Anna would be the solitary bridesmaid.
The sunset clouds were fading behind the little fir wood when Elizabeth and Malcolm came out on the terrace.

Elizabeth had been a little grave and thoughtful during dinner, and Malcolm, who could read her perfectly, knew that she was somewhat oppressed by all the talk.

The still peacefulness of the evening, only broken by the sleepy twittering of the birds, seemed to calm and refresh her.
"Malcolm," she said presently, "did you hear what Mrs.Godfrey was telling me at dinner--that Mr.Rossiter is coming to the Manor House ?" "Yes, I heard her," was the reply.

"The Colonel was talking to me this afternoon; he says it is a foregone conclusion that Leah Jacobi will not refuse him a third time.

His kindness and devotion after her brother's death have already won her gratitude.