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WYLDER'S HAJVB
said. I was entirely deceived. They think it fair, you
know, to dupe other people in such affairs; and I will also
say," he continued, a little haughtily, "that you might
have spared your censure until at least you had heard
what I had to say." /
"I do believe you, Ohelford; you are not vexed with
me. Won't you shake hands?"
He took her hand with a smile.
"And now," said she, "Chelford, ought not we to send
for poor Rachel: her only brother! Is not it sad?"
"Certainly; shall I ask my mother, or will you
write?"
"I will write," she said.
CHAPTER XXXIX.
IN WHICH MISS RACHEL LAEE COMES TO BRANDON, AND
DOCTOR BUDDLE CALLS AGAIN.
In about an hour afterwards, Rachel Lake arrived in
the carriage which had been despatched for her with Dor-
cas's note. Dorcas met her at the door, and they kissed
silently.
"How is he, Dorcas?"
"Very ill, dear, I'm afraid — sit down, darling."
Rachel was relieved, for in her panic she almost feared
to ask if he were living.
"Oh! Dorcas, darling, he'll die; I know it. Oh!
merciful Heaven! how tremendous."
"You will not be so frightened in a little time. You
have only just heard it, Rachel dearest, and you are start-
led. I was so myself,"