"
"This I will do," said Mrs. Elliott, "and I fancy I can keep her
safe for you."
Awhile longer they talked together, and their conversation was at
last interrupted by the appearance of Dora herself who came to say
good night.
"Come and sit by me, Dora," said Mr. Hastings, unmindful of his
sister's warning glance. "Let me tell you what I wish you to do
while I am gone," and moving along upon the sofa, he left a place
for her at his side.
Scarcely was she seated when a servant appeared, wishing to speak
with Mrs. Elliott, and Mr. Hastings was left alone with Dora, with
whom he merely talked of what he hoped to find her when he
returned. Once, indeed, he told her how often he should think of
her, when he was far away, and asked as a keepsake a lock of her
soft hair.
Three days afterwards he went to New York accompanied by Mrs.
Elliott and Dora. He was to sail next morning, and wishing to see
as much of the latter as possible, he felt somewhat chagrined
when, soon after their arrival, his sister insisted upon taking
her out for a time, and forbade him to follow.
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