Friends of her girlhood days had been more fortunate.
They were married, and had families around them, while she alone had
been left "like the last rose of summer," as she often told herself.
But Miss Arabella never let people know about her trial. On the
contrary, she wished them to believe that her heart had once been won
by a handsome and gallant young man. Just what had become of him, or
what had occurred to cause the separation, she would never tell, and
only hinted mysteriously with a deep sigh whenever the subject of
matrimony was discussed. People knowing her, always smiled, and among
themselves often spoke of Miss Arabella's "affair."
The Simpkins' house was close to the river, and about a quarter of a
mile from the rectory by means of a short-cut through the field, though
much longer by the main highway. Rod took the short route, and in a
few minutes reached the place. His heart beat fast as he drew near,
for he dreaded meeting Miss Arabella, whose sharp tongue he had good
reason to fear.
Tom Simpkins met him at the door, and ushered him into the sitting-room
where Miss Arabella was lying upon a sofa near the window. She was
somewhat paler than usual, and very weak.
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