Chapter 5 Chapter 5 Elopement
The day after the ball, Temaris and I were invited to the Great Clock House for afternoon tea.I would never have set foot in another step in my life if it had not been so great a change there; outside; I saw it was locked; and wondered if anyone else would get in there.
I quickly lost myself in the conversation.Temaris shared her happiness with us; the ball was very successful; her mother was very happy and said that it was like going back to the old days, and she would hold such a show again in the future.Tamaris and Justin.Marchmont danced a total of six dances all night, but even so he left immediately for Scotland to deal with the estate.
"Will he come back here again? I doubt it," I said.
Temaris and Rachel looked at me incredulously.
"Of course he'll be back!" Temaris yelled.
"He's got to come back," Rachel said.
While we were drinking tea, Daniel came in and sat next to Rachel, and I asked him if he had a good time at the dance last night. "Great dance," he replied cautiously. "Everyone seems to be happy."
"Very successful," Tamaris agreed.
Aunt Xitan walked in, and seeing her reminded me of the past; her face was full of panic at that time, her clothes were not so beautiful, and she didn't have hairpins on her head.There must have been a world of difference between Mr. Grindel and Mr. Dorian, and Chrispy was right in saying that what is good for all must never go wrong.
I noticed that Tamaris was very cold to Daniel, and she would not forgive Daniel for focusing on Rachel and ignoring her.
Jack.Glyndor also joined our group, and he told us that he had sent Guston.Marchmont went to the station and watched him board the train for London.
"He's going straight to Scotland," he said. "It seems that he has to deal with the matter there."
"He'll be back," Temalis said confidently.
"I think he must be very busy, he said he will definitely come back and be here for a while. He had a great time while he was here," Jack continued. "It's great to have him around, he lights up our normal lives."
"Exactly." Temaris agreed with a smile.
I doubt she is interested in Guston.Marchmont's plan is clearer than any of us.
Maybe she did, because three weeks later, Guston.Marchmont is really back.He went to Glyndow Ranch and asked if he could stay there for a few days—if that was not convenient, he would go to the hotel—because of the pleasant experience he had had last time.
The experience made him want to stay with them for a few more days.
Jack said they were very happy to have him back, and of course he had to be at the ranch for a few days or they would be sorry.
Juston.Marchmont had been back for three days, during which time I had seen very little of him.When I heard the hooves of the horses— I was with Aunt Sophie, helping her garden—and Lily came running into the garden after a while. "Mr. Saint Aubie is here," she said. "She wants to see Miss Fred." Chris Pie has come to the garden. "Temaris is gone, do you know where she is?" he asked. "It's gone!" cried Aunt Sophie. "Where did you go?" "That's why I'm here," he said, looking at me. "Do you know where she's going?" "I have no idea." "I thought she'd tell you." "She didn't mention anything." "From the traces on the bed, she didn't sleep there last night, she must have left last night. Anyway, the result is that she is not at home." I shook my head and said, "When I saw her yesterday, she looked It sounds a little excited." "Didn't you ask her what she was excited about?" "No. Usually she would take the initiative to tell others about anything, so I thought it might not be a big deal." His nervousness was palpable, and after realizing that I couldn't help him, he left. We've been talking about it all morning. "This is very interesting. I wonder what happened. There must be something hidden in it," said Aunt Sophie.We are free to speculate on her whereabouts without restraint to reasonable conclusions, and I believe that she will return soon, and it is possible that she ran away from home because of differences of opinion-perhaps there was a conflict between her and her mother. Next, Jack came to report again: Guston.Marchmont is gone too!He didn't disappear without a trace like Tamaris. Before he left, he left a note saying: He has urgent business to leave for a while, maybe he can come back soon, and he will definitely explain clearly when the time comes . People immediately referred to Tamaris and Guston.Marchmont's disappearance was linked together, and rumors and speculations spread in the village in an instant. I went to see Rachel at the Great Bell House, and Aunt Xi told me she was in the orchard.The total area of the garden of the Great Bell House is about two acres, and the lawn in the garden is quite wide. Usually, whenever the church cannot hold open-air banquets or festivals in the St. Aubie Garden, the Great Clock House will be used instead.The woods near the orchard are denser and wider, and I know that has always been Rachel's favorite place. Once I found her there, I walked in her direction and yelled, "Did you hear the news?" "News? What news?" "Temaris and Guston Marchmont are gone. They must have gone together." "Oh, that's impossible!" she exclaimed. "This incident is full of coincidence... Both people left at the same time." "The two of them can't be together." "Why is it impossible?" "He will not……" "He's danced with her at more balls than anyone else." "That's a last resort, because the host is the Saint Aubis family, so he has to often go to invite Tamaris to dance together." "I believe the two of them are together." "When Guston Marchmont comes back, the truth will become clear. I believe he will come back." "But, the two of them... disappeared together!" "There must be some reason for this." Her eyes are fixed on the small stream in the orchard, and her face has an anxious expression like being abandoned by someone.
She was right.He had indeed returned, and he had returned with Temaris.Temaris, with a beam of joy on her face and a gold ring on the third finger of her left hand, said that life was wonderful, and that she was Guston.Mrs. Marchmont.Granta Greene is the most convenient and easiest place to arrange a wedding, so she and Guston.Marchmont decided to elope there together, to complete their life's business, and save all unnecessary trouble; The whole of Harpgreen was excited; this was the most dramatic event since Joshua Dullion hanged himself in the stables of the Great Bell House. "Even something like that can happen here!" said Lily. "I really don't know what's going to happen next." Aunt Sophie said it was very unusual. "Why did they elope? If he was as good as he said, there should be no objection to it; a grand wedding would be the best medicine for Mrs. St. Aubie, and, I believe Tamari Ruth will also like it. This matter seems a bit cunning, and it seems that this man does not want too many people to interfere." Juston.Marchmont lived with the bride at Saint Auby's and planned to stay there until he had everything sorted out before moving back to their own home. The day after they came back, I saw Chris Pai on his horse just coming back from Davies, and when he saw me he stopped his horse and jumped off. "Are you sure you're completely ignorant of Temaris' plans?" he asked. "One hundred percent sure." "So she didn't even hint?" "of course not." He looks very angry. I said, "Isn't she very happy? That's what she's after." He stared straight ahead, his mouth forming a straight line. "She was completely ignorant and ignorant," he said. "This sentimental move could ruin her life. Holy crap, she's only out of school." I felt a surge of indignation rising in me, this is what he thought of me - a little girl who just left school! "But, they love each other very much!" I said. "In love?" he retorted contemptuously. "Maybe you think it's incredible, but some people do fall madly in love for someone." He looked at me impatiently. "If she ever gave you any hints, you should have warned me or anyone." "She didn't, and I've told you hundreds of times. And, even if she told me what was on her mind, why should I have to report it to you? You might get in the way of it and try to sabotage them both." I left there dismayed that he didn't care about other people's feelings at all, and I was just beginning to think that he might be interested in me - only a little - though, I think it might be because I visit Lucy a lot and Flora.Lian's relationship.He's still the one who turned around and hurt me, and I can almost hear him say, "Who's that nondescript kid..." I hadn't seen Rachel since Temaris's return; one afternoon I decided to visit her at the Great Clock House. I found her by the stream in the orchard—I knew she must be there, but I was frightened by the dejected aura she exuded. I sat down next to her and said, "Rachel, what's wrong with you?" "You know that Temaris and Guston are married." "Everyone is talking about it." "I really can't believe this, Freddie, when they left together..." "I think we had guessed at the time that this might be the outcome." She fell silent and I said, "Rachel, are you in love with him?" I put my arms around her and she was shaking all over. On a whim, I went on: "He made you believe that . . . " She nodded. "I never thought he was the kind of honest, honest guy," I said. "Both Aunt Sophie and Lily think that he only brags in front of girls. What this kind of person says doesn't mean anything, and it's not worth your heartbreak for him." "Those words meant a lot to me," Rachel said. "You mean..." "He kept telling me: He really loves me. But, what he was referring to was actually Temaris." "At the ball that night, he danced several times with her and dined with her." "At first I thought it was just..." "Don't you understand that all those sweet words and honey words he said don't mean anything?" "That's not true, Freddie...the relationship between the two of us is very special and serious. But, he walked away and married Temaris." "Poor Rachel, you don't understand that all this means nothing, means nothing." "Yes, yes! I know there is love between us." "Then why...why did he marry Temaris?" "I guess because of her background and status, isn't she very rich? She's going to have a lot of money, and she's a member of the San Aubie family." "If that's the reason, you're lucky to be able to get away from him. He's different from Daniel. Daniel doesn't care what you can give him. He really loves you." "Freddy, you talk like an old aunt; you don't understand these things." "I understand! He made you think he was in love with you, and then went off to marry Temaris." She said desperately, "Yes, absolutely. That's what he did to me." "You were lucky to leave him, then; and Temaris is the one to worry about." "I am willing to pay all the price, just to exchange for her current situation." "Be sensible! Daniel loves you dearly, and you like him, and he's such a nice guy, he'd be a considerate, nice husband. Hey, I know he doesn't dance well, doesn't travel around, and behaves with people Not so tactful, but these are not necessary conditions, the most important thing is kindness...loyalty." "Freddy, stop lecturing, I can't take it." "Okay," I said. "I'm glad he didn't marry you, though. In fact, I think Temaris made a big mistake, and her brother, Crispy Sanobi, feels the same way I do." We sat there for a long time, watching the movement of the brook, silently saying nothing. I feel very uncomfortable with Rachel.
