Chapter 6 Chapter 6 Danielle
So I started working at St. Aubie's Garden.
The first morning James.Pauline helped me a lot, showing me some papers and books of account, and writing some letters under his instructions.He showed me a map of the mansion. The area of the property was much larger than I imagined.
"You might as well go and look at the cottages on horseback," he suggested. "You know, the row of Tudor houses at the corner of the park. You can tell them you're the man to replace Mrs. Marritt, and they're all fond of her; she's naturally compassionate, and I see It turns out that you also have this quality, which is why Mr. Saint Aubie chose you. That's all right, I'll go with you and introduce you to them by the way."
What a great idea.
"What kind of horse do you like to ride?" he asked me as we walked to the stables.
"Don't be too lively. I didn't start riding until I came to Harp Green more than five years ago."
"Oh, I see. We'll find the right horse and he'll get used to you. I'll talk to Dick or Charlie. You can trust their vision of horses."
He was right, and soon we were riding through the park.He took me to several places he thought I needed to know.
"There's a lot of work involved in this place," he said. "I haven't been here for a long time, but I can see that Mr. St. Aubie has taken good care of the property. I guess his father must have let his career let it sink."
"Yes, I've heard about that too."
"So he didn't inherit this from his father, which is considered a great blessing for the mansion. Most of the houses in the mansion belong to the St. Aubie family's property, but some pastures have been taken over by Mr. St. Aubie's father. Sold it, like Grindel Ranch; Archie Grindel managed it well after they bought it."
"He recently married the aunt of one of my girlfriends," I told him.
"Yes, he has now moved to Great Bell House to enjoy his retirement, but his two sons have taken over very well. This morning, I think we will have a good look at the row of Tudor cottages .”
The old red bricks, the latticed windows, and the overhanging gables of the cottage looked beautiful in the sunlight, which I believe must have been poor; there were six houses in all, each with a little open space around them, I have seen the so-called "old houses" several times.
"It's beautiful." I said.
"The ancestors knew how to build a real house, think about how they have stood here for so many years... and they are so small in the sky and the earth. Elegant, right? However, some people complain that it is too dark inside."
"It is impossible to make any changes to these windows."
"It will be illegal, do you agree?"
"Very agree. It's nice to live in a well-lit place, but a house like this has to retain its beauty even if it's inconvenient."
"You'll get to know the tenants before long. Mr. St. Aubie likes the community as a family, and he says that's what makes them productive; a lot of people work on the ranch... About a tenth ...Except for those loyal old servants who stay at home. First, let's see Mrs. Pan. She must be at home. The poor old man is bedridden now; her husband works in the garden, and she At home, visitors are important to her, the door is only barred during the day, and her daughter-in-law will surprise with a hot lunch at noon. She is the best to whine, but in her situation , who wouldn't do that?"
He unlatched the door and called, "Mrs. Penn, James Boleyn and Miss Hyman are here to see you. May I come in?"
"Didn't you come in?" A sharp voice came out.
"Then, are you glad to see us here?"
"Come in," she said. "By the way, also close the door."
The bed is close to the window so that she can see the outside world.Her aging face was lined; her graying hair was braided into two braids, and she propped her head up on a pillow.
"Oh! Mrs. Mallett has gone to Australia," she said. "That queer place, which we used to call Botany Bay, was where the convicts were exiled."
"That's all in the past, Mrs. Pan," said James.said Pauline cheerfully. "It's quite a different place now. It's a very civilized place. Besides, we used to be cave people... just better than monkeys."
"Everything you say makes sense," she said, staring at me. "I like Mrs. Mallett," she added. "She's willing to listen to what people have to say."
"I swear I'll listen to you too," I said.
"Too bad she's gone."
"I'm here to take her place. I'll come here to see you from now on."
James brought over two chairs from another room and we sat down.
"If you have any complaints, feel free to complain to Miss Hyman," James said.
"Okay," Mrs. Pan announced. "Go and tell Mrs. Potter that I don't like seed biscuits and that I like jam sandwiches .
I write these things down in a notebook I have prepared in advance.
"Is there any local news, Mrs. Pun?" James asked, and then he turned to me.
"Yeah, I like to know what's going on. Something happened here last Saturday night, Sheila..."
"Oh, Sheila?" James explained, turning to me again, "Sheila Gant has come to live in the last room . . . at the bottom of the cottage. Mrs. Gant died nine months ago, and Harry Gantt can't afford all this change."
"He was very worried about Sheila," Mrs. Penn explained. "Watch out, he's got some trouble there and needs help. She looks very frivolous, a little girl under fifteen. I think he's going to have a big fight with her someday—that day should be soon." Arrived."
"Poor Harry Gant," said James. "He's a groom, and he's moved to the cottage because more than a quarter of the stables are full. We'll see him, but I don't think he'll be home at this time. Well, Mrs. Pan, you have met our new lady."
"She seems a little too young." Mrs. Pan seemed to ignore my existence.
"Her age will not affect her ability to do things, Mrs. Pan."
Mrs. Pan muttered and complained. "Okay!" she said. "Remember, my dear; my birthday is coming up, and they used to bring pastries, and tell them no seed pancakes, but jam sandwiches—no pits in the jam!"
"I will." I promised her.
The door was opened suddenly, and a woman poked her head in.
"How are you doing, Mrs. Grace?" James asked.
"Very well, sir. I will leave you alone."
"It's okay, we are just about to leave, there are a lot of things waiting for us to do!"
Mrs. Grace came in and James presented me. "This is the wife of the head gardener and Mrs. Pan's daughter-in-law."
"You are Miss Cuttingham's niece, and I remember you when you first came."
"I was thirteen then."
"Now you are one with us."
"I think so."
"We really have to go," James said.So after shaking hands with Mrs. Grace, we left.
I said, "That poor old woman must be very ill in bed all day."
"I think she likes being at home and waiting for her daughter-in-law to attend to her. It's Wilbur's Cottage, and Dick's a carpenter, and Mary is a kitchen helper, and I doubt they'll be home now. We'll see. gone."
We knocked on the door, and he hit the nail on the head.
"That's John Gehrig's place, I guess he's in the garden; he used to work in the garden until he retired from work in recent years, and now he spends all his time in his garden .”
As soon as he saw us, he took us to see his rose garden and vegetable garden, and gave each of us a cabbage; he also told me that the old oak tree in the garden took the sunshine from some herbs, He wished he could prune it, but the work required climbing a ladder and his rheumatism held him back.
I took it down and told him I'd get a gardener to look at it.
So we went on.Among them, the one that impressed me the most was Sheila.Gantt up.Her father works, so she's alone in the house most of the time, and she's pretty—with wavy brown hair and mischievous eyes—and I get the impression she's waiting for adventure.
"I hope Diyuan can find something for her to do," James told me. "When Diyuan needs extra help, she goes to her mother, and she makes delicious pastries."
Sheila let us in and said her father was away at work.I noticed that she was evaluating me all the time; she told me that she had left school and had been staying home helping her father with chores, but that she wasn't going to spend her life doing them.
