases from which we are suffering materialism and hysteria. The one has been intensified and extended. The other has newly declared itself since women came to the front. No materialist like a woman give her a voice in the control of things and goodbye to all our ideals. Hard cash, military glory, glittering and clanging triumph these be the gods of a woman's heart. Thought and talk, drowned by a scream, nerves worried into fiddle strings. We had our vain illusion we were generous in our manly way. Open the door let the women come forth and breathe fresh air. Justice for wives, an open feel for those who will not or cannot wed. We met well but it was letting out of the waters. There's your idle lady with a pretty face who wants to make laws for the amusement of breaking them. As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman without discretion. There's your hard featured woman who thinks that nobody in the world but she has brains and our homes are tumbling about our heads because there's no one man among a thousand have I found but a woman among all those have I not found. Back with them to nursery and kitchen, pantry and herb garden, back with them or we perish. Dice or a broad smog he knew that he himself would have spoken thus had he not been committed to another way of talking breaks beer too small but with only half a cent he reserved his bigamist alternative. Martin Blades took a long graph popped half a dozen rings of smoke and pursued his diatribe in the same good-natured growl. The fury to get rich who is so responsible for it as the crowd of indolent luxurious and vain women, the frenzy to become notorious almost entirely women's work the spirit of reckless ambition and public life encouraged by this sex which has never known the meaning of responsibility, decay of the arts inevitable result of the predominance of little fools who never admired in millenary. Revival of delight in manslaying what woman could ever resist a uniform let them be, let them be why should they spoil our ale and tobacco friend breaks beer how's your wife now there Mr. Lashmore there's a woman such as I honor she will do him good and not evil all the days of her life a woman of the bygone day gentle but strong silent and wise give her of the fruit of her hands and let her own works praise her in the gates Mr. Lashmore your beaker stands empty so by the by does the jug Mrs. Ricketts the little room contained many books mostly old and such as had seen long service as his habit was when a friend sat with him Mr. Blades presently reached down a volume and on opening it became aware of a passage with sent an inter-crowing laughter ha ha friend breaks beer here's something for thee that art the softest of our time and list how the old wise man spoke of thy kind they do but teach the collective opinion of the many to their wisdom for Sue I might liken them to a man who should study the temper or the desires of a great strong beast which he has to keep in fee he learns how to approach and handle the creature also at what times and for what cause it is dangerous or the reverse what is the meaning of its several cries and by what sounds it may be sued or infuriated furthermore when by constantly living with the huge brute he has become perfect in all this he calls a philosophy and makes a system or art of it which forthwith he professes one thing he names honorable another base this good that evil this just that unjust all in accordance with the taste and words of the great animal which he has studied from its grunts and snarls ha ha friend breaks beer does it touch thee comes it not something near may take it not in dodging tizzle play to who speaks what I cried the journalist gaily I'm infinitely obliged to you the passage shall do me yeoman service turned against the enemy for it is not I who speak for the many at holling forth as well you know we liberals are the select the chosen spirits the mighty brute is Toryism only the fear of reaching ribbon oak at too late an hour constrained lashmore to rise at length I hope you will let me come and see you again Mr. Blades he exclaimed heartily as he grasped the old man's hand here you will commonly find me Mr. Lashmore after eight o'clock and if you bear with my whimsies I shall thank you for your company the sale I try to believe will last my time if a company corrupted I foreswear all fermented liquor and go to the grave on mere element honest water which no left man in the mire but I hope better things I hope better things and what do you think of Martin asked the journalist as he and lashmore walked to the nearest place where a vehicle could be obtained for the drive to ribbon oak a final cynic answered dice I hope often to drink ale with him luckily it doesn't compromise you Martin belongs to no parting gives no vote I could tell you a good story about his reception of a canvasser a lady by jove at the last election but I'll keep it till we meet again as you are in a hurry you have put me in spirits Mr. Lashmore may not be long before I next talk with you meanwhile I dig the trenches ale and strong tobacco to both of which he was unaccustomed wrought confusingly upon dice's