Mrs St Aubie has a lot of emotional reactions and it would be nice to be married at Granta Green but she would prefer a formal wedding at our own church.Both Temaris and Guston agreed with this view, and a wedding was arranged at once. Mrs. St. Aubie's health was improving rapidly, and she had arranged several balls for Temaris in an effort to introduce her daughter into society.But Temaris's first move made her plan unnecessary. The wedding was certainly not the one she had in mind, and if she had had more time she would have made it better; but she wanted to finish the ceremony as soon as possible, lest anyone should deny the simple wedding earlier that it was Camouflaged. The church has officially announced the wedding; I'm the bridesmaid, and Levan LunHeatherington was the host of the ceremony.The silk and lace gown worn by Temaris was her mother's wedding dress; Mrs. St. Aubie thought that the church service did not seem to be enough, so she decided to celebrate with a banquet at St. Aubie's Garden after the meeting. In this way, no one will treat Tamaris and Guston.There is no doubt about the fact that Marchmont was married. Rachel was not at the wedding; as far as we know, she was unwell.She and I have always been closer than Temaris, and I was really worried about her—the sad look in her eyes when I sat by the stream that day made me uneasy—I couldn't let go of her image for a long time, and her image was all over the place. The reception kept coming to mind. After the feast, Aunt Sophie came home with me, and my heart was still on Rachel, and I had an ominous feeling that something might have happened to Rachel. It was getting dark, and I knew I couldn't be at peace without seeing Rachel; so I slipped out of the Yamanashi House and ran to the Great Clock House. I have to pass that stable.When I approached the stables, I couldn't help but panic. The door, which had always been locked, was now open. I stopped to look at it, feeling a pang of loathing come to my chest, and the place made me tremble with terror.As if if I opened that door I'd see Mr. Dourion hanged there, staring at me with those horrible eyes—telling me that I was to blame for all this. It's stupid, and of course it's not my fault; Chris Pie has made it clear to me: it's stupid to think so. Just as I was standing there hesitantly, a breeze opened the door a little and made a creaking sound. Who and why opened this door at this time?Why do I have this strange inspiration and want to come to the Great Clock House? I sensed that Rachel was in danger and she needed me. I made up my mind to go to the stable, opened the door and went in. "Rachel!" I yelled. She is sitting on the ground with a rope in her hands. "What are you doing?" I said out loud. "What are you doing here?" she said angrily. "I had to come to you, I felt you calling me, and then I saw that the stable door was open." "You should leave." "No, I'm not going. What are you doing in this horrible place?" She silently looked at the rope in her hand without answering. "Rachel!" I yelled. "It's all because of him," she said. "It seems like that's the only way to go." "What nonsense are you talking about?" "Freddie, I don't want to be in this world anymore, I can't stand this, it's horrible." "what are you talking about?" "I can't take it, I can't take what's going to happen, I don't want to live." "Stop talking nonsense. People have to live to face the future. Is it related to Temaris and Guston? His sweet words make you believe that you are the one he loves. I think it is lucky not to have anything to do with him Well, you'll feel better if you think about it that way." "You don't know what you're talking about." "You can't think like that," I continued. "This horrible place... I can't bear it, let's leave! Come with me, we will talk to the orchard." "There's nothing to talk about. Nothing can change the facts. It's useless." "Maybe we'll talk about something." She shook her head. "I'm going to try it anyway," I insisted. "But, not here, I can't stand this place. Come with me, let's talk somewhere else." I took the rope from her hand and threw it into a corner; then, taking her hand, I continued, "Do you have the key to the stable?" She took it out of her pocket and held it to me.I went out with her on my arm, and when I looked back at the rafters I could almost see Mr. Dourien's evil eyes staring at me. I locked the door firmly after I closed it, and put the key in my pocket again. "Now, let's talk in the orchard!" I said. As we sat there, she was shaking; I tried not to imagine her body hanging from the rafters, swaying limply...would she do that?In the state of her mind at the time—destroyed, depressed, she really didn't want to live in this world—she would have done it. I knew I had to come and see her, and luckily I got there in time; there was a special bond between us, and now I am here to take care of her. "Tell me what happened?" I asked nervously. "It's worse than you think. You think I'm just an outcast." "Did he say he wanted to marry you?" "Uh, not quite..." "Hinted?" She nods. "I thought we were going to get married, so I... I thought it was natural... So, Freddie, it's not just about him marrying Temaris, I'm... pregnant." I was intimidated.I stared at the stream in horror, not daring to look directly at Rachel, for fear that she would see the fright in my eyes. "You...what are you going to do?" I stammered. "You also saw what I was going to do. This is the only way to solve it." "No, it's not the only way." "What else can I do?" "People have the right to have children." "Of course, if you are married, this will be great news. If it is not...it will become a sin, a shame that cannot be washed away in a lifetime." "No, sometimes the ending is too good for you to imagine. Does Temaris know about it?" "Of course not. Nobody knows except me...and you." "He...doesn't know?" "have no idea." "He's...so despicable." "It's useless to say that, it doesn't change any facts." "Yes, and now he's married to Temaris. Oh, Rachel, what shall we do?" "I can't think of anything that works, Freddie, that's why I..." "You must not do this, otherwise everyone will know that it will not be..." "At least I'm not going to put up with that here." "There must be a way." "What method? I can't even think of one." "What if you tell him?" "What's the use of that?" "Oh, poor Rachel! But we've got something to do. Too bad it's not Daniel." "Daniel?" "Daniel is such a good man, he will not be as despicable as Guston Marchmont, that villain, how can anyone care about him?" "He's very charming...different." Since I had a vague idea in my mind, and I kept trying to figure it out, I didn't pay attention to what she was saying.I thought about that clue. "I can't think of a solution," she said. "Freddie, I can't face the fact that I can just imagine everyone in Harp Green talking about this...scandal...disgrace..." I said, "Don't make up your mind so early and don't take any action. Promise me? Don't do anything stupid before I come tomorrow. Please promise me, okay?" "What are you thinking?" "I think this matter should be resolved." "what do you mean……?" "I'm not sure yet, just promise me one thing first - don't do anything stupid before you see me." "When will I see you again?" "Soon. I swear to you." "tomorrow?" "Yes, tomorrow. This is a secret, please don't do anything stupid, maybe this will be a foolproof method." "You're not going to see Guston, are you?" "Of course not! I don't want to see him again, please trust me, Rachel." "Freddie, I really don't think..." "Why do you think I got to the Stranger just in time? Because fate drove me to do it, and it was very important to tell me; because we have a very unusual relationship. I have an idea that might have hope. Solve the problem, please do as I say, trust me, Rachel." She nodded and said, "Then let's talk about it tomorrow!" So I left her.As I ran from the Great Clock House to the Glyndor Meadows, I felt the keys in my pocket vibrate up and down. I'm praying all the way, please have Daniel there!Please, please, God!Keep him at home. My prayers were answered, and he was the first person I saw when I ran to the farmhouse on the ranch. "Oh, Daniel!" I gasped. "I'm so glad to see you, there's something very important that I have to talk to you about." "Dear Freddy..." he said. "It's about Rachel," I said. "I'm very, very worried about her, can we find a place to talk?" As soon as he heard Rachel's name, his expression immediately became alert. "Come to my studio and talk about it," he said. "It's around here." I followed him. In the studio there are two stools and a long table with many different tools. "Okay," he said. "What's going on in such a hurry?" "She...she's going to hang herself." "what!" "Daniel, I'm afraid she's going to do that. She's very, very unhappy; I know you love her, and I do, and she's my best friend, and I can't stand it if anything happens to her ..." "What exactly is going on?" "It's about Guston Marchmont." His face turned pale in an instant, and his fists were clenched tightly. "What did he do?" "He married Temaris." "What does that have to do with Rachel?" "She thought he was going to marry her." "My God," he said quietly. "He is...a person who specializes in flirting with good women, and he frequently courts Rachel..." I hesitated; I prayed silently in my heart: Lord!Please, give me the confidence to get this done; I have to confess it all to him... for Rachel's sake, I have to let him know that this is the only way, it must be done; if he doesn't help, then She will definitely kill herself. I bite the bullet and say it again. "She... she's pregnant. I found her in the stable where Mr. Dourleen hanged himself. A power guides me. We are very good friends; Daniel, I would do anything for Rachel. I miss you So is it." He was staring at me in disbelief, I think he was startled, he was scared, he didn't love her as much as I thought. "She can't face this, Daniel," I begged him. "She couldn't... alone, face this alone." "In that stable," he murmured. "Mr. Dorian..." "It must have been on her mind at the time, she almost did it, Daniel, if I don't get there in time..." "Rachel..." he murmured. "She's so unhappy, oh, I hate that man!" The silence seemed to last a lifetime, and then I said, "I wish she hadn't come here. I thought you loved her enough to withstand all obstacles. Didn't you ask her to marry you?" "She doesn't accept it because of that man..." "People are not saints, how can they not make mistakes? Daniel, if you really love her... I thought you were serious, so I came to you; I thought you loved her sincerely, you would be willing to marry She, in this way, the child's matter can be resolved." I'm going too far, my role in this tragedy - with no other choice - is quickly fading away, and now I'm trying to arrange other people's lives, it's really Too arrogant, too nosy... But, Rachel's life is hanging on that rope. I heard my voice say, "I guess you'd think it's none of my business, but she's my friend, and I really... care about her, and I don't give up when I know there's a way out , and let her die like this." Next, Daniel finally spoke. "You're a good girl," he said. "You were right to come to me." "Oh, Daniel, are you serious? Then you're going to marry her? Oh, thank you...thank you." "I'll go see her," he said. "There's not much time left, and I'm worried about leaving her there, Daniel... can you leave now?" "Of course, I'll go right away," he said. He put me in front, and we rode together towards the Great Clock House. As soon as we got there, off the horse, he turned to me and said, "Go back, Freddie, and I'll talk to Rachel alone. I'll go get you before I get back to the ranch." "Oh Daniel...thank you...thank you." My lips trembled and I kept praying that everything would be as I wanted it to be. He looked at me for a while, and I could tell his heart was touched by me. Then he kissed my forehead and said, "You're such a nice girl." He turned and walked towards the Great Clock House, and I ran home and locked myself in my room. I didn't tell anyone, not even Aunt Sophie.
