ave judged him so
harshly.'

She left the room, and Philip held her in higher esteem. He saw there
was spirit and substance beneath that soft girlish exterior, and hoped
she would better be able to endure the troubles which her precipitate
marriage was likely to cause her; but as to her husband, his
combined fickleness and obstinacy had only become more apparent than
ever--fickleness in forsaking his purpose, obstinacy in adherence to his
own will.

Displeased and contemptuous, Philip was not softened by Guy's freedom
and openness of manner and desire to help him as far as their roads lay
together. He was gracious only to Lady Morville, whom he treated with
kindness, intended to show that he was pleased with her for a reproof
which became her position well, though it could not hurt him. Perhaps
she thought this amiability especially insufferable: for when she
arrived at Varenna her chief thought was that here they should be free
of him.

'Come, Philip,' said Guy, at that last moment, 'I wish you would think
better of it after all, and come with us to Milan.'

'Thank you, my mind is made up.'

'Well, mind you don't catch the fever: for I don't want the trouble of
nursing you.'

'Thank you; I hope to require no such services of my friends,' said
Philip, with a proud stem air, implying, 'I don't want you.'

'Good-bye, then,' said Guy. Then remembering his promise to Laura, he
added, 'I wish we could have seen more of you. They will be glad to hear
of you at Hollywell. You have had one warm friend there all along.'

He was touched for a moment by this kind speech, and his tone was less
grave and dignified. 'Remember me to them when you write,' he answered,
'and tell Laura she must not wear herself out with her studies.
Good-bye, Amy, I hope you will have a pleasant journey.'

The farewells were exchanged and the carriage drove off. 'Poor little
Amy!' said Philip to himself, 'how she is improved. He has a sweet
little wife in her. The fates have conspired to crown him with all man
can desire, and little marvel if he should abuse his advantages. Poor
little Amy! I have less hope than ever, since even her evident wishes
could not bend his determination in this trifle; but she is a good
little creature, happy in her blindness. May it long continue! It is my
uncle and aunt who are to be blamed.'

He set himself to ascend the mountain path, and they looked back,
watching the firm vigorous steps with which he climbed