brain as he was born through the night he found himself murmuring the name of Constance and forming a resolve to win her to intimacy on the morrow yes he liked Constance after all then came a memory of Martin Blades' diatron and he laughed approvingly but Constance was an exception the best type of modern woman after all he liked her again they too breakfasted together dice gave a merciful description of his evening and gaily reported Mr. Blades' eloquence on the subject of woman on the whole I agree with him said Constance and I know of course that you do indeed you agree with him so does every sensible person but the subject doesn't interest me I hate talk about women we've had enough of it it has become a nuisance a can't like any other a woman is a human being not a separate species why of course, Greilash, Marge is what I'm always saying say it no more, interrupt it as companion there are plenty of other things to talk about whereupon she finished her cup of coffee knotted a leaf-taking and went at a brisk pace from the room dice continued his meal meditative a trifle wounded in self-esteem later in the morning he saw Constance wheeling forth her bicycle he ran and gained her side before she had mounted as you are going out why shouldn't we have a walk together give up your ride this morning I'm very sorry I can't Constance answered pleasantly the exercise is necessary for me but just this once impossible the morning is too fine and the road's too good she sprang into the saddle and was off much to dice's mortification he had not dreamt that she could refuse his request and he had meant to talk with such generous confidence such true comradeship it was even his intention to tell Constance that he looked more for her sympathy than for that of anyone else surely this would have been very gratifying to her she could not but have thanked him with real feeling at luncheon his bride was obviously unrepentant one would have said that it amused her to notice the slight coldness which Lashmar put into his manner towards her but she never seemed in better spirits in the afternoon dice was summoned to a private interview with Lady Ogren it took place in an upstairs room he had not yet entered his hostess sat before a wood fire though the day was warm and her face now then had a look of suffering but she spoke cheerfully and in a tone of much kindness well have you enjoyed your stay with me you must come down again presently but in the meantime you'll be busy go and see Mrs. Toplady and get to know all the useful people you can we shall be working here for you of course Ms. Bride will keep you posted about everything the dark eyes at this moment pain troubled were reading his countenance I needn't tell you Lady Ogren continued that Ms. Bride has my entire and perfect confidence I don't think I'm easily deceived in people and even before she spoke to me of you I've made it my mind that in some way she must be given a chance of doing something in life you know all about her ways of thinking perhaps better than I do in the pause which followed Dice was on the point of disclaiming this intimacy but the drift of Lady Ogren's talk exciting his curiosity prevailed to keep him silent he bent his look and smiled modestly she's one of the few women went on his friend who do more than they promise she'll never be what is called brilliant don't make much of a figure in the drawing room but give her a chance and she'll do things that people will talk about she has powers of organizing I don't know whether you understand how well she's getting to be known by serious workers in the social reform way there's not one of them can write such good letters tell so much in few words but we must give her a chance you and I together Dice was startled his smile got away and involuntarily he turned a look of surprise on the speaker you mean said Lady Ogren as though answering of the monstrance that you know all about that without my telling you don't be touchy you and I can understand each other well enough if we like what I want to let you know is that I consider she has a claim upon me not in the ordinary sense perhaps I'm not quite an ordinary woman and I see things in a way of my own she has a claim upon me because she's one of the few women who have nothing of the baby or the idiot in them and I've been looking out for that sort of all my life if Constance Bride the voice became slower as if for emphasis is put into a position of trust she'll do all that is expected of her there's no particular hurry she's young enough still and as for you, you've got your hands full Dice felt so puzzled that he could not shape a word one thing was growing clear to him but what did the old woman mean by her position of trust how was Constance to be given her chance and what exactly was she expected to do well we've had our talk said the old lady moving as if in pain and weariness go back to town tonight or tomorrow morning as you like write to me mind as well as to Miss Bride and let me know of all the acquaintances you make it's just possible I may be in London myself next month it depends on several things she became dreamy Dice though he would