After we left, James said, "You can see now why this girl has Harry Gant busy."
I can indeed understand.After staying away from those cottages, I said, "Where's the Lian family?"
"Well, they're special cases. You know about Flora?"
"Well, I visit her often. Shouldn't we go and see them now?"
"certainly."
"If Lucy isn't here, Flora will be out."
"Mr. St. Aubie took care of them himself. He also knew that they had both been his nurses when he was little, so they were of particular interest to him."
"I know."
We passed the garden gate and saw Flora sitting there, and she seemed surprised to see us together.
I said, "I'm here today on official business."
She looked at me puzzled.Almost immediately, Lucy came out of the house.
"I heard you took the job," she said. "You don't need to add us."
"I know Mr. St. Obie takes good care of you," James told her.
"Exactly," said Lucy.
"I just wanted to let you know that I've represented Mrs. Mallett," I explained.
"Very well," said Lucy, "she's always been a nice person, and doesn't try to pry into people's lives all the time...if you know what I mean."
I know what she means, I've shown too much curiosity; I have to remember to only come when Lucy is out... as I used to.
During the beginning period, James.Pauline helped me a lot, he made me feel useful, otherwise I might have believed that I wasn't really needed here at all - like my original reaction. James had a small apartment near the real estate office; it had three rooms, a kitchen and all the necessary equipment.Marritt's cabin has been redecorated by a married couple. Thanks to James' leadership and guidance, I soon became very interested in the garden, and at the same time I was able to understand why Chris Pai fell in love with work.I always reported all the wonderful details to Aunt Sophie when I got home, and she always listened attentively. "These people all work there!" she said. "Think about it! It creates an income for them; and then there are people like Mrs. Pan who just stay at home every day and depend on what they call 'the lord of the garden' - in other words the great Do-gooder, Mr. Crispie--care." "Indeed, he made it all work; it's impossible to imagine what it would have been like before he took over, and his father's neglect of the tenants put their livelihood at risk." "His hobby is: being able to appear at the most appropriate moment." Aunt Sophie said calmly as if something happened. One day, when Chris sent into the office of the mansion, he happened to see me sitting at the table, and James next to me was showing me an account book. He said, "Good morning," and looked at me and said, "Is everything going well?" "Very well," James responded. I said, "Mr. Pauline has been a great help to me." "Very good." After Chris Pai finished speaking, he walked outside. The next day James and I rode out to a ranch. "It's about the broken roof," James told me earlier. "Perhaps you should come too, so you can meet Mrs. Janis. It's your job to get on good terms with these ladies." On the way we met Chris Pie again. "We're going to Johnny's Ranch, and there's something wrong with the roof," James told him. "I see, goodbye." Chris Pai left us after finishing speaking. The next day I visited Mary at the cottage again.Wilbur, whose arm was scalded by hot water while working in the kitchen of St Aubie's. Chris sent riding towards me. "Good morning," he said. "How is Mrs. Wilbur?" "Kind of being intimidated," I replied. "The burns on her arms look serious." "I'll look for you in the office, and Pauline will tell me where you are." I thought he was going to walk with me for a while, but... no. Instead, he said, "I wonder how you're getting used to it, maybe we can find a place to have lunch together... a place that's better for talking. What do you think?" Usually I bring my own sandwich to eat in the office, and then I go to James' kitchen to make a cup of tea or coffee; James is often not in the office, but whenever he is, he will always have lunch with me. I said, "Of course." "I know there's a good place on Davids Road, let's go there, and you'll have enough time to tell me what you think." I feel so proud and happy.Several times I believed that Aunt Sophie's first reaction to this incident was correct, thinking that he was trying to keep me from leaving, so he offered me a job in Diyuan's business.Occasionally I can feel that he is really interested in me, like now I feel very happy; but sometimes, I believe that my work is necessary, and he doesn't have any special feelings for me, and he is not interested in me. There is further progress.But ever since he invited me to lunch, I began to suspect that perhaps Aunt Sophie's deduction was partly true. We passed the barrow woods, a place that still haunts me, and neither of us spoke a word as we walked through the woods.I glimpsed one of these ancient tombs through the shadowy woods, and thought: I will never forget this, it is etched in my mind, it cannot be erased. Chris Pie said: "The restaurant I want to go to is called 'Little Vixen'. Have you seen it? It has a very realistic little fox outside as a sign." "I think I know. It's just off the main road." "They have a nice stable, and their lunch specials are simple and wholesome." He couldn't be exaggerating - very wholesome.Let's order ham. "It's all preserved by them," Chris Pie said. "They own a small ranch and they do it very well; they also grow their own vegetables." We ordered lettuce, tomato and baked potatoes (with skin) to go with the ham. He asked if I would like wine or apple juice and I said wine would make me so sleepy I might have work to do in the afternoon! "It's reflected in both of us. We'd better drink apple juice," he said with a smile. When the food came, he said, "Well, tell me how the work is going!" "Very well, thank you for your concern. Mr. Pauline is very kind and has helped me a lot." "I've noticed that you two work well together." I looked at him calmly and said, "Sometimes I feel..." "What do you think?" he asked. "Mrs. Marritt, like most wives, does her best to help their husbands. Perhaps it can't be called her own work! She's just a . . . appendage at her side." "I don't think she's going to be flattered by that," he said, raising his eyebrows. "I know she's popular and things are going well, but sometimes I feel like the job has been developed out of thin air...well, just to give me something to do." "Are you saying things haven't kept you busy?" "I'm busy, but sometimes I think it's a bit of a stretch. I mean, do you really need someone to walk around the cottages and find out that Mrs. Penn likes jam sandwiches and doesn't like seed biscuits and things like that? " "Is this what you found?" "One of them, yes." He started laughing. "That might sound like fun," I said hesitantly. "But, I want to know exactly if what I'm doing is worth it...or are you just pitying me. You know I really want to do things." "Your aunt doesn't want you to leave." "I know, I don't want to stay and burden her." "Burden? I always thought she was happier with you." "She's not rich." "I didn't know she was in financial trouble." "No. Her life is quite comfortable." "Then how can you be a burden?" "yes……" "Your pride?" he asked. "If you like to say it, yes. I have a little money of my own, and after my mother's house was sold, we used that money to pay for school, but my father gave me some education money, and I used that Make a small investment of money, so it can bring me a small income." "So you're very independent," he said. "And country life is a bit too mundane for you." "Everyone wants to do something. You have a garden, you're so busy every day, you can understand that I want to do something real, not just arranging flowers, sewing a coat or something. You can understand how I feel ?" "I know very well." "Tell me the content and situation of my work." "This is more suitable for you than teaching a group of savage and immature brats." "Children who are carefully cared for and brought up are not brats, and they seldom yell." "The position is too undignified for a proud young lady like you; and I will not allow you to be put in such a situation if I can help it." "You don't allow it?" "I just care about how this will affect you. Believe me, this will be a big mistake." "how do you know?" "Take other people's experience as a guide; I've always found the lives of governesses and chaperones to be pathetic, with their children's emotional ups and downs, and caring for the elderly is often a chore. Nope, I must say, this kind of life is not for Frederica Heyman." "So you created this job for her?" "This job is worth doing, Mrs. Mallett has proven it, I didn't need to invent