Mrs. Pynsent's publicly-expressed disapprobation of a daughter-in-law from Wetheral, was commented upon with eagerness, and many [196] anxious friends of both parties looked with mingled6 curiosity and amusement to the effects likely to emanate7 from Hatton. Miss Wycherly consented to escort a party upon a congratulatory mission to her aunt Pynsent, and she undertook to drive Lady Spottiswoode and her daughter to Hatton, accompanied by the two Mr. Tyndals.
It was an evil day to Miss Wycherly. Ever since the eventful ball, which produced the present cause of her intended visit, Mr. Spottiswoode had never renewed the subject which she had treated so lightly, or sought her society, his once constant anxiety and invariable daily practice. Since that eventful ball, so happy in its results to one party, so gloomy in its termination to herself—since that night, when her rash spirits tempted9 her to jest with her lover's serious wish to understand her sentiments, had Mr. Spottiswoode been a stranger to Lidham; and most rashly had Miss Wycherly persevered10 in flirting11 with Mr. Henry Tyndal, to evince her indifference12 to Mr. Spottiswoode's prolonged absence, and to bring down upon herself, ultimately, the reproach of having given encouragement to Henry Tyndal ungenerously and dishonourably. Her present state of mind towards Mr. Spottiswoode was unchangeable [197] affection, such as it had ever felt towards him; and such as she felt assured must ever exist there, though her own lips had made a breach13 between them, by trifling with his long-expressed affection.
Miss Wycherly felt aware that she had drawn14 down upon herself the offended feelings of an injured man, who had borne all her caprice with patient endurance; she felt, too, that there was a point when that endurance must and would burst from its fetters15, and assert its freedom. Mr. Spottiswoode's spirit might bear with a certain degree of flippancy16; but he would not endure to become a woman's toy, to become a thing, which the woman he loved could dare to throw from her in caprice, and recall at will. Such, Miss Wycherly knew, was not the nature of his love, whom her heart pined to recover. But her pride—the pride of a woman unwilling17 to bend her spirit in acknowledgment of error—persisted in allowing Henry Tyndal to attend her in public; and its false reasoning forbade her to appear wounded by the consequences of her fault. Miss Wycherly could only trust to circumstances for assistance in developing the real intentions of her offended lover; and, in making an appointment with Lady Spottiswoode, [198] she trusted events might concur18 to restore her again into her son's favour, and dispel19 the cloud which separated them.
In this frame of mind, and with this hope, to spread flowers on her path, Miss Wycherly drove her four beautiful bays into Shrewsbury, and drew up before Lady Spottiswoode's house. Mr. Spottiswoode, accompanied by the Tyndals, appeared at the hall-door to receive her; and Mr. Spottiswoode politely, but with reserve of voice and manner, expressed Lady Spottiswoode's hope that she would take refreshment20 before they proceeded to Hatton. This was Miss Wycherly's first meeting with her lover, since the misunderstanding which had taken place at Lady Spottiswoode's ball; and her heart felt and sunk under the changed expression of his voice and manner. She gave her reins22 to the groom23, and prepared to obey Lady Spottiswoode's request. Mr. Henry Tyndal went forward with his brother to offer their assistance, while Mr. Spottiswoode remained on the steps, as a person who conceived that all required attention on his part, was effected in the delivery of his mother's message. Miss Wycherly declined Mr. Henry Tyndal's offered hand, and reseated herself with feelings of mingled mortification24 and indignation. [199] Nothing now could persuade her to descend25 from the barouche-box.
"Have the goodness, Mr. Tyndal, to make my excuses to Lady Spottiswoode. I rarely quit my throne, when once exalted26, and she will allow of my apology. Insist upon herself and Miss Spottiswoode taking their own time. I am not in any hurry."
It appeared as though Mr. Spottiswoode had cheerfully and for ever surrendered her to Mr. Tyndal's attentions, for he spoke4 in an undertone to the young men, and returned into the house.
"Very kind fellow," cried Henry Tyndal; "he has gone himself with your message, so I can stay and admire your set out, and yourself. Upon my soul, your habit sits beautifully, doesn't it, John?"
"I begged you to deliver my message," replied Miss Wycherly, offended and distressed28 at her lover's action. "I desired you, Mr. Tyndal, to deliver my message, not Mr. Spottiswoode."
Henry Tyndal misunderstood, and was flattered by Miss Wycherly's reproof29. It was clear enough to his comprehension she was angry with Spottiswoode for presuming to take a message [200] which had been delegated to himself as her regular and encouraged attendant.
"Oh, well! never mind for once, Miss Wycherly; I thought Spottiswoode was very anxious to go, or he should not have taken my place, I promise you. No, no, poor fellow! he was off before I knew what he was about. Upon my soul, your horses are magnificent."
Miss Wycherly did not hear Mr. Tyndal's observation; her attention was given exclusively and painfully to the hall-door, which remained open.
Lady Spottiswoode and her daughter appeared.
"My dear Miss Wycherly, you are patience itself," exclaimed both ladies.
"I never descend from my altitude," replied Miss Wycherly; "but you look forsaken30 without a beau of some sort; if your son would like to take a seat, Lady Spottiswoode, there is one to spare."
"Charles said he meant to call at Hatton," said Miss Spottiswoode, "and I dare say it would really be an accommodation, unless this is the day he promised to ride over to the Farnboroughs. Mr. Tyndal, before you mount your horse, just tell Charles here is room for him, by [201] Miss Wycherly's permission—beg pardon for the trouble."
Mr. Henry Tyndal sprang from his horse, and proceeded to obey her request. Miss Wycherly gathered up the reins, but her hands trembled with anxious curiosity to ascertain31 the effect of the summons. Mr. Henry Tyndal returned alone.
"Spottiswoode says he is going to Hatton, but he is engaged to ride there with the Farnborough party. It has been an appointment of some days' standing21, he says, therefore he cannot come; here he is to answer for himself."
Mr. Charles Spottiswoode appeared equipped for riding, but he excused himself to Miss Wycherly with much politeness—a style of manner so wounding to its object, so unbearably32 irritating to a self-upbraiding, yet proud, spirit. The colour rose in Miss Wycherly's face.