A month later, Daniel and Rachel got married.Due to the urgency of time, the church did not have much time to announce the wedding, so the ceremony went on peacefully.During this time, I noticed people nodding their heads in whispers and murmuring about the reasons behind the hasty wedding. Daniel felt very happy, and I felt very happy.I am very proud and very satisfied with the solution I came up with, because the unpleasantness is a thing of the past.I am mature and wise enough to see that Daniel is an unusual man, and I am lucky to have his help in this matter; I have witnessed this rare accident, such as his selfless love, and I deeply feel that Ricky I am so lucky to have him and his heart. I shared this with Rachel, and she agreed with me.She said: "She will never forget what Daniel did for her - and never asked for anything in return.Throughout her life, she will try her best to be his wife in return for his kindness. What about Tamaris?What about her life? She and Guston continued to live in St. Aubis Park.Guston tried his best to please Mrs. Saint Aubie, and I heard that Mrs. Saint Aubie really liked him.However, the cold wall between him and Chrispie still exists; Chrispie is naturally suspicious, and I believe he must have repeatedly asked himself: Why did Guston marry so hastily. I really wonder how he would react if he knew that the baby Rachel was carrying was Guston's? A few years ago, I had a glimpse of the ugly side of life that lay behind the unfortunate events of Borrow Grove.Now my knowledge has expanded again. Rachel had indeed accomplished the event of a lifetime under unusual circumstances; but what about Temaris?Maybe she was content now, but would she be happy living with someone like Guston? I often think about all the things we girls weaved back at the prom—social lives and relationships, marriage and living happily ever after—and I wonder how much of it ever came to fruition? For Rachel and the unborn baby, these are memories; for self-effacing, kind Daniel, there is no doubt that the baby will serve as a mirror reminder that Rachel and Jay The fact that Stone had been together. However, for Temaris, she had to live with this man who kept saying he loved her—but had sex with other women behind her back. Chris's attitude towards Guston is so indifferent that I wonder if he has discovered anything; my opinion of Guston is: there is no evil.What about the details of those properties in France and Scotland?Does it really exist?Did he come up with this strategy because he was afraid of being found out about his false face, in order to protect Temaris and her property? This is the most reasonable explanation. I went to visit Temaris, and she seemed to have changed a bit, becoming more enthusiastic; she was often smiling and happy, but I wondered how reliable this surface was?She has been claiming that life is happy and happy. Is this too deliberate? I asked her if she and Guston were going to settle down at Saint Auby's. "Oh, of course not," she replied. "We're still thinking about it, anyway, we're so happy here! We haven't made up our minds to live there yet, so during this period, St. Abby's Mansion has become the best place to live temporarily." "I also think this would be the perfect place!" I echoed her. "You don't think of settling abroad, do you? Like that house in France?" "Oh, you may have forgotten that Guston sold it; we might buy one there." "What about Scottish real estate?" I continued. "There's a sale going on too, otherwise we'd be living there now. My mother couldn't be happier about it, she likes Guston very much." "What about Chris Pie?" I asked. "Oh, you know, Chris Pie doesn't like anything but the things in the mansion." Is she really happy?Was there any hint of uneasiness in her conversation? For me, a whole lot of things are still uncertain.Aunt Sophie had thought that since there were going to be a few balls at St Auby's, I should have a better chance of meeting boys; but once Temaris got married, there would be no need for that. Heatherington came to me, and she said that I must increase my status and do my best for Harpgreen.This means I have to join the sewing and make coats for the poor and have nothing to wear as far away as Africa; I have to help promote the bazaar and annual celebration; Aunt Sophie was very excited when she heard the news, but after thinking about it, she felt that it was different from the plan she had arranged for me. I said, "I've got to find something to do, I mean work or something, or I'll eat you up." "It sucks! What nonsense are you talking about?" "Your life is not as easy as it was before me, so I must be burdening you." "No such thing, you are my unexpected harvest." "And you are my dearest," I responded. "I really want to do something, and preferably make some money, you have given me so much." "You brought me a lot too. But I know what you mean, you don't want to age yourself prematurely, become a martyr of country life, become Mulder Hetherington Second." "I've been thinking about what I could do, maybe find something like a tutor or a companion." Aunt Sophie looked frightened. "Let the other well-bred ladies do it! But, I really can't imagine you taking care of wild kids, or cranky old people." "Anyway, I'm not as static as most people. It may be full of freshness at the beginning; if I don't like it later, I can always leave and at least save a little money." "Forget about this thought, I've already started to miss you. The boat will be straight when it reaches the bridge, and there will be a solution when the time comes." As the time for Rachel's baby was approaching, I went to visit her at her place. She said, "It's impossible not to be happy about the baby; Freddie, I really love the baby, which is weird because it's obviously..." "It's not surprising at all. This is human nature. This child belongs to you, and it will belong to Daniel when he is born. Only the three of us know about this, and we must never tell it." "A secret that must never be told," she said. My mind immediately went to the nursery of the Lian family, and the picture of seven magpies on the wall. "This is an ancient poem." I said. "I know," Rachel said. "I've always wondered what that secret is? Do you think what's in that poet's mind?" "I guess it's a general term for any secret!" She nodded thoughtfully. It reminded me to see Flora sooner rather than later.Poor Flora, the passing of time means nothing to her, and she will live in the past all her life. Rachel said: "I'm trying to get him out of my memory completely. I was so stupid to believe him. Now that I can see the truth, I believe he is doing it for Temaris's money." And married her." “可怜的泰玛莉丝。”我说。 “的确，如今我也这么觉得了。” “而你，瑞琪儿，有个真心爱你的男人和你长相厮守。” 她点着头。我知道她并不完完全全地沉浸在快乐中；不过眼前的她已和当初我在马厩发现，手上拿着绳子的女孩大不相同了。
