Anthony Trollope: The Belton Estate

20. CHAPTER XX: WILLIAM BELTON DOES NOT GO OUT HUNTING (continued)

'Of course you are, my dear. I can see that. I wish I wish'

'It's no good wishing anything, Mary. I don't think wishing ever did any good yet. If I might have my wish, I shouldn't know how to have it.'

'I was wishing that you didn't think so much about it.'

'You need not be troubled about me. I shall do very well. But what is to become of her now at once? Might she not come here? You are now the nearest female relation that she has.'

Mary looked at him with her anxious, painful eyes, and he knew by her look that she did not approve of his plan. 'I could go away,' he continued. 'She could come to you without being troubled by seeing me.'

'And where would you go, Will?'

'What does it matter? To the devil, I suppose.'

'Oh, Will, Will!'