have liked to say much knew not how to express himself he was playing more over that his hostess had little strength today he rose I think I shall catch the evening train Lady Ogrum very well a pleasant journey she gave her hand and Dice thought it felt more skeleton like than ever certainly her visage was more cadaverson line and hue than he had yet seen it almost before he had turned away Lady Ogrum closed her eyes and lay back with a sigh so here were his prospects settled for him he was to marry Constance Bride under some big conditions which perturbed him almost as much as the thought of the marriage itself impossible that he could have misunderstood and how had Lady Ogrum hit upon such an idea it was plain as daylight that the suggestion had come from Constance herself Constance had allowed it to be understood that he and she were either formally or virtually affianced he stood appalled at this revelation in a sphere of knowledge which he held to be particularly his own end of chapter 10 chapter 11 of our friend the charlatan this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org our friend the charlatan by George Gissing chapter 11 it was a week after the departure of Dice Lashmar Lady Ogrum had lived in agitation a state which she knew to be the worst possible for her health several times she had taken long drives to call upon acquaintances a habit suspended during the past 12 months it exhausted her but she affected to believe that the air and movement did her good and met with an outbreak of still more dangerous collar the remonstrances which her secretary at length ventured to make on the day following this characteristic scene Constance was at work in the library when the door opened and Lady Ogrum came in walking unsteadily a grim smile on her parchment visage she advanced and stood before the writing table I made a fool of myself yesterday sounded in a hollow voice of tremulous intonation is it enough for me to say so much more than I like to hear you say Lady Ogrum answered Constance hastening to place a chair for her I've been afraid what happened which troubled you nothing at all the contrary look at that voter and tell me what you think of it it was the portrait of a girl with features finely outlined but rather weak in expression a face pleasant to look upon and at the first glance possessing a quality of distinction which tended however to fade as the eye searched for constituents and to lose itself in an ordinary prettiness I was going to say began Constance that it seemed to remind me of she hesitated well of what of your own portrait in the dining room yes I think there is a resemblance though far away Lady Ogrum smiled with pleasure the portrait referred to was a painting made of her soon after her marriage when she was in the prime of her beauty not good as a work of art and doing much less than just as to the full-blooded vigor of the woman as she then lived but still a picture that drew the eye and touched the fancy no doubt you are right this girl is a grand-niece of mine my brother's son's daughter I only heard of her a week ago she was coming to see me Constance now understood the significance of Mr. Kirchever's visit and the feverish state of mind in which Lady Ogrum had since been living she felt no touch of sympathetic emotion but smiled as if the announcement greatly interested her and in a sense it did I can quite understand your impatience to see her yes but one shouldn't make a fool of oneself an old fool worse than a young one don't think I build my hopes on the girl I wrote to her and she has written to me not a bad sort of letter but I know nothing about her except that she has been well enough educated to pass an examination at London University that means something I suppose doesn't it certainly it does answer Constance noting a pathetic self-subdual in the old ladies look in tone for a girl it means a great deal you think so the bony hands were restless and tremulous the dark eyes glistened it isn't quite ordinary is it but then of course it tells nothing about her character she is coming to stay for a day or two coming on Saturday if I don't like her no harm's done back she goes to her people that's all her mother's family I know nothing about them and care less at all events she looks indurable don't you think much more than that said Constance a very nice girl I should imagine ah you mean that of course you do or you wouldn't say it but then if she's only a nice girl poo she ought to be more than that what's the use of a photograph every photo ever taken of me made me look a simpering idiot this was by no means true but Lady Ogrum had always been a bad sitter to the camera and had destroyed most of its results the oil painting in the dining room she regarded with a moderate complacency many a time during the latter years of withering and enfeeblement her memory had turned to that shining head in marble which was hidden away amid half a centuries dust under the roof that ribbon oak there and only there survived the glory of her youth when not the face alone but all her faultless body made the artist's rapture well she said abruptly you'll see the girl her