不久，我又去拜访泰玛莉丝。她穿着淡紫色的丝质礼服，上面缀饰着精细的蕾丝花边，样子看起来真是美极了。 “佛莱迪，你来做什么？”她想知道我的理由。 “我才刚从缝纫行列那边忙完。” 她扮了个鬼脸，说：“真有趣！我想穆德．海瑟林顿小姐不会这么轻意地放过你的。” “她的要求相当严格。” “你打算再让她控制多久？” “不久了，再过一阵子我打算找份工作做。” "What kind of job?" “我还没决定。那些受过教育的年轻小女孩能做些什么？你不知道？好吧，我告诉你：她们只能从家庭教师或女伴看护中任选一样。除了这些微不足道的工作外，其他的连想都不用想了。” “哦，别说了，”泰玛莉丝大叫。“看！克里斯派往这边走来了。” 他走了进来，然后对着我说：“午安。我看到你来了，猜想你一定在泰玛莉丝这里。” “她刚刚才告诉我，她想去找家庭教师或女伴看护之类的工作。”泰玛莉丝说。 “照顾别人的孩子，或服侍一些老女人。” “教导小孩子可能满有成就感的。”我说。 “或许是对那些经你指导而获利的小孩而言。但，你呢？当人们不需要家庭教师时，她就得收拾行李，马上离开。” “哪一种职业不是如此？” “家庭教师的需求期都是有限定的，我不认为可以把它当成是一种事业。” “我没有太多选择的自由，目前为止只有家庭教师和女伴看护这两条路。” “第二项比第一项更糟，需要女伴看护的人通常都是一天到晚爱发牢骚，这种人是很费精神的。” “也许有些人不会如此。” “如果我是个正在寻找事业方向的年轻女孩，我是不会选择这个机会的。” “唉呀！可惜你不是。” 泰玛莉丝爆出一阵大笑，他耸耸肩，我们就把话题转开了。 他离开不久后，我便回山梨之屋了。我坐在窗子旁，两眼直视着古塚树林。 我进去画室时，苏菲姨妈正好在喝茶。我常到教会去帮忙插花的事宜，由缪德莉．克莱费尔督导；她的祖先混有法国血统，所以在吃的方面特别考究。 我感到相当疲倦——和身体的损耗无关，而是因为无法发挥己长，觉得自己很愚蠢。我每天都反覆不断地问自己：到底要往哪条路走。我很惊讶地看到克里斯派和苏菲姨妈在一块儿，而她看起来好像很高兴的样子。 “哦，弗雷德莉卡来了，”她说。“圣奥比先生和我在讨论他的一个构想。” “很抱歉打扰你们，”我说。“我不知道你有客人。” “这是有关于你的事，过来这边坐，我知道你想喝杯茶。” 我拿起她为我倒的茶，然后看到她对着克里斯派微笑。 “这只是一个构想，”他说。“我想你应该会有兴趣的。你知道马里特夫妇？他是帮我管理邸园的两人之一，而马里特夫人则对他的事业辅助很大；下星期底他们俩将要动身前往澳洲，他的哥哥在那儿有个牧场，长久以来一直试着说服他们过去一起经营，如今他们总算下定了决心。” “我是有听说过一些关于他们的事。”我说。 “马里特是个好伙伴，有人已经代理他的职位了，所以这不在重点之下；主要是马里特夫人，她对他的帮助很大，而我们也因此受益不小。” “妻子通常都帮上了大忙，”苏菲姨妈下评断道。“而且都得等到不在后才被肯定。” 他勉强地笑了一笑。“的确，这么指责一点也不为过。马里特非常优秀，但马里特夫人有自己的一套，我想这就是你们所谓的'女性的体贴'。有时马里特的态度会有些粗暴，他不太爱讲话，一开口又直言不讳；而她的人际关系处理得相当得体，也比较知道邸园边缘的那些村舍……依莉沙白时代的房屋，最需要的是什么。她了解如何不让它们失去其格调；相反地，马里特会尽量以低价花费来做评估，而此举可能不适合那些村舍。她让那些佃户为自己的租地感到骄傲，你知道我的意思吗？” 苏菲姨妈自命不凡、沾沾自喜地坐在那儿，而我则怀疑着这段谈话到底目的何在？ “事实上，”克里斯派继续说。“听到你说起有意从事家庭教师或女伴看护之职，我个人认为这个工作可能更适合你。” “适合我？你的意思是……” “我在想不知你是否愿意代马里特夫人之职，这表示你将得了解所有的地产，不过最重要的还是'人'——有技巧地和他们交涉。詹姆士．波林已经代替马里特之职，所以你将和他互相配合、共事，你觉得如何？” “这真的是个惊人的消息，我不确定真正的工作内容，且也不知自己能否胜任。” “呃，你不是一直对古建筑物很有兴趣吗？”苏菲姨妈说。“而且你向来和人们都处得很好。” “你可以先试试，”克里斯派说。“如果真的不喜欢，到时候再放弃也不迟。汤姆．马森是理财的，你可以过去和他谈谈薪资的问题。试试看好吗？也许你会发现这比烦人的小鬼头，或罗唆的老女人好多了。” “我想我应该更深入地了解这个工作，”我说。“我不确定自己够不够资格接受它。” “这点不久就可以知道了。我想你会越做越有兴趣，邸园里有些房子历史都很悠久，我们必须想办法在不破坏古迹构架的原则下，尽量提升房子居住的品质，使住在里面的人更舒适。当时的人懂得如何建造这么坚固的房子，所以才能使它们在历经这么多年后，还能坚决地站立在那儿，而如今我们这些后代的子孙，已开始重视其价值了。” “我想像不出来能做些什么？” “很简单，你得去认识他们。你以公务的身份前往拜访他们，很热诚地听他们聊起任何的事，我们必须维持其良好的秩序；他们什么都可能会要求，所以你得解释为什么这么要求无法完成。到时候你就会知道了。无论如何，除非亲身去体验，否则你是无法下决心做或不做的，你觉得呢？” “我觉得这听起来很棒。”苏菲姨妈说。 “你什么时候需要我开始去做？”我问。 “越快越好。你何不去看看汤姆．马森和詹姆士．波林？他们会把详细情形告诉你的。” “谢谢你能想到我。”我说。 “我当然会想到你，”他说：“我们需要找个人来补马里特夫人的位子。” 他离开后，我们依然坐在那里听着路上传来的马蹄声渐渐远去而消失。苏菲姨妈笑着。 “太好了！”她说。“你觉得怎么样？” “简直无法相信。” “这工作听起来很温馨。” “太不可思议了。我怎么会知道地产方面的事？” “你为何不试着去学？他是我所谓的那种'神秘者'。” "What do you mean by that?" “你永远也搞不清他的心在想些什么，不过我想他的所作所为背后都隐藏些原因。” “那这件事背后的原因呢？” 她心照不宣地看着我。“我的见解是：他对你很有兴趣，不喜欢你要离开的那个主意，家庭教师的事一直像刺般困扰着他。” “你是说他自创这份工作，好把我留在这里？这太怪异了，还是从苏菲姨妈你口中说出。” “他当然有他的理由，我揣测他的想法是：必须留意、照顾你。这和过去的……” “你是指古塚树林的事吗？” “这件事我们谁也忘不了，影响的程度也都是相等的，这么说吧！因为那件事的发生，使得他对你特别有兴趣，而他认为就这样让你去进行那些冒险的计划是不对的。” “冒险的计划？当家庭教师？” “他是这么认为，别忘了他曾救过你。在这种事情发生过后，人们通常会有很强烈的感觉的。” “很难想像除了邸园以外，他还会对任何事有强烈的感觉。” “如今他的心里的确是想着邸园的——他心爱的依莉沙白时代的村舍之类的事。” 好一会儿，我们俩都默默地想着。 我说：“我要留下来，这些听起来真的挺有趣的。” “我也这么认为。”。苏菲姨妈说。
隔天，我就到圣奥比邸园办公室和汤姆．马森见面。他的个儿高高的，中年人，看起来很活泼。 “圣奥比先生告诉我你今天会来，”他说。“他认为马里特夫人是她先生的左右手，帮了很多忙，这么说一点也不为过，我们都会想念她的。你就当詹姆士．波林的助理，马里特短期间内还会来办公室帮忙，你最好能和她谈谈，以便摸清楚自己的职责所在。” "Okay," I said. “到现在我对将来份内之事都还模模糊糊的呢！” “这份工作应该不会太艰难，我们发现有她在，事情的进行会比较顺利，你最好直接和她谈；在这段期间，我们可先解决其他的细节问题。” 他告诉我邸园的一些条规：工作时数很有弹性，任何时间都有可能会有人要和我见面，而我必须在每个紧急事件发生时前往处理，有匹马将可供我使用，如果有必要也可以有马车及一匹小马。我们讨论薪资方面的问题，然后他问我有没有任何疑问，我说没有，我觉得好像没多少线索可挖掘。 马里特夫人来了。 “噢，哈罗，海曼小姐，”她说。“我听说你将来代我的职位。” “是的，而且我很急着想知道工作的内容是什么？我到现在还没完全搞清楚呢！” 她的脸蛋看起来清新可人，态度也相当随和，看得出为什么人们都很喜欢她。 她说：“开始都是这样子的。帮忙我先生没多久之后，我发现有某些特定的事情对佃户不是很适合，所以我对这个工作越来越有兴趣。邸园内有好几户需缴税的村舍，我们必须确定佃户们将它们整理得很好；我觉得他们其中有些人就抱着'反正只要一失业就得搬'的观念，所以使他们不去在乎这些事。你必须让他们把要修补的地方都向你报告；然后还有抱怨及小争论，你当然也得摆平这些，你必须去认识、了解他们……那些真正有委屈的人，和那些有抱怨及诉苦嗜好的人。我总是努力地让他们保持愉快的心情，也让他们为自己的窝感到骄傲，这其中包含着很多。我的职责之一是确定每个人在圣诞节时都有个提篮，且里面都装满了他们所要的东西。几年前这些人连煤炭都不足，如今我却发现他们的柜子里满满都是棉被。他们其中有些人很……骄傲；当然了，也有些是乞丐，他们骄傲得开不出口，所以你得去让那些富有的人捐出一部分的资产。我这样说你是不是比较有概念了？” "Oh yes." “到时候你就会认识他们了。我们的目标是使整个邸园都能乐融融地，这是让事情运作顺利的最佳方法。我会把我的笔记簿给你，里面记录着每个人的小档案。” "Thank you." “别担心，会有很多事等着你去做的。我敢说波林先生会让你忙个不停的，我先生就是这么对我的；他的确是需要一个助手，我保证你一定会忙得天昏地暗的。” “这份工作听起来颇不寻常的。” “你是说雇用一个女人吗？男人通常都认为女人成不了大事，圣奥比先生可不这么想，他说我可运用所谓'女性的直觉'去了解他们。我相信你也会成功的。” 她把笔记簿交给我，我大约地流览了一逼，正好看到一则有关矮桑树村舍的小记。 “这是莲家。”我说。 “可怜的佛萝拉，我不太和她们交涉，通常都是由圣奥比先生来照料她们，这是他的愿望。” “我知道他把她们俩照顾得很好。” “露西小姐曾是他的保姆。在这之前照顾他的人是佛萝拉小姐，这真是件悲伤的事。” “你一定很久以前就认识她们了。” “自从我嫁到这里来后。” “所以你所认识的佛萝拉小姐一直到现在都没变？” “是的。早在克里斯派还是个婴儿时，她就发疯了。” “我常在想是不是该为佛萝拉小姐做些什么事。” “例如什么样的事呢？” “我想是否该到她家去告诉她，她所珍爱的娃娃根本不是个婴儿——而只不过是个洋娃娃罢了。” “我不知道这是否可行，如果这对她有益，她姊姊老早就会想到这一招了，她把她照顾得很好。” 我问她临走的感言。 “很复杂。我丈夫急着想走，他认为那里的机会很好；他哥哥到那里后，如今已有一块肥沃的土地了。那里的土地很便宜，只要你肯努力工作收获一定会很大。” “我想这一定很有挑战性。”我说。 她也同意这点。 波林先生来后，我和他谈了很久。 他很年轻，我想大概才二十出头吧！他的笑容里充满了友善及快乐，和他共事的疑惧马上云飞四散。 他说：“你可以帮我做帐，这并不表示我们这部门有太多帐要处理，而是帐单总是零零散散地，而且算术也不是我的专门；还有信件需要处理。马里特说要忙的事情有一大堆，所以我需要你尽全力帮忙。” “我恐怕没什么经验。” “我相信这点很快就会被我们克服。” 当我回到家时，苏菲姨妈已等不及想知道所有的进展，我告诉她这真的是个名副其实的工作，而不是如她凭空想像的梦——克里斯派为了留住我而塞给我的工作。 “这不是件挂名的差事，”我冷静地告诉她。“我想到时候我会忙得喘不过气来。” “我很高兴，”她回应我说。“我确实不要你离开，而且也不认为你适合家庭教师的工作。”
Juston.Marchmont had been back for three days, during which time I had seen very little of him.When I heard the hooves of the horses— I was with Aunt Sophie, helping her garden—and Lily came running into the garden after a while. "Mr. Saint Aubie is here," she said. "She wants to see Miss Fred." Chris Pie has come to the garden. "Temaris is gone, do you know where she is?" he asked. "It's gone!" cried Aunt Sophie. "Where did you go?" "That's why I'm here," he said, looking at me. "Do you know where she's going?" "I have no idea." "I thought she'd tell you." "She didn't mention anything." "From the traces on the bed, she didn't sleep there last night, she must have left last night. Anyway, the result is that she is not at home." I shook my head and said, "When I saw her yesterday, she looked It sounds a little excited." "Didn't you ask her what she was excited about?" "No. Usually she would take the initiative to tell others about anything, so I thought it might not be a big deal." His nervousness was palpable, and after realizing that I couldn't help him, he left. We've been talking about it all morning. "This is very interesting. I wonder what happened. There must be something hidden in it," said Aunt Sophie.We are free to speculate on her whereabouts without restraint to reasonable conclusions, and I believe that she will return soon, and it is possible that she ran away from home because of differences of opinion-perhaps there was a conflict between her and her mother. Next, Jack came to report again: Guston.Marchmont is gone too!He didn't disappear without a trace like Tamaris. Before he left, he left a note saying: He has urgent business to leave for a while, maybe he can come back soon, and he will definitely explain clearly when the time comes . People immediately referred to Tamaris and Guston.Marchmont's disappearance was linked together, and rumors and speculations spread in the village in an instant. I went to see Rachel at the Great Bell House, and Aunt Xi told me she was in the orchard.The total area of the