sition is
peculiar, and that she has been hardly used. I shall also be helped
in making the match by her own desire to escape from the humiliation
of her present state; and a woman's pride in these cases will lead
her a very great way. A little managing may be required to bring her
round; but I am equal to that, provided that you agree to the one
thing indispensable; that is, to make a distinct declaration that she
is to think no more of you as a possible husband. That will pique her
into accepting him."

"I can hardly say that just now, Mrs. Yeobright. It is so sudden."

"And so my whole plan is interfered with! It is very inconvenient
that you refuse to help my family even to the small extent of saying
distinctly you will have nothing to do with us."

Wildeve reflected uncomfortably. "I confess I was not prepared for
this," he said. "Of course I'll give her up if you wish, if it is
necessary. But I thought I might be her husband."

"We have heard that before."

"Now, Mrs. Yeobright, don't let us disagree. Give me a fair time. I
don't want to stand in the way of any better chance she may have; only
I wish you had let me know earlier. I will write to you or call in a
day or two. Will that suffice?"

"Yes," she replied, "provided you promise not to communicate with
Thomasin without my knowledge."

"I promise that," he said. And the interview then terminated, Mrs.
Yeobright returning homeward as she had come.

By far the greatest effect of her simple strategy on that day was, as
often happens, in a quarter quite outside her view when arranging it.
In the first place, her visit sent Wildeve the same evening after dark
to Eustacia's house at Mistover.

At this hour the lonely dwelling was closely blinded and shuttered
from the chill and darkness without. Wildeve's clandestine plan with
her was to take a little gravel in his hand and hold it to the crevice
at the top of the window shutter, which was on the outside, so that it
should fall with a gentle rustle, resembling that of a mouse, between
shutter and glass. This precaution in attracting her attention was to
avoid arousing the suspicions of her grandfather.

The soft words, "I hear; wait for me," in Eustacia's voice from within
told him that she was alone.

He waited in his customary manner by walking round the enclosure and
idling by the pool, for Wildeve was never asked into the house by his
proud though condescending mistress. She showed no sign of comi