And there is another reason: he proposed to Miss Waltham this
morning, and she accepted him.'
'This morning? And this paper is yesterday's. Why, it makes it more
likely than ever. How did they get the paper? Doubtless he sent it
them. If she has accepted him this very day--'
The repetition of the words seemed to force their meaning upon him
through his anger. His voice failed.
'You tell me that Adela Waltham has engaged herself to that man?'
'Her mother told me, only a few minutes after it occurred.'
'Then it was this that led her to consent.'
'Surely that is presupposing too much, my dear Eldon,' said the
vicar gently.
'No, not more than I know to be true. I could not say that to anyone
but you; you must understand me. The girl is being cheated into
marrying that fellow. Of her own free will she could not do it. This
is one of numberless lies. You are right; it's no use to go to him:
he wouldn't tell the truth. But _she_ must be told. How can I see
her?'
'It is more difficult than ever. Her having accepted him makes all
the difference. Explain it to yourself as you may, you cannot give
her to understand that you doubt her sincerity.'
'But does she know that this story is false?'
'Yes, that she will certainly hear. I have busied myself in
contradicting it.
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