garden of the Great Bell House is about two acres, and the lawn in the garden is quite wide. Usually, whenever the church cannot hold open-air banquets or festivals in the St. Aubie Garden, the Great Clock House will be used instead.The woods near the orchard are denser and wider, and I know that has always been Rachel's favorite place. Once I found her there, I walked in her direction and yelled, "Did you hear the news?" "News? What news?" "Temaris and Guston Marchmont are gone. They must have gone together." "Oh, that's impossible!" she exclaimed. "This incident is full of coincidence... Both people left at the same time." "The two of them can't be together." "Why is it impossible?" "He will not……" "He's danced with her at more balls than anyone else." "That's a last resort, because the host is the Saint Aubis family, so he has to often go to invite Tamaris to dance together." "I believe the two of them are together." "When Guston Marchmont comes back, the truth will become clear. I believe he will come back." "But, the two of them... disappeared together!" "There must be some reason for this." Her eyes are fixed on the small stream in the orchard, and her face has an anxious expression like being abandoned by someone.
She was right.He had indeed returned, and he had returned with Temaris.Temaris, with a beam of joy on her face and a gold ring on the third finger of her left hand, said that life was wonderful, and that she was Guston.Mrs. Marchmont.Granta Greene is the most convenient and easiest place to arrange a wedding, so she and Guston.Marchmont decided to elope there together, to complete their life's business, and save all unnecessary trouble; The whole of Harpgreen was excited; this was the most dramatic event since Joshua Dullion hanged himself in the stables of the Great Bell House. "Even something like that can happen here!" said Lily. "I really don't know what's going to happen next." Aunt Sophie said it was very unusual. "Why did they elope? If he was as good as he said, there should be no objection to it; a grand wedding would be the best medicine for Mrs. St. Aubie, and, I believe Tamari Ruth will also like it. This matter seems a bit cunning, and it seems that this man does not want too many people to interfere." Juston.Marchmont lived with the bride at Saint Auby's and planned to stay there until he had everything sorted out before moving back to their own home. The day after they came back, I saw Chris Pai on his horse just coming back from Davies, and when he saw me he stopped his horse and jumped off. "Are you sure you're completely ignorant of Temaris' plans?" he asked. "One hundred percent sure." "So she didn't even hint?" "of course not." He looks very angry. I said, "Isn't she very happy? That's what she's after." He stared straight ahead, his mouth forming a straight line. "She was completely ignorant and ignorant," he said. "This sentimental move could ruin her life. Holy crap, she's only out of school." I felt a surge of indignation rising in me, this is what he thought of me - a little girl who just left school! "But, they love each other very much!" I said. "In love?" he retorted contemptuously. "Maybe you think it's incredible, but some people do fall madly in love for someone." He looked at me impatiently. "If she ever gave you any hints, you should have warned me or anyone." "She didn't, and I've told you hundreds of times. And, even if she told me what was on her mind, why should I have to report it to you? You might get in the way of it and try to sabotage them both." I left there dismayed that he didn't care about other people's feelings at all, and I was just beginning to think that he might be interested in me - only a little - though, I think it might be because I visit Lucy a lot and Flora.Lian's relationship.He's still the one who turned around and hurt me, and I can almost hear him say, "Who's that nondescript kid..." I hadn't seen Rachel since Temaris's return; one afternoon I decided to visit her at the Great Clock House. I found her by the stream in the orchard—I knew she must be there, but I was frightened by the dejected aura she exuded. I sat down next to her and said, "Rachel, what's wrong with you?" "You know that Temaris and Guston are married." "Everyone is talking about it." "I really can't believe this, Freddie, when they left together..." "I think we had guessed at the time that this might be the outcome." She fell silent and I said, "Rachel, are you in love with him?" I put my arms around her and she was shaking all over. On a whim, I went on: "He made you believe that . . . " She nodded. "I never thought he was the kind of honest, honest guy," I said. "Both Aunt Sophie and Lily think that he only brags in front of girls. What this kind of person says doesn't mean anything, and it's not worth your heartbreak for him." "Those words meant a lot to me," Rachel said. "You mean..." "He kept telling me: He really loves me. But, what he was referring to was actually Temaris." "At the ball that night, he danced several times with her and dined with her." "At first I thought it was just..." "Don't you understand that all those sweet words and honey words he said don't mean anything?" "That's not true, Freddie...the relationship between the two of us is very special and serious. But, he walked away and married Temaris." "Poor Rachel, you don't understand that all this means nothing, means nothing." "Yes, yes! I know there is love between us." "Then why...why did he marry Temaris?" "I guess because of her background and status, isn't she very rich? She's going to have a lot of money, and she's a member of the San Aubie family." "If that's the reason, you're lucky to be able to get away from him. He's different from Daniel. Daniel doesn't care what you can give him. He really loves you." "Freddy, you talk like an old aunt; you don't understand these things." "I understand! He made you think he was in love with you, and then went off to marry Temaris." She said desperately, "Yes, absolutely. That's what he did to me." "You were lucky to leave him, then; and Temaris is the one to worry about." "I am willing to pay all the price, just to exchange for her current situation." "Be sensible! Daniel loves you dearly, and you like him, and he's such a nice guy, he'd be a considerate, nice husband. Hey, I know he doesn't dance well, doesn't travel around, and behaves with people Not so tactful, but these are not necessary conditions, the most important thing is kindness...loyalty." "Freddy, stop lecturing, I can't take it." "Okay," I said. "I'm glad he didn't marry you, though. In fact, I think Temaris made a big mistake, and her brother, Crispy Sanobi, feels the same way I do." We sat there for a long time, watching the movement of the brook, silently saying nothing. I feel very uncomfortable with Rachel.
