Canada -- Fiction; World War, 1914-1918 -- Canada -- Fiction
But the wise mother interposed. “It is a long ride, Nora, and you don't
want to be too tired for your journey. I think the very last day we had
better spend quietly at home.”
Jane's eyes flashed upon her a grateful look. And so it came that the
grand finale was set back to the day before the last, and proved to be
a gloriously enjoyable if exhausting outing. The last day was spent
by Nora in making preparations for her visit with Jane to Banff and
in putting the final touches to such household tasks as might help to
lessen somewhat the burden for those who would be left behind. Jane
spent the morning in a farewell visit to the Waring-Gaunts', which she
made in company with Kathleen.
“I hope, my dear Jane, you have enjoyed your stay with us here at Wolf
Willow,” said Mrs. Waring-Gaunt as Jane was saying good-bye.
“I have been very happy,” said Jane. “Never in my life have I had such a
happy time.”
“Now it is good of you to say that,” said Mrs. Waring-Gaunt. “You have
made us all love you.”
“Quite true,” said her husband. “Repetition of the great Caesar's
experience veni vidi vici, eh? What?”
“So say I,” said Jack Romayne. “It has been a very real pleasure to know
you, Jane. For my part, I shan't forget your visit to me, and the talks
we have had together.”
“You have all been good to me. I cannot tell you how I feel about it.”
Jane's voice was a little tremulous, but her smile was as bright as
ever. “I don't believe I shall ever have such a perfectly happy visit
again.”
“What nonsense, my dear,” said Mrs. Waring-Gaunt. “I predict many, many
very happy days for you. You have that beautiful gift of bringing your
joy with you.”
Jack accompanied them on their way to the road. “Kathleen and I are
hoping that perhaps you may be able to come to our wedding. It will be
very soon--in a few weeks.”
“Yes, could you, Jane, dear?” said Kathleen. “We should like it above
everything else. I know it is a long, long journey, but if you could.”
“When is it to be?” said Jane.
“Somewhere about the middle of October.” But Jane shook her head
disconsolately. By that time she knew she would be deep in her
university work, and with Jane work ever came before play.
“I am afraid not,” she said. “But, oh, I do wish you all the happiness
in the world. Nothing has ever made me so glad. Oh, but you will be
happy, I know. Both of you are so lovely.” A sudden rush of tears filled
the deep dark eyes as she shook hands with Jack in farewell. “But,” she
cried in sudden rapture, “why not come to us for a day on your wedding
trip?”
“That's a splendid idea.” For a moment or two Jack and Kathleen stood
looking at each other.
“Jane, we shall surely come. You may count on us,” said Jack.
In the afternoon Mrs. Gwynne sent Jane away for a ride with Larry.
“Just go quietly, Larry,” said his mother. “Don't race and don't tire
Jane.”
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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