"I am engaged to ride to Hatton with Lord Farnborough and his daughter," proceeded Mr. Spottiswoode: "Lady Anna commanded me to attend her some time ago, and her ladyship never fails her word, therefore I must not allow her to upbraid33 me with the most offensive of all failings, that of deceiving expectations. Sophy, you are all the colours of the rainbow."
[202]
"Never mind, Charles," replied Miss Spottiswoode, smiling good-naturedly at the remark; "if I mix pink and green too strongly for your taste, pray remonstrate34 with Lady Anna Herbert; she wears three colours; perhaps your opinion may have some weight with her. I am, you know, incorrigible35."
"Will Lady Anna possess more sense than her sex?" asked Mr. Spottiswoode. "Will she relinquish36 three favourite tints37 to please?"
"To please you, Charles, I dare say Lady Anna would renounce38 her darling colours—purple, yellow, and green. Can my dear pink and green be half so prononcée? Miss Wycherly, do speak for me! Charles always upholds Lady Anna's frightful39 combination."
"I have not upheld Lady Anna, Sophy."
"Yes, you always do, Charles. Every thing is Lady Anna now."
Miss Wycherly's spirit could endure no more; she turned to Lady Spottiswoode.
"We are embarked40 in this undertaking41, and time is precious. If Sophy has settled her interesting topic, may I proceed to Hatton? Mr. Tyndal, Mr. Henry Tyndal, you must not lose sight of us; shall we proceed?"
The lady was perfectly42 ready to resign the [203] conversation; the Mr. Tyndals were already mounted, and Mr. Spottiswoode bowed his adieu. Miss Wycherly would not appear mortified43 and unhappy; she returned her lover's salutation with a bow and smile, which equalled his own in apparent indifference; and the party were quickly on their road. Miss Wycherly, as charioteer, had full occupation for her attention, and she was silent during the drive: her heart was heavy; and the fear of having lost Spottiswoode's affection weighed down her spirits and produced a mortal sorrow. Such was the consequence of a fault persisted in, because a false pride could not endure to own its transgression44! Such was the suffering produced by a heart resolute45 to lose the man beloved, ere it would bend to acknowledge its weakness!
Miss Wycherly forgot, in her own misery46, the amusement she contemplated47 in observing her aunt Pynsent's conduct, when she received the visits of congratulation upon her son's intended marriage. In her misery, also, she did not immediately perceive Tom Pynsent and Miss Wetheral comfortably established in the Hatton drawing-room; or did she, for some moments, perceive the Ennismores and Julia also present; while Mr. Pynsent, smilingly and [204] in high spirits, was chatting in turn to the individuals composing the circle, and calling for the congratulations of each person upon the event in prospect48.
Lady Spottiswoode gazed in astonishment49 at the sudden and powerful change: who could have surmised50 that the "empty, horrible Wetherals" were now to receive a thousand attentions and affectionate solicitudes51 from Mrs. Pynsent!—that "the bird from the Wetheral nest" was to be wooed to its gilded52 cage by all the gentle lures53 that Mrs. Pynsent could devise!—that sweet was henceforth to be bitter, and the bitter sweet! Lady Spottiswoode gazed, and gazed again.
"Well, you are all come to say pretty things to me," said Mrs. Pynsent, addressing the newly-arrived party, "and you are all moonstruck!—not a word from one of you: why, Pen, you are all of a heap!—Well, Tyndal lads, what have you to say?—here am I, full of bustle55 and happiness. Tom is going to get married at last, and he has made his old mother happy. We are all happy. I tell Bobby he ought to fall down and worship Miss Wetheral, for taking Tom—but here, just come this way, Lady Spottiswoode." Mrs. Pynsent lowered her voice.—"I [205] didn't much like the idea of a Wetheral, once, you remember; but that's all ended—we won't remember old grievances56."
"Certainly not," replied her ladyship—"one has often reason to discard opinions."
"To be sure—can't be for ever harping57 upon one string." She turned to her niece.
"Why, you look as if you had lost your love. What's the matter, woman?—cheer up. Get a good husband, Pen; and don't pay these sort of visits with such a long face!"
Miss Wycherly could not command a portion of the ever-ready spirits which had never failed her before; her mind was too oppressed, even to make an effort. Her aunt's observations were unheard or unnoticed, as she turned towards her cousin Tom, who came up, red-faced and happy, to demand her felicitations.
"All right, at last, Cousin Pen: all fears and tribulations58 are over. There is nothing like fair dealing59, and I have won a wife, after a devilish sharp run, though a short one. Now say something in your own fashion upon it, Cousin Pen; something, as Spottiswoode says of you, sharp, short, and sensible."
Miss Wycherly put her hand to her eyes, and, for a few moments, she made no reply. [206] Tom Pynsent believed the trembling of her hands proceeded from fatigue60.
"I have told you, Cousin Pen, a woman should not drive four-in-hand; it's something out of reason. A pair is very pretty handling; but your little figure perched upon a box, with four horses, won't answer. Your hands are all in a shake, now."
"Let Pen alone, Tom," said Mrs. Pynsent. "My niece is a Wycherly, and the Wycherlys never gave in till they were fairly under ground."
"I am ill, aunt; very ill—a glass of water; any thing just to revive me; my heart is bursting." Miss Wycherly became unable to speak, and the company surrounded her, offering every species of condolence and remedy. A glass of water was procured61, and the cold sparkling draught62 refreshed her. She felt that an effort must be made; and it was made under sickness of heart and prostration63 of mind, but the effort had a beneficial effect, for it roused the sufferer from a blighting64 sense of misery to the recollection of present events, and she was enabled to smile and speak to her cousin with some degree of coherence66.
"Tom, I do wish you happy, and I suppose I am fatigued67, for I have driven fourteen miles, but I never was so ill before."
[207]
"You are ill," observed Julia Wetheral, who had seated herself near Miss Wycherly: "it must be something extraordinary which could overpower you, Penelope. You must have felt fatigue in mind and body with those gay horses."
Miss Wycherly endeavoured to form a playful reply, but a flood of tears burst forth54.
"Say nothing to me, now, Julia—let me be perfectly silent for a quarter of an hour, and I shall recover."
