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No, he isnt a bad punor even a high flight of American humour. He has a beautiful nature, Henrietta went on. Ive studied him for many years and I see right through him. Hes as clear as the style of a good prospectus. Hes not intellectual, but he appreciates intellect. On the other hand he doesnt exaggerate its claims. I sometimes think we do in the United States. Ah, said Isabel, youre changed indeed! Its the first time Ive ever heard you say anything against your native land. I only say that were too infatuated with mere brain-power; that, after all, isnt a vulgar fault. But I am changed; a woman has to change a good deal to marry. I hope youll be very happy. You will at lastover heresee something of the inner life. Henrietta gave a little significant sigh. Thats the key to the mystery, I believe. I couldnt endure to be kept off. Now Ive as good a right as any one! she added with artless elation. Isabel was duly diverted, but there was a certain melancholy in her view. Henrietta, after all, had confessed herself human and feminine, Henrietta whom she had hitherto regarded as a light keen flame, a disembodied voice. It was a disappointment to find she had personal susceptibilities, that she was subject to common passions, and that her intimacy with Mr Bantling had not been completely original. There was a want of originality in her marrying himthere was even a kind of stupidity; and for a moment, to Isabels sense, the dreariness of the world took on a deeper tinge. A little later indeed she reflected that Mr Bantling himself at least was original. But she didnt see how Henrietta could give up her country. She herself had relaxed her hold of it, but it had never been her country as it had been Henriettas. She presently asked her if she had enjoyed her visit to Lady Pensil. Oh yes, said Henrietta, she didnt know what to make of me. And was that very enjoyable? Very much so, because shes supposed to be a master mind. She thinks she knows everything; but she doesnt understand a woman of my modern type. It would be so much easier for her if I were only a little better or a little worse. Shes so puzzled; I believe she thinks its my duty to go and do something immoral. She thinks its immoral that I should marry her brother; but, after all, that isnt immoral enough. And shell never understand my mixturenever! Shes not so intelligent as her brother then, said Isabel. He appears to have understood. Oh no, he hasnt! cried Miss Stackpole with decision. I really believe thats what he wants to marry me forjust to find out the mystery and the proportions of it. Thats a fixed ideaa kind of fascination. Its very good in you to humour it. Oh well, said Henrietta, Ive something to find out too! And Isabel saw that she had not renounced an allegiance, but planned an attack. She was at last about to grapple in earnest with England. Isabel also perceived, however, on the morrow, at the Paddington Station, where she found herself, at ten oclock, in the company both of Miss Stackpole and Mr Bantling, that the gentleman bore his perplexities lightly. If he had not found out everything he had found out at least the great pointthat Miss Stackpole would not be wanting in initiative. It was evident that in the selection of a wife he had been on his guard against this deficiency. Henrietta has told me, and Im very glad, Isabel said as she gave him her hand. I dare say you think it awfully odd, Mr Bantling replied, resting on his neat umbrella. |
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