It was not until after the breakfast that Aldean found any opportunity of delivering Mallow's note to Olive. As he slipped it into her hand she flushed crimson, guessing instinctively from whom it came. With a grateful glance at Aldean, she ran upstairs and hastily tore it open. It contained only a few lines, "Forget what I said in my anger about your husband. He is truly Angus Carson, and I pray heaven that you may be happy with him. But if in trouble you should need a friend, remember that I claim the right to serve you." The lines were unsigned and ill-written. Olive sat with them crushed in her hand, the tears falling down her face. Tui discreetly held her tongue, for she had guessed that the letter was from Mallow. She roused Olive to action, whilst the maid busied herself with her mistress's clothes. A frown on her face and dark circles under her eyes, Clara seemed little less sorrowful than her mistress. "Come, dear," said Tui, "you must dress quickly; your husband is waiting for you." Clara looked round strangely. "My husband," said Olive, hopelessly. "Yes, he is my husband now." "But, dear," said Tui, "you married with your eyes open." "Yes; and with my hands bound," retorted Mrs. Carson, rising. "Well, I suppose I must go on now to the bitter end. Help me, Clara." On the terrace below Dimbal was conversing hurriedly with the newly-made husband. "In a few days the stocks and shares will be transferred in your name," he said, rubbing his hands; "but I suppose you won't care to be troubled with business for a while?" "Oh, I don't know about that," said Carson, smiling. "I don't believe in neglecting business for pleasure. I will run up and see you next week. I presume I have full control of this money." "You are aware, of course, that the capital is charged with the payment of a thousand per annum to your wife?" "Yes; I will pay her the first year's income at once," said Carson, generously. "I suppose I can realize quickly?" "Certainly, without difficulty; but I hope, Mr. Carson, you won't sell out. The money is admirably invested." Before he could answer, Olive came out of the house in her travelling-dress. She looked pale, though composed. With a nod to the lawyer, Carson hurried forward and offered his arm. Having already said good-bye, Olive took it and stepped into the carriage. Then amid a shower of rice and shoes, amid smiles and congratulations, and the usual sprinkling of tears, they drove off. Major Semberry chuckled complacently as the carriage disappeared. "Thank God," he muttered. From the terrace of Kingsholme Mallow watched them. He looked ill and haggard. "Heaven help her and me," he said, with a sigh. _THE SECOND SCENE: AT SANDBEACH_. CHAPTER I. "THE HAPPY PAIR."