Every one returned to their former seats, except Julia, who remained silently at Miss Wycherly's side, and the company again resumed their interrupted conversation. Mrs. Pynsent had her private thoughts respecting her niece's sudden illness, which she whispered to Lady Ennismore.
"Pen is never ill, and never tired with driving—she would drive six-in-hand, and laugh at it. I hope Pen hasn't taken a fancy to Tom: my sister Hancock never could bear the idea of cousins marrying."
Lady Ennismore smiled graciously.—"You are more acute, Mrs. Pynsent, than myself: you have, no doubt, excellent reasons for your suppositions."
"Lord, I never suppose any thing, Lady [208] Ennismore, or see any thing till it's all over; only Pen's illness, just now, looks queer. If it was not about Tom, I can't imagine the cause of Pen's bit of a faint, just when she was to congratulate him upon his engagement! I am sure Pen never would faint about a trifle; and, as to her driving, it's all my eye: my brother Bill put her upon the coach-box as soon as she could walk."
"Perhaps it is mental agitation68 of another kind," softly remarked Lady Ennismore.
"Pooh, pooh!—Pen has no mental agitation, Lady Ennismore. What should ail8 her to faint about any thing, if it wasn't Tom's marriage? My sister Hancock had always a horror of their marrying, only I thought nothing about it.—How was I to fancy Pen liked Tom, when she was always with Charles Spottiswoode?"
Lady Ennismore appeared politely convinced, by her companion's reasoning, that Miss Wycherly's faintness proceeded from her cousin's insensibility to her attachment69, when the door was thrown open to announce Lord Farnborough and Lady Anna Herbert. Miss Wycherly cast an eye of alarm towards the hall. Lord Farnborough stalked majestically70 forward with his daughter under his arm, and Mr. Spottiswoode [209] followed too surely in their train. She started up—"Julia, I cannot stay here; follow me into the library."
Both ladies disappeared during the little bustle of a fresh reception, and Lady Ennismore alone observed their rapid exit. Miss Wycherly closed the door of the library, to secure themselves from interruption or intrusion; she then took off her hat, and, seating herself at the library-table, she rested her head upon her hands, while the tears flowed copiously71 down her cheeks. "Julia," she said—"Julia, I cannot endure this; I have lost him, and my heart will break."
Julia sat down opposite her companion, and vainly offered consolation72.
"Don't attempt to console me, Julia," sobbed73 poor Miss Wycherly.
"I am past all consolation. The creature has never visited Lidham since that abominable74 night at Lady Spottiswoode's, and now he is capering75 after Lady Anna Herbert. Oh, Julia, if you could comprehend the misery I feel!"
"My dear Penelope, you never confessed your fault to Charles Spottiswoode, I fear, by all this grief. Have you tried to see him, or written to him since your quarrel?"
[210]
The Wycherly blood rushed into the very forehead of Penelope. She raised her head and dashed away the tears.
"Who! I beg submissively for Spottiswoode's forgiveness! I meanly sue for pardon to a man who has been my slave till this Lady Anna has attracted him! I tell him to return to Lidham, because I cannot live without him! I'll die ten thousand deaths, before I will sully my lips in imploring76 pardon!"
"But, Penelope, you are not reduced to implore77 pardon," replied Julia, in soothing78 accents. "You are not advised to act in any way degrading to your feelings. Did you not trifle most ungenerously with Mr. Spottiswoode at your last meeting, and have you made one advance since that time, to prove to him you were in jest?"
Miss Wycherly again drooped79 her head upon her hands, as she replied—"He has given me no opportunity to do so, Julia: he has been ever since that evening devoted80 to the Farnboroughs."
"And you have been equally devoted to the Tyndals, Penelope. Have you not made Henry Tyndal your shadow?"
"A great spoony!" ejaculated Miss Wycherly.
[211]
"Put an end to all this," resumed Julia, "and give Mr. Spottiswoode reason to think you regret your unjust conduct; decline Henry Tyndal's constant attendance, and do not bring upon yourself the Court Herbert reproaches. You are encouraging Henry Tyndal, Penelope, and Mr. Spottiswoode must perceive it."
"I know I have done wrong, Julia, but every thing is gone too far; I cannot, cannot subject myself to Spottiswoode's scorn; he will never forgive me, and I will never bear the indignity81 of seeking a hopeless reconciliation82. If I have suffered Henry Tyndal's attentions, he has sought Lady Anna Herbert. No, we are divided for ever!"
The idea of a final separation from her lover's affection, seemed to produce agony of mind too powerful to endure, for, Miss Wycherly, rising suddenly, seized Julia's hands, and gazed earnestly in her face.
"Julia Wetheral, I will act upon your advice, only tell me what to do, if any thing now can restore his heart; I am wretched enough to submit to any thing short of the degradation83 of seeking a man's extinguished affection! You will not wish me to do a wrong thing, Julia, therefore, think for me, and quiet my heart."
[212]
"I will tell you what to do, Penelope; return with me into the drawing-room; do not give your attention to Mr. Henry Tyndal, and do not appear so indifferent to a man you have driven from you with unkindness."
"Julia," replied Miss Wycherly, breathing hard, "I cannot bear to see Spottiswoode with another person. I cannot witness his attention to Lady Anna. I will remain here till they are gone, or I should die upon the spot. If you could understand my miserable84 feelings, you would pity me, and my own folly85 has produced them!"
Miss Wycherly walked about the library in great distress27, which pierced her friend's heart to witness. She could only offer her sympathy, and urge her change of manners towards Mr. Tyndal. Grief produces many effects; on some minds the hand of sorrow falls heavily, yet it originates patience and gentleness; in others, it produces irritation86 and increased violence of temper. It was so with Miss Wycherly, whose spirit chafed87 at the remembrance of her own folly, and even attacked the prudent88 counsel of her friend.
"I tell you, Julia, I am ready to spurn89 the Tyndals from my sight; for who can despise [213] them more than I do?—but it is useless to place before me, so pertinaciously90, my folly in having borne with them. I am well aware of my error, without requiring any one to heap my transgressions91 before my eyes at every turn. Reproach never heals a wound."
"I do not speak in reproach, Penelope," replied Julia, in accents that overcame Miss Wycherly's quick temper; "I only point out the means to serve you, because you asked me to do so."