name is Mae Tomlin you're not obliged to like her you're not obliged to tell me what you think of her most likely I shan't ask you by the by I had a letter from Dice Lashmar this morning indeed said the other with a careless smile I like his way of writing it's straightforward and sharp cut like his talk a man who means what he says and knows how to say it that's a great deal nowadays Constance assented with all good humor to Lady Ogrum's praise you must answer him for me the old lady continued no need of course to show me what you write just put it into a letter of your own I hardly think I shall be writing to Mr. Lashmar said Miss Bride very quietly do you mean that their eyes met and Constance bore the other's gaze without flinching we are not such great friends Lady Ogrum you won't remember I told you that I knew him but slightly all right it has nothing to do with me whether your friends or not you can answer as my secretary I suppose and Lady Ogrum with her uncertain yet not undignified footfall went straight away from the room there was a suspicion of needless sound as the door closed behind her Constance sat for a minute or two in a very rigid attitude displeasure manifest on her lips she did not find it easy to get to work again and when the time came for her bicycle ride she was in no mind for it but preferred to sit over a book at luncheon Lady Ogrum inclined to silence later in the day however they met on the ordinary terms of mutual understanding and Constance staff to speaking of other things asked whether she should write Lady Ogrum's reply to Mr. Lashmore Mr. Lashmore oh I've written to him myself said the old lady as if speaking about matter without importance three days went by and it was Saturday Lady Ogrum came down earlier than usual this morning but did not know how to occupy herself she read it at the rainy day which kept her within doors she tried to talk with her secretary of an important correspondence they had in hand it related to a projected society for the invigoration of village life but her thoughts were too obviously wandering since that dialogue in the library not a word regarding Miss Tomlin had escaped her all at once she said my niece is due here at four this afternoon I want you to be with me when she comes into the room you won't forget that never before had Constance seen the old autocrat suffering from nervousness it was doubtful whether anyone at any time had enjoyed the privilege strange to say this abnormal state of things did not irritate Lady Ogrum's temper she was remarkably mild and for once in her life seemed to feel it no indignity to stand in need of moral support long before the time for Miss Tomlin's arrival she looked herself on her throne amid the drawing room Constance tried to calm her by reading aloud but this the old lady soon found unendurable I wonder whether the train will be late she said no doubt it will did you ever know a train punctual in maybe half an hour late the railways are scandalously managed they ought to be taken over by the government I don't think that would improve matters to relieve the tedium she too was growing nervous nonsense of course it would Constance launched into argument and talked for it talking safe she knew that her companion was not listening it's four o'clock explained Lady Ogrum presently there may be an accident with the broom Leggett sometimes drives very carelessly no more prudent coachmen existed and the state of the roads about here is perfectly scandalous they were as good roads as any in England what noise was that I heard nothing I've often noticed that you are decidedly dull of hearing has it always been so you ought to consult the what are the men called who see to one's ears Lady Ogrum was growing less amiable and with much ado Constance restrained herself from a tart reply three minutes more and the atmosphere of the room would have become dangerously electric but before minutes had elapsed the door opened and a colorless domestic voice announced Miss Tomlin there entered very much the kind of figure that Constance had expected to see a young lady something above the middle height passably not well dressed moving quickly and not ungracefully but with perceptible lack of that self possession which is the social testimonial she wore a new traveling costume fawn colored with a slightly inappropriate hat too trimmy and brown shoes which over asserted themselves her color was of the upright sort just turned down at the corners her tie and ill made little bow of red about her neck hung a pair of eyeglasses that her wrist were attached to a silver pencil case and a miniature ivory paper knight the face corresponded fairly well with his photographic presentment so long studied by Lady Ogrum and so well remembered by Constance Bride its color somewhat heightened and the features mobile under nervous stress it offered a more noticeable resemblance to that ancestral portrait in the dining room Lady Ogrum had risen she took a tremulous step or two from the throne and spoke in a voice much more senile than its want I am glad to see you may glad to see you this is my friend and secretary Miss Bride whom I mentioned