She had no vocation for struggling with combinations;
in the solemnity of sequestration there was something that overwhelmed
her. She bowed her pretty head to authority and only asked of
authority to be merciful. Yes; it was very well that Edward Rosier had
reserved a few articles!"
Isabel got up; her time was rapidly shortening. "Good-bye then. I
leave Rome to-night."
Pansy took hold of her dress; there was a sudden change in the
child's face. "You look strange; you frighten me."
"Oh, I'm very harmless," said Isabel.
"Perhaps you won't come back?"
"Perhaps not. I can't tell."
"Ah, Mrs. Osmond, you won't leave me!"
Isabel now saw she had guessed everything. "My dear child, what
can I do for you?" she asked.
"I don't know-but I'm happier when I think of you."
"You can always think of me."
"Not when you're so far. I'm a little afraid," said Pansy.
"What are you afraid of?"
"Of papa-a little. And of Madame Merle. She has just been to see
me."
"You must not say that," Isabel observed.
"Oh, I'll do everything they want. Only if you're here I shall do it
more easily."
Isabel considered. "I won't desert you," she said at last.
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