it; it's already there, and it's amazing that you're just right to fill the void." I watched him for clues, and he just sat there smiling at me.Next, he reached out suddenly, took mine across the table, and stroked mine gently. "I think," he said. "I'm particularly interested in you." "Are you referring to the incident at the Burrow Grove?" "Perhaps so!" he replied.Then, as if embarrassed, he found himself holding my hand tightly, so he let me go quickly. "Does it still bother you?" he continued. "I'll remember it several times." "For example, when passing by there this morning?" "yes." "One day I will go there with you. We have to stand at the scene of the incident and then get rid of that nightmare from memory. You must forget about it." "I don't think I can completely forget." "Someday it will, won't it?" "He killed himself," I said. "He was psychologically unbalanced at the time, and you couldn't measure him from the perspective of a normal person. This is the best result. Look at the changes in the Great Clock House. Mrs. Archie Grindel is now a happy woman and Rachel too. It's a good thing to be able to kill a demon, think about it!" "I think you're right." "I want you to forget about all the unsatisfactory things, don't worry about what you did in Diyuan; I promise you, everything will be worth it, I'm a businessman, I won't do something meaningless to mess with me business." He looked like a different person than he used to, and suddenly I was happy.I still believe he designed a job for me. How much did he know about governesses and chaperones?Very little, I'm sure.He offered me this job mainly to keep me. "Here's ginger pudding with custard; and apple and blackberry pie with cream and blancmange. I'll have apple and blackberry pie." "me too." When dessert arrived, he said, "There's something I want to talk to you about. It's about Temaris. You don't see her much now, do you?" "I have my own job and she's married." "Of course. I'm a little worried about her, er, I should say worried." "why?" "I don't think things are going very well." "How to say?" "I guess her husband isn't half as good as the image she's woven," he said, frowning. "What do you mean by that?" "Maybe I shouldn't be talking to you about this, but I thought you might be able to help." "How to help?" "She might tell you that you were good friends when you were students." "She used to like to talk about herself as a topic; but recently..." "I'm sure she'll be like this again. Go see her and find out how she feels. Hope it's not as bad as I thought it would be, actually, I know..." I waited for him to continue.After a long pause, he said, "I just talked to you about that unpleasant experience not long ago, and if I think it made our relationship special, is that correct?" "Probably right." "I believe so. You see, not many people know about it, just your aunt, you and me, so it's right to keep it a secret. It's right to keep it a secret when so many good things are unraveled by it." .and for these participants, there will always be special feelings in the heart.” "Oh?" "You and I..." He looked at me with a smile, his gentle expression almost touched me. I hasten to say, "You can trust me and have faith in me." "Well, I have to admit that I was very unhappy with this marriage. I had a big backlash at the beginning. I didn't think there was a need to rush. I think it was just him tricking her into elopement under the guise of being romantic. Now it seems It seems that this is not the case again. In fact, I have been sending people to investigate secretly, and found that he has no real estate in France and Scotland. I doubt whether his name is really Guston Marchmont. Not quite proven, but I believe his real name is George Matthews, and he's a big liar . . . an opportunist." "Poor Temaris, she's so proud of him." "She was a foolish girl, too gullible, and now she's married to him; he's lied a lot, he's cheated a lot, but he's also her husband. He knows I'm supposed to get someone to look into him, That's why I arranged this elopement before I found out the truth. Now she's married, so we have to accept him; of course, he might settle down, and we have to give him a chance. If she's with him If we can be happy together..." He shrugged. "That's what I'm anxious to know. I don't think she's really enjoying the happiness of being newlywed at all, and maybe she's got the feeling that he's not quite the gentleman he made him be; but if he's going to turn around and settle down ..." "Will you arrange a job for him in Diyuan?" "I might do that, but I'll have to be very cautious about it, and get to know his intentions first. As you can guess, I looked at him with wide eyes and suspicion. The current situation is not simple. , That's why I want you to find out some clues from Temaris, find out her true feelings, and see if she really loves him? We must find a rational solution in this chaotic situation. " If he knew that Rachel's upcoming baby was Guston.Marchmont's, I wonder what his opinion would be?I couldn't tell him about it, it was Rachel's secret and I had no right to reveal it. I said, "I'm not sure if Temaris would tell me these things." "You can try it. I think it is very necessary to see the matter clearly. I am afraid that there is unpleasantness hidden in it." "I'll do my best," I promised. "Thank you." He leaned back in his chair and looked at me with a smile. "I am sure the work this morning will be very satisfactory," he said.
I went to visit Temaris the next day. "How are you?" I asked. "Very good," she replied. "Everything is perfect." "Where's Guston?" "He's still as good as ever," she said with a laugh, and I wondered how much she was telling the truth. "You have a job," she continued. "The job title is 'Tenant Liaison'. Sounds like something important. How do you get along with James Pollin?" "Who told you this?" "Don't look like a kid who made a mistake, you know this little place can't keep secrets. People tell me they see you two together a lot." "We cooperate with each other and work together." "Sounds good!" "Yes. Tell me about yourself! Are you really happy in your married life?" I noticed that she was silent for a moment before saying, "I'm so happy." I knew right away that she wouldn't reveal anything to me, and if something was wrong, she wasn't ready to admit it. "I guess you're going to be moving to your place soon?" I said. "Of course. But it's been such a comfortable time here, and my mother likes Guston so much - he really knows how to amuse her - she'd be furious if we suggested leaving." "Then where are you going to live then?" "We are thinking about it, maybe we will travel for a while! Guston wants to introduce me to the whole of Europe. Paris, Venice, Rome, Florence, etc." "Sounds great, so married life is really colorful!" "I told you that marriage is awesome. Why do you keep hanging around this?" "Sorry, I just wanted to be sure." "Are you starting to make arrangements for yourself too?" she asked mischievously. "It's not at all in my mind, and for obvious reasons," I said succinctly. I left frustrated.Temaris had changed, she had become unnatural, and my gut told me that she was no longer the happy little girl who thought things were going to go her way. Now I know Guston.Marchmont was a flamboyant womanizer, and he had completely deluded both Temaris and Rachel; he was a good-talking rogue, and Chris sent to see him for what he really was, but it was too late.Poor Temaris!At least Rachel has a man who loves her and is willing to accept her, although I don't think she's entirely happy either. On the way back to the office, I passed the row of old cottages, and all I could think about was what Temaris and Chris were worrying about her. Walking to the bottom of the row of cottages, I was surprised to see Guston himself, standing by Gantle's cottage talking to Sheila. I keep walking while he walks towards me. "Hello," he said cheerfully. "Good afternoon," I responded to him. "I just went to chat with Temaris." "Very good, she must be very happy. How are you? I heard that you are very busy recently, miss. This job is very suitable for you. You look radiant." "Thank you for your compliment." I said coldly. "Can I go with you?" "I'm going back to the office." "Skipping shift, huh?" "No, my working hours are unlimited." "It's the best kind of work. I was passing there and I saw the little girl, and I figured she lived there, and I was asking about her father." "Oh? Is he unwell?" "I heard that he is ill, but I think it's probably the wrong person!" Knowing all his crimes, I couldn't talk to him normally, and I felt uncomfortable even walking with him. I was relieved when I arrived at the office.
