About The Man by Bram Stoker The Man is a 1905 Victorian novel by Bram Stoker, best known for Dracula. A typical Gothic novel, it features horror and romance. The Man has also been published as The Gates of Life. Plot: Squire Stephen Norman is lord of the manor in Normanstead. He marries Margaret Rowly, younger sister of his friend Rowly (squire of the neighboring town). Desirous of an heir, Norman and Margaret have a baby girl and Margaret dies shortly after the birth. Norman promises her that he will love their daughter as much as he would have loved a son, and Margaret asks him to name the girl Stephen. Squire Norman his daughter Stephen as a tomboy.

genre : Romance & Classics

7 hour and 27 minute

Read The Man Online

[Feedbooks]

The Man

Bram Stoker

Published: 1905

Categorie(s): Fiction, Romance, Gothic, Horror

Source: http://www.gutenberg.org About Stoker:

Abraham "Bram" Stoker (November 8, 1847 – April 20, 1912) was an Irish writer, best remembered as the author of the influential horror novel Dracula. Source: Wikipedia

Also available on Feedbooks Stoker:

- Dracula (1897)

- The Lair of the White Worm (1911)

- Dracula's Guest (1914)

- The Jewel of Seven Stars (1903)

- The Burial of the Rats (1914)

- A Dream of Red Hands (1914)

- The Judge's House (1914)

- The Dualitists (1887)

- The Invisible Giant (1881)

- Under the Sunset (1881)

Note: This book is brought to you by Feedbooks

http://www.feedbooks.com

Strictly for personal use, do not use this file for commercial purposes.

Fore-word

'I would rather be an angel than God!'

The voice of the speaker sounded clearly through the hawthorn tree. The young man and the young girl who sat together on the low tombstone looked at each other. They had heard the voices of the two children talking, but had not noticed what they said; it was the sentiment, not the sound, which roused their attention.

The girl put her finger to her lips to impress silence, and the man nodded; they sat as still as mice whilst the two children went on talking.

The scene would have gladdened a painter's heart. An old churchyard. The church low and square-towered, with long mullioned windows, the yellow-grey stone roughened by age and tender-hued with lichens. Round it clustered many tombstones tilted in all directions. Behind the church a line of gnarled and twisted yews.

The churchyard was full of fine trees. On one side a magnificent cedar; on the other a great copper beech. Here and there among the tombs and headstones many beautiful blossoming trees rose from the long green grass. The laburnum glowed in the June afternoon sunlight; the lilac, the hawthorn and the clustering meadowsweet which fringed the edge of the lazy stream mingled their heavy sweetness in sleepy fragrance. The yellow-grey crumbling walls were green in places with wrinkled harts-tongues, and were topped with sweet-williams and spreading house-leek and stone-crop and wild- flowers whose delicious sweetness made for the drowsy repose of perfect summer.

But amid all that mass of glowing colour the two young figures seated on the grey old tomb stood out conspicuously. The man was in conventional hunting-dress: red coat, white stock, black hat, white breeches, and top-boots. The girl was one of the richest, most glowing, and yet withal daintiest figures the eye of man could linger on. She was in riding-habit of hunting scarlet cloth; her black hat was tipped forward by piled-up masses red-golden hair. Round her neck was a white lawn scarf in the fashion of a man's hunting-stock, close fitting, and sinking into a gold-buttoned waistcoat of snowy twill. As she sat with the long skirt across her left arm her tiny black top-boots appeared underneath. Her gauntleted gloves were of white buckskin; her riding-whip was plaited of white leather, topped with ivory and banded with gold.

Even in her fourteenth year Miss Stephen Norman gave promise of striking beauty; beauty of a rarely composite character. In her the various elements of her race seemed to have cropped out. The firm- set jaw, with chin broader and more square than is usual in a woman, and the wide fine forehead and aquiline nose marked the high descent from Saxon through Norman. The glorious mass of red hair, of the true flame colour, showed the blood of another ancient ancestor of Northern race, and suited well with the voluptuous curves of the full, crimson lips. The purple-black eyes, the raven eyebrows and eyelashes, and the fine curve of the nostrils spoke of the Eastern blood of the far-back wife of the Crusader. Already she was tall for her age, with something of that lankiness which marks the early development of a really fine figure. Long-legged, long-necked, as straight as a lance, with head poised on the proud neck like a lily on its stem.

Stephen Norman certainly gave promise of a splendid womanhood. Pride, self-reliance and dominance were marked in every feature; in her bearing and in her lightest movement.

Her companion, Harold An Wolf, was some five years her senior, and by means of those five years and certain qualities had long stood in the position of her mentor. He was more than six feet two in height, deep-chested, broad-shouldered, lean-flanked, long-armed and big- handed. He had that appearance strength, with well-poised neck and forward set of the head, which marks the successful athlete.

The two sat quiet, listening. Through the quiet hum of afternoon came the voices of the two children. Outside the lich-gate, under the shade of the spreading cedar, the horses stamped occasionally as the flies troubled them. The grooms were mounted; one held the delicate-limbed white Arab, the other the great black horse.

'I would rather be an angel than God!'

The little girl who made the remark was an ideal specimen of the village Sunday-school child. Blue-eyed, rosy-cheeked, thick-legged, with her straight brown hair tied into a hard bunch with a much- creased, cherry-coloured ribbon. A glance at the girl would have satisfied the most sceptical as to her goodness. Without being in any way smug she was radiant with self-satisfaction and well-doing. A child of the people; an early riser; a help to her mother; a good angel to her father; a little mother to her brothers and sisters; cleanly in mind and body; self-reliant, full of faith, cheerful.

The other little girl was prettier, but of a more stubborn type; more passionate, less organised, and infinitely more assertive. Black- haired, black-eyed, swarthy, large-mouthed, snub-nosed; the very type and essence of unrestrained, impulsive, emotional, sensual nature. A seeing eye would have noted inevitable danger for the early years of her womanhood. She seemed amazed by the self-abnegation implied by her companion's statement; after a pause she replied:

'I wouldn't! I'd rather be up at the top of everything and give orders to the angels if I chose. I can't think, Marjorie, why you'd rather take orders than give them.'

'That's just it, Susan. I don't want to give orders; I'd rather obey them. It must be very terrible to have to think of things so much, that you want everything done your own way. And besides, I shouldn't like to have to be just!'

'Why not?' the voice was truculent, though there was wistfulness in it also.

'Oh Susan. Just fancy having to punish; for of course justice needs punishing as well as praising. Now an angel has such a nice time, helping people and comforting them, and bringing sunshine into dark places. Putting down fresh dew every morning; making the flowers grow, and bringing babies and taking care of them till their mothers find them. Of course God is very good and very sweet and very merciful, but oh, He must be very terrible.'

'All the same I would rather be God and able to do things!'

Then the children moved off out of earshot. The two seated on the tombstone looked after them. The first to speak was the girl, who said:

'That's very sweet and good of Marjorie; but do you know, Harold, I like Susie's idea better.'

'Which idea was that, Stephen?'

'Why, didn't you notice what she said: "I'd like to be God and be able to do things"?'

'Yes,' he said after a moment's reflection. 'That's a fine idea in the abstract; but I doubt of its happiness in the long-run.'

'Doubt of its happiness? Come now? what could there be better, after all? Isn't it good enough to be God? What more do you want?'

The girl's tone was quizzical, but her great black eyes blazed with some thought of sincerity which lay behind the fun. The young man shook his head with a smile of kindly tolerance as he answered:

'It isn't that—surely you must know it. I'm ambitious enough, goodness knows; but there are bounds to satisfy even me. But I'm not sure that the good little thing isn't right. She seemed, somehow, to hit a bigger truth than she knew: "fancy having to be just."'

'I don't see much difficulty in that. Anyone can be just!'

'Pardon me,' he answered, 'there is perhaps nothing so difficult in the whole range of a man's work.' There was distinct defiance in the girl's eyes as she asked:

'A man's work! Why a man's work? Isn't it a woman's work also?'

'Well, I suppose it ought to be, theoretically; practically it isn't.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'And why not, pray?' The mere suggestion of any disability of woman as such aroused immediate antagonism. Her companion suppressed a smile as he answered deliberately:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Because, my dear Stephen, the Almighty has ordained that justice is not a virtue women can practise. Mind, I do not say women are unjust. Far from it, where there are no interests of those dear to them they can be of a sincerity of justice that can make a man's blood run cold. But justice in the abstract is not an ordinary virtue: it has to be considerate as well as stern, and above all interest of all kinds and of every one—' The girl interrupted hotly:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I don't agree with you at all. You can't give an instance where women are unjust. I don't mean of course individual instances, but classes of cases where injustice is habitual.' The suppressed smile cropped out now unconsciously round the man's lips in a way which was intensely aggravating to the girl.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I'll give you a few,' he said. 'Did you ever know a mother just to a boy who beat her own boy at school?' The girl replied quietly:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Ill-treatment and bullying are subjects for punishment, not justice.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Oh, I don't mean that kind of beating. I mean getting the prizes their own boys contended for; getting above them in class; showing superior powers in running or cricket or swimming, or in any of the forms of effort in which boys vie with each other.' The girl reflected, then she spoke:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Well, you may be right. I don't altogether admit it, but I accept it as not on my side. But this is only one case.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'A pretty common one. Do you think that Sheriff of Galway, who in default of a hangman hanged his son with his own hands, would have done so if he had been a woman?' The girl answered at once:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Frankly, no. I don't suppose the mother was ever born who would do such a thing. But that is not a common case, is it? Have you any other?' The young man paused before he spoke:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'There is another, but I don't think I can go into it fairly with you.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Why not?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Well, because after all you know, Stephen, you are only a girl and you can't be expected to know.' The girl laughed:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Well, if it's anything about women surely a girl, even of my tender age, must know something more of it, or be able to guess at, than any young man can. However, say what you think and I'll tell you frankly if I agree—that is if a woman can be just, in such a matter.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Shortly the point is this: Can a woman be just to another woman, or to a man for the matter of that, where either her own affection or a fault of the other is concerned?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I don't see any reason to the contrary. Surely pride alone should ensure justice in the former case, and the consciousness of superiority in the other.' The young man shook his head:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Pride and the consciousness of superiority! Are they not much the same thing. But whether or no, if either of them has to be relied on, I'm afraid the scales of Justice would want regulating, and her sword should be blunted in case its edge should be turned back on herself. I have an idea that although pride might be a guiding principle with you individually, it would be a failure with the average. However, as it would be in any case a rule subject to many exceptions I must let it go.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Harold looked at his watch and rose. Stephen followed him; transferring her whip into the hand which held up the skirt, she took his arm with her right hand in the pretty way in which a young girl clings to her elders. Together they went out at the lich-gate. The groom drew over with the horses. Stephen patted hers and gave her a lump of sugar. Then putting her foot into Harold's ready hand she sprang lightly into the saddle. Harold swung himself into his saddle with the dexterity of an accomplished rider.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

As the two rode up the road, keeping on the shady side under the trees, Stephen said quietly, half to herself, as if the sentence had impressed itself on her mind:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'To be God and able to do things!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Harold rode on in silence. The chill of some vague fear was upon him.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Chapter 1 Stephen

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen Norman of Normanstand had remained a bachelor until close on middle age, when the fact took hold of him that there was no immediate heir to his great estate. Whereupon, with his wonted decision, he set about looking for a wife.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

