WYLDER'S HAJVD.
So
"He may be what he will. It is vain reasoning with
that which is not reason; possibly he may never know,
and that might be best — but be it how it may, I will never
marry any one else."
"Dorcas, dear, you must not speak to Lady Chelford,
or to Mark Wylder, to-night. It is too serious a step to
be taken in haste.''
"There has been no haste, Eachel, and there can be no
change."
"And what reason can you give?"
"None; no reason,'' said Dorcas, slowly.
"Wylder would have been suitable in point of wealth.
Not so well, I am sure, as you might have married; but
neither would he be a good husband, though not so bad as
Stanley; and* I* do not think that Mark Wylder will
quietly submit to his disappointment."
"It was to have been simply a marriage of two estates.
It was old Lady Chelford's plan. I have now formed
mine, and all that's over. Let him do what he will — I
believe a lawsuit is his worst revenge — I'm indiffer-
ent."
Just then a knock came to the chamber door.
"Come in,'' said Miss Brandon; and her maid entered
to say that the carriage was at the door to take Miss
Lake home.
"I had no idea it was so late," said Rachel.
"Stay, dear, don't go for a moment. Jones, bring Miss
Lake's cloak and bonnet here. And now, dear," she said,
after a little pause, "you'll remember your solemn pro
mise?"
"I never broke my word, dear Dorcas; your secret is
safe."
"And, Rachel, try to like me."
"I love you better, Dorcas, than I thought I ever could.
Good nifbt. dear."