As Rachel's labor day approached, my visits to her became more frequent. For a few weeks she seemed calm and serene, and I noticed that pregnant women didn't care much about anything other than the baby in their womb, and they all thought it was a long time before they saw each other. But now that the day was getting closer, I noticed a look of panic on her face. Our friendship has grown stronger since she got married, and I know that both she and Daniel consider me a best friend.Rachel once said to me, "Did you know that you played a very important role in our life stage? If you didn't find me? If I..." "That's how life is, isn't it? Only when the right time, place and people are right can a whole play be staged in series." "But, you did a great thing for us." "I was just too bold. I admit I hesitated for a moment, but a voice told me Daniel loved you enough and was strong enough. You were lucky enough to be his wife; he bleeds for you I'm not the one who sweats." "Daniel and I both affirm what you've done for both of us." "I'm glad to hear that, especially after making such a bold move, it's such a good feeling to find out I was right." "We're all lucky, but for you..." She trembled. "You multiply your happiness by knowing your luck. Some people just don't know that." "It won't be long before it's all gone. One more thing, Freddie..." "What's up?" "Daniel has been nice to me, but..." "but what?" "This baby. It would be nice if it was his baby; but it's not. It's a fact of life, no matter how good he is... no matter how hard he tries to pretend." "camouflage?" "Love this child. He won't forget, and I'm afraid he'll resent the baby... no, he won't, he won't resent anyone, especially an innocent child... But, when he sees the baby, He'll think about everything. I can't stand this happening, I've grown to love this kid, even though he shouldn't be here, I still love him. He's my kid, and if Daniel doesn't love him, I will Unbearable." "Daniel is a good guy, the nicest guy." "I know. He will try his best, but the facts cannot be changed; seeing this child must remind him of the past, won't it?" "He knew about it all along." "When the baby is actually born, it's different again. I don't want this baby to grow up in the shadows; I think I love him more just because he needs me to love and care for him in a special way. I've always wanted this Boy, now I'm afraid to see Daniel's reaction; he's not the type to hide himself, what will happen to him when the baby is born. Freddie, you are our closest friend, no one knows Guston and I . . . only you. Everyone thinks the baby is me and Daniel's and that's why we married so hastily; Married in a rush to atone for sin. You're the only one who knows the truth, Freddie, do you know what I mean? Only with you can we talk freely." "You must forget about Guston, it's all over, and you must cherish the happiness you have in your hands. It was the child that brought about your marriage to Daniel, and it was the best thing you ever did... For both of you. You have to think of the good things, Rachel." "I know, what I want to say is, will you be there when the baby is born? I want you to be there with Daniel; I want you to tell him I love him so much; I was foolish enough to be easily charmed by him, and now I can see everything. He was a modest man, and always thought himself far inferior to the charming Guston; but now that his charm is gone, I finally See through him, I want to let Daniel know about it, but I'm afraid he won't understand. I want you to be with him when the baby is born, tell him what I told you, maybe you can find a way to make him understand .” "I will, I will do my best, Rachel," I said. She leaned forward and gave me a light peck on the cheek.
A few days later, when we were having breakfast, a worker from the Greendale Ranch came to me in a hurry. He said: Mrs. Daniel is going to give birth today, and the midwife, Mrs. Cooper, has rushed to the ranch to help. 我赶紧到办公室把这件事告诉詹姆士，并告诉他若有任何紧急事件要和我连络，可以在格林多牧场找到我。我立刻到瑞琪儿那里。她脸色苍白地躺在床上，神色有些恐惧。 “哦，佛莱迪，”她说。“我真高兴看到你，我知道你会来的。” “你觉得怎么样？” “还好，才刚开始。丹尼尔在吗？” “在，我会陪他的。” 她的脸突然扭曲了起来，古柏夫人立刻跑到床边。“小姐，你最好快离开，”她对我说。 “我和医生连络过，看样子他可能已经来了。” 我对瑞琪儿微笑，然后才离开。走到楼梯时，我遇见丹尼尔。 我说：“她要我在这里。” “我知道，”他说，“一切都还顺利吗？” “当然。古柏夫人很在行的，她的风评一向很好，而且医生也已经来了。我们要在哪里等呢？” “在我的办公室等好了。要多久呢？” “这种事没有特定多久能完成，我们要耐心地等。” “对我来说实在太难了。” 他带我到一楼的一个小房间里。房内的墙上摆满了牧场的帐簿及有关书籍，还有几件动物标本；有个桌子，桌上满布着写字纸；还有几把椅子。 “我不想和其他任何人一起等，”他说。“瑞琪儿的姨妈待会就会过来了，她的人真的很好，但她总是大题小作的，会把我搞得心烦意乱。” “你不介意我在这里吗？” “不……不介意。” “瑞琪儿要我一定要在这里陪你，她很担心你。” “担心我？” “人们说有些丈夫在这种特殊的情况下，与妻子的受苦程度一样强烈。” “我想她不会有事的。” “当然了，她既年轻又坚强，而且一切都进行得很顺利。你知道的，每天都有一大堆宝宝诞生。” “是没错……但，这是瑞琪儿啊！” "She'll be fine." "hope so." “如今她过得很好了，丹尼尔，是你使她这么快乐的。” “有时我还会怀疑，我看到她的眼睛里流露出一股悲哀的神情。我觉得有时候当她往回看时……会觉得很后悔。” “你知道原因何在的，丹尼尔。她往回看时，对过去发生的事深感后悔；在经历这么多的事后，她最希望这孩子是你的。” "me too." “她很担心。这是她的孩子，丹尼尔，这是她的一部分。” “无论如何，我只要她快快乐乐的。”他诚心地说。 “她会的，你也是……如果你不再压抑自己的情感的话。” “但，她会一直往回看，而我……” “你必须向前看，丹尼尔。你为她做了那么多的事，明白地表示了那么深的爱，这一点是没人比她更清楚的了；你必须忘了过去，继续往前走，你必须让这孩子也变成是你的，这就是她所担心的；她觉得你一定会想到过去，然后让过去成为你和孩子之间的障碍，这么一来你们辛苦经营的家就会被破坏了。” “我无法忘记谁才是那孩子真正的父亲。” “那孩子一出生的那刻起就是你的了，你必须看清这一点。” “我做不到；如果你是我，你办得到吗？” “我会尽全力去试的，因为若不如此，所有的幸福和快乐就会消失无存了。” “我知道你说得对，”他说。“那瑞琪儿呢？” “这一切全看你的了，丹尼尔。爱一个小孩并不是件难事，更何况别忘了这是瑞琪儿的孩子；而他之所以来到这世上，是因为你爱她太深了。” “你替我们俩做了很多，我一辈子也忘不了。” “我觉得你和瑞琪儿都很幸运能拥有对方，丹尼尔。”我说。 我们静静地坐在那里，竖耳凝听秒针的摆动，心情也跟着越来越沉重，他和我心里都在想着：到底还要等多久？ 宝宝不到黄昏就出生了。医生走下楼来看我们，从他脸上的表情我知道一切进行得非常顺利，他的样子看起来容光焕发的。 “恭喜你，格林多先生，是个女孩，”他说。“非常健康的女孩。” “那……我的妻子呢？” “虽然疲倦，但也欢欣雀跃得开心不已；待会儿你就可以和她见面了，现在她最需要的莫过于是休息了。” 我们到楼上的卧房去。瑞琪儿看起来很苍白，但，就如医生所言——欢欣得雀跃不已。古柏夫人用披肩把婴儿裹起来，只露出那张红通通且布满皱纹的脸。她把那包礼物放入丹尼尔的手臂里。我战战兢兢地等着，这么多的事都靠这关键性的一刻。瑞琪儿仔细地看着他。 “她好漂亮，”他说。“我们的孩子。” 这简直太完美了！我察觉到自己早已热泪满眶了。 瑞琪儿看着我说：“佛莱迪，你来了。” “我当然会来，我想看看孩子。你不能独占她，丹尼尔。” 我把孩子抱在手上——这个小家伙对他们的人生影响可真大——而在这段期间以来，我一直告诉自己：一切都会完美地解决的。如今结局果真很完美。
生和死一直是生命最主要的两个点，所以整个哈普葛林也陷入一片热闹声中。每个人对格林多家的新生儿都很感兴趣，大家都很欢迎这个新人加入，而受洗礼拜也将在教堂举行。我花好多时间陪瑞琪儿，通常我都是在午餐时间走到她家，和她一起用餐。宝宝长得很好。 “丹尼尔真的很爱她，”瑞琪儿告诉我。“他怎么能抗拒她？她是那么地可人。” 她的确是。看来她进步了不少，初次见到她时有如一个满脸皱纹的九十岁高龄老绅士，现在比较像个婴儿了。她的眼睛是蓝色的，头发颜色也很黑：非常幸运的，到目前为止没有任何特征和佳斯顿．马奇蒙有相似的地方。最后我们终于讨论到命名的问题了。 “如果她是男的，”瑞琪儿说。“我就会把他命名为小丹尼尔，这样就可让丹尼尔觉得她真的是他的孩子。” “这是个好主意，我相信丹尼尔一定会很高兴的。” “我想他已经把她视为己出了，佛莱迪，我认为应该以你的名字来命名。” “弗雷德莉卡！哦，不行！佛莱德……佛莱迪……光用想的就觉得很可怕！我绝对不会把自己的孩子取和我同样的名字。” “这段日子以来，你和我们是那么地亲近。” “没有任何理由规定这可怜的孩子得牺牲来取我的名字为名。我想到了，有个女孩子的名字，应该是法国名字……反正哪一国都无所谓。这名字和你的本意很近，我觉得这个主意会很好……丹妮儿，你觉得如何？” “丹妮儿！”瑞琪儿大叫。“听起来和丹尼尔一样，但我觉得应该取为弗雷德莉卡。” “不，不行，绝对不可以。这样一来不就又会成了个暗示吗！我们要完完全全地远离过去的不幸。她是你和丹尼尔的……这才是重点，她一定要叫做丹妮儿。” “我懂你的意思了。”瑞琪儿说。 当雷凡伦．海瑟林顿为瑞琪儿的宝宝受洗时，大多数的哈普葛林村民都来到教堂；典礼之后，丹尼尔带着丹妮儿及满心的骄傲，走回格林多牧场。