to you Constance and the newcomer bowed hesitated shook hands Miss Tomlin had not yet spoken she was smiling timidly and casting quick glances about the room you had an easy journey I hope said Miss Bride aware that the old lady was sinking breathless and feeble into her chair oh it was nothing at all Miss Tomlin's utterance was not markedly provincial but distinct from that of the London drawing room the educated speech of the ubiquitous middle class with a note of individuality which promised to command itself better in a few minutes the voice was pleasantly clear you had no difficulty in finding the carriage said Lady Ogrum speaking with obvious effort oh none would ever thank you so kind of you to send it for me I wanted to see you for a moment as soon as you arrived now they shall take you to your room come down again as soon as you like we will have tea thank you that will be very nice Miss Tomlin stood up looked at the plants and flowers about her and added in a voice already more courageous what a charming room green is so good for the eyes are your eyes weak inquired Lady Ogrum anxiously oh not really weak was the rapid answer Miss Tomlin spoke more quickly as she gained confidence I use glasses when I'm studying or at the piano but they're not actually necessary for my eyes to be careful of course I read a great deal there was a spontaneity a youthful verbacity in her manner which saved it from the charge of conceit she spoke with a naive earnestness pleasantly relieved by the smile in her grey eyes and by something in the pose of her head which suggested a latent modesty I know you are a great student said Lady Ogrum regarding her amiably but run and take off your hat and come back to tea she and Constance sat together silent they did not exchange glances well sounded at length from the throne a tentative mono syllable Constance looked up she saw that Lady Ogrum was satisfied happy I'm glad Miss Tomlin was so punctual was all she could find to say so am I but we were talking about your deafness you must have it seen to young people nowadays they can't hear they can't see they have no tea Miss Tomlin I noticed has excellent tea she takes after me in that her eyes too are good enough but she has worn them out already she'll have to stop that reading I'm not going to have her at 30 she didn't seem to be deaf did she no more than I am Lady Ogrum you are not deaf then why did you say you were it was you not I that said so answered Constance with a lap and what do you think of her ask Lady Ogrum sharply I think her interesting was Miss Bride's reply the word bearing a sense to her own thought not quite identical with that she conveyed to the hearer so do I she's very young but none the worse for that you think her interesting so do I Constance notice that Lady Ogrum's talk today had more of the characteristics of old age then ordinarily as though in her great satisfaction the mind relaxed and the tongue inclined to babble though may was absent less than a quarter of an hour Lady waxed impatient I hope she isn't looking glass girl but no that doesn't seem likely of course young people must think a little about dress oh here she comes at last Miss Tomlin had made no change of dress beyond laying aside her hat and jacket one saw now that she had plenty of light brown hair naturally crisp and easily lending itself to effective arrangement it was coiled and plaited on the top of her head and rippled airily above her temples the eyebrows were darker of hue and accentuated the most expressive part of her physiognomy for when she smiled it was much more the eyes than the lips which drew attention come and sit here may said Lady Ogrum indicating a chair near the throne you're not tired you don't easily tired I hope oh not very easily of course I make a point of physical exercise it is a part of rational education do you cycle asked Constance indeed I do the day before yesterday I rode 30 miles not scorching you know that's weak minded Lady Ogrum seemed to be reflecting as to whether she was glad or not that her relative rode the bicycle may had brought her machine no was the airy reply I'm not a slave to it the other nodded approval and watched may as she manipulated a teacup talk ran on trivialities for a while the newcomer still cast curious glances about the room and at that moment stole a quick observation of her companions she was not entirely at ease self-consciousness appeared a change of attitude from time to time it might have been remarked to that she kept a guard upon her phrasing and even her pronunciation emphasizing certain words with a sort of academic pedantry perhaps it was this which caused Lady Ogrum to ask at length whether she still worked for examinations no I've quite given that up may replied with an air of well weighed finality I found that it led to one sidedness to narrow aims it's all very well when one is very young I shouldn't like to restrict my study in that way now the problems of modern life are so full of interest there are so many books that it is a duty to read a positive duty and one finds so much practical work what sort of work in the social direction I take a great