Further still, it was
evident that my cousin had not dreamed that I was making her an offer.
She believed that I had discovered her attachment to some other man,
and was grateful for my sympathy. I did not undeceive her. After a
rapid review of the position, I said,
"But my dear Maria, though I have penetrated to the fact that you have
a secret, and though I want beyond anything to help and comfort you, I
do not yet know who the happy man is, remember."
"Don't you?" said Maria, looking up hastily, and the colour rushed to
her face as before. "Oh, I thought you knew it was Mr. Clerke. You
know, he _is_ so good, and I've known him so long."
At this moment Aunt Maria's voice called from the drawing-room end of
the conservatory.
"Will you give us a little music, Maria? Mr. Clerke has come after
all, and Bowles has brought in the tea."
CHAPTER XXIX
THE FUTURE LADY DAMER--POLLY HAS A SECRET--UNDER THE MULBERRY-TREE
Polly came into the house, as she always did, like a sunbeam. Mrs.
Bundle, who was getting old, and apt to be depressed in spirits from
time to time, always revived when "Miss Mary" paid us a visit. A
general look of welcome greeted her appearance in church on Sunday.
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