It did seem a shame, considering Zaras talents,
andher long experience but so it was.
Theseheld all that remained to mortal eyes of poor
Emma. Was it fancy, or did a new _expression_ flit over Johns face at herwords? But
she did not let the opportunity slip. No wonder hes what he is, after the life he
hasbeen forced to lead. Moths had ravaged each single woollen article she laid hands
on. The last person I placedin charge proved as untrustworthy as the rest.
Subsequently he was introduced, and sat by her side for the better partof an hour.
Compliments,even from ones husband, were things to be evaded if
possible.
But it was not very long before Emmy was spirited
away to grace herfathers table. He had said expressly, too, she need render no
account of how she spentit.
And not only this: a kind of mellowness now
descended on him, anew tolerance with his fellowmen. Made it seem very well worth
the price I had to pay forit. Mary could read this out of what she said: thisand
more. Zara looked so annoyed when this happened that Mary tried to
seemunobservant.
We mightnt have turned out any better
ourselves,with his temptations.
Besides, you know youCANT wash your hands of your
children like this; its unnatural.
Another time, dearest, if you do not mind. But,
even as she said it, Mary had a glimpse into depths that wereclosed to her menkind.
For a moment Mary stood lost to hersurroundings.
But, even so,this gift had filled Jinnys cup to the
brim. She hasa right to buy her own experience.
Theseheld all that remained to mortal eyes of poor
Emma. No, poor old Auntie Julias job isdone; shes permanently out of
work.
And toherself she thought: Oh dear, wont he catch
it when he gets outside!
Regular Bluebeards chambers, was Richards comment,
when she toldhim of her discoveries. Not I want to marry, if you please,
Mary!
Of course, I am aware he is not my equal . Zara
looked so annoyed when this happened that Mary tried to
seemunobservant.
One of those neat, brisk little women, Richard, who
do everything wellthey put their hands to.
But, even so,this gift had filled Jinnys cup to the
brim.