interest in the condition of the poor really exclaimed Lady Ogrum what do you do we have a little society for extending civilization among the ignorant and the neglected just now we are trying to teach them how to make use of the free library to direct their choice of books I must tell you that a favorite study of mine is old English and I'm sure it would be so good if our work in this could be brought to read Chaucer and Langland and Wickliffe and so on one can't expect them to study foreign languages but these old writers would serve them for a philological training which has such an excellent effect on the mind I know a family shockingly poor living for them in two rooms who have promised me to give an hour every Sunday to pierce the plowmen I have made them a present of the little Clarendon press edition which has excellent notes presently I shall set them a little examination paper very simple of course Miss Bride's countenance was a study of subdued expression Lady Ogrum who probably had never heard of pierce the plowmen glanced inquiringly at her secretary and seemed to suspend judgment we too take a good deal of interest in that kind of thing she remarked I see that we shall understand each other do your relatives Mr. and Mrs. Rook work with you they haven't quite the same point of view said Miss Tomlin smiling indulgently I'm afraid they represent rather the old way of thinking about the poor the common sense way they call it it means as far as I can see not thinking much about the poor at all of course I try to make them understand that this is neglected duty we have no right whatever to live in enjoyment of our privileges and pay no heed to those less fortunate every educated person is really a missionary whose duty it is to go forth and spread the light I feel it so strongly that I could not simply could not be satisfied to pursue my own culture it seems to me a kind of selfishness the other day I went on the business of our society and to a dreadfully poor home where the people I'm sure often suffer from hunger I couldn't give money for one thing I have very little and then it's so demoralizing and one never knows whether the people will be offended but I sat down and told the poor woman all about the prologue to the Canterbury tales and you can't think how interested she was and how grateful it quite brightened the day for her one felt one had done some good there was silence lady Orgram looked admiringly at the girl if anyone else had talked to her in this way no vehemence of language would have suffice to express her scorn but in May Tomlin such ideals seemed to her a very good trait she was anxious to see everything May said or did in a favorable light have you tried the effect of music as Constance gravely when Miss Tomlin chanced to regard her oh we haven't forgotten that next winter we hope to give a few concerts in a school room of course it must be really good music we shan't have anything of a popular kind at least we shan't my view prevails it isn't our object to amuse people it would be really humiliating to play and sing the kind of things the ignorant poor like we want to train their intelligence some of our friends say it would be absurd to give them classical music which will weary and discontent them but they must be made to understand that their weariness and discontent is wrong we have to show them how bad and poor their interest is that they may strive to develop a higher and nobler I for one shall utterly decline to have anything to do with the concerts if the program doesn't consist exclusively of the really great Bach and Beethoven and so on don't you agree with me in principle replied Lady Orgram certainly we shall have lots of things to talk about I see I delight in talk about serious things cried May but Lady Orgram's physical strength was not equal to the excitement she had gone through long before dinner time her voice failed and she had no choice but to withdraw into privacy leaving Constance Bride to play the hostess alone with a companion of not much more than her own age Miss Tomlin manifested relief she began to move about looking at things with curiosity and talking in a more girlish way the evening was cloudy and did not tempt forth but may ask whether they could not walk a little in the garden this is a beautiful place I shall enjoy myself here tremendously and it's all so unexpected of course you know Miss Bride that I had never heard of Lady Orgram until a few days ago yes I've heard the story do let us get our hats and run out I want to see everything they went into the garden and may whilst delighting in all she saw ask the multitude of questions about her great aunt it was only in the intellectual domain that she events pretentiousness and grew grand deliquent talking of her private affairs she was very direct and simple with no inclination to unhealthy ways of thought she spoke of her birth in Canada and her childish collections of that country I used to be rather sorry that we come back to England for the truth is I don't much care for Northampton and I've never been quite comfortable with my relatives there but now of course everything is different it