s some miles distant, and that she would arrange
with her mother to come for her the next morning.

To this, however, Miss Middleton objected, saying that before a
messenger could go on foot and bring the carriage it would be too late,
even if he succeeded in getting it, which was doubtful.

I now thought I might venture to interfere, and addressing Miss
Middleton I said, "I did not think you would have treated me with so
much ceremony. You know there are two horses of mine standing idle in
the stable which are quite at your service; if you wish to send a
messenger into town, my servant shall go directly, but I think the best
plan will be for you to allow me to drive you over in my dogcart, and
as you may not like coming home in the dark, I shall come back for you
to-morrow at any hour you may fix." She appeared to hesitate, but Laura
had little difficulty in persuading her to accept my offer. She
accordingly went to prepare, while I ordered the dogcart to be got
ready. Before setting out I arranged with Laura that as it might appear
strange were I to insist on returning to dinner when she was alone at
home with her father, I should, if invited, remain at the Percivals
till evening. She agreed to go to bed at her usual hour and to leave
the door connecting her room and mine unlocked and to tie a white
ribbon to the door-handle, if all was safe for me to come to her. I
started with Miss Middleton, and as I had expected was urged to remain
till next day. I at once agreed to stay for dinner, but refused all
their pressing to remain all night on the plea that I had made no
preparations for so doing. I remained till pretty late and then started
for the Hall, promising to return the next forenoon for Miss Middleton.

By the time I arrived everyone had gone to bed, and I hastened to
follow their example.

My first impulse was to examine Laura's door, and I was rejoiced to
find the agreed-on signal. I hastily stripped off my clothes, and
opening the door softly, found her still awake, awaiting my arrival.
Throwing down the bed clothes I was about to jump into her arms, when
it occurred to me that the operations we contemplated might perhaps
leave some traces behind, which might lead to suspicion if discovered
in her bed. I therefore said to her that it would be safer for her to
repair with me to mine. Ascertaining that her door was locked so as to
prevent all intrusion, I took her round the waist and led her to my
room.