The fragrance oppressed Lillian in some subtle sort; the spirit
of the scene was so alien to the idea of festival or function; the dim
gaunt morning was of so funereal an aspect; the gathering of household
companions, gloomy, silent, expectant, into one room duly set in order,
was so suggestive, that the array of flowers and the heavy perfumed air
gave the final significant impression of douleur and doom.
At the first glimpse of dawn, Gladys had despatched a groom, well mounted
and with a fresh led horse, out on the road to descry perchance some
approach of Mr. Bayne, to afford assistance if this were needed. Hours
went by, and still there was no news, no return of the messenger. Now and
again Mrs. Briscoe sought to exchange a word with Mrs. Marable to relieve
the tension of the situation; but the elder lady was flabby with fatigue;
her altruistic capabilities had been tried to the utmost in this long
vigil and painful excitement, which were indeed unmeet for her age and
failing strength.
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