much
in London lodgings? I can't fancy you roughing it by yourself, and I
keep hoping against hope for some sudden turn of the tide which may
still make it unnecessary. Don't settle to anything before telling me
first. I know I can find something really good if you give me time.

"Mr Druce is very much in evidence, acting host at the Court, and
visiting far and near. He tells me that Mr Farrell consults him on
every point, and gives him carte blanche to do as he likes; and I hear
as much from other sources, more reliable. As his position becomes more
assured, his attentions increase; but he will not make the fatal mistake
of burdening himself with a poor wife until there is no possibility of
mistake. Therefore, it may some day be my painful duty to refuse to
become mistress of the Court; but the refusing itself I shall enjoy.
You would not, for you have a gentle nature; but Mr Druce shall find
that he cannot play with Margot Blount for naught!"

Ruth could see in imagination the haughty tilt of Margot's graceful
head, and the flash in her eyes, as she wrote those words, and did not
envy Victor his hour of awakening. Evidently the whole countryside now
looked upon him as the accepted heir, and even hopeful Mrs Thornton
ceased to prophesy for the future.

"I have seen Mr Farrell twice this last week, but have not succeeded in
making him mention your names," she wrote in her last letter. "I talk
continuously of you--in what vein you can imagine!--and read extracts
from your letters; and he listens intently, but makes no remarks. I can
see him mentally pounce on anything which gives him fresh insight into
your life here, as if he were still interested in the study of your
characters; but the moment I stop speaking he turns the conversation to
impersonal topics. Only one thing he has done which I thought really
thoughtful. Ruth's camera was found lying about, and he gave
instructions that it was to be taken down to the photographers the same
day, and copies printed from all the films, so that your mother might
receive them as soon as possible. I believe they were sent up
yesterday, so that you may expect them soon, and perhaps a letter at the
same time. Mr Druce is kind and amiable, and very much the man in
possession. I don't take to him, but my husband believes he will make a
good squire."

"Will," not "would"! This from Mrs Thornton was conclusive indeed!
Ruth dropped a salt tear on the back of the she