He had been a close friend of his next neighbour, Squire Rowly, ever since their college days. They had, of course, been often in each other's houses, and Rowly's young sister—almost a generation younger than himself, and the sole fruit of his father's second marriage—had been like a little sister to him too. She had, in the twenty years which had elapsed, grown to be a sweet and beautiful young woman. In all the past years, with the constant opportunity which friendship gave of close companionship, the feeling never altered. Squire Norman would have been surprised had he been asked to describe Margaret Rowly and found himself compelled to present the picture of a woman, not a child.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Now, however, when his thoughts went womanward and wifeward, he awoke to the fact that Margaret came within the category of those he sought. His usual decision ran its course. Semi-brotherly feeling gave place to a stronger and perhaps more selfish feeling. Before he even knew it, he was head over ears in love with his pretty neighbour.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Norman was a fine man, stalwart and handsome; his forty years sat so lightly on him that his age never seemed to come into question in a woman's mind. Margaret had always liked him and trusted him; he was the big brother who had no duty in the way of scolding to do. His presence had always been a gladness; and the sex of the girl, first unconsciously then consciously, answered to the man's overtures, and her consent was soon obtained.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When in the fulness of time it was known that an heir was expected, Squire Norman took for granted that the child would be a boy, and held the idea so tenaciously that his wife, who loved him deeply, gave up warning and remonstrance after she had once tried to caution him against too fond a hope. She saw how bitterly he would be disappointed in case it should prove to be a girl. He was, however, so fixed on the point that she determined to say no more. After all, it might be a boy; the chances were equal. The Squire would not listen to any one else at all; so as the time went on his idea was more firmly fixed than ever. His arrangements were made on the base that he would have a son. The name was of course decided. Stephen had been the name of all the Squires of Normanstand for ages—as far back as the records went; and Stephen the new heir of course would be.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Like all middle-aged men with young wives he was supremely anxious as the time drew near. In his anxiety for his wife his belief in the son became passive rather than active. Indeed, the idea of a son was so deeply fixed in his mind that it was not disturbed even by his anxiety for the young wife he idolised.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When instead of a son a daughter was born, the Doctor and the nurse, who knew his views on the subject, held back from the mother for a little the knowledge of the sex. Dame Norman was so weak that the Doctor feared lest anxiety as to how her husband would bear the disappointment, might militate against her. Therefore the Doctor sought the Squire in his study, and went resolutely at his task.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Well, Squire, I congratulate you on the birth of your child!' Norman was of course struck with the use of the word 'child'; but the cause of his anxiety was manifested by his first question:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'How is she, Doctor? Is she safe?' The child was after all of secondary importance! The Doctor breathed more freely; the question had lightened his task. There was, therefore, more assurance in his voice as he answered:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'She is safely through the worst of her trouble, but I am greatly anxious yet. She is very weak. I fear anything that might upset her.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The Squire's voice came quick and strong:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'There must be no upset! And now tell me about my son?' He spoke the last word half with pride, half bashfully.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Your son is a daughter!' There was silence for so long that the Doctor began to be anxious. Squire Norman sat quite still; his right hand resting on the writing-table before him became clenched so hard that the knuckles looked white and the veins red. After a long slow breath he spoke:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'She, my daughter, is well?' The Doctor answered with cheerful alacrity:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Splendid!—I never saw a finer child in my life. She will be a comfort and an honour to you!' The Squire spoke again:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'What does her mother think? I suppose she's very proud of her?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'She does not know yet that it is a girl. I thought it better not to let her know till I had told you.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Why?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Because—because—Norman, old friend, you know why! Because you had set your heart on a son; and I know how it would grieve that sweet young wife and mother to feel your disappointment. I want your lips to be the first to tell her; so that on may assure her of your happiness in that a daughter has been born to you.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The Squire put out his great hand and laid it on the other's shoulder. There was almost a break in his voice as he said:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Thank you, my old friend, my true friend, for your thought. When may I see her?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'By right, not yet. But, as knowing your views, she may fret herself till she knows, I think you had better come at once.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

All Norman's love and strength combined for his task. As he leant over and kissed his young wife there was real fervour in his voice as he said:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Where is my dear daughter that you may place her in my arms?' For an instant there came a chill to the mother's heart that her hopes had been so far disappointed; but then came the reaction of her joy that her husband, her baby's father, was pleased. There was a heavenly dawn of red on her pale face as she drew her husband's head down and kissed him.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Oh, my dear,' she said, 'I am so happy that you are pleased!' The nurse took the mother's hand gently and held it to the baby as she laid it in the father's arms.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

He held the mother's hand as he kissed the baby's brow.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The Doctor touched him gently on the arm and beckoned him away. He went with careful footsteps, looking behind as he went.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

After dinner he talked with the Doctor on various matters; but presently he asked:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I suppose, Doctor, it is no sort of rule that the first child regulates the sex of a family?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'No, of course not. Otherwise how should we see boys and girls mixed in one family, as is nearly always the case. But, my friend,' he went on, 'you must not build hopes so far away. I have to tell you that your wife is far from strong. Even now she is not so well as I could wish, and there yet may be change.' The Squire leaped impetuously to his feet as he spoke quickly:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Then why are we waiting here? Can nothing be done? Let us have the best help, the best advice in the world.' The Doctor raised his hand.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Nothing can be done as yet. I have only fear.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Then let us be ready in case your fears should be justified! Who are the best men in London to help in such a case?' The Doctor mentioned two names; and within a few minutes a mounted messenger was galloping to Norcester, the nearest telegraph centre. The messenger was to arrange for a special train if necessary. Shortly afterwards the Doctor went again to see his patient. After a long absence he came back, pale and agitated. Norman felt his heart sink when he saw him; a groan broke from him as the Doctor spoke:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'She is much worse! I am in great fear that she may pass away before the morning!' The Squire's strong voice was clouded, with a hoarse veil as he asked:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'May I see her?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Not yet; at present she is sleeping. She may wake strengthened; in which case you may see her. But if not—'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'If not?'—the voice was not like his own.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Then I shall send for you at once!' The Doctor returned to his vigil. The Squire, left alone, sank on his knees, his face in his hands; his great shoulders shook with the intensity of his grief.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

An hour or more passed before he heard hurried steps. He sprang to the door:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Well?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'You had better come now.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Is she better?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Alas! no. I fear her minutes are numbered. School yourself, my dear old friend! God will help you in this bitter hour. All you can do now is to make her last moments happy.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I know! I know!' he answered in a voice so calm that his companion wondered.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When they came into the room Margaret was dozing. When her eyes opened and she found her husband beside her bed there spread over her face a glad look; which, alas! soon changed to one of pain. She motioned to him to bend down. He knelt and put his head beside her on the pillow; his arms went tenderly round her as though by his iron devotion and strength he would shield her from all harm. Her voice came very low and in broken gasps; she was summoning all her strength that she might speak:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'My dear, dear husband, I am so sad at leaving you! You have made me so happy, and I love you so! Forgive me, dear, for the pain I know you will suffer when I am gone! And oh, Stephen, I know you will cherish our little one—yours and mine—when I am gone. She will have no mother; you will have to be father and mother too.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I will hold her in my very heart's core, my darling, as I hold you!' He could hardly speak from emotion. She went on:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'And oh, my dear, you will not grieve that she is not a son to carry on your name?' And then a sudden light came into her eyes; and there was exultation in her weak voice as she said:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'She is to be our only one; let her be indeed our son! Call her the name we both love!' For answer he rose and laid his hand very, very tenderly on the babe as he said:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'This dear one, my sweet wife, who will carry your soul in her breast, will be my son; the only son I shall ever have. All my life long I shall, please Almighty God, so love her—our little Stephen— as you and I love each other!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

She laid her hand on his so that it touched at once her husband and her child. Then she raised the other weak arm, and placed it round his neck, and their lips met. Her soul went out in this last kiss.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Chapter 2 The Heart of a child

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

For some weeks after his wife's death Squire Norman was overwhelmed with grief. He made a brave effort, however, to go through the routine of his life; and succeeded so far that he preserved an external appearance of bearing his loss with resignation. But within, all was desolation.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Little Stephen had winning ways which sent deep roots into her father's heart. The little bundle of nerves which the father took into his arms must have realised with all its senses that, in all that it saw and heard and touched, there was nothing but love and help and protection. Gradually the trust was followed by expectation. If by some chance the father was late in coming to the nursery the child would grow impatient and cast persistent, longing glances at the door. When he came all was joy.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Time went quickly by, and Norman was only recalled to its passing by the growth of his child. Seedtime and harvest, the many comings of nature's growth were such commonplaces to him, and had been for so many years, that they made on him no impressions of comparison. But his baby was one and one only. Any change in it was not only in itself a new experience, but brought into juxtaposition what is with what was. The changes that began to mark the divergence of sex were positive shocks to him, for they were unexpected. In the very dawn of babyhood dress had no special import; to his masculine eyes sex was lost in youth. But, little by little, came the tiny changes which convention has established. And with each change came to Squire Norman the growing realisation that his child was a woman. A tiny woman, it is true, and requiring more care and protection and devotion than a bigger one; but still a woman. The pretty little ways, the eager caresses, the graspings and holdings of the childish hands, the little roguish smiles and pantings and flirtings were all but repetitions in little of the dalliance of long ago. The father, after all, reads in the same book in which the lover found his knowledge.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

At first there was through all his love for his child a certain resentment of her sex. His old hope of a son had been rooted too deeply to give way easily. But when the conviction came, and with it the habit of its acknowledgment, there came also a certain resignation, which is the halting-place for satisfaction. But he never, not then nor afterwards, quite lost the old belief that Stephen was indeed a son. Could there ever have been a doubt, the remembrance of his wife's eyes and of her faint voice, of her hope and her faith, as she placed her baby in his arms would have refused it a resting-place. This belief tinged all his after-life and moulded his policy with regard to his girl's upbringing. If she was to be indeed his son as well as his daughter, she must from the first be accustomed to boyish as well as to girlish ways. This, in that she was an only child, was not a difficult matter to accomplish. Had she had brothers and sisters, matters of her sex would soon have found their own level.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

There was one person who objected strongly to any deviation from the conventional rule of a girl's education. This was Miss Laetitia Rowly, who took after a time, in so far as such a place could be taken, that of the child's mother. Laetitia Rowly was a young aunt of Squire Rowly of Norwood; the younger sister of his father and some sixteen years his own senior. When the old Squire's second wife had died, Laetitia, then a conceded spinster of thirty-six, had taken possession of the young Margaret. When Margaret had married Squire Norman, Miss Rowly was well satisfied; for she had known Stephen Norman all her life. Though she could have wished a younger bridegroom for her darling, she knew it would be hard to get a better man or one of more suitable station in life. Also she knew that Margaret loved him, and the woman who had never found the happiness of mutual love in her own life found a pleasure in the romance of true love, even when the wooer was middle-aged. She had been travelling in the Far East when the belated news of Margaret's death came to her. When she had arrived home she announced her intention of taking care of Margaret's child, just as she had taken care of Margaret. For several reasons this could not be done in the same way. She was not old enough to go and live at Normanstand without exciting comment; and the Squire absolutely refused to allow that his daughter should live anywhere except in his own house. Educational supervision, exercised at such distance and so intermittently, could neither be complete nor exact.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Though Stephen was a sweet child she was a wilful one, and very early in life manifested a dominant nature. This was a secret pleasure to her father, who, never losing sight of his old idea that she was both son and daughter, took pleasure as well as pride out of each manifestation of her imperial will. The keen instinct of childhood, which reasons in feminine fashion, and is therefore doubly effective in a woman-child, early grasped the possibilities of her own will. She learned the measure of her nurse's foot and then of her father's; and so, knowing where lay the bounds of possibility of the achievement of her wishes, she at once avoided trouble and learned how to make the most of the space within the limit of her tether.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

It is not those who 'cry for the Moon' who go furthest or get most in this limited world of ours. Stephen's pretty ways and unfailing good temper were a perpetual joy to her father; and when he found that as a rule her desires were reasonable, his wish to yield to them became a habit.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Miss Rowly seldom saw any individual thing to disapprove of. She it was who selected the governesses and who interviewed them from time to time as to the child's progress. Not often was there any complaint, for the little thing had such a pretty way of showing affection, and such a manifest sense of justified trust in all whom she encountered, that it would have been hard to name a specific fault.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

But though all went in tears of affectionate regret, and with eminently satisfactory emoluments and references, there came an irregularly timed succession of governesses.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen's affection for her 'Auntie' was never affected by any of the changes. Others might come and go, but there no change came. The child's little hand would steal into one of the old lady's strong ones, or would clasp a finger and hold it tight. And then the woman who had never had a child of her own would feel, afresh each time, as though the child's hand was gripping her heart.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

With her father she was sweetest of all. And as he seemed to be pleased when she did anything like a little boy, the habit of being like one insensibly grew on her.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

An only child has certain educational difficulties. The true learning is not that which we are taught, but that which we take in for ourselves from experience and observation, and children's experiences and observation, especially of things other than repressive, are mainly of children. The little ones teach each other. Brothers and sisters are more with each other than are ordinary playmates, and in the familiarity of their constant intercourse some of the great lessons, so useful in after-life, are learned. Little Stephen had no means of learning the wisdom of give- and-take. To her everything was given, given bountifully and gracefully. Graceful acceptance of good things came to her naturally, as it does to one who is born to be a great lady. The children of the farmers in the neighbourhood, with whom at times she played, were in such habitual awe of the great house, that they were seldom sufficiently at ease to play naturally. Children cannot be on equal terms on special occasions with a person to whom they have been taught to bow or courtesy as a public habit. The children of neighbouring landowners, who were few and far between, and of the professional people in Norcester, were at such times as Stephen met them, generally so much on their good behaviour, that the spontaneity of play, through which it is that sharp corners of individuality are knocked off or worn down, did not exist.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

