Anthony Trollope: The Belton Estate

8. CHAPTER VIII: CAPTAIN AYLMER MEETS HIS CONSTITUENTS (continued)

'H sh!' she said, rising gently from her chair, and putting up her finger. He saw her by the dull light of the fire, and closed the door without a sound. Clara then crept into the back-room and he followed her with a noiseless step. ' She did not sleep at all last night,' said Clara; 'and now the unusual excitement of the day has fatigued her, and I think it is better not to wake her.' The rooms were large, and they were able to place themselves at such a distance from the sleeper that their low words could hardly disturb her.

'Was she very tired when she got home? 'he asked.

'Not very. She has been talking much since that.'

'Has she spoken about her will to you?'

'Yes she has.'

'I thought she would.' Then he was silent, as though he expected that she would speak again on that matter. But she had no wish to discuss her aunt's will with him, and therefore, to break the silence, asked him some trifling question. 'Are you not home earlier than you expected?

'It was very dull, and there was nothing more to be said. I did come away early, and perhaps have given affront. I hope you will accept the compliment implied.'

'Your aunt will, when she wakes. She will be delighted to find you here.'

'I am awake,' said Mrs Winterfield. 'I heard Frederic come in. It is very good of him to come so soon. Clara, my dear, we will have tea.'