"Don't heed92 my words, Julia," exclaimed Miss Wycherly, continuing her restless walking up and down the library; "I speak in bitter misery, and know not what I say. Do not leave me, for I know you are kind, and not given to take offence, and I am almost maddened with vexation. Tell me what to do, Julia, and I swear to be guided by you."
"I repeat my words, then, Penelope. Return with me into the drawing-room; do not give Mr. Henry Tyndal all your attention, and bear with Mr. Spottiswoode's attention to Lady Anna: it will not last long."
"Oh, Julia!" sighed Miss Wycherly, "if I could but think you a true prophet—but I will do as you wish; I will try to bear the sight of [214] Lady Anna, but the idea gives me a shuddering93 fit. See how I tremble."
"You do tremble, Penelope, but a determined94 effort will subdue95 it."
Julia rubbed Miss Wycherly's hands, which were deadly cold, and replaced her hat, as the poor girl sat trembling, and incapable96 of assisting herself. Julia also smoothed the curls which fell in abundance upon her pale cheeks. "And now, Penelope, take my arm, and let us take one steady turn through the room, to try your powers."
Miss Wycherly took Julia's offered arm, and proceeded towards the door. "Let us go into the drawing-room at once," she said. "With you I have given way, because I am assured of your sympathy and secrecy97; but to no other eye will I betray my repentance98 or my sorrow. I may look ill—I am ill—but no one shall say Penelope Wycherly pines for Charles Spottiswoode."
Miss Wycherly's sentiment operated at once upon her nerves and manners: no one could suppose she had just suffered a strong nervous attack, by the collected air of her entrance again into company. It was only the pallid99 complexion100 and calm demeanour, which betrayed [215] recent illness to her friends; and Mrs. Pynsent, satisfied that her niece could never struggle against her disappointment with Tom, offered her every little soothing attention, and even seated her where she could not observe her cousin, still conversing101 with Anna Maria: her chair was placed near the window, immediately opposite to Mr. Spottiswoode and Lady Anna Herbert.
"There, Pen, dear, air will refresh you; but you have driven too far, I dare say: there, look straight before you, and don't keep turning round."
Lady Anna Herbert made a very polite speech, hoping Miss Wycherly had not been seriously ill, and Miss Wycherly passed through the forms of recognition with her ladyship with great presence of mind. Mr. Spottiswoode slightly bowed; but he did not address her, or join in the short conversation which ensued between the ladies. Miss Wycherly became silent, and struggled visibly, to Julia's eye, for resolution to bear up through the scene. Lady Ennismore broke up the meeting by ordering her carriage, and then Miss Wycherly's situation became oppressive. Tom Pynsent came forward to his cousin with looks of interest. "Cousin Pen, I will drive your carriage home, for Miss Julia Wetheral [216] says you are not fit to hold the reins, and I think so too."
Lady Spottiswoode and her daughter entreated102 Miss Wycherly to suffer Mr. Pynsent to take her place, and renounce the idea of driving.
"The air will revive me," said Miss Wycherly, her lips quivering as she spoke. "I am fatigued, I believe, and I will gladly allow Tom to drive; but I cannot sit in the carriage. I must be in the air."
Mrs. Pynsent felt for her niece, and she resolved to prevent her suffering the distress of sitting a couple of hours by the side of Tom, who was now as good as married to Miss Wetheral. She applied103 to Mr. Spottiswoode.
"Here, Charley, can't you drive the ladies home? It's all in your way, you know, and quite out of Tom's. Suppose you drive your party into Shrewsbury, and Pen will drive herself on to Lidham; the distance is a trifle from Shrewsbury."
Mr. Spottiswoode expressed himself ready to undertake the office of coachman, if Miss Wycherly approved of his skill: Miss Wycherly caught at this one last opportunity of seeing and speaking to her lost lover: she rose from her chair, and reseated herself.—
[217]
"I shall be happy if you ... yes." Not a word more could pass her lips, though she tried to articulate. Mr. Spottiswoode looked earnestly at her pale countenance104, and appeared struck by her agitation. Mrs. Pynsent's heart was disturbed by her poor niece, Pen.
"That arrangement will do, boys. Tom, just shew Miss Wetheral the new picture in the study before she goes, and Charley, Miss Wycherly's groom will ride your horse. I shall tell Bill Wycherly he ought to send the coachman with Pen, not a groom-fellow."
Lord Farnborough and his daughter rose to take leave. It appeared to Miss Wycherly's jealous eye, that Lady Anna spoke laughingly to Mr. Spottiswoode upon the subject of his new vocation105, but she could not catch the words, or his reply: Lady Anna made her a passing bow as she joined Lord Farnborough, and they were gone when she passively sunk upon a sofa by Julia's side, exhausted106 with her efforts. "Julia, this day decides my destiny—I am weaker than a child."
Mr. Henry Tyndal approached them to express his regret at Miss Wycherly's fatigue: she closed her eyes, and turned from him in disgust, abruptly107 exclaiming—
[218]
"I wish to be quiet and alone, Mr. Tyndal."
"I am glad you are not going to drive back," persevered Henry Tyndal; "I dare say Spottiswoode will drive you very well; he is a very fair hand at the ribbons. I'm sure I would drive you with the greatest pleasure in the world, Miss Wycherly, but I am not a dab108 at driving. I am glad, however, I shall be riding by your carriage: you will ride inside, of course: I hope—I beg you will ride inside."
Miss Wycherly looked daggers109 at the man with whom she had been so intimate for many days, and whom she had allowed to be constantly in attendance.
"I require no one's opinion, Mr. Tyndal, to regulate my actions, and I shall be obliged by your removing from before me."
"I am afraid Miss Wycherly is very ill," said Henry Tyndal, looking inquisitively110 at Julia. "What can we do for her, Miss Wetheral?"
"Do, for Heaven's sake, leave me!" cried Miss Wycherly, losing all patience at his including himself in her arrangements; "I will not be annoyed by your obstinate111 stupidity."
"Stupidity, Miss Wetheral! Now what can Miss Wycherly mean by stupidity, when I am so fearful about her driving home?"