Mrs St Aubie has a lot of emotional reactions and it would be nice to be married at Granta Green but she would prefer a formal wedding at our own church.Both Temaris and Guston agreed with this view, and a wedding was arranged at once. Mrs. St. Aubie's health was improving rapidly, and she had arranged several balls for Temaris in an effort to introduce her daughter into society.But Temaris's first move made her plan unnecessary. The wedding was certainly not the one she had in mind, and if she had had more time she would have made it better; but she wanted to finish the ceremony as soon as possible, lest anyone should deny the simple wedding earlier that it was Camouflaged. The church has officially announced the wedding; I'm the bridesmaid, and Levan LunHeatherington was the host of the ceremony.The silk and lace gown worn by Temaris was her mother's wedding dress; Mrs. St. Aubie thought that the church service did not seem to be enough, so she decided to celebrate with a banquet at St. Aubie's Garden after the meeting. In this way, no one will treat Tamaris and Guston.There is no doubt about the fact that Marchmont was married. Rachel was not at the wedding; as far as we know, she was unwell.She and I have always been closer than Temaris, and I was really worried about her—the sad look in her eyes when I sat by the stream that day made me uneasy—I couldn't let go of her image for a long time, and her image was all over the place. The reception kept coming to mind. After the feast, Aunt Sophie came home with me, and my heart was still on Rachel, and I had an ominous feeling that something might have happened to Rachel. It was getting dark, and I knew I couldn't be at peace without seeing Rachel; so I slipped out of the Yamanashi House and ran to the Great Clock House. I have to pass that stable.When I approached the stables, I couldn't help but panic. The door, which had always been locked, was now open. I stopped to look at it, feeling a pang of loathing come to my chest, and the place made me tremble with terror.As if if I opened that door I'd see Mr. Dourion hanged there, staring at me with those horrible eyes—telling me that I was to blame for all this. It's stupid, and of course it's not my fault; Chris Pie has made it clear to me: it's stupid to think so. Just as I was standing there hesitantly, a breeze opened the door a little and made a creaking sound. Who and why opened this door at this time?Why do I have this strange inspiration and want to come to the Great Clock House? I sensed that Rachel was in danger and she needed me. I made up my mind to go to the stable, opened the door and went in. "Rachel!" I yelled. She is sitting on the ground with a rope in her hands. "What are you doing?" I said out loud. "What are you doing here?" she said angrily. "I had to come to you, I felt you calling me, and then I saw that the stable door was open." "You should leave." "No, I'm not going. What are you doing in this horrible place?" She silently looked at the rope in her hand without answering. "Rachel!" I yelled. "It's all because of him," she said. "It seems like that's the only way to go." "What nonsense are you talking about?" "Freddie, I don't want to be in this world anymore, I can't stand this, it's horrible." "what are you talking about?" "I can't take it, I can't take what's going to happen, I don't want to live." "Stop talking nonsense. People have to live to face the future. Is it related to Temaris and Guston? His sweet words make you believe that you are the one he loves. I think it is lucky not to have anything to do with him Well, you'll feel better if you think about it that way." "You don't know what you're talking about." "You can't think like that," I continued. "This horrible place... I can't bear it, let's leave! Come with me, we will talk to the orchard." "There's nothing to talk about. Nothing can change the facts. It's useless." "Maybe we'll talk about something." She shook her head. "I'm going to try it anyway," I insisted. "But, not here, I can't stand this place. Come with me, let's talk somewhere else." I took the rope from her hand and threw it into a corner; then, taking her hand, I continued, "Do you have the key to the stable?" She took it out of her pocket and held it to me.I went out with her on my arm, and when I looked back at the rafters I could almost see Mr. Dourien's evil eyes staring at me. I locked the door firmly after I closed it, and put the key in my pocket again. "Now, let's talk in the orchard!" I said. As we sat there, she was shaking; I tried not to imagine her body hanging from the rafters, swaying limply...would she do that?In the state of her mind at the time—destroyed, depressed, she really didn't want to live in this world—she would have done it. I knew I had to come and see her, and luckily I got there in time; there was a special bond between us, and now I am here to take care of her. "Tell me what happened?" I asked nervously. "It's worse than you think. You think I'm just an outcast." "Did he say he wanted to marry you?" "Uh, not quite..." "Hinted?" She nods. "I thought we were going to get married, so I... I thought it was natural... So, Freddie, it's not just about him marrying Temaris, I'm... pregnant." I was intimidated.I stared at the stream in horror, not daring to look directly at Rachel, for fear that she would see the fright in my eyes. "You...what are you going to do?" I stammered. "You also saw what I was going to do. This is the only way to solve it." "No, it's not the only way." "What else can I do?" "People have the right to have children." "Of course, if you are married, this will be great news. If it is not...it will become a sin, a shame that cannot be washed away in a lifetime." "No, sometimes the ending is too good for you to imagine. Does Temaris know about it?" "Of course not. Nobody knows except me...and you." "He...doesn't know?" "have no idea." "He's...so despicable." "It's useless to say that, it doesn't change any facts." "Yes, and now he's married to Temaris. Oh, Rachel, what shall we do?" "I can't think of anything that works, Freddie, that's why I..." "You must not do this, otherwise everyone will know that it will not be..." "At least I'm not going to put up with that here." "There must be a way." "What method? I can't even think of one." "What if you tell him?" "What's the use of that?" "Oh, poor Rachel! But we've got something to do. Too bad it's not Daniel." "Daniel?" "Daniel is such a good man, he will not be as despicable as Guston Marchmont, that villain, how can anyone care about him?" "He's very charming...different." Since I had a vague idea in my mind, and I kept trying to figure it out, I didn't pay attention to what she was saying.I thought about that clue. "I can't think of a solution," she said. "Freddie, I can't face the fact that I can just imagine everyone in Harp Green talking about this...scandal...disgrace..." I said, "Don't make up your mind so early and don't take any action. Promise me? Don't do anything stupid before I come tomorrow. Please promise me, okay?" "What are you thinking?" "I think this matter should be resolved." "what do you mean……?" "I'm not sure yet, just promise me one thing first - don't do anything stupid before you see me." "When will I see you again?" "Soon. I swear to you." "tomorrow?" "Yes, tomorrow. This is a secret, please don't do anything stupid, maybe this will be a foolproof method." "You're not going to see Guston, are you?" "Of course not! I don't want to see him again, please trust me, Rachel." "Freddie, I really don't think..." "Why do you think I got to the Stranger just in time? Because fate drove me to do it, and it was very important to tell me; because we have a very unusual relationship. I have an idea that might have hope. Solve the problem, please do as I say, trust me, Rachel." She nodded and said, "Then let's talk about it tomorrow!" So I left her.As I ran from the Great Clock House to the Glyndor Meadows, I felt the keys in my pocket vibrate up and down. I'm praying all the way, please have Daniel there!Please, please, God!Keep him at home. My prayers were answered, and he was the first person I saw when I ran to the farmhouse on the ranch. "Oh, Daniel!" I gasped. "I'm so glad to see you, there's something very important that I have to talk to you about." "Dear Freddy..." he said. "It's about Rachel," I said. "I'm very, very worried about her, can we find a place to talk?" As soon as he heard Rachel's name, his expression immediately became alert. "Come to my studio and talk about it," he said. "It's around here." I followed him. In the studio there are two stools and a long table with many different tools. "Okay," he said. "What's going on in such a hurry?" "She...she's going to hang herself." "what!" "Daniel, I'm afraid she's going to do that. She's very, very unhappy; I know you love her, and I do, and she's my best friend, and I can't stand it if anything happens to her ..." "What exactly is going on?" "It's about Guston Marchmont." His face turned pale in an instant, and his fists were clenched tightly. "What did he do?" "He married Temaris." "What does that have to do with Rachel?" "She thought he was going to marry her." "My God," he said quietly. "He is...a person who specializes in flirting with good women, and he frequently courts Rachel..." I hesitated; I prayed silently in my heart: Lord!Please, give me the confidence to get this done; I have to confess it all to him... for Rachel's sake, I have to let him know that this is the only way, it must be done; if he doesn't help, then She will definitely kill herself. I bite the bullet and say it again. "She... she's pregnant. I found her in the stable where Mr. Dourleen hanged himself. A power guides me. We are very good friends; Daniel, I would do anything for Rachel. I miss you So is it." He was staring at me in disbelief, I think he was startled, he was scared, he didn't love her as much as I thought. "She can't face this, Daniel," I begged him. "She couldn't... alone, face this alone." "In that stable," he murmured. "Mr. Dorian..." "It must have been on her mind at the time, she almost did it, Daniel, if I don't get there in time..." "Rachel..." he murmured. "She's so unhappy, oh, I hate that man!" The silence seemed to last a lifetime, and then I said, "I wish she hadn't come here. I thought you loved her enough to withstand all obstacles. Didn't you ask her to marry you?" "She doesn't accept it because of that man..." "People are not saints, how can they not make mistakes? Daniel, if you really love her... I thought you were serious, so I came to you; I thought you loved her sincerely, you would be willing to marry She, in this way, the child's matter can be resolved." I'm going too far, my role in this tragedy - with no other choice - is quickly fading away, and now I'm trying to arrange other people's lives, it's really Too arrogant, too nosy... But, Rachel's life is hanging on that rope. I heard my voice say, "I guess you'd think it's none of my business, but she's my friend, and I really... care about her, and I don't give up when I know there's a way out , and let her die like this." Next, Daniel finally spoke. "You're a good girl," he said. "You were right to come to me." "Oh, Daniel, are you serious? Then you're going to marry her? Oh, thank you...thank you." "I'll go see her," he said. "There's not much time left, and I'm worried about leaving her there, Daniel... can you leave now?" "Of course, I'll go right away," he said. He put me in front, and we rode together towards the Great Clock House. As soon as we got there, off the horse, he turned to me and said, "Go back, Freddie, and I'll talk to Rachel alone. I'll go get you before I get back to the ranch." "Oh Daniel...thank you...thank you." My lips trembled and I kept praying that everything would be as I wanted it to be. He looked at me for a while, and I could tell his heart was touched by me. Then he kissed my forehead and said, "You're such a nice girl." He turned and walked towards the Great Clock House, and I ran home and locked myself in my room. I didn't tell anyone, not even Aunt Sophie.