And so Stephen learned to read in the Book of Life; though only on one side of it. At the age of six she had, though surrounded with loving care and instructed by skilled teachers, learned only the accepting side of life. Giving of course there was in plenty, for the traditions of Normanstand were royally benevolent; many a blessing followed the little maid's footsteps as she accompanied some timely aid to the sick and needy sent from the Squire's house. Moreover, her Aunt tried to inculcate certain maxims founded on that noble one that it is more blessed to give than to receive. But of giving in its true sense: the giving that which we want for ourselves, the giving that is as a temple built on the rock of self- sacrifice, she knew nothing. Her sweet and spontaneous nature, which gave its love and sympathy so readily, was almost a bar to education: it blinded the eyes that would have otherwise seen any defect that wanted altering, any evil trait that needed repression, any lagging virtue that required encouragement—or the spur.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Chapter 3 Harold

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Squire Norman had a clerical friend whose rectory of Carstone lay some thirty miles from Normanstand. Thirty miles is not a great distance for railway travel; but it is a long drive. The days had not come, nor were they ever likely to come, for the making of a railway between the two places. For a good many years the two men had met in renewal of their old University days. Squire Norman and Dr. An Wolf had been chums at Trinity, Cambridge, and the boyish friendship had ripened and lasted. When Harold An Wolf had put in his novitiate in a teeming Midland manufacturing town, it was Norman's influence which obtained the rectorship for his friend. It was not often that they could meet, for An Wolf's work, which, though not very exacting, had to be done single-handed, kept him to his post. Besides, he was a good scholar and eked out a small income by preparing a few pupils for public school. An occasional mid-week visit to Normanstand in the slack time of school work on the Doctor's part, and now and again a drive by Norman over to the rectory, returning the next day, had been for a good many years the measure of their meeting. Then An Wolf's marriage and the birth of a son had kept him closer to home. Mrs. An Wolf had been killed in a railway accident a couple of years after her only child had been born; and at the time Norman had gone over to render any assistance in his power to the afflicted man, and to give him what was under the circumstances his best gift, sympathy. After an interval of a few years the Squire's courtship and marriage, at which his old friend had assisted, had confined his activities to a narrower circle. The last time they had met was when An Wolf had come over to Norcester to aid in the burial of his friend's wife. In the process of years, however, the shadow over Norman's life had begun to soften; when his baby had grown to be something of a companion, they met again. Norman, 'who had never since his wife's death been able to tear himself, even for a night, away from Normanstand and Stephen, wrote to his old friend asking him to come to him. An Wolf gladly promised, and for a week of growing expectation the Squire looked forward to their meeting. Each found the other somewhat changed, in all but their old affection.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

An Wolf was delighted with the little Stephen. Her dainty beauty seemed to charm him; and the child, seeming to realise what pleasure she was giving, exercised all her little winning ways. The rector, who knew more of children than did his, friend, told her as she sat on his knee of a very interesting person: his own son. The child listened, interested at first, then enraptured. She asked all kinds of questions; and the father's eyes brightened as he gladly answered the pretty sympathetic child, already deep in his heart for her father's sake. He told her about the boy who was so big and strong, and who could run and leap and swim and play cricket and football better than any other boy with whom he played. When, warmed himself by the keen interest of the little girl, and seeing her beautiful black eyes beginning to glow, he too woke to the glory of the time; and all the treasured moments of the father's lonely heart gave out their store. And the other father, thrilled with delight because of his baby's joy with, underlying all, an added pleasure that the little Stephen's interest was in sports that were for boys, looked on approvingly, now and again asking questions himself in furtherance of the child's wishes.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

All the afternoon they sat in the garden, close to the stream that came out of the rock, and An Wolf told father's tales of his only son. Of the great cricket match with Castra Puerorum when he had made a hundred not out. Of the school races when he had won so many prizes. Of the swimming match in the Islam River when, after he had won the race and had dressed himself, he went into the water in his clothes to help some children who had upset a boat. How when Widow Norton's only son could not be found, he dived into the deep hole of the intake of the milldam of the great Carstone mills where Wingate the farrier had been drowned. And how, after diving twice without success, he had insisted on going down the third time though people had tried to hold him back; and how he had brought up in his arms the child all white and so near death that they had to put him in the ashes of the baker's oven before he could be brought back to life.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When her nurse came to take her to bed, she slid down from her father's knee and coming over to Dr. An Wolf, gravely held out her hand and said: 'Good-bye!' Then she kissed him and said:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Thank you so much, Mr. Harold's daddy. Won't you come soon again, and tell us more?' Then she jumped again upon her father's knee and hugged him round the neck and kissed him, and whispered in his ear:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Daddy, please make Mr. Harold's daddy when he comes again, bring Harold with him!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

After all it is natural for women to put the essence of the letter in the postscript!

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Two weeks afterwards Dr. An Wolf came again and brought Harold with him. The time had gone heavily with little Stephen when she knew that Harold was coming with his father. Stephen had been all afire to see the big boy whose feats had so much interested her, and for a whole week had flooded Mrs. Jarrold with questions which she was unable to answer. At last the time came and she went out to the hall door with her father to welcome the guests. At the top of the great granite steps, down which in time of bad weather the white awning ran, she stood holding her father's hand and waving a welcome.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Good morning, Harold! Good morning, Mr. Harold's daddy!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The meeting was a great pleasure to both the children, and resulted in an immediate friendship. The small girl at once conceived a great admiration for the big, strong boy nearly twice her age and more than twice her size. At her time of life the convenances are not, and love is a thing to be spoken out at once and in the open. Mrs. Jarrold, from the moment she set eyes on him, liked the big kindly- faced boy who treated her like a lady, and who stood awkwardly blushing and silent in the middle of the nursery listening to the tiny child's proffers of affection. For whatever kind of love it is that boys are capable of, Harold had fallen into it. 'Calf-love' is a thing habitually treated with contempt. It may be ridiculous; but all the same it is a serious reality—to the calf.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Harold's new-found affection was as deep as his nature. An only child who had in his memory nothing of a mother's love, his naturally affectionate nature had in his childish days found no means of expression. A man child can hardly pour out his full heart to a man, even a father or a comrade; and this child had not, in a way, the consolations of other children. His father's secondary occupation of teaching brought other boys to the house and necessitated a domestic routine which had to be exact. There was no place for little girls in a boys' school; and though many of Dr. An Wolf's friends who were mothers made much of the pretty, quiet boy, and took him to play with their children, he never seemed to get really intimate with them. The equality of companionship was wanting. Boys he knew, and with them he could hold his own and yet be on affectionate terms. But girls were strange to him, and in their presence he was shy. With this lack of understanding of the other sex, grew up a sort of awe of it. His opportunities of this kind of study were so few that the view never could become rectified.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

And so it was that from his boyhood up to his twelfth year, Harold's knowledge of girlhood never increased nor did his awe diminish. When his father had told him all about his visit to Normanstand and of the invitation which had been extended to him there came first awe, then doubt, then expectation. Between Harold and his father there was love and trust and sympathy. The father's married love so soon cut short found expression towards his child; and between them there had never been even the shadow of a cloud. When his father told him how pretty the little Stephen was, how dainty, how sweet, he began to picture her in his mind's eye and to be bashfully excited over meeting her.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

His first glimpse of Stephen was, he felt, one that he never could forget. She had made up her mind that she would let Harold see what she could do. Harold could fly kites and swim and play cricket; she could not do any of these, but she could ride. Harold should see her pony, and see her riding him all by herself. And there would be another pony for Harold, a big, big, big one—she had spoken about its size herself to Topham, the stud-groom. She had coaxed her daddy into promising that after lunch she should take Harold riding. To this end she had made ready early. She had insisted on putting on the red riding habit which Daddy had given her for her birthday, and now she stood on the top of the steps all glorious in hunting pink, with the habit held over her arms, with the tiny hunting-hoots all shiny underneath. She had no hat on, and her beautiful hair of golden red shone in its glory. But even it was almost outshone by the joyous flush on her cheeks as she stood waving the little hand that did not hold Daddy's. She was certainly a picture to dream of! Her father's eyes lost nothing of her dainty beauty. He was so proud of her that he almost forgot to wish that she had been a boy. The pleasure he felt in her appearance was increased by the fact that her dress was his own idea.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

During luncheon Stephen was fairly silent; she usually chattered all through as freely as a bird sings. Stephen was silent because the occasion was important. Besides, Daddy wasn't all alone, and therefore had not to be cheered up. Also—this in postscript form— Harold was silent! In her present frame of mind Harold could do no wrong, and what Harold did was right. She was unconsciously learning already a lesson from his presence.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

That evening when going to bed she came to say good-night to Daddy. After she had kissed him she also kissed 'old Mr. Harold,' as she now called him, and as a matter of course kissed Harold also. He coloured up at once. It was the first time a girl had ever kissed him.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The next day from early morning until bed-time was one long joy to Stephen, and there were few things of interest that Harold had not been shown; there were few of the little secrets which had not been shared with him as they went about hand in hand. Like all manly boys Harold was good to little children and patient with them. He was content to follow Stephen about and obey all her behests. He had fallen in love with her to the very bottom of his boyish heart.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When the guests were going, Stephen stood with her father on the steps to see them off. When the carriage had swept behind the farthest point in the long avenue, and when Harold's cap waving from the window could no longer be seen, Squire Norman turned to go in, but paused in obedience to the unconscious restraint of Stephen's hand. He waited patiently till with a long sigh she turned to him and they went in together.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

That night before she went to bed Stephen came and sat on her father's knee, and after sundry pattings and kissings whispered in his ear:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Daddy, wouldn't it be nice if Harold could come here altogether? Couldn't you ask him to? And old Mr. Harold could come too. Oh, I wish he was here!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Chapter 4 Harold at Normanstad

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Two years afterwards a great blow fell upon Harold. His father, who had been suffering from repeated attacks of influenza, was, when in the low condition following this, seized with pneumonia, to which in a few days he succumbed. Harold was heart-broken. The affection which had been between him and his father had been so consistent that he had never known a time when it was not.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When Squire Norman had returned to the house with him after the funeral, he sat in silence holding the boy's hand till he had wept his heart out. By this time the two were old friends, and the boy was not afraid or too shy to break down before him. There was sufficient of the love of the old generation to begin with trust in the new.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Presently, when the storm was past and Harold had become his own man again, Norman said:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'And now, Harold, I want you to listen to me. You know, my dear boy, that I am your father's oldest friend, and right sure I am that he would approve of what I say. You must come home with me to live. I know that in his last hours the great concern of your dear father's heart would have been for the future of his boy. And I know, too, that it was a comfort to him to feel that you and I are such friends, and that the son of my dearest old friend would be as a son to me. We have been friends, you and I, a long time, Harold; and we have learned to trust, and I hope to love, one another. And you and my little Stephen are such friends already that your coming into the house will be a joy to us all. Why, long ago, when first you came, she said to me the night you went away: "Daddy, wouldn't it be nice if Harold could come here altogether?"'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

And so Harold An Wolf came back with the Squire to Normanstand, and from that day on became a member of his house, and as a son to him. Stephen's delight at his coming was of course largely qualified by her sympathy with his grief; but it would have been hard to give him more comfort than she did in her own pretty way. Putting her lips to his she kissed him, and holding his big hand in both of her little ones, she whispered softly:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Poor Harold! You and I should love each other, for we have both lost our mother. And now you have lost your father. But you must let my dear daddy be yours too!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

At this time Harold was between fourteen and fifteen years old. He was well educated in so far as private teaching went. His father had devoted much care to him, so that he was well grounded in all the Academic branches of learning. He was also, for his years, an expert in most manly exercises. He could ride anything, shoot straight, fence, run, jump or swim with any boy more than his age and size.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

In Normanstand his education was continued by the rector. The Squire used often to take him with him when he went to ride, or fish, or shoot; frankly telling him that as his daughter was, as yet, too young to be his companion in these matters, he would act as her locum tenens. His living in the house and his helping as he did in Stephen's studies made familiarity perpetual. He was just enough her senior to command her childish obedience; and there were certain qualities in his nature which were eminently calculated to win and keep the respect of women as well as of men. He was the very incarnation of sincerity, and had now and again, in certain ways, a sublime self-negation which, at times, seemed in startling contrast to a manifestly militant nature. When at school he had often been involved in fights which were nearly always on matters of principle, and by a sort of unconscious chivalry he was generally found fighting on the weaker side. Harold's father had been very proud of his ancestry, which was Gothic through the Dutch, as the manifestly corrupted prefix of the original name implied, and he had gathered from a constant study of the Sagas something of the philosophy which lay behind the ideas of the Vikings.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