[219]
Julia saw her friend's complexion reviving, and her eye lighting65 up with a thousand fires: in another moment, a torrent112 must overwhelm the unfortunate Henry Tyndal; but, as if to prove his utter blindness, he placed his own foot upon the precipice113 by offering to take her hand. Miss Wycherly felt the extent of her imprudence, in suffering the attendance of a man whom she never intended to marry, by its effects; but reason, at that moment, did not inform her impatient spirit that the fault was hers alone. All suggestions of reason were overpowered by anger, for Charles Spottiswoode's eyes were upon her, and he had witnessed the action. Miss Wycherly pushed Henry Tyndal's hand away, and rose from her seat, as she replied, with great impetuosity,
"If you ever presume to approach me with familiarity, I will tell you how I abhor114 the insolence115, and resent the affront116. How dare you attempt to touch me, Mr. Tyndal?"
Mr. Tyndal was offended, but he never imagined insult and insolence could be implied in his well-intentioned movement: he, therefore, stood silent and sulky for a few moments. Miss Wycherly passed him, and took her station between Lady Spottiswoode and her aunt. Mrs. Pynsent was pleased to perceive her son still [220] absent, and her anxiety was sincere, in endeavouring to get her niece away from Hatton, and in preventing Tom's reappearance: she was sure Sally Hancock would think with her that, when once Tom was married, Pen would think no more of the matter. Lady Ennismore's departure destroyed all her intended plans for Penelope's peace of mind; for Miss Wetheral was recalled from contemplating117 the new picture, and where her fairy footsteps led, there followed Tom Pynsent. It was in vain that Mrs. Pynsent bustled118 round her niece, and recommended her to Mr. Spottiswoode's care; Tom's first step was to bring Anna Maria up to his cousin.
"We have hardly spoken together, have we, Pen, in this confounded bustle? but here's my little wife, come to ask how you are, and to say you must always be glad to see us at Lidham, when you set up with you know who." Tom looked knowingly at Henry Tyndal.
"We have ever been good friends, Penelope, and a closer connexion shall not disunite us," said Anna Maria, as they shook hands. Tom Pynsent, infinitely119 too happy to remain stationary120, walked away with his prize, and Miss Wycherly remained with the Spottiswoodes. Mr. Charles Spottiswoode was giving all his [221] attention to some coloured prints on hunting subjects, when Mrs. Pynsent summoned him.
"Here, Charley, your party are waiting for you, and you are sitting dumb-founded, like a lover bewitched. Pen, who do you suppose Charley is thinking of? Who is a long way on her road to Farnborough Stacey, Charley?"
Mr. Spottiswoode hastily put away the prints; and Miss Wycherly was fast sinking into the depression which follows effort of any kind, when Tom Pynsent returned, in high feather, from assisting the Wetheral party into their carriage. He flew to Miss Wycherly.
"Cousin Pen, my little wife commands me to dine at Wetheral to-day, so I shall see you properly packed up under Spottiswoode's care: very good thing Spottiswoode was here, or I should have driven you home in a towering passion for standing in my way. Come this way, Pen, my little wife sends you a message, and so does her sister: I must tell them as a profound secret."
"You be hanged, Tom, with your secret!" said his mother, "and do not keep Pen from her party."
Tom Pynsent dragged Miss Wycherly into the large bay-window, in spite of opposition121.
"I don't understand ladies' ways just yet, Pen, but I am ordered to say these words from [222] my little wife, 'Be firm;' and her sister desired me to say, 'All things must end well, if patient.' Now the devil a bit can I make out any meaning from either sentence, can you?"
"Yes, I understand, Tom; and tell them this evening for answer, 'Amen.'"
"You are all a parcel of riddles122, Pen; what has 'amen' to do with your affairs. I say, Pen, what's all this with Spottiswoode?"
Miss Wycherly tried to answer her cousin's question lightly, but she burst into tears.
"Oh, ho, that's it, Pen, is it?" Tom Pynsent pronounced the words slowly, as if awakened123 to some new idea gradually. "All must end well, be firm, and amen. I see something now, by Jove."
His cousin made no reply, but the tears coursed down her cheeks. Tom Pynsent was sorry for her, and he put his arm round her waist, to suit the action to the word.
"Never mind, Pen; if you've quarrelled, touch your swain up with a bit of sugarcandy as you go to Shrewsbury. Pitch it in smoothly124, Pen, and Spottiswoode will turn like the sunflower. Don't cry, cousin Pen, it makes me dismal—d—n it, don't cry!"
Mrs. Pynsent underwent considerable anxiety [223] during the tête-à-tête, but, when her son became tender, her interference became imperative125.
"Tommy, what are you squeezing your cousin there about, when you are nearly married; secrets are ill-bred things, Master Tommy."
Miss Wycherly's distress became apparent, and she threw open the window; her cousin good-humouredly and awkwardly endeavoured to conceal126 her from observation, by pointing out the beauties of the view.
"There, Pen, are the trees I spoke of, (clear up and dry your eyes, Pen) and my father talks of planting upon that hill, (don't let any one guess you are down in the mouth, Pen). I think I like it best as it now stands. Spottiswoode, Tyndal, give me your opinion."
The gentlemen were soon engaged in disputing the propriety127 of planting, or not planting a fine swell128 in the park, each arguing upon their opinions, enabling Miss Wycherly to recover some degree of composure; and, when her well-appointed equipage drove to the door, she was able to perform her adieus with tolerable calmness. Tom Pynsent offered his arm to Lady Spottiswoode.
"Now, my lady, three gentlemen can't cut themselves down into two, so I shall take charge [224] of you, while they fight for your daughter and Pen."
Mr. Spottiswoode stood irresolute129 for an instant, but the Mr. Tyndals took possession of Miss Spottiswoode; neither of those gentlemen approached Miss Wycherly. Mr. Spottiswoode was, of course, under the necessity of leading her to the carriage, but it took place in profound silence. Tom Pynsent, now awake to his cousin's state of mind, managed every thing for her.
"There, ladies, you are comfortable. Pen, let me place you comfortably upon your throne."
Mrs. Pynsent screamed from the drawing-room window, "I say, Tom, put Pen inside!"
Tom Pynsent, however, seated his cousin safely on the "throne," as she had always designated the coach-box, and Mr. Spottiswoode took his seat by her side; the Mr. Tyndals also mounted their horses, and rode away.