A month later, Daniel and Rachel got married.Due to the urgency of time, the church did not have much time to announce the wedding, so the ceremony went on peacefully.During this time, I noticed people nodding their heads in whispers and murmuring about the reasons behind the hasty wedding. Daniel felt very happy, and I felt very happy.I am very proud and very satisfied with the solution I came up with, because the unpleasantness is a thing of the past.I am mature and wise enough to see that Daniel is an unusual man, and I am lucky to have his help in this matter; I have witnessed this rare accident, such as his selfless love, and I deeply feel that Ricky I am so lucky to have him and his heart. I shared this with Rachel, and she agreed with me.She said: "She will never forget what Daniel did for her - and never asked for anything in return.Throughout her life, she will try her best to be his wife in return for his kindness. What about Tamaris?What about her life? She and Guston continued to live in St. Aubis Park.Guston tried his best to please Mrs. Saint Aubie, and I heard that Mrs. Saint Aubie really liked him.However, the cold wall between him and Chrispie still exists; Chrispie is naturally suspicious, and I believe he must have repeatedly asked himself: Why did Guston marry so hastily. I really wonder how he would react if he knew that the baby Rachel was carrying was Guston's? A few years ago, I had a glimpse of the ugly side of life that lay behind the unfortunate events of Borrow Grove.Now my knowledge has expanded again. Rachel had indeed accomplished the event of a lifetime under unusual circumstances; but what about Temaris?Maybe she was content now, but would she be happy living with someone like Guston? I often think about all the things we girls weaved back at the prom—social lives and relationships, marriage and living happily ever after—and I wonder how much of it ever came to fruition? For Rachel and the unborn baby, these are memories; for self-effacing, kind Daniel, there is no doubt that the baby will serve as a mirror reminder that Rachel and Jay The fact that Stone had been together. However, for Temaris, she had to live with this man who kept saying he loved her—but had sex with other women behind her back. Chris's attitude towards Guston is so indifferent that I wonder if he has discovered anything; my opinion of Guston is: there is no evil.What about the details of those properties in France and Scotland?Does it really exist?Did he come up with this strategy because he was afraid of being found out about his false face, in order to protect Temaris and her property? This is the most reasonable explanation. I went to visit Temaris, and she seemed to have changed a bit, becoming more enthusiastic; she was often smiling and happy, but I wondered how reliable this surface was?She has been claiming that life is happy and happy. Is this too deliberate? I asked her if she and Guston were going to settle down at Saint Auby's. "Oh, of course not," she replied. "We're still thinking about it, anyway, we're so happy here! We haven't made up our minds to live there yet, so during this period, St. Abby's Mansion has become the best place to live temporarily." "I also think this would be the perfect place!" I echoed her. "You don't think of settling abroad, do you? Like that house in France?" "Oh, you may have forgotten that Guston sold it; we might buy one there." "What about Scottish real estate?" I continued. "There's a sale going on too, otherwise we'd be living there now. My mother couldn't be happier about it, she likes Guston very much." "What about Chris Pie?" I asked. "Oh, you know, Chris Pie doesn't like anything but the things in the mansion." Is she really happy?Was there any hint of uneasiness in her conversation? For me, a whole lot of things are still uncertain.Aunt Sophie had thought that since there were going to be a few balls at St Auby's, I should have a better chance of meeting boys; but once Temaris got married, there would be no need for that. Heatherington came to me, and she said that I must increase my status and do my best for Harpgreen.This means I have to join the sewing and make coats for the poor and have nothing to wear as far away as Africa; I have to help promote the bazaar and annual celebration; Aunt Sophie was very excited when she heard the news, but after thinking about it, she felt that it was different from the plan she had arranged for me. I said, "I've got to find something to do, I mean work or something, or I'll eat you up." "It sucks! What nonsense are you talking about?" "Your life is not as easy as it was before me, so I must be burdening you." "No such thing, you are my unexpected harvest." "And you are my dearest," I responded. "I really want to do something, and preferably make some money, you have given me so much." "You brought me a lot too. But I know what you mean, you don't want to age yourself prematurely, become a martyr of country life, become Mulder Hetherington Second." "I've been thinking about what I could do, maybe find something like a tutor or a companion." Aunt Sophie looked frightened. "Let the other well-bred ladies do it! But, I really can't imagine you taking care of wild kids, or cranky old people." "Anyway, I'm not as static as most people. It may be full of freshness at the beginning; if I don't like it later, I can always leave and at least save a little money." "Forget about this thought, I've already started to miss you. The boat will be straight when it reaches the bridge, and there will be a solution when the time comes." As the time for Rachel's baby was approaching, I went to visit her at her place. She said, "It's impossible not to be happy about the baby; Freddie, I really love the baby, which is weird because it's obviously..." "It's not