This new stage of Harold's life made for quicker development than any which had gone before. Hitherto he had not the same sense of responsibility. To obey is in itself a relief; and as it is an actual consolation to weak natures, so it is only a retarding of the strong. Now he had another individuality to think of. There was in his own nature a vein of anxiety of which the subconsciousness of his own strength threw up the outcrop.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Little Stephen with the instinct of her sex discovered before long this weakness. For it is a weakness when any quality can be assailed or used. The using of a man's weakness is not always coquetry; but it is something very like it. Many a time the little girl, who looked up to and admired the big boy who could compel her to anything when he was so minded, would, for her own ends, work on his sense of responsibility, taking an elfin delight in his discomfiture.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The result of Stephen's harmless little coquetries was that Harold had occasionally either to thwart some little plan of daring, or else cover up its results. In either case her confidence in him grew, so that before long he became an established fact in her life, a being in whose power and discretion and loyalty she had absolute, blind faith. And this feeling seemed to grow with her own growth. Indeed at one time it came to be more than an ordinary faith. It happened thus:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The old Church of St. Stephen, which was the parish church of Normanstand, had a peculiar interest for the Norman family. There, either within the existing walls or those which had preceded them when the church was rebuilt by that Sir Stephen who was standard- bearer to Henry VI., were buried all the direct members of the line. It was an unbroken record of the inheritors since the first Sir Stephen, who had his place in the Domesday Book. Without, in the churchyard close to the church, were buried all such of the collaterals as had died within hail of Norcester. Some there were of course who, having achieved distinction in various walks of life, were further honoured by a resting-place within the chancel. The whole interior was full of records of the family. Squire Norman was fond of coming to the place; and often from the very beginning had taken Stephen with him. One of her earliest recollections was kneeling down with her father, who held her hand in his, whilst with the other he wiped the tears from his eyes, before a tomb sculptured beautifully in snowy marble. She never forgot the words he had said to her:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'You will always remember, darling, that your dear mother rests in this sacred place. When I am gone, if you are ever in any trouble come here. Come alone and open out your heart. You need never fear to ask God for help at the grave of your mother!' The child had been impressed, as had been many and many another of her race. For seven hundred years each child of the house of Norman had been brought alone by either parent and had heard some such words. The custom had come to be almost a family ritual, and it never failed to leave its impress in greater or lesser degree.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Whenever Harold had in the early days paid a visit to Normanstand, the church had generally been an objective of their excursions. He was always delighted to go. His love for his own ancestry made him admire and respect that of others; so that Stephen's enthusiasm in the matter was but another cord to bind him to her.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

In one of their excursions they found the door into the crypt open; and nothing would do Stephen but that they should enter it. To-day, however, they had no light; but they arranged that on the morrow they would bring candles with them and explore the place thoroughly. The afternoon of the next day saw them at the door of the crypt with a candle, which Harold proceeded to light. Stephen looked on admiringly, and said in a half-conscious way, the half-consciousness being shown in the implication:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'You are not afraid of the crypt?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Not a bit! In my father's church there was a crypt, and I was in it several times.' As he spoke the memory of the last time he had been there swept over him. He seemed to see again the many lights, held in hands that were never still, making a grim gloom where the black shadows were not; to hear again the stamp and hurried shuffle of the many feet, as the great oak coffin was borne by the struggling mass of men down the steep stairway and in through the narrow door … And then the hush when voices faded away; and the silence seemed a real thing, as for a while he stood alone close to the dead father who had been all in all to him. And once again he seemed to feel the recall to the living world of sorrow and of light, when his inert hand was taken in the strong loving one of Squire Norman.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

He paused and drew back.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Why don't you go on?' she asked, surprised.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

He did not like to tell her then. Somehow, it seemed out of place. He had often spoken to her of his father, and she had always been a sympathetic listener; but here, at the entrance of the grim vault, he did not wish to pain her with his own thoughts of sorrow and all the terrible memories which the similarity of the place evoked. And even whilst he hesitated there came to him a thought so laden with pain and fear that he rejoiced at the pause which gave it to him in time. It was in that very crypt that Stephen's mother had been buried, and had they two gone in, as they had intended, the girl might have seen her mother's coffin as he had seen his father's, but under circumstances which made him shiver. He had been, as he said, often in the crypt at Carstone; and well he knew the sordidness of the chamber of death. His imagination was alive as well as his memory; he shuddered, not for himself, but for Stephen. How could he allow the girl to suffer in such a way as she might, as she infallibly would, if it were made apparent to her in such a brutal way? How pitiful, how meanly pitiful, is the aftermath of death. Well he remembered how many a night he woke in an agony, thinking of how his father lay in that cold, silent, dust-strewn vault, in the silence and the dark, with never a ray of light or hope or love! Gone, abandoned, forgotten by all, save perhaps one heart which bled … He would save little Stephen, if he could, from such a memory. He would not give any reason for refusing to go in.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

He blew out the candle, and turned the key in the lock, took it out, and put it in his pocket.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Come, Stephen!' he said, 'let us go somewhere else. We will not go into the crypt to-day!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Why not?' The lips that spoke were pouted mutinously and the face was flushed. The imperious little lady was not at all satisfied to give up the cherished project. For a whole day and night she had, whilst waking, thought of the coming adventure; the thrill of it was not now to be turned to cold disappointment without even an explanation. She did not think that Harold was afraid; that would be ridiculous. But she wondered; and mysteries always annoyed her. She did not like to be at fault, more especially when other people knew. All the pride in her revolted.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Why not?' she repeated more imperiously still.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Harold said kindly:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Because, Stephen, there is really a good reason. Don't ask me, for I can't tell you. You must take it from me that I am right. You know, dear, that I wouldn't willingly disappoint you; and I know that you had set your heart on this. But indeed, indeed I have a good reason.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen was really angry now. She was amenable to reason, though she did not consciously know what reason was; but to accept some one else's reason blindfold was repugnant to her nature, even at her then age. She was about to speak angrily, but looking up she saw that Harold's mouth was set with marble firmness. So, after her manner, she acquiesced in the inevitable and said:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'All right! Harold.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

But in the inner recesses of her firm-set mind was a distinct intention to visit the vault when more favourable circumstances would permit.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Chapter 5 The Crypt

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

It was some weeks before Stephen got the chance she wanted. She knew it would be difficult to evade Harold's observation, for the big boy's acuteness as to facts had impressed itself on her. It was strange that out of her very trust in Harold came a form of distrust in others. In the little matter of evading him she inclined to any one in whom there was his opposite, in whose reliability she instinctively mistrusted. 'There is nothing bad or good but thinking makes it so!' To enter that crypt, which had seemed so small a matter at first, had now in process of thinking and wishing and scheming become a thing to be much desired. Harold saw, or rather felt, that something was in the girl's mind, and took for granted that it had something to do with the crypt. But he thought it better not to say anything lest he should keep awake a desire which he hoped would die naturally.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

One day it was arranged that Harold should go over to Carstone to see the solicitor who had wound up his father's business. He was to stay the night and ride back next day. Stephen, on hearing of the arrangement, so contrived matters that Master Everard, the son of a banker who had recently purchased an estate in the neighbourhood, was asked to come to play with her on the day when Harold left. It was holiday time at Eton, and he was at home. Stephen did not mention to Harold the fact of his coming; it was only from a chance allusion of Mrs. Jarrold before he went that he inferred it. He did not think the matter of sufficient importance to wonder why Stephen, who generally told him everything, had not mentioned this.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

During their play, Stephen, after pledging him to secrecy, told Leonard of her intention of visiting the crypt, and asked him to help her in it. This was an adventure, and as such commended itself to the schoolboy heart. He entered at once into the scheme con amore; and the two discussed ways and means. Leonard's only regret was that he was associated with a little girl in such a project. It was something of a blow to his personal vanity, which was a large item in his moral equipment, that such a project should have been initiated by the girl and not by himself. He was to get possession of the key and in the forenoon of the next day he was to be waiting in the churchyard, when Stephen would join him as soon as she could evade her nurse. She was now more than eleven, and had less need of being watched than in her earlier years. It was possible, with strategy, to get away undiscovered for an hour.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

At Carstone Harold got though what he had to do that same afternoon and arranged to start early in the morning for Normanstand. After an early breakfast he set out on his thirty-mile journey at eight o'clock. Littlejohn, his horse, was in excellent form, notwithstanding his long journey of the day before, and with his nose pointed for home, put his best foot foremost. Harold felt in great spirits. The long ride the day before had braced him physically, though there were on his journey times of great sadness when the thought of his father came back to him and the sense of loss was renewed with each thought of his old home. But youth is naturally buoyant. His visit to the church, the first thing on his arrival at Carstone, and his kneeling before the stone made sacred to his father's memory, though it entailed a silent gush of tears, did him good, and even seemed to place his sorrow farther away. When he came again in the morning before leaving Carstone there were no tears. There was only a holy memory which seemed to sanctify loss; and his father seemed nearer to him than ever.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

As he drew near Normanstand he looked forward eagerly to seeing Stephen, and the sight of the old church lying far below him as he came down the steep road over Alt Hill, which was the short-cut from Norcester, set his mind working. His visit to the tomb of his own father made him think of the day when he kept Stephen from entering the crypt.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The keenest thought is not always conscious. It was without definite intention that when he came to the bridle-path Harold turned his horse's head and rode down to the churchyard. As he pushed open the door of the church he half expected to see Stephen; and there was a vague possibility that Leonard Everard might be with her.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The church was cool and dim. Coming from the hot glare the August sunshine it seemed, at the first glance, dark. He looked around, and a sense of relief came over him. The place was empty.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

But even as he stood, there came a sound which made his heart grow cold. A cry, muffled, far away and full of anguish; a sobbing cry, which suddenly ceased.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

It was the voice of Stephen. He instinctively knew where it came from; the crypt. Only for the experience he had had of her desire to enter the place, he would never have suspected that it was so close to him. He ran towards the corner where commenced the steps leading downward. As he reached the spot a figure came rushing up the steps. A boy in Eton jacket and wide collar, careless, pale, and agitated. It was Leonard Everard. Harold seized him as he came.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Where is Stephen?' he cried in a quick, low voice.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'In the vault below there. She dropped her light and then took mine, and she dropped it too. Let me go! Let me go!' He struggled to get away; but Harold held him tight.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Where are the matches?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'In my pocket. Let me go! Let me go!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Give me them—this instant!' He was examining the frightened boy's waistcoat pockets as he spoke. When he had got the matches he let the boy go, and ran down the steps and through the open door into the crypt, calling out as he came:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Stephen! Stephen dear, where are you? It is I—Harold!' There was no response; his heart seemed to grow cold and his knees to weaken. The match spluttered and flashed, and in the momentary glare he saw across the vault, which was not a large place, a white mass on the ground. He had to go carefully, lest the match should be blown out by the wind of his passage; but on coming close he saw that it was Stephen lying senseless in front of a great coffin which rested on a built-out pile of masonry. Then the match went out. In the flare of the next one he lit he saw a piece of candle lying on top of the coffin. He seized and lit it. He was able to think coolly despite his agitation, and knew that light was the first necessity. The bruised wick was slow to catch; he had to light another match, his last one, before it flamed. The couple of seconds that the light went down till the grease melted and the flame leaped again seemed of considerable length. When the lit candle was placed steadily on top of the coffin, and a light, dim, though strong enough to see with, spread around, he stooped and lifted Stephen in his arms. She was quite senseless, and so limp that a great fear came upon him that she might be dead. He did not waste time, but carried her across the vault where the door to the church steps stood out sharp against the darkness, and bore her up into the church. Holding her in one arm, with the other hand he dragged some long cushions from one of the pews and spread them on the floor; on these he laid her. His heart was smitten with love and pity as he looked. She was so helpless; so pitifully helpless! Her arms and legs were doubled up as though broken, disjointed; the white frock was smeared with patches of thick dust. Instinctively he stooped and pulled the frock down and straightened out the arms and feet. He knelt beside her, and felt if her heart was still beating, a great fear over him, a sick apprehension. A gush of thankful prayer came from his heart. Thank God! she was alive; he could feel her heart beat, though faintly underneath his hand. He started to his feet and ran towards the door, seizing his hat, which lay on a seat. He wanted it to bring back some water. As he passed out of the door he saw Leonard a little distance off, but took no notice of him. He ran to the stream, filled his hat with water, and brought it back. When he came into the church he saw Stephen, already partially restored, sitting up on the cushions with Leonard supporting her.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