Mr. Spottiswoode paused to admit of Tom Pynsent's careful arrangement of his cousin's box-cloak, but Mrs. Pynsent again screamed from the window:—
"I say, Tom, you'll be too late for Wetheral!"
Tom Pynsent noticed his mother's exclamations131 [225] by a sharp movement of the elbow, and remained till he had adjusted every thing with precision. He then shook his cousin's hand forcibly, and descended132 upon the steps of the door. "All's right, Spottiswoode."
The carriage was soon lost behind the knoll133, which had been the subject of dispute.
The Mr. Tyndals appeared no more by the side of the carriage, and a long silence was broken by a remark from Mr. Spottiswoode.
"I wonder we see nothing of the Tyndals."
Miss Wycherly answered, half hesitating, "I believe I have offended Mr. Henry Tyndal."
"That is to be regretted," was Mr. Spottiswoode's reply, and a second silence ensued; the remainder of the drive was passed without a word on either side. Lady Spottiswoode urged Miss Wycherly to remain with them and dine; but Penelope's heart was too ill at ease to accept her hospitality. Her pallid countenance and hurried voice pleading excuses, spoke more powerfully than words could do, and her friends forbore to press her compliance134. Mr. Spottiswoode still held the reins, and evinced no intention to quit the box. Miss Wycherly dared not meet his eye, as she thanked him for the trouble he had taken.
[226]
"You must not return thanks yet, for my task is not ended," replied Mr. Spottiswoode, "I shall drive you safely to Lidham."
"Pray—not for the world!" exclaimed Miss Wycherly, fixing her eyes upon her companion, in the energy of speaking; Mr. Spottiswoode's face wore a mild expression, and a smile quivered on his lip, but it fled at her exclamation130, and his manner resumed its reserve. She remembered Julia's charge to be gentle; she remembered her cousin's charge to "pitch it in smoothly;" she saw also Mr. Henry Tyndal walking his horse in the distance.
"Yes, yes, Charles Spottiswoode, drive on, and drive fast—don't wait for any one!"
"Not for Tyndal?" asked Mr. Spottiswoode, provokingly.
"Not for a human being—drive on, I beseech135 you!"
Mr. Spottiswoode obeyed, and the carriage proceeded with rapidity in the direction of Lidham.
Three miles were traversed, and Lidham rose among its woods in grandeur136, ere Miss Wycherly attempted to speak; she had taxed her memory to bring forward some topic of conversation, but it played her false; she had awaited a [227] remark from her companion, upon which to ground her intended kindness, and it had not reached her ear—her heart now pined to recover its former ease and happiness, yet no opportunity offered to attempt the resumption. To begin the subject voluntarily, was a thought which fled at its very birth. What! own herself in the wrong, and apologize for having given pain to a worthy137 heart? Ask for pardon, when she had insulted a human being in the dearest feelings? and, when her spirit longed to be at peace with her lover, full of its own injustice138 and wrong? forbid it, womanly dignity!
Mr. Spottiswoode passed through the lodge139 at Lidham, and yet Miss Wycherly persevered in her silence; no matter, Mr. Wycherly was in sight, and the hour was past for repentance; she must henceforth submit to bear a gnawing140 and unpitied remorse141 for her levity142 of conduct, and for the knowledge that she had thrown away the very opportunity she had coveted143, to try her power upon her lover's forgiveness. To her "dignity" she must sacrifice an ingenuous144 confession145 of sorrow for an error, heartless as it was uncalled for; and the demands of "dignity" superseded146 the claim of right. So do women often create their own misery, by daring to [228] offend, yet quailing147 under the degradation of revoking148 an ungenerous speech.
Mr. Wycherly returned to the house, and was ready to receive his daughter and Mr. Spottiswoode when they drove up in his usual way. It never occurred to him that the somewhat long absence of the latter from Lidham was a sure prognostic of a misunderstanding between the parties most interested in the visits.
"Why, Spottiswoode, you are a truant149, but Pen has caught you at last, I see. She and I thought you were gone for ever, but I'm glad to see you, however." Mr. Wycherly handed his daughter from the barouche-box. "Well, now, come down, for dinner has been ready this half-hour; down with you, my good fellow."
Mr. Spottiswoode declined staying dinner; he would take his own horse, and return to Shrewsbury.
"My good fellow, what's the matter with you? you won't think of losing your dinner? Nonsense, my dear sir; stay and take your dinner, and go home afterwards, if you like. Here, Pen, try your eloquence150."
But Miss Wycherly had flown in sorrow and anger to her own room. Mr. Spottiswoode perceived her departure, and it decided151 his own; [229] he could not be prevailed upon to defer152 his ride home till the evening. It was evident Miss Wycherly got out of his way, and her manner towards him was offensive; he could not think of remaining at Lidham, to subject himself to repeated annoyances153; Mr. Wycherly pressed in vain.
"Well, Spottiswoode, you are determined, so I can't help it; but I think there is something in the wind."
"I am returning to my mother's house," replied Mr. Spottiswoode, as he shook hands.
"Give my compliments," said Mr. Wycherly, "and tell her I say you are an obstinate mule154."
