The Second Mrs. Tanqueray Part 36

I don't know whether this is the worst or the best luck. How will my wife regard it? Is Captain Ardale a good fellow?

MRS. CORTELYON.

My dear Aubrey, you'd better read up the accounts of his wonderful heroism. Face to face with death for a whole week; always with a smile and a cheering word for the poor helpless souls depending on him! Of course, it's that that has stirred the depths of your child's nature. I've watched her while we've been dragging the story out of him, and if angels look different from Ellean at that moment, I don't desire to meet any, that's all!

AUBREY.

If you were in my position----? But you can't judge.

MRS. CORTELYON.

Why, if I had a marriageable daughter of my own and Captain Ardale proposed for her, naturally I should cry my eyes out all night--but I should thank Heaven in the morning.

AUBREY.

You believe so thoroughly in him?

MRS. CORTELYON.

Do you think I should have only a headache at this minute if I didn't! Look here, you've got to see me down the lane; that's the least you can do, my friend. Come into my house for a moment and shake hands with Hugh.

AUBREY.

What, is he here?

MRS. CORTELYON.

He came through with us, to present himself formally to-morrow.

Where are my gloves? [AUBREY _fetches them from the ottoman._] Make my apologies to Mrs. Tanqueray, please. She's well, I hope? [_Going towards the door._] I can't feel sorry she hasn't seen me in this condition.

ELLEAN _enters._

ELLEAN.

[_To_ MRS. CORTELYON.] I've been waiting to wish you good-night. I was afraid I'd missed you.

MRS. CORTELYON.

Good-night, Ellean.

ELLEAN.

[_In a low voice, embracing_ MRS. CORTELYON.] I can't thank you.

Dear Mrs. Cortelyon!

MRS. CORTELYON.

[_Her arms round_ ELLEAN, _in a whisper to_ AUBREY.] Speak a word to her.

[MRS. CORTELYON _goes out._

AUBREY.

[_To_ ELLEAN.] Ellean, I'm going to see Mrs. Cortelyon home. Tell Paula where I am; explain, dear.

[_Going to the door_

ELLEAN.

[_Her head drooping._] Yes. [_Quickly._] Father! You are angry with me--disappointed?

AUBREY.

Angry?--no.

ELLEAN.

Disappointed?

AUBREY.

[_Smiling and going to her and taking her hand._] If so, it's only because you've shaken my belief in my discernment. I thought you took after your poor mother a little, Ellean; but there's a look on your face to-night, dear, that I never saw on hers--never, never.

ELLEAN.

[_Leaning her head on his shoulder._] Perhaps I ought not to have gone away?

AUBREY.

Hush! You're quite happy?

ELLEAN.

Yes.

AUBREY.

That's right. Then, as you are quite happy there is something I particularly want you to do for me Ellean.

ELLEAN.

What is that?

AUBREY.

Be very gentle with Paula. Will you?

ELLEAN.