Without bluster, and without wheedling, he had the art of
making those who were under his rule perfectly submissive; sooner or
later they all came to fear him as a child does a spectre. He had no
misgivings about the peace of his household.
In the meantime Gertrude grew happier and more like herself, and Aunt
Rebecca had her own theories about the real state of that young lady's
affections, and her generally unsuspected relations with others.
Aunt Rebecca called at the Elms to see Lilias Walsingham, and sat down
beside her on the sofa.
'Lily, child, you're not looking yourself. I'll send you some drops. You
must positively nurse yourself. I'm almost sorry I did not bring Dr.
Toole.'
'Indeed I'm glad you did not, Aunt Becky; I take excellent care of
myself. I have not been out for three whole days.'
'And you must not budge, darling, while this east wind continues. D'ye
mind? And what do you think, my dear, I do believe I've discovered the
secret reason of Gertrude's repugnance to Mr. Dangerfield's most
advantageous offer.'
'Oh, indeed!' said Lily, becoming interested.
'Well, I suppose you suspected she _had_ a secret?' said Aunt Rebecca.
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