But it's not likely he'll
ever object to anything done by his father."
"Didn't you say his own share had been cut down?"
"Only at his wish. I know that he urged his father to do something
for the people in America. He's not in the least addicted to looking
after number one."
"It depends upon whom he regards as number one!" said Madame
Merle. And she remained thoughtful a moment, her eyes bent on the
floor. "Am I not to see your happy niece?" she asked at last as she
raised them.
"You may see her; but you'll not be struck with her being happy. She
has looked as solemn, these three days, as a Cimabue Madonna!" And
Mrs. Touchett rang for a servant.
Isabel came in shortly after the footman had been sent to call
her; and Madame Merle thought, as she appeared, that Mrs. Touchett's
comparison had its force. The girl was pale and grave- an effect not
mitigated by her deeper mourning; but the smile of her brightest
moments came into her face as she saw Madame Merle, who went
forward, laid her hand on our heroine's shoulder and, after looking at
her a moment, kissed her as if she were returning the kiss she had
received from her at Gardencourt.
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