ere than
ever could have been thought of--and very noble. What are those lines
about the task "bequeathed from bleeding sire to son"? Isn't it like
that? You are bound to go on with her work, and the more helpless you
feel, and the more you throw yourself on God, the more God will help
you. He takes the will for the deed, if only you have will enough;
and, Nuttie, you can pray that you may be able to love and honour him.'

Teacups were brought in, followed by Mark, and interrupted them; and,
after a short interval, they parted at the park gate, and Ursula walked
home with Mark, waked from her dull numb trance, with a crushed feeling
as if she had been bruised all over, and yet with a purpose within her.

CHAPTER XXIV.

FARMS OR UMBRELLAS.

'He tokin into his handis
His londis and his lode.'--CHAUCER.

'Mark! Mark!' A little figure stood on the gravel road leading
through Lescombe Park, and lifted up an eager face, as Mark jumped down
from his horse. 'I made sure you would come over.'

'Yes, but I could not get away earlier. And I have so much to say to
you and your mother, Annaple; there's a great proposition to be
considered.'

'Oh dear! and here is John bearing down upon us. Never mind. We'll
get into the mither's room and be cosy!'

'Well, Mark,' said Sir John's hearty voice, 'I thought you would be
here. Come to luncheon? That's right! And how is poor Egremont? I
thought he looked awful at the funeral.'

'He is fairly well, thank you; but it was a terrible shock.'

'I should think so. To find such a pretty sweet creature just to lose
her again. Child likely to live, eh?'

'Oh yes, he is a fine fellow, and has never had anything amiss with
him.'

'Poor little chap! Doesn't know what he has lost! Well, Nannie,' as
they neared the house, 'do you want a tete-a-tete or to take him in to
your mother? Here, I'll take the horse.'

'Come to her at once,' said Annaple; 'she wants to hear all, and
besides she is expecting me.'

Mark was welcomed by Lady Ronnisglen with inquiries for all concerned,
and especially for that 'poor girl. I do pity a young thing who has to
take a woman's place too soon,' she said. 'It takes too much out of
her!'

'I should think Ursula had plenty of spirit,' said Annaple.

'I don't know whether spirit is what is wanted,' said Mark. 'Her
mother prevailed more without it than I am afraid she is likely to do
with it.'

'Complements answer better