It never could have been intended that a man capable of winning so many
of his heart's desires as he had proved himself to be, should be tied to
a woman incapable of illuminating and honoring his position. If he only
had a wife of whose person he could be proud! If he only had a wife
whose queenly presence and manners would give significance to the
splendors of the Palgrave mansion!
There was no way left for him, however, but to make the best of his
circumstances, and put a brave face upon the matter. Accordingly, the
next morning after his arrival, he told, with such display of enthusiasm
as he could assume, the story of his purchase. The children were all
attention, and made no hesitation to express their delight with the
change that lay before them. Mrs. Belcher grew pale, choked over her
breakfast, and was obliged to leave the table. At the close of the meal,
Mr. Belcher followed her to her room, and found her with dry eyes and an
angry face.
"Robert, you have determined to kill me," she said, almost fiercely.
"Oh, no, Sarah; not quite so bad as that."
"How could you take a step which you knew would give me a life-long
pain? Have I not suffered enough? Is it not enough that I have ceased
practically to have a husband?--that I have given up all society, and
been driven in upon my children? Am I to have no will, no consideration,
no part or lot in my own life?"
"Put it through, Sarah; you have the floor, and I'm ready to take it all
now.
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