During the beginning period, James.Pauline helped me a lot, he made me feel useful, otherwise I might have believed that I wasn't really needed here at all - like my original reaction. James had a small apartment near the real estate office; it had three rooms, a kitchen and all the necessary equipment.Marritt's cabin has been redecorated by a married couple. Thanks to James' leadership and guidance, I soon became very interested in the garden, and at the same time I was able to understand why Chris Pai fell in love with work.I always reported all the wonderful details to Aunt Sophie when I got home, and she always listened attentively. "These people all work there!" she said. "Think about it! It creates an income for them; and then there are people like Mrs. Pan who just stay at home every day and depend on what they call 'the lord of the garden' - in other words the great Do-gooder, Mr. Crispie--care." "Indeed, he made it all work; it's impossible to imagine what it would have been like before he took over, and his father's neglect of the tenants put their livelihood at risk." "His hobby is: being able to appear at the most appropriate moment." Aunt Sophie said calmly as if something happened. One day, when Chris sent into the office of the mansion, he happened to see me sitting at the table, and James next to me was showing me an account book. He said, "Good morning," and looked at me and said, "Is everything going well?" "Very well," James responded. I said, "Mr. Pauline has been a great help to me." "Very good." After Chris Pai finished speaking, he walked outside. The next day James and I rode out to a ranch. "It's about the broken roof," James told me earlier. "Perhaps you should come too, so you can meet Mrs. Janis. It's your job to get on good terms with these ladies." On the way we met Chris Pie again. "We're going to Johnny's Ranch, and there's something wrong with the roof," James told him. "I see, goodbye." Chris Pai left us after finishing speaking. The next day I visited Mary at the cottage again.Wilbur, whose arm was scalded by hot water while working in the kitchen of St Aubie's. Chris sent riding towards me. "Good morning," he said. "How is Mrs. Wilbur?" "Kind of being intimidated," I replied. "The burns on her arms look serious." "I'll look for you in the office, and Pauline will tell me where you are." I thought he was going to walk with me for a while, but... no. Instead, he said, "I wonder how you're getting used to it, maybe we can find a place to have lunch together... a place that's better for talking. What do you think?" Usually I bring my own sandwich to eat in the office, and then I go to James' kitchen to make a cup of tea or coffee; James is often not in the office, but whenever he is, he will always have lunch with me. I said, "Of course." "I know there's a good place on Davids Road, let's go there, and you'll have enough time to tell me what you think." I feel so proud and happy.Several times I believed that Aunt Sophie's first reaction to this incident was correct, thinking that he was trying to keep me from leaving, so he offered me a job in Diyuan's business.Occasionally I can feel that he is really interested in me, like now I feel very happy; but sometimes, I believe that my work is necessary, and he doesn't have any special feelings for me, and he is not interested in me. There is further progress.But ever since he invited me to lunch, I began to suspect that perhaps Aunt Sophie's deduction was partly true. We passed the barrow woods, a place that still haunts me, and neither of us spoke a word as we walked through the woods.I glimpsed one of these ancient tombs through the shadowy woods, and thought: I will never forget this, it is etched in my mind, it cannot be erased. Chris Pie said: "The restaurant I want to go to is called 'Little Vixen'. Have you seen it? It has a very realistic little fox outside as a sign." "I think I know. It's just off the main road." "They have a nice stable, and their lunch specials are simple and wholesome." He couldn't be exaggerating - very wholesome.Let's order ham. "It's all preserved by them," Chris Pie said. "They own a small ranch and they do it very well; they also grow their own vegetables." We ordered lettuce, tomato and baked potatoes (with skin) to go with the ham. He asked if I would like wine or apple juice and I said wine would make me so sleepy I might have work to do in the afternoon! "It's reflected in both of us. We'd better drink apple juice," he said with a smile. When the food came, he said, "Well, tell me how the work is going!" "Very well, thank you for your concern. Mr. Pauline is very kind and has helped me a lot." "I've noticed that you two work well together." I looked at him calmly and said, "Sometimes I feel..." "What do you think?" he asked. "Mrs. Marritt, like most wives, does her best to help their husbands. Perhaps it can't be called her own work! She's just a . . . appendage at her side." "I don't think she's going to be flattered by that," he said, raising his eyebrows. "I know she's popular and things are going well, but sometimes I feel like the job has been developed out of thin air...well, just to give me something to do." "Are you saying things haven't kept you busy?" "I'm busy, but sometimes I think it's a bit of a stretch. I mean, do you really need someone to walk around the cottages and find out that Mrs. Penn likes jam sandwiches and doesn't like seed biscuits and things like that? " "Is this what you found?" "One of them, yes." He started laughing. "That might sound like fun," I said hesitantly. "But, I want to know exactly if what I'm doing is worth it...or are you just pitying me. You know I really want to do things." "Your aunt doesn't want you to leave." "I know, I don't want to stay and burden her." "Burden? I always thought she was happier with you." "She's not rich." "I didn't know she was in financial trouble." "No. Her life is quite comfortable." "Then how can you be a burden?" "yes……" "Your pride?" he asked. "If you like to say it, yes. I have a little money of my own, and after my mother's house was sold, we used that money to pay for school, but my father gave me some education money, and I used that Make a small investment of money, so it can bring me a small income." "So you're very independent," he said. "And country life is a bit too mundane for you." "Everyone wants to do something. You have a garden, you're so busy every day, you can understand that I want to do