He was rejoiced; but somehow disappointed. He would rather Leonard had not been there. He remembered—he could not forget—the white face of the boy who fled out of the crypt leaving Stephen in a faint within, and who had lingered outside the church door whilst he ran for water. Harold came forward quickly and raised Stephen, intending to bring her into the fresh air. He had a shrewd idea that the sight of the sky and God's greenery would be the best medicine for her after her fright. He lifted her in his strong arms as he used to do when she was a very little child and had got tired in their walks together; and carried her to the door. She lent herself unconsciously to the movement, holding fast with her arm round his neck as she used to do. In her clinging was the expression of her trust in him. The little sigh with which she laid her head on his shoulder was the tribute to his masculine power, and her belief in it. Every instant her senses were coming back to her more and more. The veil of oblivion was passing from her half-closed eyes, as the tide of full remembrance swept in upon her. Her inner nature was expressed in the sequence of her emotions. Her first feeling was one of her own fault. The sight of Harold and his proximity recalled to her vividly how he had refused to go into the crypt, and how she had intentionally deceived him, negatively, as to her intention of doing that of which he disapproved. Her second feeling was one of justice; and was perhaps partially evoked by the sight of Leonard, who followed close as Harold brought her to the door. She did not wish to speak of herself or Harold before him; but she did not hesitate to speak of him to Harold:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'You must not blame Leonard. It was all my fault. I made him come!' Her generosity appealed to Harold. He was angry with the boy for being there at all; but more for his desertion of the girl in her trouble.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I'm not blaming him for being with you!' he said simply. Leonard spoke at once. He had been waiting to defend himself, for that was what first concerned that young gentleman; next to his pleasure, his safety most appealed to him.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I went to get help. You had let the candle drop; and how could I see in the dark? You would insist on looking at the plate on the coffin!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

A low moan broke from Stephen, a long, low, trembling moan which went to Harold's heart. Her head drooped over again on his shoulder; and she clung close to him as the memory of her shock came back to her. Harold spoke to Leonard over his shoulder in a low, fierce whisper, which Stephen did not seem to hear:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'There! that will do. Go away! You have done enough already. Go! Go!' he added more sternly, as the boy seemed disposed to argue. Leonard ran a few steps, then walked to the lich-gate, where he waited.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen clung close to Harold in a state of agitation which was almost hysterical. She buried her face in his shoulder, sobbing brokenly:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Oh, Harold! It was too awful. I never thought, never for a moment, that my poor dear mother was buried in the crypt. And when I went to look at the name on the coffin that was nearest to where I was, I knocked away the dust, and then I saw her name: "Margaret Norman, aetat 22." I couldn't bear it. She was only a girl herself, only just twice my age—lying there in that terrible dark place with all the thick dust and the spiders' webs. Oh, Harold, Harold! How shall I ever bear to think of her lying there, and that I shall never see her dear face? Never! Never!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

He tried to soothe her by patting and holding her hands. For a good while the resolution of the girl faltered, and she was but as a little child. Then her habitual strength of mind asserted itself. She did not ask Harold how she came to be out in the church instead of in the crypt when she recovered her senses. She seemed to take it for granted that Leonard had carried her out; and when she said how brave it had been of him, Harold, with his customary generosity, allowed her to preserve the belief. When they had made their way to the gate Leonard came up to them; but before he could speak Stephen had begun to thank him. He allowed her to do so, though the sight of Harold's mouth set in scorn, and his commanding eyes firmly fixed on him, made him grow hot and cold alternately. He withdrew without speaking; and took his way home with a heart full of bitterness and revengeful feelings.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

In the park Stephen tried to dust herself, and then Harold tried to assist her. But her white dress was incurably soiled, the fine dust of the vault seemed to have got ingrained in the muslin. When she got to the house she stole upstairs, so that no one might notice her till she had made herself tidy.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The next day but one she took Harold for a walk in the afternoon. When they were quite alone and out of earshot she said:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I have been thinking all night about poor mother. Of course I know she cannot be moved from the crypt. She must remain there. But there needn't be all that dust. I want you to come there with me some time soon. I fear I am afraid to go alone. I want to bring some flowers and to tidy up the place. Won't you come with me this time? I know now, Harold, why you didn't let me go in before. But now it is different. This is not curiosity. It is Duty and Love. Won't you come with me, Harold?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Harold leaped from the edge of the ha-ha where he had been sitting and held up his hand. She took it and leaped down lightly beside him.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Come,' he said, 'let us go there now!' She took his arm when they got on the path again, and clinging to him in her pretty girlish way they went together to the piece of garden which she called her own; there they picked a great bunch of beautiful white flowers. Then they walked to the old church. The door was open and they passed in. Harold took from his pocket a tiny key. This surprised her, and heightened the agitation which she naturally suffered from revisiting the place. She said nothing whilst he opened the door to the crypt. Within, on a bracket, stood some candles in glass shades and boxes of matches. Harold lit three candles, and leaving one of them on the shelf, and placing his cap beside it, took the other two in his hands. Stephen, holding her flowers tightly to her breast with her right hand, took Harold's arm with the left, and with beating heart entered the crypt.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

For several minutes Harold kept her engaged, telling her about the crypt in his father's church, and how he went down at his last visit to see the coffin of his dear father, and how he knelt before it. Stephen was much moved, and held tight to his arm, her heart beating. But in the time she was getting accustomed to the place. Her eyes, useless at first on coming out of the bright sunlight, and not able to distinguish anything, began to take in the shape of the place and to see the rows of great coffins that stood out along the far wall. She also saw with surprise that the newest coffin, on which for several reasons her eyes rested, was no longer dusty but was scrupulously clean. Following with her eyes as well as she could see into the further corners she saw that there the same reform had been effected. Even the walls and ceiling had been swept of the hanging cobwebs, and the floor was clean with the cleanliness of ablution. Still holding Harold's arm, she moved over towards her mother's coffin and knelt before it. Harold knelt with her; for a little while she remained still and silent, praying inwardly. Then she rose, and taking her great bunch of flowers placed them lovingly on the lid of the coffin above where she thought her mother's heart would be. Then she turned to Harold, her eyes flowing and her cheeks wet with tears, and laid her head against his breast. Her arms could not go round his neck till he had bent his head, for with his great height he simply towered above her. Presently she was quiet; the paroxysm of her grief had passed. She took Harold's hand in both hers, and together they went to the door. With his disengaged hand, for he would not have disturbed the other for worlds, Harold put out the lights and locked the door behind them.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

In the church she held him away from her, and looked him fairly in the face. She said slowly:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Harold, was it you who had the crypt cleaned?' He answered in a low voice:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I knew you would want to go again!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

She took the great hand which she held between hers, and before he knew what she was doing and could prevent her, raised it to her lips and kissed it, saying lovingly:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Oh, Harold! No brother in all the wide world could be kinder. And- -and—' this with a sob, 'we both thank you; mother and I!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Chapter 6 A Visit to Oxford

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The next important move in the household was Harold's going to Cambridge. His father had always intended this, and Squire Norman had borne his wishes in mind. Harold joined Trinity, the college which had been his father's, and took up his residence in due course.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen was now nearly twelve. Her range of friendships, naturally limited by her circumstances in life, was enlarged to the full; and if she had not many close friends there were at least of them all that was numerically possible. She still kept up to certain degree the little gatherings which in her childhood were got together for her amusement, and in the various games then instituted she still took a part. She never lost sight of the fact that her father took a certain pleasure in her bodily vigour. And though with her growing years and the conscious acceptance of her womanhood, she lost sight of the old childish fancy of being a boy instead of a girl, she could not lose sight of the fact that strength and alertness are sources of feminine as well as of masculine power.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Amongst the young friends who came from time to time during his holidays was Leonard Everard, now a tall, handsome boy. He was one of those boys who develop young, and who seem never to have any of that gawky stage so noticeable in the youth of men made in a large pattern. He was always well-poised, trim-set, alert; fleet of foot, and springy all over. In games he was facile princeps, seeming to make his effort always in the right way and without exertion, as if by an instinct of physical masterdom. His universal success in such matters helped to give him an easy debonair manner which was in itself winning. So physically complete a youth has always a charm. In its very presence there is a sort of sympathetic expression, such as comes with the sunshine.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen always in Leonard's presence showed something of the common attitude. His youth and beauty and sex all had their influence on her. The influence of sex, as it is understood with regard to a later period of life, did not in her case exist; Cupid's darts are barbed and winged for more adult victims. But in her case Leonard's masculine superiority, emphasised by the few years between their age, his sublime self-belief, and, above all, his absolute disregard for herself or her wishes or her feelings, put him on a level at which she had to look up to him. The first step in the ladder of pre- eminence had been achieved when she realised that he was not on her level; the second when she experienced rather than thought that he had more influence on her than she had on him. Here again was a little morsel of hero worship, which, though based on a misconception of fact, was still of influence. In that episode of the crypt she had always believed that it was Leonard who had carried her out and laid her on the church floor in light and safety. He had been strong enough and resolute enough to do this, whilst she had fainted! Harold's generous forbearance had really worked to a false end.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

It was not strange, therefore, that she found occasional companionship with the handsome, wilful, domineering boy somewhat of luxury. She did not see him often enough to get tired of him; to find out the weakness of his character; to realise his deep-seated, remorseless selfishness. But after all he was only an episode in a young life which was full of interests. Term after term came and went; the holidays had their seasonable pleasures, occasionally shared in common. That was all.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Harold's attitude was the same as ever. He was of a constant nature; and now that manhood was within hail the love of his boyhood was ripening to a man's love. That was all. He was with regard to Stephen the same devoted, worshipping protector, without thought of self; without hope of reward. Whatever Stephen wished Harold did; and Stephen, knowing their old wishes and their old pleasures, was content with their renewal. Each holiday between the terms became mainly a repetition of the days of the old life. They lived in the past.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Amongst the things that did not change was Stephen's riding dress. The scarlet habit had never been a thing for everyday wear, but had from the first been kept for special occasions. Stephen herself knew that it was not a conventional costume; but she rather preferred it, if on that account alone. In a certain way she felt justified in using it; for a red habit was a sort of tradition in the family.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

It was on one of these occasions that she had gone with Harold into the churchyard where they had heard the discussion regarding God and the Angels.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When Stephen was about sixteen she went for a short visit to Oxford. She stayed at Somerville with Mrs. Egerton, an old friend of her mother's, who was a professor at the college. She sent back her maid who had travelled with her, as she knew that the college girls did not have servants of their own. The visit was prolonged by mutual consent into a duration of some weeks. Stephen fell in love with the place and the life, and had serious thoughts of joining the college herself. Indeed she had made up her mind to ask her father to allow her, knowing well that he would consent to that or to any other wholesome wish of hers. But then came the thought that he would be all alone at home; and following that came another thought, and one of more poignant feeling. He was alone now! Already, for many days, she had left him, for the first time in her life! Stephen was quick to act; well she knew that at home there would be no fault found with her for a speedy return. Within a few hours she had brought her visit to an end, and was by herself, despite Mrs. Egerton's protest, in the train on the way back to Norcester.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

In the train she began to review, for the first time, her visit to the university. All had been so strange and new and delightful to her that she had never stopped for retrospect. Life in the new and enchanting place had been in the moving present. The mind had been receptive only, gathering data for later thought. During her visit she had had no one to direct her thought, and so it had been all personal, with the freedom of individuality at large. Of course her mother's friend, skilled in the mind-workings of average girls, and able to pick her way through intellectual and moral quagmires, had taken good care to point out to her certain intellectual movements and certain moral lessons; just as she had in their various walks and drives pointed out matters of interest—architectural beauties and spots of historic import. And she had taken in, loyally accepted, and thoroughly assimilated all that she had been told. But there were other lessons which were for her young eyes; facts which the older eyes had ceased to notice, if they had ever noticed them at all. The self-content, the sex-content in the endless tide of young men that thronged the streets and quads and parks; the all-sufficing nature of sport or study, to whichever their inclinations tended. The small part which womankind seemed to have in their lives. Stephen had had, as we know, a peculiar training; whatever her instincts were, her habits were largely boy habits. Here she was amongst boys, a glorious tide of them; it made now and again her heart beat to look at them. And yet amongst them all she was only an outsider. She could not do anything better than any of them. Of course, each time she went out, she became conscious of admiring glances; she could not be woman without such consciousness. But it was as a girl that men looked at her, not as an equal. As well as personal experience and the lessons of eyes and ears and intelligence, there were other things to classify and adjust; things which were entirely from the outside of her own life. The fragments of common-room gossip, which it had been her fortune to hear accidentally now and again. The half confidences of scandals, borne on whispered breaths. The whole confidences of dormitory and study which she had been privileged to share. All were parts of the new and strange world, the great world which had swum into her ken.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

As she sat now in the train, with some formulation of memory already accomplished in the two hours of solitude, her first comment, spoken half audibly, would have surprised her teachers as much as it would have surprised herself, if she had been conscious of it; for as yet her thinking was not self-conscious:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Surely, I am not like that!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

It was of the women she had been thinking, not of the men. The glimpse which she had had of her own sex had been an awakening to her; and the awakening had not been to a pleasant world. All at once she seemed to realise that her sex had defects—littlenesses, meannesses, cowardices, falsenesses. That their occupations were apt to be trivial or narrow or selfish; that their desires were earthly, and their tastes coarse; that what she held to be goodness was apt to be realised only as fear. That innocence was but ignorance, or at least baffled curiosity. That …

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

A flood of shame swept over her, and instinctively she put her hands before her burning face. As usual, she was running all at once into extremes.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

And above all these was borne upon her, and for the first time in her life, that she was herself a woman!