seems a great pity that I should have had such a relative as Lady Orgram and know nothing about it doesn't it strange how the branches of a family lose sight of each other can you tell me Lady Orgram's age Constance replied that it was not far from 80 really I should have taken her for older still she seems very nice I think I shall like her I wonder whether she will ask me often to Rivenoke do you know whether she means to when she came down after dressing for dinner Constance found Miss Tomlin in the dining room standing before her great aunt's portrait surely that isn't can that be Lady Orgram exclaimed the girl yes more than 50 years ago do you know I think she was rather like me Constance smiled and said that there was certainly a family resemblance it appeared more strongly in the girl's face the tired as she now was her neck at liberty from the white linen collar and her features cast into relief by a dress of dark material having felt a little apprehensive about the young lady's evening garb Constance was surprised to find that it erred if anything on the side of simplicity though for several reasons not at all predisposed to like Miss Tomlin she began to feel her prejudice waning and by the end of dinner they were conversing in a very friendly tone May chatted of her friends at North Hampton and several times mentioned a Mr. Yabsley whom it was evident she held in much esteem Mr. Yabsley it appeared was the originator of the society for civilizing the ignorant poor Mr. Yabsley lectured on very large subjects and gave readings from very serious authors Mr. Yabsley believed in the glorious despondies of the human race especially of that branch of it known as Anglo-Saxon he is an elderly gentleman asked Constance with a half smile of mischief oh oh dear no Mr. Yabsley is only about 30 not quite that I think it may suddenly turn to talk of Browning whom she felt that a positive duty to know from end to end had Miss Bride really mastered Sordello I never tried to Constance and said why should I worry about unintelligible stuff that would give me no pleasure even if I could understand it oh oh don't speak like that cried the other distressfully you don't mean it I care very little for poetry of any kind said Constance in all sincerity oh how I grieve to hear that but then of course we all have our special interests yours is science I know I've worked a good deal at science of course one can't possibly neglect it it's a simple duty to make oneself as many cited as possible don't you think just now I'm giving half an hour of his book on the crayfish Mr. Yabsley suggested it to me not long ago he was in correspondence with Huxley about something I don't quite know what but he takes a great interest in evolution of course you know that volume on the crayfish I'm afraid I don't you arrange your day I see very methodically oh without method nothing can be done of course I have a timetable I try to put in a great many things are you sitting down to any study for less than half an hour do you think so at present I can only give half an hour to Herbert Spencer I think I shall have to cut out my folklore to make more time for him yet folklore is so fascinating of course you delight in it I never had time for it at all replied Constance just now I'm quite excited about ghost worship Mr. Yabsley doesn't think it is sufficient to explain the origin of religious ideas Mr. Yabsley remarked Constance has pronounced opinions on most things oh he is very wide indeed very wide and very thorough there's no end to the examinations he has passed he's thinking of taking the delet at London it's awfully stiff you know when they parted about 11 o'clock Miss Tomlin went upstairs humming a passage from a bay tovan sonata she declared herself enchanted with her room and hoped she might wake early to make the coming day all longer at 10 next morning Constance was summoned to the upstairs room where Lady Ogrum sometimes sat when neither so unwell asked to stay in bed nor quite well enough to come down a bad night had left the old lady with a ghastly visage but she smiled with grim contentment as her secretary entered come I want you to tell me what you talked about where is she now what is she doing Miss Tomlin is in the library rejoicing among the books she was very intellectual said Lady Ogrum I never knew anyone so keen about knowledge but what did you talk about last night of very many things Canada and Northampton religion and crayfish Hoxley and Yabsley Yabsley who's Yabsley a gentleman of Northampton a man of light and leading a great friend of Miss Tomlin's an old man I suppose asked Lady Ogrum shortly not quite 30 but married of course married I didn't ask but I fancy not Lady Ogrum flushed and fell into extreme agitation why had she not been told about this Yabsley why had not that idiot Kerch ever made inquiries and heard about him this very morning she would write him a severe letter what may was engaged to a man called Yabsley Constance as soon as interposition was possible protested against this over hasty view of the matter she did not for a moment think that may was engaged and after all Mr. Yabsley might even be