something real, not just arranging flowers, sewing a coat or something. You can understand how I feel ?" "I know very well." "Tell me the content and situation of my work." "This is more suitable for you than teaching a group of savage and immature brats." "Children who are carefully cared for and brought up are not brats, and they seldom yell." "The position is too undignified for a proud young lady like you; and I will not allow you to be put in such a situation if I can help it." "You don't allow it?" "I just care about how this will affect you. Believe me, this will be a big mistake." "how do you know?" "Take other people's experience as a guide; I've always found the lives of governesses and chaperones to be pathetic, with their children's emotional ups and downs, and caring for the elderly is often a chore. Nope, I must say, this kind of life is not for Frederica Heyman." "So you created this job for her?" "This job is worth doing, Mrs. Mallett has proven it, I didn't need to invent it; it's already there, and it's amazing that you're just right to fill the void." I watched him for clues, and he just sat there smiling at me.Next, he reached out suddenly, took mine across the table, and stroked mine gently. "I think," he said. "I'm particularly interested in you." "Are you referring to the incident at the Burrow Grove?" "Perhaps so!" he replied.Then, as if embarrassed, he found himself holding my hand tightly, so he let me go quickly. "Does it still bother you?" he continued. "I'll remember it several times." "For example, when passing by there this morning?" "yes." "One day I will go there with you. We have to stand at the scene of the incident and then get rid of that nightmare from memory. You must forget about it." "I don't think I can completely forget." "Someday it will, won't it?" "He killed himself," I said. "He was psychologically unbalanced at the time, and you couldn't measure him from the perspective of a normal person. This is the best result. Look at the changes in the Great Clock House. Mrs. Archie Grindel is now a happy woman and Rachel too. It's a good thing to be able to kill a demon, think about it!" "I think you're right." "I want you to forget about all the unsatisfactory things, don't worry about what you did in Diyuan; I promise you, everything will be worth it, I'm a businessman, I won't do something meaningless to mess with me business." He looked like a different person than he used to, and suddenly I was happy.I still believe he designed a job for me. How much did he know about governesses and chaperones?Very little, I'm sure.He offered me this job mainly to keep me. "Here's ginger pudding with custard; and apple and blackberry pie with cream and blancmange. I'll have apple and blackberry pie." "me too." When dessert arrived, he said, "There's something I want to talk to you about. It's about Temaris. You don't see her much now, do you?" "I have my own job and she's married." "Of course. I'm a little worried about her, er, I should say worried." "why?" "I don't think things are going very well." "How to say?" "I guess her husband isn't half as good as the image she's woven," he said, frowning. "What do you mean by that?" "Maybe I shouldn't be talking to you about this, but I thought you might be able to help." "How to help?" "She might tell you that you were good friends when you were students." "She used to like to talk about herself as a topic; but recently..." "I'm sure she'll be like this again. Go see her and find out how she feels. Hope it's not as bad as I thought it would be, actually, I know..." I waited for him to continue.After a long pause, he said, "I just talked to you about that unpleasant experience not long ago, and if I think it made our relationship special, is that correct?" "Probably right." "I believe so. You see, not many people know about it, just your aunt, you and me, so it's right to keep it a secret. It's right to keep it a secret when so many good things are unraveled by it." .and for these participants, there will always be special feelings in the heart.” "Oh?" "You and I..." He looked at me with a smile, his gentle expression almost touched me. I hasten to say, "You can trust me and have faith in me." "Well, I have to admit that I was very unhappy with this marriage. I had a big backlash at the beginning. I didn't think there was a need to rush. I think it was just him tricking her into elopement under the guise of being romantic. Now it seems It seems that this is not the case again. In fact, I have been sending people to investigate secretly, and found that he has no real estate in France and Scotland. I doubt whether his name is really Guston Marchmont. Not quite proven, but I believe his real name is George Matthews, and he's a big liar . . . an opportunist." "Poor Temaris, she's so proud of him." "She was a foolish girl, too gullible, and now she's married to him; he's lied a lot, he's cheated a lot, but he's also her husband. He knows I'm supposed to get someone to look into him, That's why I arranged this elopement before I found out the truth. Now she's married, so we have to accept him; of course, he might settle down, and we have to give him a chance. If she's with him If we can be happy together..." He shrugged. "That's what I'm anxious to know. I don't think she's really enjoying the happiness of being newlywed at all, and maybe she's got the feeling that he's not quite the gentleman he made him be; but if he's going to turn around and settle down ..." "Will you arrange a job for him in Diyuan?" "I might do that, but I'll have to be very cautious about it, and get to know his intentions first. As you can guess, I looked at him with wide eyes and suspicion. The current situation is not simple. , That's why I want you to find out some clues from Temaris, find out her true feelings, and see if she really loves him? We must find a rational solution in this chaotic situation. " If he knew that Rachel's upcoming baby was Guston.Marchmont's, I wonder what his opinion would be?I couldn't tell him about it, it was Rachel's secret and I had no right to reveal it. I said, "I'm not sure if Temaris would tell me these things." "You can try it. I think it is very necessary to see the matter clearly. I am afraid that there is unpleasantness hidden in it." "I'll do my best," I promised. "Thank you." He leaned back in his chair and looked at me with a smile. "I am sure the work this morning will be very satisfactory," he said.