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

For a long time she sat quite still. The train thrilled and roared on its way. Crowded stations took and gave their quantum of living freight; but the young girl sat abstracted, unmoved, seemingly unconscious. All the dominance and energy of her nature were at work.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

If, indeed, she was a woman, and had to abide by the exigencies of her own sex, she would at least not be ruled and limited by woman's weakness. She would plan and act and manage things for herself, in her own way.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Whatever her thoughts might be, she could at least control her acts. And those acts should be based not on woman's weakness, but on man's strength!

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Chapter 7 The Need of knowing

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When Stephen announced her intention of going with her father to the Petty Sessions Court, there was consternation amongst the female population of Normanstand and Norwood. Such a thing had not been heard of in the experiences of any of them. Courts of Justice were places for men; and the lower courts dealt with a class of cases … It was quite impossible to imagine where any young lady could get such an idea …

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Miss Laetitia Rowly recognised that she had a difficult task before her, for she was by now accustomed to Stephen's quiet method of having her own way.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

She made a careful toilet before driving over to Normanstand. Her wearing her best bonnet was a circumstance not unattended with dread for some one. Behold her then, sailing into the great drawing-room at Normanstand with her mind so firmly fixed on the task before her as to be oblivious of minor considerations. She was so fond of Stephen, and admired so truly her many beauties and fine qualities, that she was secure and without flaw in her purpose. Stephen was in danger, and though she doubted if she would be able to effect any change, she was determined that at least she should not go into danger with her eyes unopened.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen entered hastily and ran to her. She loved her great-aunt; really and truly loved her. And indeed it would have been strange if she had not, for from the earliest hour which she could recollect she had received from her nothing but the truest, fondest affection. Moreover she deeply respected the old lady, her truth, her resolution, her kindliness, her genuine common-sense ability. Stephen always felt safe with her aunt. In the presence of others she might now and again have a qualm or a doubt; but not with her. There was an abiding calm in her love, answering love realised and respected. Her long and intimate knowledge of Laetitia made her aware of her moods. She could read the signs of them. She knew well the meaning of the bonnet which actually seemed to quiver as though it had a sentience of its own. She knew well the cause of her aunt's perturbation; the pain which must be caused to her was perhaps the point of most resistance in herself—she having made up her mind to her new experience. All she could do would be to try to reconcile her by the assurance of good intention; by reason, and by sweetness of manner. When she had kissed her and sat beside her, holding her hand after her pretty way, she, seeing the elder woman somewhat at a loss, opened the subject herself:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'You look troubled, auntie! I hope it is nothing serious?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'It is, my dear! Very serious! Everything is serious to me which touches you.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Me, Auntie!' Hypocrisy is a fine art.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Yes! yes, Stephen. Oh! my dear child, what is this I hear about your going to Petty Sessions with your father?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Oh, that! Why, Auntie dear, you must not let that trouble you. It is all right. That is necessary!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Necessary!' the old lady's figure grew rigid and her voice was loud and high. 'Necessary for a young lady to go to a court house. To hear low people speaking of low crimes. To listen to cases of the most shocking kind; cases of low immorality; cases of a kind, of a nature of a—a—class that you are not supposed to know anything about. Really, Stephen! … ' She was drawing away her hand in indignation. But Stephen held it tight, as she said very sweetly:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'That is just it, Auntie. I am so ignorant that I feel I should know more of the lives of those very people!' Miss Laetitia interrupted:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Ignorant! Of course you are ignorant. That is what you ought to be. Isn't it what we have all been devoting ourselves to effect ever since you were born? Read your third chapter of Genesis and remember what came of eating of the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I think the Tree of Knowledge must have been an orange tree.' The old lady looked up, her interest aroused:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Why?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Because ever since Eden other brides have worn its blossom!' Her tone was demure. Miss Rowly looked sharply at her, but her sharpness softened off into a smile.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'H'm!' she said, and was silent. Stephen seized the opportunity to put her own case:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Auntie dear, you must forgive me! You really must, for my heart is set on this. I assure you I am not doing it merely to please myself. I have thought over the whole matter. Father has always wished me to be in a position—a position of knowledge and experience—to manage Normanstand if I should ever succeed him. From the earliest time I can remember he has always kept this before me, and though of course I did not at first understand what it meant, I have seemed in the last few years to know better. Accordingly I learned all sorts of things under his care, and sometimes even without his help. I have studied the estate map, and I have been over the estate books and read some of the leases and all such matters which they deal with in the estate office. This only told me the bones of the thing. I wanted to know more of our people; and so I made a point of going now and again to each house that we own. Of seeing the people and talking with them familiarly; as familiarly as they would let me, and indeed so far as was possible considering my position. For, Auntie dear, I soon began to learn—to learn in a way there was no mistaking—what my position is. And so I want to get to know more of their ordinary lives; the darker as well as the lighter side. I would like to do them good. I can see how my dear daddy has always been a sort of power to help them, and I would like to carry on his work; to carry it further if I may. But I must know.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Her aunt had been listening with growing interest, and with growing respect too, for she realised the intense earnestness which lay behind the girl's words and her immediate purpose. Her voice and manner were both softened:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'But, my dear, surely it is not necessary to go into the Court to know these things. The results of each case become known.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'That is just it, Auntie,' she answered quickly. 'The magistrates have to hear the two sides of the case before even they can make up their minds. I want to hear both sides, too! If people are guilty, I want to know the cause of their guilt. If they are innocent, I want to know what the circumstances can be which make innocence look like guilt. In my own daily life I may be in the way of just such judgments; and surely it is only right that judgment should be just!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Again she paused; there rose before her mind that conversation in the churchyard when Harold had said that it was difficult for women to be just.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Miss Rowly reflected too. She was becoming convinced that in principle the girl was right. But the details were repugnant as ever to her; concentrating her mind on the point where she felt the ground firm under her, she made her objection:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'But, Stephen dear, there are so many cases that are sordid and painful!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'The more need to know of sordid things; if sordidness plays so important a part in the tragedy of their lives!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'But there are cases which are not within a woman's province. Cases that touch sin … '

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'What kind of sin do you mean? Surely all wrong-doing is sin!' The old lady was embarrassed. Not by the fact, for she had been for too many years the mistress of a great household not to know something of the subject on which she spoke, but that she had to speak of such a matter to the young girl whom she so loved.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'The sin, my dear, of … of woman's wrong-doing … as woman … of motherhood, without marriage!' All Stephen's nature seemed to rise in revolt.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Why, Auntie,' she spoke out at once, 'you yourself show the want of the very experience I look for!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'How? what?' asked the old lady amazed and bristling. Stephen took her hand and held it affectionately as she spoke:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'You speak of a woman's wrong-doing, when surely it is a man's as well. There does not seem to be blame for him who is the more guilty. Only for poor women! … And, Auntie dear, it is such poor women that I should like to help … Not when it is too late, but before! But how can I help unless I know? Good girls cannot tell me, and good women won't! You yourself, Auntie, didn't want to speak on the subject; even to me!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'But, my dear child, these are not things for unmarried women. I never speak of them myself except with matrons.' Stephen's answer flashed out like a sword; and cut like one:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'And yet you are unmarried! Oh, Auntie dear, I did not and I do not mean to be offensive, or to hurt you in any way. I know, dear, your goodness and your kindness to all. But you limit yourself to one side!' The elder lady interrupted:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'How do you mean? one side! which side?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'The punishment side. I want to know the cause of that which brings the punishment. There surely is some cross road in a girl's life where the ways part. I want to stand there if I can, with warning in one hand and help in the other. Oh! Auntie, Auntie, can't you see that my heart is in this … These are our people; Daddy says they are to be my people; and I want to know their lives right through; to understand their wants, and their temptations, and their weakness. Bad and good, whatever it be, I must know it all; or I shall be working in the dark, and may injure or crush where I had looked to help and raise.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

As she spoke she looked glorified. The afternoon autumn sun shone full through the great window and lighted her up till she looked like a spirit. Lighted her white diaphanous dress till it seemed to take shape as an ethereal robe; lighted her red hair till it looked like a celestial crown; lighted her great dark eyes till their black beauty became swept in the tide of glory.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The heart of the old woman who loved her best heaved, and her bosom swelled with pride. Instinctively she spoke:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Oh, you noble, beautiful creature! Of course you are right, and your way is God's way!' With tears that rained down her furrowed cheeks, she put her arms round the girl and kissed her fondly. Still holding her in her arms she gave her the gentle counsel which was the aftermath of her moment of inspiration.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'But Stephen dear, do be careful! Knowledge is a two-edged sword, and it is apt to side with pride. Remember what was the last temptation of the serpent to Eve: "Your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil."'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I shall be very careful,' she said gravely; and then added as if by an afterthought, 'of course you understand that my motive is the acquisition of knowledge?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Yes?' the answer was given interrogatively.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Don't you think, dear, that Eve's object was not so much the acquisition of knowledge as the gratification of curiosity.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'That may be,' said the elder lady in a doubtful tone; 'but my dear, who is to enlighten us as to which is which? We are apt in such matters to deceive ourselves. The more we know, the better are we able to deceive others; and the better we are able to deceive others the better we are able to deceive ourselves. As I tell you, dear, knowledge is two-edged and needs extra carefulness in its use!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'True!' said Stephen reflectively. Long after her aunt had gone she sat thinking.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Once again did Miss Rowly try to restrain Stephen from a project. This was when a little later she wished to go for a few days to the University Mission House in the East end of London. Ever since her visit to Oxford she had kept up a correspondence with her mother's old friend. It was this lady's habit to spend a part of vacation in the Mission; and Stephen had had much correspondence with her regarding the work. At last she wrote that if she might, she would like to come and see for herself. The answer was a cordial invitation, armed with which she asked her father to allow her to go. He at once assented. He had been watching keenly the development of her character, and had seen with pride and satisfaction that as time went on she seemed to acquire greater resolution, larger self- dependence. She was becoming more and more of his ideal. Without losing any of her womanhood, she was beginning to look at things more from a man's point of view than is usually done by, or possible to, women.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When she returned at the end of a week she was full of new gravity. After a while this so far changed that her old lighter moods began to have their place, but it seemed that she never lost, and that she never would lose, the effect of that week of bitter experience amongst the 'submerged tenth.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The effect of the mental working was shown by a remark made by Harold when home on his next college vacation. He had been entering with her on a discussion of an episode on the estate:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Stephen, you are learning to be just!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

At the moment she was chagrined by the remark, though she accepted it in silence; but later, when she had thought the matter over, she took from it infinite pleasure. This was indeed to share man's ideas and to think with the workings of man's mind. It encouraged her to further and larger ideas, and to a greater toleration than she had hitherto dreamed of.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Of all those who loved her, none seemed to understand so fully as Laetitia Rowly the change in her mental attitude, or rather the development of it. Now and again she tried to deflect or modify certain coming forces, so that the educational process in which she had always had a part would continue in the right direction. But she generally found that the girl had been over the ground so thoroughly that she was able to defend her position. Once, when she had ventured to remonstrate with her regarding her attitude of woman's equality with man, she felt as if Stephen's barque was indeed entering on dangerous seas. The occasion had arisen thus: Stephen had been what her aunt had stigmatised as 'laying down the law' with regard to the position a married woman, and Miss Rowly, seeing a good argumentative opening, remarked:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'But what if a woman does not get the opportunity of being married?' Stephen looked at her a moment before saying with conviction:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'It is a woman's fault if she does not get the opportunity!' The old lady smiled as she answered:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Her fault? My dear, what if no man asks her?' This seemed to her own mind a poser.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Still her own fault! Why doesn't she ask him?' Her aunt's lorgnon was dropped in horrified amazement.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen went on impassively.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Certainly! Why shouldn't she? Marriage is a union. As it is in the eye of the law a civil contract, either party to it should be at liberty to originate the matter. If a woman is not free to think of a man in all ways, how is she to judge of the suitability of their union? And if she is free in theory, why not free to undertake if necessary the initiative in a matter so momentous to herself?' The old lady actually groaned and wrung her hands; she was horrified at such sentiments. They were daring enough to think; but to put them in words! …

