What did she think of all this, Maggie wondered? What
did she think of her great preacher, her prophet, wasting the few
hours of life that remained to him over such a business? They had
some secret understanding, perhaps, as though they said to one
another, "We know, you and I, what are our real intentions beneath
all this. We only do what we must."
Understanding or no, Mr. Crashaw sprang up with unexpected activity
when Caroline departed and announced his intention of conducting her
to her door. He made his adieus and then hobbled along after the
rose-coloured silk as though this was his last chance of warming his
hands at the flame of life.
When they were gone, Aunt Anne said:
"I am going back to bed, Maggie, dear. Martha will send me up some
supper later. Elizabeth has gone to Lambeth to see a friend, so make
yourself busy until seven, dear. If I want anything I'll ring."
When she was left alone in the darkening room she stood there
thinking. Why should she not go out and find Martin? She did not
care what any one thought. She would go to his house and ask for
him. She had waited and waited .
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