I went to visit Temaris the next day. "How are you?" I asked. "Very good," she replied. "Everything is perfect." "Where's Guston?" "He's still as good as ever," she said with a laugh, and I wondered how much she was telling the truth. "You have a job," she continued. "The job title is 'Tenant Liaison'. Sounds like something important. How do you get along with James Pollin?" "Who told you this?" "Don't look like a kid who made a mistake, you know this little place can't keep secrets. People tell me they see you two together a lot." "We cooperate with each other and work together." "Sounds good!" "Yes. Tell me about yourself! Are you really happy in your married life?" I noticed that she was silent for a moment before saying, "I'm so happy." I knew right away that she wouldn't reveal anything to me, and if something was wrong, she wasn't ready to admit it. "I guess you're going to be moving to your place soon?" I said. "Of course. But it's been such a comfortable time here, and my mother likes Guston so much - he really knows how to amuse her - she'd be furious if we suggested leaving." "Then where are you going to live then?" "We are thinking about it, maybe we will travel for a while! Guston wants to introduce me to the whole of Europe. Paris, Venice, Rome, Florence, etc." "Sounds great, so married life is really colorful!" "I told you that marriage is awesome. Why do you keep hanging around this?" "Sorry, I just wanted to be sure." "Are you starting to make arrangements for yourself too?" she asked mischievously. "It's not at all in my mind, and for obvious reasons," I said succinctly. I left frustrated.Temaris had changed, she had become unnatural, and my gut told me that she was no longer the happy little girl who thought things were going to go her way. Now I know Guston.Marchmont was a flamboyant womanizer, and he had completely deluded both Temaris and Rachel; he was a good-talking rogue, and Chris sent to see him for what he really was, but it was too late.Poor Temaris!At least Rachel has a man who loves her and is willing to accept her, although I don't think she's entirely happy either. On the way back to the office, I passed the row of old cottages, and all I could think about was what Temaris and Chris were worrying about her. Walking to the bottom of the row of cottages, I was surprised to see Guston himself, standing by Gantle's cottage talking to Sheila. I keep walking while he walks towards me. "Hello," he said cheerfully. "Good afternoon," I responded to him. "I just went to chat with Temaris." "Very good, she must be very happy. How are you? I heard that you are very busy recently, miss. This job is very suitable for you. You look radiant." "Thank you for your compliment." I said coldly. "Can I go with you?" "I'm going back to the office." "Skipping shift, huh?" "No, my working hours are unlimited." "It's the best kind of work. I was passing there and I saw the little girl, and I figured she lived there, and I was asking about her father." "Oh? Is he unwell?" "I heard that he is ill, but I think it's probably the wrong person!" Knowing all his crimes, I couldn't talk to him normally, and I felt uncomfortable even walking with him. I was relieved when I arrived at the office.
As Rachel's labor day approached, my visits to her became more frequent. For a few weeks she seemed calm and serene, and I noticed that pregnant women didn't care much about anything other than the baby in their womb, and they all thought it was a long time before they saw each other. But now that the day was getting closer, I noticed a look of panic on her face. Our friendship has grown stronger since she got married, and I know that both she and Daniel consider me a best friend.Rachel once said to me, "Did you know that you played a very important role in our life stage? If you didn't find me? If I..." "That's how life is, isn't it? Only when the right time, place and people are right can a whole play be staged in series." "But, you did a great thing for us." "I was just too bold. I admit I hesitated for a moment, but a voice told me Daniel loved you enough and was strong enough. You were lucky enough to be his wife; he bleeds for you I'm not the one who sweats." "Daniel and I both affirm what you've done for both of us." "I'm glad to hear that, especially after making such a bold move, it's such a good feeling to find out I was right." "We're all lucky, but for you..." She trembled. "You multiply your happiness by knowing your luck. Some people just don't know that." "It won't be long before it's all gone. One more thing, Freddie..." "What's up?" "Daniel has been nice to me, but..." "but what?" "This baby. It would be nice if it was his baby; but it's not. It's a fact of life, no matter how good he is... no matter how hard he tries to pretend." "camouflage?" "Love this child. He won't forget, and I'm afraid he'll resent the baby... no, he won't, he won't resent anyone, especially an innocent child... But, when he sees the baby, He'll think about everything. I can't stand this happening, I've grown to love this kid, even though he shouldn't be here, I still love him. He's my kid, and if Daniel doesn't love him, I will Unbearable." "Daniel is a good guy, the nicest guy." "I know. He will try his best, but the facts cannot be changed; seeing this child must remind him of the past, won't it?" "He knew about it all along." "When the baby is actually born, it's different again. I don't want this baby to grow up in the shadows; I think I love him more just because he needs me to love and care for him in a special way. I've always wanted this Boy, now I'm afraid to see Daniel's reaction; he's not the type to hide himself, what will happen to him when the baby is born. Freddie, you are our closest friend, no one knows Guston and I . . . only you. Everyone thinks the baby is me and Daniel's and that's why we married so hastily; Married in a rush to atone for sin. You're the only one who knows the truth, Freddie, do you know what I mean? Only with you can we talk freely." "You must forget about Guston, it's all over, and you must cherish the happiness you have in your hands. It was the child that brought about your marriage to Daniel, and it was the best thing you ever did... For both of you. You have to think of the good things, Rachel." "I know, what I want to say is, will you be there when the baby is born? I want you to be there with Daniel; I want you to tell him I love him so much; I was foolish enough to be easily charmed by him, and now I can see everything. He was a modest man, and always thought himself far inferior to the charming Guston; but now that his charm is gone, I finally See through him, I want to let Daniel know about it, but I'm afraid he won't understand. I want you to be with him when the baby is born, tell him what I told you, maybe you can find a way to make him understand .” "I will, I will do my best, Rachel," I said. She leaned forward and gave me a light peck on the cheek.