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Oh, my dear, my dear!' she moaned, 'be careful what you say. Some one might hear you who would not understand, as I do, that you are talking theory.' Stephen's habit of thought stood to her here. She saw that her aunt was distressed, and as she did not wish to pain her unduly, was willing to divert the immediate channel of her fear. She took the hand which lay in her lap and held it firmly whilst she smiled in the loving old eyes.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Of course, Auntie dear, it is theory. But still it is a theory which I hold very strongly!' … Here a thought struck her and she said suddenly:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Did you ever … How many proposals did you have, Auntie?' The old lady smiled; her thoughts were already diverted.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Several, my dear! It is so long ago that I don't remember!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Oh yes, you do, Auntie! No woman ever forgets that, no matter what else she may or may not remember! Tell me, won't you?' The old lady blushed slightly as she answered:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'There is no need to specify, my dear. Let it be at this, that there were more than you could count on your right hand!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'And why did you refuse them?' The tone was wheedling, and the elder woman loved to hear it. Wheedling is the courtship, by the young of the old.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Because, my dear, I didn't love them.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'But tell me, Auntie, was there never any one that you did love?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Ah! my dear, that is a different matter. That is the real tragedy of a woman's life.' In flooding reminiscent thought she forgot her remonstrating; her voice became full of natural pathos:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'To love; and be helpless! To wait, and wait, and wait; with your heart all aflame! To hope, and hope; till time seems to have passed away, and all the world to stand still on your hopeless misery! To know that a word might open up Heaven; and yet to have to remain mute! To keep back the glances that could enlighten; to modulate the tones that might betray! To see all you hoped for passing away … to another! … '

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen bent over and kissed her, then standing up said:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I understand! Isn't it wrong, Auntie, that there should be such tragedies? Should not that glance be given? Why should that tone be checked? Why should one be mute when a single word might, would, avert the tragedy? Is it not possible, Auntie, that there is something wrong in our social system when such things can happen; and can happen so often?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

She looked remorseless as well as irresistible in the pride of her youthful strength as with eyes that blazed, not flashing as in passion but with a steady light that seemed to burn, she continued:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Some day women must learn their own strength, as well as they have learned their own weakness. They are taught this latter from their cradles up; but no one ever seems to teach them wherein their power lies. They have to learn this for themselves; and the process and the result of the self-teaching are not good. In the University Settlement I learned much that made my heart ache; but out of it there seemed some lesson for good.' She paused; and her aunt, wishing to keep the subject towards higher things, asked:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'And that lesson, Stephen dear?' The blazing eyes turned to her so that she was stirred by them as the answer came:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'It is bad women who seem to know men best, and to be able to influence them most. They can make men come and go at will. They can turn and twist and mould them as they choose. And THEY never hesitate to speak their own wishes; to ask for what they want. There are no tragedies, of the negative kind, in THEIR lives. Their tragedies have come and gone already; and their power remains. Why should good women leave power to such as they? Why should good women's lives be wrecked for a convention? Why in the blind following of some society fetish should life lose its charm, its possibilities? Why should love eat its heart out, in vain? The time will come when women will not be afraid to speak to men, as they should speak, as free and equal. Surely if a woman is to be the equal and lifelong companion of a man, the closest to him—nay, the only one really close to him: the mother of his children—she should be free at the very outset to show her inclination to him just as he would to her. Don't be frightened, Auntie dear; your eyes are paining me! … There! perhaps I said too much. But after all it is only theory. Take for your comfort, Auntie dear, that I am free an heart-whole. You need not fear for me; I can see what your dear eyes tell me. Yes! I am very young; perhaps too young to think such things. But I have thought of them. Thought them all over in every way and phase I can imagine.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

She stopped suddenly; bending over, she took the old lady in her arms and kissed her fondly several times, holding her tight. Then, as suddenly releasing her, she ran away before she could say a word.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Chapter 8 The T-cart

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When Harold took his degree, Stephen's father took her to Cambridge. She enjoyed the trip very much; indeed, it seemed under conditions that were absolutely happy.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When they had returned to Normanstand, the Squire took an early opportunity of bringing Harold alone into his study. He spoke to him with what in a very young man would have seemed diffidence:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I have been thinking, Harold, that the time has come when you should be altogether your own master. I am more than pleased, my boy, with the way you have gone through college; it is, I am sure, just as your dear father would have wished it, and as it would have pleased him best.' He paused, and Harold said in a low voice:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I tried hard, sir, to do what I thought he would like; and what you would.' The Squire went on more cheerfully:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I know that, my boy! I know that well. And I can tell you that it is not the least of the pleasures we have all had in your success, how you have justified yourself. You have won many honours in the schools, and you have kept the reputation as an athlete which your father was so proud of. Well, I suppose in the natural order of things you would go into a profession; and of course if you so desire you can do that. But if you can see your way to it I would rather that you stayed here. My house is your home as long as I live; but I don't wish you to feel in any way dependent. I want you to stay here if you will; but to do it just because you wish to. To this end I have made over to you the estate at Camp which was my father's gift to me when I came of age. It is not a very large one; but it will give you a nice position of your own, and a comfortable income. And with it goes my blessing, my dear boy. Take it as a gift from your father and myself!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Harold was much moved, not only by the act itself but by the gracious way of doing it. There were tears in his eyes as he wrung the Squire's hand; his voice thrilled with feeling as he said:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Your many goodnesses to my father's son, sir, will, I hope, be justified by his love and loyalty. If I don't say much it is because I do not feel quite master of myself. I shall try to show in time, as I cannot say it all at once, all that I feel.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Harold continued to live at Normanstand. The house at Camp was in reality a charming cottage. A couple of servants were installed, and now and again he stayed there for a few days as he wished to get accustomed to the place. In a couple of months every one accepted the order of things; and life at Normanstand went on much as it had done before Harold had gone to college. There was a man in the house now instead of a boy: that was all. Stephen too was beginning to be a young woman, but the relative positions were the same as they had been. Her growth did not seem to make an ostensible difference to any one. The one who might have noticed it most, Mrs. Jarrold, had died during the last year of Harold's life at college.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When the day came for the quarterly meeting of the magistrates of the county of Norcester, Squire Rowly arranged as usual to drive Squire Norman. This had been their habit for good many years. The two men usually liked to talk over the meeting as they returned home together. It was a beautiful morning for a drive, and when Rowly came flying up the avenue in his T-cart with three magnificent bays, Stephen ran out on the top of the steps to see him draw up. Rowly was a fine whip, and his horses felt it. Squire Norman was ready, and, after a kiss from Stephen, climbed into the high cart. The men raised their hats and waved good-bye. A word from Rowly; with a bound the horses were off. Stephen stood looking at them delighted; all was so sunny, so bright, so happy. The world was so full of life and happiness to-day that it seemed as if it would never end; that nothing except good could befall.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Harold, later on that morning, was to go into Norcester also; so Stephen with a lonely day before her set herself to take up loose- ends of all sorts of little personal matters. They would all meet at dinner as Rowly was to stop the night at Normanstand.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Harold left the club in good time to ride home to dinner. As he passed the County Hotel he stopped to ask if Squire Norman had left; and was told that he had started only a short time before with Squire Rowly in his T-cart. He rode on fast, thinking that perhaps he might overtake them and ride on with them. But the bays knew their work, and did it. They kept their start; it was only at the top of the North hill, five miles out of Norcester, that he saw them in the distance, flying along the level road. He knew he would not now overtake them, and so rode on somewhat more leisurely.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The Norcester highroad, when it has passed the village of Brackling, turns away to the right behind the great clump of oaks. From this the road twists to the left again, making a double curve, and then runs to Norling Parva in a clear stretch of some miles before reaching the sharp turn down the hill which is marked 'Dangerous to Cyclists.' From the latter village branches the by-road over the hill which is the short cut to Normanstand.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

When Harold turned the corner under the shadow of the oaks he saw a belated road-mender, surrounded by some gaping peasants, pointing excitedly in the distance. The man, who of course knew him, called to him to stop.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'What is it?' he asked, reining up.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'It be Squire Rowly's bays which have run away with him. Three on 'em, all in a row and comin' like the wind. Squire he had his reins all right, but they 'osses didn't seem to mind 'un. They was fair mad and bolted. The leader he had got frightened at the heap o' stones theer, an' the others took scare from him.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Without a word Harold shook his reins and touched the horse with his whip. The animal seemed to understand and sprang forward, covering the ground at a terrific pace. Harold was not given to alarms, but here might be serious danger. Three spirited horses in a light cart made for pace, all bolting in fright, might end any moment in calamity. Never in his life did he ride faster than on the road to Norling Parva. Far ahead of him he could see at the turn, now and again, a figure running. Something had happened. His heart grew cold: he knew as well as though he had seen it, the high cart swaying on one wheel round the corner as the maddened horses tore on their way; the one jerk too much, and the momentary reaction in the crash! …

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

With beating heart and eyes aflame in his white face he dashed on.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

It was all too true. By the side of the roadway on the inner curve lay the cart on its side with broken shafts. The horses were prancing and stamping about along the roadway not recovered from their fright. Each was held by several men.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

And on the grass two figures were still lying where they had been thrown out. Rowly, who had of course been on the off-side, had been thrown furthest. His head had struck the milestone that stood back on the waste ground before the ditch. There was no need for any one to tell that his neck had been broken. The way his head lay on one side, and the twisted, inert limbs, all told their story plainly enough.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Squire Norman lay on his back stretched out. Some one had raised him to a sitting posture and then lowered him again, straightening his limbs. He did not therefore look so dreadful as Rowly, but there were signs of coming death in the stertorous breathing, the ooze of blood from nostrils and ears as well as mouth. Harold knelt down by him at once and examined him. Those who were round all knew him and stood back. He felt the ribs and limbs; so far as he could ascertain by touch no bone was broken.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Just then the local doctor, for whom some one had run, arrived in his gig. He, too, knelt beside the injured man, a quick glance having satisfied him that there was only one patient requiring his care. Harold stood up and waited. The doctor looked up, shaking his head. Harold could hardly suppress the groan which was rising in his throat. He asked:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Is it immediate? Should his daughter be brought here?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'How long would it take her to arrive?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Perhaps half an hour; she would not lose an instant.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Then you had better send for her.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I shall go at once!' answered Harold, turning to jump on his horse, which was held on the road.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'No, no!' said the doctor, 'send some one else. You had better stay here yourself. He may become conscious just before the end; and he may want to say something!' It seemed to Harold that a great bell was sounding in his ears.—'Before the end! Good God! Poor Stephen!' … But this was no time for sorrow, or for thinking of it. That would come later. All that was possible must be done; and to do it required a cool head. He called to one of the lads he knew could ride and said to him:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Get on my horse and ride as fast as you can to Normanstand. Send at once to Miss Norman and tell her that she is wanted instantly. Tell her that there has been an accident; that her father is alive, but that she must come at once without a moment's delay. She had better ride my horse back as it will save time. She will understand from that the importance of time. Quick!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The lad sprang to the saddle, and was off in a flash. Whilst Harold was speaking, the doctor had told the men, who, accustomed to hunting accidents, had taken a gate from its hinges and held it in readiness, to bring it closer. Then under his direction the Squire was placed on the gate. The nearest house was only about a hundred yards away; and thither they bore him. He was lifted on a bed, and then the doctor made fuller examination. When he stood up he looked very grave and said to Harold:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I greatly fear she cannot arrive in time. That bleeding from the ears means rupture of the brain. It is relieving the pressure, however, and he may recover consciousness before he dies. You had better be close to him. There is at present nothing that can be done. If he becomes conscious at all it will be suddenly. He will relapse and probably die as quickly.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

All at once Norman opened his eyes, and seeing him said quietly, as he looked around:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'What place is this, Harold?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Martin's—James Martin's, sir. You were brought here after the accident.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Yes, I remember! Am I badly hurt? I can feel nothing!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I fear so, sir! I have sent for Stephen.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Sent for Stephen! Am I about to die?' His voice, though feeble, was grave and even.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Alas! sir, I fear so!' He sank on his knees as he spoke and took him, his second father, in his arms.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Is it close?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Yes.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Then listen to me! If I don't see Stephen, give her my love and blessing! Say that with my last breath I prayed God to keep her and make her happy! You will tell her this?'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I will! I will!' He could hardly speak for the emotion which was choking him. Then the voice went on, but slower and weaker:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'And Harold, my dear boy, you will look after her, will you not? Guard her and cherish her, as if you were indeed my son and she your sister!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I will. So help me God!' There was a pause of a few seconds which seemed an interminable time. Then in a feebler voice Squire Norman spoke again:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'And Harold—bend down—I must whisper! If it should be that in time you and Stephen should find that there is another affection between you, remember that I sanction it—with my dying breath. But give her time! I trust that to you! She is young, and the world is all before her. Let her choose … and be loyal to her if it is another! It may be a hard task, but I trust you, Harold. God bless you, my other son!' He rose slightly and listened. Harold's heart leaped. The swift hoof-strokes of a galloping horse were heard … The father spoke joyously:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'There she is! That is my brave girl! God grant that she may be in time. I know what it will mean to her hereafter!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The horse stopped suddenly.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

