that; and you shall return in Mr Rowland's gig. You can
talk or not as you please with him; and he is very kind. He is no more
to be blamed for his wife's behaviour, you know, than her mother or her
brother. It shall be so. I will manage it."

Margaret could manage what she pleased, with Maria and Mr Enderby both
devoted to her. Hester was off with Mr Rowland, and Margaret with one
child on her lap, and the others rejoicing at having possession of her,
before Mrs Rowland discovered the shifting of parties which had taken
place. Often during the ride she wanted to speak to her brother: three
times out of four he was not to be had, so busy was he joking with the
children, as he trotted his horse beside the waggon; and when he did
hear his sister's call he merely answered her questions, said something
to make his mother laugh, and dropped into his place beside the waggon
again. It struck Maria that the waggon had not been such an attraction
in going, though the flowers with which it was canopied had then been
fresh, and the children more merry and good-humoured than now.

The report to be carried home to Deerbrook was, that Mr Hope was still
no worse: it was thought that his delirium was somewhat quieter. Mrs
Grey was out on the steps to hear the news, when the carriage
approached. As it happened, the gig arrived first, and Hester had to
give the relation. She spoke even cheerfully, declaring Mr Enderby's
opinion, that the case was going on favourably, and that recovery was
very possible. Mrs Grey, who had had a wretchedly anxious day by
herself, not having enjoyed even the satisfaction of being useful,
nothing having been sent for from the farmhouse, was truly cheered by
seeing her family about her again.

"I have been watching for you this hour," said she; "and yet I hardly
expected you so soon. As it grew late, I began to fancy all manner of
accidents that might befall you. When one accident happens, it makes
one fancy so many more! I could not help thinking about Mr Grey's
horse. Does that horse seem to you perfectly steady, Hester? Well, I
am glad of it: but I once saw it shy from some linen on a hedge, and it
was in my mind all this afternoon. Here you are, all safe, however: and
I trust we may feel more cheerfully now about our good friend. If he
goes on to grow better, I shall get Mr Grey to drive me over soon to
see him. But, my dears, what will you have after your ride? Shall I
order tea, o