Of course, after the lapse of so many years,
there is not the remotest possibility of recovering the diamond; but my
obligation to you, Sergeant Nicholas, is in no wise lessened by that
fact. What are your engagements? Are you obliged to leave here
immediately, or can you remain a short time in the neighbourhood?"
"I can give your ladyship a week, or even a fortnight, if you wish it."
"I am greatly obliged to you. I do wish it--I wish to talk to you
respecting my son, and you are the only one now living who can tell me
about him. You shall find that I am not ungrateful for what you have
done for me. In the meantime, you will stop at the King's Arms, in
Eastbury. Miss Hope will give you a note to the landlord. Come up here
to-morrow at eleven. And now I must say good-morning. I am not very
strong, and your news has shaken me a little. Will you do me the honour
of shaking hands with me? It was your hands that closed my poor boy's
eyes--that touched him last on earth; let those hands now be touched by
his mother."
Lady Chillington stood up and extended both her withered hands. The old
soldier came forward with a blush and took them respectfully, tenderly.
He bent his head and touched each of them in turn with his lips. Tears
stood in his eyes.
"God bless you, Sergeant Nicholas! You are a good man and a true
gentleman," said Lady Chillington. Then she turned and slowly left the
room.
CHAPTER XXI.
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