At the gate of the gardens
however she paused, and said with a soft sad smile, "Here we
must part," and extended to him her hand.
"Heaven will guard over you!" said Egremont, "for you are a
celestial charge."
Book 5 Chapter 3
As Sybil approached her home, she recognized her father in the
court before their house, accompanied by several men, with
whom he seemed on the point of going forth. She was so
anxious to speak to Gerard, that she did not hesitate at once
to advance. There was a stir as she entered the gate; the men
ceased talking, some stood aloof, all welcomed her with silent
respect. With one or two Sybil was not entirely unacquainted;
at least by name or person. To them, as she passed, she bent
her head; and then going up to her father, who was about to
welcome her, she said, in a tone of calmness and with a
semblance of composure, "If you are going out, dear father, I
should like to see you for one moment first."
"A moment, friends," said Gerard, "with your leave;" and he
accompanied his daughter into the house. He would have
stopped in the hall, but she walked on to their room, and
Gerard, though pressed for time, was compelled to follow her.
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