surprising at all. This is human nature. This child belongs to you, and it will belong to Daniel when he is born. Only the three of us know about this, and we must never tell it." "A secret that must never be told," she said. My mind immediately went to the nursery of the Lian family, and the picture of seven magpies on the wall. "This is an ancient poem." I said. "I know," Rachel said. "I've always wondered what that secret is? Do you think what's in that poet's mind?" "I guess it's a general term for any secret!" She nodded thoughtfully. It reminded me to see Flora sooner rather than later.Poor Flora, the passing of time means nothing to her, and she will live in the past all her life. Rachel said: "I'm trying to get him out of my memory completely. I was so stupid to believe him. Now that I can see the truth, I believe he is doing it for Temaris's money." And married her." “可怜的泰玛莉丝。”我说。 “的确，如今我也这么觉得了。” “而你，瑞琪儿，有个真心爱你的男人和你长相厮守。” 她点着头。我知道她并不完完全全地沉浸在快乐中；不过眼前的她已和当初我在马厩发现，手上拿着绳子的女孩大不相同了。
不久，我又去拜访泰玛莉丝。她穿着淡紫色的丝质礼服，上面缀饰着精细的蕾丝花边，样子看起来真是美极了。 “佛莱迪，你来做什么？”她想知道我的理由。 “我才刚从缝纫行列那边忙完。” 她扮了个鬼脸，说：“真有趣！我想穆德．海瑟林顿小姐不会这么轻意地放过你的。” “她的要求相当严格。” “你打算再让她控制多久？” “不久了，再过一阵子我打算找份工作做。” "What kind of job?" “我还没决定。那些受过教育的年轻小女孩能做些什么？你不知道？好吧，我告诉你：她们只能从家庭教师或女伴看护中任选一样。除了这些微不足道的工作外，其他的连想都不用想了。” “哦，别说了，”泰玛莉丝大叫。“看！克里斯派往这边走来了。” 他走了进来，然后对着我说：“午安。我看到你来了，猜想你一定在泰玛莉丝这里。” “她刚刚才告诉我，她想去找家庭教师或女伴看护之类的工作。”泰玛莉丝说。 “照顾别人的孩子，或服侍一些老女人。” “教导小孩子可能满有成就感的。”我说。 “或许是对那些经你指导而获利的小孩而言。但，你呢？当人们不需要家庭教师时，她就得收拾行李，马上离开。” “哪一种职业不是如此？” “家庭教师的需求期都是有限定的，我不认为可以把它当成是一种事业。” “我没有太多选择的自由，目前为止只有家庭教师和女伴看护这两条路。” “第二项比第一项更糟，需要女伴看护的人通常都是一天到晚爱发牢骚，这种人是很费精神的。” “也许有些人不会如此。” “如果我是个正在寻找事业方向的年轻女孩，我是不会选择这个机会的。” “唉呀！可惜你不是。” 泰玛莉丝爆出一阵大笑，他耸耸肩，我们就把话题转开了。 他离开不久后，我便回山梨之屋了。我坐在窗子旁，两眼直视着古塚树林。 我进去画室时，苏菲姨妈正好在喝茶。我常到教会去帮忙插花的事宜，由缪德莉．克莱费尔督导；她的祖先混有法国血统，所以在吃的方面特别考究。 我感到相当疲倦——和身体的损耗无关，而是因为无法发挥己长，觉得自己很愚蠢。我每天都反覆不断地问自己：到底要往哪条路走。我很惊讶地看到克里斯派和苏菲姨妈在一块儿，而她看起来好像很高兴的样子。 “哦，弗雷德莉卡来了，”她说。“圣奥比先生和我在讨论他的一个构想。” “很抱歉打扰你们，”我说。“我不知道你有客人。” “这是有关于你的事，过来这边坐，我知道你想喝杯茶。” 我拿起她为我倒的茶，然后看到她对着克里斯派微笑。 “这只是一个构想，”他说。“我想你应该会有兴趣的。你知道马里特夫妇？他是帮我管理邸园的两人之一，而马里特夫人则对他的事业辅助很大；下星期底他们俩将要动身前往澳洲，他的哥哥在那儿有个牧场，长久以来一直试着说服他们过去一起经营，如今他们总算下定了决心。” “我是有听说过一些关于他们的事。”我说。 “马里特是个好伙伴，有人已经代理他的职位了，所以这不在重点之下；主要是马里特夫人，她对他的帮助很大，而我们也因此受益不小。” “妻子通常都帮上了大忙，”苏菲姨妈下评断道。“而且都得等到不在后才被肯定。” 他勉强地笑了一笑。“的确，这么指责一点也不为过。马里特非常优秀，但马里特夫人有自己的一套，我想这就是你们所谓的'女性的体贴'。有时马里特的态度会有些粗暴，他不太爱讲话，一开口又直言不讳；而她的人际关系处理得相当得体，也比较知道邸园边缘的那些村舍……依莉沙白时代的房屋，最需要的是什么。她了解如何不让它们失去其格调；相反地，马里特会尽量以低价花费来做评估，而此举可能不适合那些村舍。她让那些佃户为自己的租地感到骄傲，你知道我的意思吗？” 苏菲姨妈自命不凡、沾沾自喜地坐在那儿，而我则怀疑着这段谈话到底目的何在？ “事实上，”克里斯派继续说。“听到你说起有意从事家庭教师或女伴看护之职，我个人认为这个工作可能更适合你。” “适合我？你的意思是……” “我在想不知你是否愿意代马里特夫人之职，这表示你将得了解所有的地产，不过最重要的还是'人'——有技巧地和他们交涉。詹姆士．波林已经代替马里特之职，所以你将和他互相配合、共事，你觉得如何？” “这真的是个惊人的消息，我不确定真正的工作内容，且也不知自己能否胜任。” “呃，你不是一直对古建筑物很有兴趣吗？”苏菲姨妈说。“而且你向来和人们都处得很好。” “你可以先试试，”克里斯派说。“如果真的不喜欢，到时候再放弃也不迟。汤姆．马森是理财的，你可以过去和他谈谈薪资的问题。试试看好吗？也许你会发现这比烦人的小鬼头，或罗唆的老女人好多了。” “我想我应该更深入地了解这个工作，”我说。“我不确定自己够不够资格接受它。” “这点不久就可以知道了。我想你会越做越有兴趣，邸园里有些房子历史都很悠久，我们必须想办法在不破坏古迹构架的原则下，尽量提升房子居住的品质，使住在里面的人更舒适。当时的人懂得如何建造这么坚固的房子，所以才能使它们在历经这么多年后，还能坚决地站立在那儿，而如今我们这些后代的子孙，已开始重视其价值了。” “我想像不出来能做些什么？” “很简单，你得去认识他们。你以公务的身份前往拜访他们，很热诚地听他们聊起任何的事，我们必须维持其良好的秩序；他们什么都可能会要求，所以你得解释为什么这么要求无法完成。到时候你就会知道了。无论如何，除非亲身去体验，否则你是无法下决心做或不做的，你觉得呢？” “我觉得这听起来很棒。”苏菲姨妈说。 “你什么时候需要我开始去做？”我问。 “越快越好。你何不去看看汤姆．马森和詹姆士．波林？他们会把详细情形告诉你的。” “谢谢你能想到我。”我说。 “我当然会想到你，”他说：“我们需要找个人来补马里特夫人的位子。” 他离开后，我们依然坐在那里听着路上传来的马蹄声渐渐远去而消失。苏菲姨妈笑着。 “太好了！”她说。“你觉得怎么样？” “简直无法相信。” “这工作听起来很温馨。” “太不可思议了。我怎么会知道地产方面的事？” “你为何不试着去学？他是我所谓的那种'神秘者'。” "What do you mean by that?" “你永远也搞不清他的心在想些什么，不过我想他的所作所为背后都隐藏些原因。” “那这件事背后的原因呢？” 她心照不宣地看着我。“我的见解是：他对你很有兴趣，不喜欢你要离开的那个主意，家庭教师的事一直像刺般困扰着他。” “你是说他自创这份工作，好把我留在这里？这太怪异了，还是从苏菲姨妈你口中说出。” “他当然有他的理由，我揣测他的想法是：必须留意、照顾你。这和过去的……” “你是指古塚树林的事吗？” “这件事我们谁也忘不了，影响的程度也都是相等的，这么说吧！因为那件事的发生，使得他对你特别有兴趣，而他认为就这样让你去进行那些冒险的计划是不对的。” “冒险的计划？当家庭教师？” “他是这么认为，别忘了他曾救过你。在这种事情发生过后，人们通常会有很强烈的感觉的。” “很难想像除了邸园以外，他还会对任何事有强烈的感觉。” “如今他的心里的确是想着邸园的——他心爱的依莉沙白时代的村舍之类的事。” 好一会儿，我们俩都默默地想着。 我说：“我要留下来，这些听起来真的挺有趣的。” “我也这么认为。”。苏菲姨妈说。
隔天，我就到圣奥比邸园办公室和汤姆．马森见面。他的个儿高高的，中年人，看起来很活泼。 “圣奥比先生告诉我你今天会来，”他说。“他认为马里特夫人是她先生的左右手，帮了很多忙，这么说一点也不为过，我们都会想念她的。你就当詹姆士．波林的助理，马里特短期间内还会来办公室帮忙，你最好能和她谈谈，以便摸清楚自己的职责所在。” "Okay," I said. “到现在我对将来份内之事都还模模糊糊的呢！” “这份工作应该不会太艰难，我们发现有她在，事情的进行会比较顺利，你最好直接和她谈；在这段期间，我们可先解决其他的细节问题。” 他告诉我邸园的一些条规：工作时数很有弹性，任何时间都有可能会有人要和我见面，而我必须在每个紧急事件发生时前往处理，有匹马将可供我使用，如果有必要也可以有马车及一匹小马。我们讨论薪资方面的问题，然后他问我有没有任何疑问，我说没有，我觉得好像没多少线索可挖掘。 马里特夫人来了。 “噢，哈罗，海曼小姐，”她说。“我听说你将来代我的职位。” “是的，而且我很急着想知道工作的内容是什么？我到现在还没完全搞清楚呢！” 她的脸蛋看起来清新可人，态度也相当随和，看得出为什么人们都很喜欢她。 她说：“开始都是这样子的。帮忙我先生没多久之后，我发现有某些特定的事情对佃户不是很适合，所以我对这个工作越来越有兴趣。邸园内有好几户需缴税的村舍，我们必须确定佃户们将它们整理得很好；我觉得他们其中有些人就抱着'反正只要一失业就得搬'的观念，所以使他们不去在乎这些事。你必须让他们把要修补的地方都向你报告；然后还有抱怨及小争论，你当然也得摆平这些，你必须去认识、了解他们……那些真正有委屈的人，和那些有抱怨及诉苦嗜好的人。我总是努力地让他们保持愉快的心情，也让他们为自己的窝感到骄傲，这其中包含着很多。我的职责之一是确定每个人在圣诞节时都有个提篮，且里面都装满了他们所要的东西。几年前这些人连煤炭都不足，如今我却发现他们的柜子里满满都是棉被。他们其中有些人很……骄傲；当然了，也有些是乞丐，他们骄傲得开不出口，所以你得去让那些富有的人捐出一部分的资产。我这样说你是不是比较有概念了？” "Oh yes." “到时候你就会认识他们了。我们的目标是使整个邸园都能乐融融地，这是让事情运作顺利的最佳方法。我会把我的笔记簿给你，里面记录着每个人的小档案。” "Thank you." “别担心，会有很多事等着你去做的。我敢说波林先生会让你忙个不停的，我先生就是这么对我的；他的确是需要一个助手，我保证你一定会忙得天昏地暗的。” “这份工作听起来颇不寻常的。” “你是说雇用一个女人吗？男人通常都认为女人成不了大事，圣奥比先生可不这么想，他说我可运用所谓'女性的直觉'去了解他们。我相信你也会成功的。” 她把笔记簿交给我，我大约地流览了一逼，正好看到一则有关矮桑树村舍的小记。 “这是莲家。”我说。 “可怜的佛萝拉，我不太和她们交涉，通常都是由圣奥比先生来照料她们，这是他的愿望。” “我知道他把她们俩照顾得很好。” “露西小姐曾是他的保姆。在这之前照顾他的人是佛萝拉小姐，这真是件悲伤的事。” “你一定很久以前就认识她们了。” “自从我嫁到这里来后。” “所以你所认识的佛萝拉小姐一直到现在都没变？” “是的。早在克里斯派还是个婴儿时，她就发疯了。” “我常在想是不是该为佛萝拉小姐做些什么事。” “例如什么样的事呢？” “我想是否该到她家去告诉她，她所珍爱的娃娃根本不是个婴儿——而只不过是个洋娃娃罢了。” “我不知道这是否可行，如果这对她有益，她姊姊老早就会想到这一招了，她把她照顾得很好。” 我问她临走的感言。 “很复杂。我丈夫急着想走，他认为那里的机会很好；他哥哥到那里后，如今已有一块肥沃的土地了。那里的土地很便宜，只要你肯努力工作收获一定会很大。” “我想这一定很有挑战性。”我说。 她也同意这点。 波林先生来后，我和他谈了很久。 他很年轻，我想大概才二十出头吧！他的笑容里充满了友善及快乐，和他共事的疑惧马上云飞四散。 他说：“你可以帮我做帐，这并不表示我们这部门有太多帐要处理，而是帐单总是零零散散地，而且算术也不是我的专门；还有信件需要处理。马里特说要忙的事情有一大堆，所以我需要你尽全力帮忙。” “我恐怕没什么经验。” “我相信这点很快就会被我们克服。” 当我回到家时，苏菲姨妈已等不及想知道所有的进展，我告诉她这真的是个名副其实的工作，而不是如她凭空想像的梦——克里斯派为了留住我而塞给我的工作。 “这不是件挂名的差事，”我冷静地告诉她。“我想到时候我会忙得喘不过气来。” “我很高兴，”她回应我说。“我确实不要你离开，而且也不认为你适合家庭教师的工作。”