married then why cried Lady Ogrum furiously did you begin by terrifying me did you do it on purpose if I thought so I would send you packing about your business this moment Constance would not yet taken a seat threw back a few steps her face darkened with hands clasped behind her she regarded the raging old autocrat coldly and sternly if you wish it Lady Ogrum I am quite ready to go their eyes encountered Lady Ogrum was quivering mumbling gasping her look fell sit down she said imperatively I am afraid was Ms. Bride's reply we have better not talk whilst you are feeling so unwell sit down I tell you I wasn't unwell at all till you made me so who is this Yabsley some low shop keeper some paltry clerk the old lady knew very well that Constance Bride would never tremble before her it was this proudly independent spirit unyielding as her own and stronger still and that it never lost self command which had so established the clergyman's daughter in her respect and confidence yet the domineering instinct now and then prompted her to outrage a dignity she admired and her invariable defeat was a new satisfaction and she finally looked back upon it you mustn't mind me she said presently when Constance had quietly refused to make conjectures about the subject under dissuasion isn't it natural enough that I should be upset when I hear such news as this I wanted to have a talk with May this morning but now she broke off and hung her head gloomily in your position said Constance I should find out by a simple inquiry whether Ms. Tomlin is engaged or likely to be she will answer readily enough she doesn't seem to be at all reticent of course I shall do so thank you for the advice all the same would you mind bringing her up here if you prefer it I will ring scrupulousness of this kind always followed when Lady Ogrum had behaved ill to her secretary the smile with which Constance responded was a ratification of peace in a few minutes the old lady and May were chatting together alone and without difficulty the great doubt was solved I'm thinking of going to London for a week or two thus Lady Ogrum approached the point and I should rather like to take you with me it's very kind of you said May with joy in her eyes but I want to know whether you are quite independent is there anyone beside Mr. M is a rook that you would have to consult about it no one whatever you know that I am long since of age Lady Ogrum if you like call me your aunt it's simpler you know certainly I will I'm quite free aren't good I may take it for granted then that you have formed no ties of any kind may shook her head smiling as though at a thought which the word suggested a thought not unpleasing but not at all difficult to dismiss there upon Lady Ogrum began to talk freely of her projects I should go up to town in a fortnight at the end of this month of course you must have some things dresses and so on I'll see to that before we leave Rivenoke I should like you to meet a couple of friends at Hollingford particularly but in a very quiet way I shall ask them to lunch with us most likely shall you want to go back to Northampton before leaving for London oh it isn't at all necessary answer May with sprightliest readiness I haven't brought many things with me but I could send as for clothing don't trouble that's my affair then we'll settle that you stay on with me for the present and I'll tell me how do you like Miss Bride indeed I'm sure we shall soon quite understand each other I'm glad to hear that I hope you will I may say that I have a very high opinion indeed of Miss Bride and that there's no one in whom I put more confidence will she go to London with us certainly I couldn't get on without her help May was relieved the prospect of living alone with her great aunt even in London and mingled a little uneasiness with her joyful anticipation now she abandoned herself to high spirits and talked until Lady Ogrim began to have a headache for an hour before luncheon they drove out together may still gossiping her aged relative now and then attempted but for the most part drowsily musing that afternoon when an hour or two of sleep had somewhat restored her Lady Ogrim sketched several letters for her secretary to write pausing links she looked at Miss Bride and for the first time addressed her Constance the other responded with a pleased and gratified smile from Mr. Lashmore's talk of him what sort of idea have you formed of Lord Dimchurch rather a beg one I'm afraid I've heard him only casually mentioned but Mr. Lashmore has a high opinion of him he thinks him a man of good principles undoubtedly a very honourable man so I hear from other sources said Lady Ogrim probably true I should rather like to know Lord Dimchurch he would be an interesting man to know don't you think as not infrequently happened their eyes met in a mute interchange of thought interesting yes replied Constance slowly and she added pressing the nib of her pen on her fingernail they say he doesn't marry just because he is poor and honourable it's possible Lady Ogrim rejoined and after Constance's reflection said in an absent voice that the day's correspondence was finished end of chapter 11