CHAPTER THIRTEEN

A Return to Duty

"My dear Gilbert! I wish you would try to be a little more friendly," said my mother, one morning. "You say there is nothing the matter with you, but you have changed in the past few days."

I picked up a book nearby, and pretended to read with great interest. I soon remembered that I had to speak with Robert Wilson about buying a piece of land near our farm. After breakfast, I quickly stood up and left for the Wilsons'. As I walked, I was wishing that Jane Wilson and her mother would not be home when I arrived, as I did not want to discuss Mrs Graham with them.

I arrived, but Robert was out. He was to return shortly, however. Mrs Wilson asked me to wait in the sitting room. As I walked in, I was disappointed to see Miss Wilson talking with Eliza Millward. I had not seen Eliza since our last dinner party. She was cheerful, however. Although, I could see in her eyes that I was not forgiven for taking an interest in another woman.

Miss Wilson was friendly; she and Eliza talked a great deal, and I listened patiently, not wanting to speak myself. But Eliza soon asked me if I had seen Mrs Graham lately.

"Not lately," I replied carelessly, but sternly. "What! Are you tired of her already?"

"I would rather not speak of her now."

"Ah! So you finally know that you were mistaken in your great opinion of her."

"Miss Eliza, I desire you not to speak of her."

"Oh, pardon me! I see you have been hurt deeply by love, and have not recovered!" she said with a smile.

I stood up to leave, but soon remembered that if I did, the two foolish girls would only be more amused. I then walked to the window, and looked out in silence. Mr Wilson soon arrived, and we sat down to discuss our business. Soon after, I left to return home. As I was walking near Wildfell Hall, I saw Mrs Graham and her son walking down the hill. I immediately turned in another direction, and soon heard a young child screaming my name. I continued walking quickly, but turned around to see if the two were still behind me. They were gone.

This incident upset me greatly. I was still deeply in love with Mrs Graham and quite fond of her child. The rest of the day, I was more miserable than before.

(end of section)