CHAPTER 9.
Meanwhile Mr.Gilfil, who had a heavy weight on his mind, had watched for the moment when, the two elder ladies having driven out, Caterina would probably be alone in Lady Cheverel's sitting-room.

He went up and knocked at the door.
'Come in,' said the sweet mellow voice, always thrilling to him as the sound of rippling water to the thirsty.
He entered and found Caterina standing in some confusion as if she had been startled from a reverie.

She felt relieved when she saw it was Maynard, but, the next moment, felt a little pettish that he should have come to interrupt and frighten her.
'Oh, it is you, Maynard! Do you want Lady Cheverel ?' 'No, Caterina,' he answered gravely; 'I want you.

I have something very particular to say to you.

Will you let me sit down with you for half an hour ?' 'Yes, dear old preacher,' said Caterina, sitting down with an air of weariness; 'what is it ?' Mr.Gilfil placed himself opposite to her, and said, 'I hope you will not be hurt, Caterina, by what I am going to say to you.