As for him, his embarrassment in her
presence was never more complete, and he betrayed the secret that
was in his heart even while he felt the most earnest to conceal it.
Conscious of this, he excused himself and retired as soon as it was
possible to do so.
Kate sat thoughtful for some time after he had left. Then rising up,
she went, with a firm step to her father's room.
"I have found out," she said, speaking with great self-composure,
"the reason why Edwin persists in going away."
"Ah! what is the reason, Kate? I would give much to know."
"He is in love," replied Kate, promptly.
"In love! How do you know that?"
"I made the discovery to-night."
"Love should keep him at home, not drive him away," said Mr.
Darlington.
"But he loves hopelessly," returned the maiden. "He is poor, and the
object of his regard belongs to a wealthy family."
"And her friends will have nothing to do with him."
"I am not so sure of that. But he formed an acquaintance with the
young lady under circumstances that would make it mean, in his eyes,
to urge any claims upon her regard."
"Then honor as well as love takes him away.
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