A few days later, when we were having breakfast, a worker from the Greendale Ranch came to me in a hurry. He said: Mrs. Daniel is going to give birth today, and the midwife, Mrs. Cooper, has rushed to the ranch to help. 我赶紧到办公室把这件事告诉詹姆士，并告诉他若有任何紧急事件要和我连络，可以在格林多牧场找到我。我立刻到瑞琪儿那里。她脸色苍白地躺在床上，神色有些恐惧。 “哦，佛莱迪，”她说。“我真高兴看到你，我知道你会来的。” “你觉得怎么样？” “还好，才刚开始。丹尼尔在吗？” “在，我会陪他的。” 她的脸突然扭曲了起来，古柏夫人立刻跑到床边。“小姐，你最好快离开，”她对我说。 “我和医生连络过，看样子他可能已经来了。” 我对瑞琪儿微笑，然后才离开。走到楼梯时，我遇见丹尼尔。 我说：“她要我在这里。” “我知道，”他说，“一切都还顺利吗？” “当然。古柏夫人很在行的，她的风评一向很好，而且医生也已经来了。我们要在哪里等呢？” “在我的办公室等好了。要多久呢？” “这种事没有特定多久能完成，我们要耐心地等。” “对我来说实在太难了。” 他带我到一楼的一个小房间里。房内的墙上摆满了牧场的帐簿及有关书籍，还有几件动物标本；有个桌子，桌上满布着写字纸；还有几把椅子。 “我不想和其他任何人一起等，”他说。“瑞琪儿的姨妈待会就会过来了，她的人真的很好，但她总是大题小作的，会把我搞得心烦意乱。” “你不介意我在这里吗？” “不……不介意。” “瑞琪儿要我一定要在这里陪你，她很担心你。” “担心我？” “人们说有些丈夫在这种特殊的情况下，与妻子的受苦程度一样强烈。” “我想她不会有事的。” “当然了，她既年轻又坚强，而且一切都进行得很顺利。你知道的，每天都有一大堆宝宝诞生。” “是没错……但，这是瑞琪儿啊！” "She'll be fine." "hope so." “如今她过得很好了，丹尼尔，是你使她这么快乐的。” “有时我还会怀疑，我看到她的眼睛里流露出一股悲哀的神情。我觉得有时候当她往回看时……会觉得很后悔。” “你知道原因何在的，丹尼尔。她往回看时，对过去发生的事深感后悔；在经历这么多的事后，她最希望这孩子是你的。” "me too." “她很担心。这是她的孩子，丹尼尔，这是她的一部分。” “无论如何，我只要她快快乐乐的。”他诚心地说。 “她会的，你也是……如果你不再压抑自己的情感的话。” “但，她会一直往回看，而我……” “你必须向前看，丹尼尔。你为她做了那么多的事，明白地表示了那么深的爱，这一点是没人比她更清楚的了；你必须忘了过去，继续往前走，你必须让这孩子也变成是你的，这就是她所担心的；她觉得你一定会想到过去，然后让过去成为你和孩子之间的障碍，这么一来你们辛苦经营的家就会被破坏了。” “我无法忘记谁才是那孩子真正的父亲。” “那孩子一出生的那刻起就是你的了，你必须看清这一点。” “我做不到；如果你是我，你办得到吗？” “我会尽全力去试的，因为若不如此，所有的幸福和快乐就会消失无存了。” “我知道你说得对，”他说。“那瑞琪儿呢？” “这一切全看你的了，丹尼尔。爱一个小孩并不是件难事，更何况别忘了这是瑞琪儿的孩子；而他之所以来到这世上，是因为你爱她太深了。” “你替我们俩做了很多，我一辈子也忘不了。” “我觉得你和瑞琪儿都很幸运能拥有对方，丹尼尔。”我说。 我们静静地坐在那里，竖耳凝听秒针的摆动，心情也跟着越来越沉重，他和我心里都在想着：到底还要等多久？ 宝宝不到黄昏就出生了。医生走下楼来看我们，从他脸上的表情我知道一切进行得非常顺利，他的样子看起来容光焕发的。 “恭喜你，格林多先生，是个女孩，”他说。“非常健康的女孩。” “那……我的妻子呢？” “虽然疲倦，但也欢欣雀跃得开心不已；待会儿你就可以和她见面了，现在她最需要的莫过于是休息了。” 我们到楼上的卧房去。瑞琪儿看起来很苍白，但，就如医生所言——欢欣得雀跃不已。古柏夫人用披肩把婴儿裹起来，只露出那张红通通且布满皱纹的脸。她把那包礼物放入丹尼尔的手臂里。我战战兢兢地等着，这么多的事都靠这关键性的一刻。瑞琪儿仔细地看着他。 “她好漂亮，”他说。“我们的孩子。” 这简直太完美了！我察觉到自己早已热泪满眶了。 瑞琪儿看着我说：“佛莱迪，你来了。” “我当然会来，我想看看孩子。你不能独占她，丹尼尔。” 我把孩子抱在手上——这个小家伙对他们的人生影响可真大——而在这段期间以来，我一直告诉自己：一切都会完美地解决的。如今结局果真很完美。
生和死一直是生命最主要的两个点，所以整个哈普葛林也陷入一片热闹声中。每个人对格林多家的新生儿都很感兴趣，大家都很欢迎这个新人加入，而受洗礼拜也将在教堂举行。我花好多时间陪瑞琪儿，通常我都是在午餐时间走到她家，和她一起用餐。宝宝长得很好。 “丹尼尔真的很爱她，”瑞琪儿告诉我。“他怎么能抗拒她？她是那么地可人。” 她的确是。看来她进步了不少，初次见到她时有如一个满脸皱纹的九十岁高龄老绅士，现在比较像个婴儿了。她的眼睛是蓝色的，头发颜色也很黑：非常幸运的，到目前为止没有任何特征和佳斯顿．马奇蒙有相似的地方。最后我们终于讨论到命名的问题了。 “如果她是男的，”瑞琪儿说。“我就会把他命名为小丹尼尔，这样就可让丹尼尔觉得她真的是他的孩子。” “这是个好主意，我相信丹尼尔一定会很高兴的。” “我想他已经把她视为己出了，佛莱迪，我认为应该以你的名字来命名。” “弗雷德莉卡！哦，不行！佛莱德……佛莱迪……光用想的就觉得很可怕！我绝对不会把自己的孩子取和我同样的名字。” “这段日子以来，你和我们是那么地亲近。” “没有任何理由规定这可怜的孩子得牺牲来取我的名字为名。我想到了，有个女孩子的名字，应该是法国名字……反正哪一国都无所谓。这名字和你的本意很近，我觉得这个主意会很好……丹妮儿，你觉得如何？” “丹妮儿！”瑞琪儿大叫。“听起来和丹尼尔一样，但我觉得应该取为弗雷德莉卡。” “不，不行，绝对不可以。这样一来不就又会成了个暗示吗！我们要完完全全地远离过去的不幸。她是你和丹尼尔的……这才是重点，她一定要叫做丹妮儿。” “我懂你的意思了。”瑞琪儿说。 当雷凡伦．海瑟林顿为瑞琪儿的宝宝受洗时，大多数的哈普葛林村民都来到教堂；典礼之后，丹尼尔带着丹妮儿及满心的骄傲，走回格林多牧场。