点击
收听单词发音
收听单词发音 |
1
trifling
|
|
| adj.微不足道的；没什么价值的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
2
velocity
|
|
| n.速度，速率 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
3
mansions
|
|
| n.宅第，公馆，大厦( mansion的名词复数 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
4
spoke
|
|
| n.（车轮的）辐条；轮辐；破坏某人的计划；阻挠某人的行动 v.讲，谈（speak的过去式）；说；演说；从某种观点来说 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
5
canvassed
|
|
| v.（在政治方面）游说( canvass的过去式和过去分词 )；调查（如选举前选民的）意见；为讨论而提出（意见等）；详细检查 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
6
mingled
|
|
| 混合，混入( mingle的过去式和过去分词 )； 混进，与…交往[联系] | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
7
emanate
|
|
| v.发自，来自，出自 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
8
ail
|
|
| v.生病，折磨，苦恼 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
9
tempted
|
|
| v.怂恿（某人）干不正当的事；冒…的险（tempt的过去分词） | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
10
persevered
|
|
| v.坚忍，坚持( persevere的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
11
flirting
|
|
| v.调情，打情骂俏( flirt的现在分词 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
12
indifference
|
|
| n.不感兴趣，不关心，冷淡，不在乎 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
13
breach
|
|
| n.违反，不履行；破裂；vt.冲破，攻破 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
14
drawn
|
|
| v.拖，拉，拔出；adj.憔悴的，紧张的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
15
fetters
|
|
| n.脚镣( fetter的名词复数 )；束缚v.给…上脚镣，束缚( fetter的第三人称单数 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
16
flippancy
|
|
| n.轻率；浮躁；无礼的行动 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
17
unwilling
|
|
| adj.不情愿的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
18
concur
|
|
| v.同意，意见一致，互助，同时发生 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
19
dispel
|
|
| vt.驱走，驱散，消除 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
20
refreshment
|
|
| n.恢复，精神爽快，提神之事物；（复数）refreshments:点心，茶点 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
21
standing
|
|
| n.持续，地位；adj.永久的，不动的，直立的，不流动的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
22
reins
|
|
| 感情，激情； 缰( rein的名词复数 )； 控制手段； 掌管； （成人带着幼儿走路以防其走失时用的）保护带 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
23
groom
|
|
| vt.给（马、狗等）梳毛，照料，使...整洁 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
24
mortification
|
|
| n.耻辱，屈辱 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
25
descend
|
|
| vt./vi.传下来，下来，下降 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
26
exalted
|
|
| adj.(地位等)高的，崇高的；尊贵的，高尚的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
27
distress
|
|
| n.苦恼，痛苦，不舒适；不幸；vt.使悲痛 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
28
distressed
|
|
| 痛苦的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
29
reproof
|
|
| n.斥责，责备 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
30
Forsaken
|
|
| adj. 被遗忘的, 被抛弃的 动词forsake的过去分词 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
31
ascertain
|
|
| vt.发现，确定，查明，弄清 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
32
unbearably
|
|
| adv.不能忍受地，无法容忍地；慌 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
33
upbraid
|
|
| v.斥责，责骂，责备 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
34
remonstrate
|
|
| v.抗议，规劝 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
35
incorrigible
|
|
| adj.难以纠正的，屡教不改的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
36
relinquish
|
|
| v.放弃，撤回，让与，放手 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
37
tints
|
|
| 色彩( tint的名词复数 )； 带白的颜色； （淡色）染发剂； 痕迹 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
38
renounce
|
|
| v.放弃；拒绝承认，宣布与…断绝关系 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
39
frightful
|
|
| adj.可怕的；讨厌的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
40
embarked
|
|
| 乘船( embark的过去式和过去分词 )； 装载； 从事 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
41
undertaking
|
|
| n.保证，许诺，事业 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
42
perfectly
|
|
| adv.完美地，无可非议地，彻底地 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
43
mortified
|
|
| v.使受辱( mortify的过去式和过去分词 )；伤害（人的感情）；克制；抑制（肉体、情感等） | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
44
transgression
|
|
| n.违背；犯规；罪过 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
45
resolute
|
|
| adj.坚决的，果敢的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
46
misery
|
|
| n.痛苦，苦恼，苦难；悲惨的境遇，贫苦 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
47
contemplated
|
|
| adj. 预期的 动词contemplate的过去分词形式 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
48
prospect
|
|
| n.前景，前途；景色，视野 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
49
astonishment
|
|
| n.惊奇，惊异 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
50
surmised
|
|
| v.臆测，推断( surmise的过去式和过去分词 )；揣测；猜想 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
51
solicitudes
|
|
| n.关心，挂念，渴望( solicitude的名词复数 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
52
gilded
|
|
| a.镀金的，富有的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
53
lures
|
|
| 吸引力，魅力（lure的复数形式） | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
54
forth
|
|
| adv.向前；向外，往外 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
55
bustle
|
|
| v.喧扰地忙乱，匆忙，奔忙；n.忙碌；喧闹 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
56
grievances
|
|
| n.委屈( grievance的名词复数 )；苦衷；不满；牢骚 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
57
harping
|
|
| n.反复述说 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
58
tribulations
|
|
| n.苦难( tribulation的名词复数 )；艰难；苦难的缘由；痛苦 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
59
dealing
|
|
| n.经商方法，待人态度 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
60
fatigue
|
|
| n.疲劳，劳累 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
61
procured
|
|
| v.（努力）取得， （设法）获得( procure的过去式和过去分词 )；拉皮条 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
62
draught
|
|
| n.拉，牵引，拖；一网（饮，吸，阵)；顿服药量，通风；v.起草，设计 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
63
prostration
|
|
| n. 平伏, 跪倒, 疲劳 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
64
blighting
|
|
| 使凋萎( blight的现在分词 )； 使颓丧； 损害； 妨害 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
65
lighting
|
|
| n.照明，光线的明暗，舞台灯光 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
66
coherence
|
|
| n.紧凑；连贯；一致性 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
67
fatigued
|
|
| adj. 疲乏的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
68
agitation
|
|
| n.搅动；搅拌；鼓动，煽动 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
69
attachment
|
|
| n.附属物，附件；依恋；依附 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
70
majestically
|
|
| 雄伟地； 庄重地； 威严地； 崇高地 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
71
copiously
|
|
| adv.丰富地，充裕地 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
72
consolation
|
|
| n.安慰，慰问 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
73
sobbed
|
|
| 哭泣，啜泣( sob的过去式和过去分词 )； 哭诉，呜咽地说 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
74
abominable
|
|
| adj.可厌的，令人憎恶的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
75
capering
|
|
| v.跳跃，雀跃( caper的现在分词 )；蹦蹦跳跳 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
76
imploring
|
|
| 恳求的，哀求的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
77
implore
|
|
