"In other words, you wish me to have eyes and yet see not,--and having ears to hear not? You must indeed have little confidence in my good sense, and still less in my feminine sympathy for the afflicted, if you suppose that under existing circumstances I could come to the house of mourning to collect materials to be rolled as sweet morsels under the slanderous tongues, that already wag so industriously concerning 'Solitude' and its solitary mistress. Verily, I occupy a lofty niche in your estimation, and it would doubtless be pardonably prudent in you to reconsider, and bid Elbert take me home with all possible dispatch, before I see Fatima or Bluebeard." "When will you cease to be childish, and remember that a woman's work lies before you?" "You may date that desirable transmogrification from the hour when you cease to stir up the mud and dregs in my nature, by doubting the possibility that they will ever settle, and leave a pure medium between your soul and mine. Just so soon,--and no sooner." "My young friend, you are too sensitive. I now offer you the strongest proof of confidence that I can ever hope to command. Will you take charge of this stricken household in my absence, and not only superintend the arrangements necessary for the funeral, but watch over Mrs. Gerome and see that no one disturbs her?" "You may trust me to execute her wishes and your orders." "Thank you. There certainly is no one except you whom I would trust in this emergency. One thing more; if Mrs. Gerome leaves the house, do not lose sight of her. It may be necessary to keep a very strict surveillance over her, and I will return as soon as possible, and relieve you." As they entered the house, Salome said,-- "You will stop at home and get your breakfast?" "No, I shall not have time." "Let me make you a cup of coffee before you start." "Thank you, it is not necessary; and besides, the house is in such confusion that it would be difficult to obtain anything. Come with me." She followed him into the dim room, where the tall but emaciated form of Elsie Maclean had been dressed for its last long sleep. The housemaid sat at the bedside, and Robert stood at one of the windows. The first passionate burst of grief had spent itself, and the son was very calm. At a sign from Dr. Grey he came forward, and bowed to the stranger. "Robert, I am obliged to be absent for several hours, and Miss Owen will remain until I return. If you need advice or assistance come to her, and do not disturb Mrs. Gerome, who is lying on a sofa in the parlor. I will drive through town, and send your minister out immediately." "You are very good, sir. Do you think the funeral should take place before to-morrow? I want to speak to my mistress about it."