The Custodian

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1904. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XII THE ROAD TO DALAVICH A AHERE was a brisk breeze blowing, and a--blue sky overhead, with white clouds scampering across it, when I turned up the next day at Myra Cottage with the vehicle which was to convey us to the Duchess's shooting lodge. It was the best conveyance I could obtain--a brake seated for six a side, and drawn by a pair of horses. The Princess elected to seat herself by the coachman, and took her place with the exhibition of not a little petticoat and two substantial boots. Mina and I sat opposite, each in the corner seat near the door, while the remainder of the interior was piled up with baggage of one kind and another. I had not seen Wilhelm since breakfast that morning. He had told me, with apparent frankness, that he had sent a note to Mina asking her to meet him at the Harbor, provided I had no objection. I made none. As I sat rather furtively watching her face, I wondered what the subject of their conversation had been. Had he told her of our joint plan--to get her married to him at the earliest moment? Did she know I had engaged myself to provide her with a dowry? And if she knew, what did she think of it? She looked very charming, sitting before me, with long eyelashes shading her downcast eyes. A sudden compunction seized me. She was too good for Wilhelm. We soon left Oban and its environments, and drove through pleasant moorlands with the heather in bloom. I ventured at length to comment on the beauty of our surroundings, and Mina assented briefly, but she did not seem inclined to continue the conversation. I hope, I said, you realize I am trying to act for the best. I understand you are obeying your instructions, You are not annoyed because I have forced you away from Oban? A flash came into her eyes. You have not ...