| vt.乞求，恳求，哀求 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
78
soothing
|
|
| adj.慰藉的；使人宽心的；镇静的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
79
drooped
|
|
| 弯曲或下垂，发蔫( droop的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
80
devoted
|
|
| adj.忠诚的，忠实的，热心的，献身于...的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
81
indignity
|
|
| n.侮辱，伤害尊严，轻蔑 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
82
reconciliation
|
|
| n.和解，和谐，一致 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
83
degradation
|
|
| n.降级；低落；退化；陵削；降解；衰变 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
84
miserable
|
|
| adj.悲惨的，痛苦的；可怜的，糟糕的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
85
folly
|
|
| n.愚笨，愚蠢，蠢事，蠢行，傻话 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
86
irritation
|
|
| n.激怒，恼怒，生气 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
87
chafed
|
|
| v.擦热（尤指皮肤）( chafe的过去式 )；擦痛；发怒；惹怒 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
88
prudent
|
|
| adj.谨慎的，有远见的，精打细算的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
89
spurn
|
|
| v.拒绝，摈弃；n.轻视的拒绝；踢开 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
90
pertinaciously
|
|
| adv.坚持地；固执地；坚决地；执拗地 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
91
transgressions
|
|
| n.违反，违法，罪过( transgression的名词复数 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
92
heed
|
|
| v.注意，留意；n.注意，留心 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
93
shuddering
|
|
| v.战栗( shudder的现在分词 )；发抖；（机器、车辆等）突然震动；颤动 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
94
determined
|
|
| adj.坚定的；有决心的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
95
subdue
|
|
| vt.制服，使顺从，征服；抑制，克制 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
96
incapable
|
|
| adj.无能力的，不能做某事的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
97
secrecy
|
|
| n.秘密，保密，隐蔽 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
98
repentance
|
|
| n.懊悔 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
99
pallid
|
|
| adj.苍白的，呆板的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
100
complexion
|
|
| n.肤色；情况，局面；气质，性格 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
101
conversing
|
|
| v.交谈，谈话( converse的现在分词 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
102
entreated
|
|
| 恳求，乞求( entreat的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
103
applied
|
|
| adj.应用的；v.应用，适用 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
104
countenance
|
|
| n.脸色，面容；面部表情；vt.支持，赞同 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
105
vocation
|
|
| n.职业，行业 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
106
exhausted
|
|
| adj.极其疲惫的，精疲力尽的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
107
abruptly
|
|
| adv.突然地，出其不意地 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
108
dab
|
|
| v.轻触，轻拍，轻涂；n.(颜料等的)轻涂 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
109
daggers
|
|
| 匕首，短剑( dagger的名词复数 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
110
inquisitively
|
|
| 过分好奇地； 好问地 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
111
obstinate
|
|
| adj.顽固的，倔强的，不易屈服的，较难治愈的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
112
torrent
|
|
| n.激流，洪流；爆发，(话语等的)连发 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
113
precipice
|
|
| n.悬崖，危急的处境 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
114
abhor
|
|
| v.憎恶；痛恨 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
115
insolence
|
|
| n.傲慢；无礼；厚颜；傲慢的态度 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
116
affront
|
|
| n./v.侮辱，触怒 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
117
contemplating
|
|
| 深思，细想，仔细考虑( contemplate的现在分词 )； 注视，凝视； 考虑接受（发生某事的可能性）； 深思熟虑，沉思，苦思冥想 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
118
bustled
|
|
| 闹哄哄地忙乱，奔忙( bustle的过去式和过去分词 )； 催促 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
119
infinitely
|
|
| adv.无限地，无穷地 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
120
stationary
|
|
| adj.固定的，静止不动的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
121
opposition
|
|
| n.反对，敌对 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
122
riddles
|
|
| n.谜（语）( riddle的名词复数 )；猜不透的难题，难解之谜 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
123
awakened
|
|
| v.（使）醒( awaken的过去式和过去分词 )；（使）觉醒；弄醒；（使）意识到 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
124
smoothly
|
|
| adv.平滑地，顺利地，流利地，流畅地 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
125
imperative
|
|
| n.命令，需要；规则；祈使语气；adj.强制的；紧急的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
126
conceal
|
|
| v.隐藏，隐瞒，隐蔽 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
127
propriety
|
|
| n.正当行为；正当；适当 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
128
swell
|
|
| vi.膨胀，肿胀；增长，增强 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
129
irresolute
|
|
| adj.无决断的，优柔寡断的，踌躇不定的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
130
exclamation
|
|
| n.感叹号，惊呼，惊叹词 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
131
exclamations
|
|
| n.呼喊( exclamation的名词复数 )；感叹；感叹语；感叹词 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
132
descended
|
|
| a.为...后裔的，出身于...的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
133
knoll
|
|
| n.小山，小丘 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
134
compliance
|
|
| n.顺从；服从；附和；屈从 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
135
beseech
|
|
| v.祈求，恳求 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
136
grandeur
|
|
| n.伟大，崇高，宏伟，庄严，豪华 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
137
worthy
|
|
| adj.(of)值得的，配得上的；有价值的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
138
injustice
|
|
| n.非正义，不公正，不公平，侵犯（别人的）权利 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
139
lodge
|
|
| v.临时住宿，寄宿，寄存，容纳；n.传达室，小旅馆 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
140
gnawing
|
|
| a.痛苦的，折磨人的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
141
remorse
|
|
| n.痛恨，悔恨，自责 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
142
levity
|
|
| n.轻率，轻浮，不稳定，多变 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
143
coveted
|
|
| adj.令人垂涎的；垂涎的，梦寐以求的v.贪求，觊觎(covet的过去分词)；垂涎；贪图 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
144
ingenuous
|
|
| adj.纯朴的，单纯的；天真的；坦率的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
145
confession
|
|
| n.自白，供认，承认 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
146
superseded
|
|
| [医]被代替的，废弃的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
147
quailing
|
|
| 害怕，发抖，畏缩( quail的现在分词 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
|
148
revoking
|
|
| v.撤销，取消，废除( revoke的现在分词 ) | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
149
truant
|
|
| n.懒惰鬼，旷课者；adj.偷懒的，旷课的，游荡的；v.偷懒，旷课 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
150
eloquence
|
|
| n.雄辩；口才，修辞 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
151
decided
|
|
| adj.决定了的，坚决的；明显的，明确的 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
152
defer
|
|
| vt.推迟，拖延；vi.(to)遵从，听从，服从 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
153
annoyances
|
|
| n.恼怒( annoyance的名词复数 )；烦恼；打扰；使人烦恼的事 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
|
154
mule
|
|
| n.骡子，杂种，执拗的人 | |
参考例句： |
|
|
|
| 欢迎访问英文小说网 |