A quick patter of feet along the passage and then Stephen half dressed with a peignoir thrown over her, swept into the room. With the soft agility of a leopard she threw herself on her knees beside her father and put her arms round him. The dying man motioned to Harold to raise him. When this had been done he laid his hand tenderly on his daughter's head, saying:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'Let now, O Lord, Thy servant depart in peace! God bless and keep you, my dear child! You have been all your life a joy and a delight to me! I shall tell your mother when I meet her all that you have been to me! Harold, be good to her! Good-bye—Stephen! … Margaret! … '

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

His head fell over, and Harold, laying him gently down, knelt beside Stephen. He put his arm round her; and she, turning to him, laid her hand on his breast and sobbed as though her heart would break.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The bodies of the two squires were brought to Normanstand. Rowly had long ago said that if he died unmarried he would like to lie beside his half-sister, and that it was fitting that, as Stephen would be the new Squire of Norwood, her dust should in time lie by his. When the terrible news of her nephew's and of Norman's death came to Norwood, Miss Laetitia hurried off to Normanstand as fast as the horses could bring her.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Her coming was an inexpressible comfort to Stephen. After the first overwhelming burst of grief she had settled into an acute despair. Of course she had been helped by the fact that Harold had been with her, and she was grateful for that too. But it did not live in her memory of gratitude in the same way. Of course Harold was with her in trouble! He had always been; would always be.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

But the comfort which Aunt Laetitia could give was of a more positive kind.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

From that hour Miss Rowly stayed at Normanstand. Stephen wanted her; and she wanted to be with Stephen.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

After the funeral Harold, with an instinctive delicacy of feeling, had gone to live in his own house; but he came to Normanstand every day. Stephen had so long been accustomed to consulting him about everything that there was no perceptible change in their relations. Even necessary business to be done did not come as a new thing.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

And so things went on outwardly at Normanstand very much as they had done before the coming of the tragedy. But for a long time Stephen had occasional bursts of grief which to witness was positive anguish to those who loved her.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Then her duty towards her neighbours became a sort of passion. She did not spare herself by day or by night. With swift intuition she grasped the needs of any ill case which came before her, and with swift movement she took the remedy in hand.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Her aunt saw and approved. Stephen, she felt, was in this way truly fulfilling her duty as a woman. The old lady began to secretly hope, and almost to believe, that she had laid aside those theories whose carrying into action she so dreaded.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

But theories do not die so easily. It is from theory that practice takes its real strength, as well as its direction. And did the older woman whose life had been bound under more orderly restraint but know, Stephen was following out her theories, remorselessly and to the end.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Chapter 9 In the spring

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The months since her father's death spread into the second year before Stephen began to realise the loneliness of her life. She had no companion now but her aunt; and though the old lady adored her, and she returned her love in full, the mere years between them made impossible the companionship that youth craves. Miss Rowly's life was in the past. Stephen's was in the future. And loneliness is a feeling which comes unbidden to a heart.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen felt her loneliness all round. In old days Harold was always within hail, and companionship of equal age and understanding was available. But now his very reticence in her own interest, and by her father's wishes, made for her pain. Harold had put his strongest restraint on himself, and in his own way suffered a sort of silent martyrdom. He loved Stephen with every fibre of his being. Day by day he came toward her with eager step; day by day he left her with a pang that made his heart ache and seemed to turn the brightness of the day to gloom. Night by night he tossed for hours thinking, thinking, wondering if the time would ever come when her kisses would be his … But the tortures and terrors of the night had their effect on his days. It seemed as if the mere act of thinking, of longing, gave him ever renewed self-control, so that he was able in his bearing to carry out the task he had undertaken: to give Stephen time to choose a mate for herself. Herein lay his weakness—a weakness coming from his want of knowledge of the world of women. Had he ever had a love affair, be it never so mild a one, he would have known that love requires a positive expression. It is not sufficient to sigh, and wish, and hope, and long, all to oneself. Stephen felt instinctively that his guarded speech and manner were due to the coldness—or rather the trusting abated worship—of the brotherhood to which she had been always accustomed. At the time when new forces were manifesting and expanding themselves within her; when her growing instincts, cultivated by the senses and the passions of young nature, made her aware of other forces, new and old, expanding themselves outside her; at the time when the heart of a girl is eager for new impressions and new expansions, and the calls of sex are working within her all unconsciously, Harold, to whom her heart would probably have been the first to turn, made himself in his effort to best show his love, a quantite negligeable.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Thus Stephen, whilst feeling that the vague desires of budding womanhood were trembling within her, had neither thought nor knowledge of their character or their ultimate tendency. She would have been shocked, horrified, had that logical process, which she applied so freely to less personal matters, been used upon her own intimate nature. In her case logic would of course act within a certain range; and as logic is a conscious intellectual process, she became aware that her objective was man. Man—in the abstract. 'Man,' not 'a man.' Beyond that, she could not go. It is not too much to say that she did not ever, even in her most errant thought, apply her reasoning, or even dream of its following out either the duties, the responsibilities, or the consequences of having a husband. She had a vague longing for younger companionship, and of the kind naturally most interesting to her. There thought stopped.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

One only of her male acquaintances did not at this time appear. Leonard Everard, who had some time ago finished his course at college, was living partly in London and partly on the Continent. His very absence made him of added interest to his old play-fellow. The image of his grace and comeliness, of his dominance and masculine force, early impressed on her mind, began to compare favourably with the actualities of her other friends; those of them at least who were within the circle of her personal interest. 'Absence makes the heart grow fonder.' In Stephen's mind had been but a very mustard-seed of fondness. But new lights were breaking for her; and all of them, in greater or lesser degree, shone in turn on the memory of the pretty self-willed dominant boy, who now grew larger and more masculine in stature under the instance of each successive light. Stephen knew the others fairly well through and through. The usual mixture of good and evil, of strength and weakness, of purpose and vacillation, was quite within the scope of her own feeling and of her observation. But this man was something of a problem to her; and, as such, had a prominence in her thoughts quite beyond his own worthiness.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

In movement of some form is life; and even ideas grow when the pulses beat and thought quickens. Stephen had long had in her mind the idea of sexual equality. For a long time, in deference to her aunt's feelings, she had not spoken of it; for the old lady winced in general under any suggestion of a breach of convention. But though her outward expression being thus curbed had helped to suppress or minimise the opportunities of inward thought, the idea had never left her. Now, when sex was, consciously or unconsciously, a dominating factor in her thoughts, the dormant idea woke to new life. She had held that if men and women were equal the woman should have equal rights and opportunities as the man. It had been, she believed, an absurd conventional rule that such a thing as a proposal of marriage should be entirely the prerogative of man.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

And then came to her, as it ever does to woman, opportunity. Opportunity, the cruelest, most remorseless, most unsparing, subtlest foe that womanhood has. Here was an opportunity for her to test her own theory; to prove to herself, and others, that she was right. They—'they' being the impersonal opponents of, or unbelievers in, her theory—would see that a woman could propose as well as a man; and that the result would be good.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

It is a part of self-satisfaction, and perhaps not the least dangerous part of it, that it has an increasing or multiplying power of its own. The desire to do increases the power to do; and desire and power united find new ways for the exercise of strength. Up to now Stephen's inclination towards Leonard had been vague, nebulous; but now that theory showed a way to its utilisation it forthwith began to become, first definite, then concrete, then substantial. When once the idea had become a possibility, the mere passing of time did the rest.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Her aunt saw—and misunderstood. The lesson of her own youth had not been applied; not even of those long hours and days and weeks at which she hinted when she had spoken of the tragedy of life which by inference was her own tragedy: 'to love and to be helpless. To wait, and wait, and wait, with your heart all aflame!'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Stephen recognised her aunt's concern for her health in time to protect herself from the curiosity of her loving-kindness. Her youth and readiness and adaptability, and that power of play-acting which we all have within us and of which she had her share, stood to her. With but little effort, based on a seeming acquiescence in her aunt's views, she succeeded in convincing the old lady that her incipient feverish cold had already reached its crisis and was passing away. But she had gained certain knowledge in the playing of her little part. All this self-protective instinct was new; for good or ill she had advanced one more step in not only the knowledge but the power of duplicity which is so necessary in the conventional life of a woman.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Oh! did we but see! Could we but see! Here was a woman, dowered in her youth with all the goods and graces in the power of the gods to bestow, who fought against convention; and who yet found in convention the strongest as well as the readiest weapon of defence.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

For nearly two weeks Stephen's resolution was held motionless, neither advancing nor receding; it was veritably the slack water of her resolution. She was afraid to go on. Not afraid in sense of fear as it is usually understood, but with the opposition of virginal instincts; those instincts which are natural, but whose uses as well as whose powers are unknown to us.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Chapter 10 The Resolve

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The next few days saw Stephen abnormally restless. She had fairly well made up her mind to test her theory of equality of the sexes by asking Leonard Everard to marry her; but her difficulty was as to the doing it. She knew well that it would not do to depend on a chance meeting for an opportunity. After all, the matter was too serious to allow of the possibility of levity. There were times when she thought she would write to him and make her proffer of affection in this way; but on every occasion when such thought recurred it was forthwith instantly abandoned. During the last few days, however, she became more reconciled to even this method of procedure. The fever of growth was unabated. At last came an evening which she had all to herself. Miss Laetitia was going over to Norwood to look after matters there, and would remain the night. Stephen saw in her absence an opportunity for thought and action, and said that, having a headache, she would remain at home. Her aunt offered to postpone her visit. But she would not hear of it; and so she had the evening to herself.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

After dinner in her boudoir she set herself to the composition of a letter to Leonard which would convey at least something of her feelings and wishes towards him. In the depths of her heart, which now and again beat furiously, she had a secret hope that when once the idea was broached Leonard would do the rest. And as she thought of that 'rest' a languorous dreaminess came upon her. She thought how he would come to her full of love, of yearning passion; how she would try to keep towards him, at first, an independent front which would preserve her secret anxiety until the time should come when she might yield herself to his arms and tell him all. For hours she wrote letter after letter, destroying them as quickly as she wrote, as she found that she had but swayed pendulum fashion between overtness and coldness. Some of the letters were so chilly in tone that she felt they would defeat their own object. Others were so frankly warm in the expression of—regard she called it, that with burning blushes she destroyed them at once at the candle before her.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

At last she made up her mind. Just as she had done when a baby she realised that the opposing forces were too strong for her; she gave in gracefully. It would not do to deal directly in a letter with the matter in hand. She would write to Leonard merely asking him to see her. Then, when they were together without fear of interruption, she would tell him her views.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

She got as far as 'Dear Mr. Leonard,' when she stood up, saying to herself:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'I shall not be in a hurry. I must sleep on it before I write!' She took up the novel she had been reading in the afternoon, and read on at it steadily till her bedtime.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

That night she did not sleep. It was not that she was agitated. Indeed, she was more at ease than she had been for days; she had after much anxious thought made up her mind to a definite course of action. Therefore her sleeplessness was not painful. It was rather that she did not want to sleep, than that she could not. She lay still, thinking, thinking; dreaming such dreams as are the occasions of sanctified privacy to her age and sex.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

In the morning she was no worse for her vigil. When at luncheon-time Aunt Laetitia had returned she went into all the little matters of which she had to report. It was after tea-time when she found herself alone, and with leisure to attend to what was, she felt, directly her own affair. During the night she had made up her mind exactly what to say to Leonard; and as her specific resolution bore the test of daylight she was satisfied. The opening words had in their inception caused her some concern; but after hours of thought she had come to the conclusion that to address, under the circumstance, the recipient of the letter as 'Dear Mr. Everard' would hardly do. The only possible justification of her unconventional act was that there existed already a friendship, an intimacy of years, since childhood; that there were already between them knowledge and understanding of each other; that what she was doing, and about to do, was but a further step in a series of events long ago undertaken.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

She thought it better to send by post rather than messenger, as the latter did away with all privacy with regard to the act.

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

The letter was as follows:

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

'DEAR LEONARD,—Would it be convenient for you to meet me to-morrow, Tuesday, at half-past twelve o'clock on the top of Caester Hill? I want to speak about a matter that may have some interest to you, and it will be more private there than in the house. Also it will be cooler in the shade on the hilltop. -

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir

Yours sincerely, STEPHEN NORMAN.'

دنیای رمان مرجع رمان های ایرانی و خارجی. https://novelonline.ir