“It is so that I read it; but I do not like to rely upon my own sole judgment in such a case. Will you trust me with this letter, and will you let me show it to Sir Brooke? He is wonderfully acute in tracing people's real meaning through all the misty surroundings of expression. I will go over to Cagliari at once, and see him. If all be as I suspect, I will bring them back with me. If Sir Brook's opinion be against mine, I will believe him to be the wiser man, and come back alone.” “I consent to everything, Tom, if you will give me but one pledge,--you must give it seriously, solemnly.” “I guess what you mean, Lucy; your anxious face has told the story without words. You are afraid of my hot temper. You think I will force a quarrel on Trafford,--yes, I knew what was in your thoughts. Well, on my honor I will not. This I promise you faithfully.” She threw herself into his arms and kissed him, muttering, in a low voice, “My own dear brother,” in his ear. “It is just as likely you may see me back again tomorrow, Lucy, and alone too. Mind that, girl! The version I have taken of this letter may turn out to be all wrong. Sir Brook may show me how and where and why I have mistaken it; and if so, Lu, I must have a pledge from you,--you know what I mean.” “You need none, Tom,” said she, proudly; “you shall not be ashamed of your Sister.” “That was said like yourself, and I have no fears about you now. You will be anxious--you can't help being anxious, my poor child--about all this; but your uncertainty shall be as short as I can make it. Look out for me, at all events, with the evening breeze. I'll try and catch the land-wind to take me up. If I fly no ensign, Lucy, I am alone; if you see the 'Jack,' it will mean I have company with me. Do you understand me?” She nodded, but did not speak. “Now, Lu, I'll just get my traps together, and be off; that light Tramontana wind will last till daybreak, and by that time the sea-breeze will carry me along pleasantly. How I 'd like to have you with me!” “It is best as it is, Tom,” said she, trying to smile. “And if all goes wrong,--I mean if all does not go right,--Lucy, I have got a plan, and I am sure Sir Brook won't oppose it. We 'll just pack up, wish the lead and the cobalt and the rest of it a good-bye, and start for the Cape and join father. There's a project after your own heart, girl.” “Oh, Tom dearest, if we could do that!” “Think over it till we meet again, and it will at least keep away darker thoughts.” CHAPTER II. BY THE MINE AT LA VANNA