As they grew older, circumstances separated
them more; and though no hearts were broken in consequence, both
often thought of the early days of innocence and affection with
pleasure.
Mary sat sewing, as we have said, late in the afternoon of the day
on which the incident at the auction room occurred, when there was a
tap at her door. On opening it, Mr. Edwards stood before her. She
stepped back a pace or two in instant surprise and confusion, and he
advanced into the desolate room. In a moment, however, Mary
recovered herself, and with as much self-possession as, under the
circumstances, she could assume, asked her unexpected visitor to
take a chair, which she offered him.
Mr. Edwards sat down, feeling much oppressed. Mary was so changed in
everything, except in the purity and beauty of her countenance,
since he had seen her years before, that his feelings were
completely borne down. But he soon recovered himself enough to speak
to her of what was in his mind. He had an old aunt, who had been a
friend of Mary's mother, and from her he brought a message and an
offer of a home. Her carriage was at the door--it had been sent for
her--and he urged her to go with him immediately.
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