Eleanor's carefully maintained composure was slipping fast, but she still managed a strained smile as she apologized. "Mr. Xanth, I'm sorry. I don't understand how this happened. My age seems to have caught up with me, and my eyes aren't as sharp as they once were..."Ever the gentleman, Elijah responded with grace and tact. "There's no need to blame yourself, Mrs. Finch Senior. Considering the Finch family's reputation and your discerning nature, it appears you were misled. "Nevertheless, your thoughtfulness in choosing the Lindisfarne Gospels is greatly appreciated as I genuinely admire the work."His carefully chosen words, particularly the phrase "misled", masterfully preserved the dignity of both the Finch family and Eleanor.Eleanor felt a wave of relief and gratitude, yet the word "misled" echoed in her mind, even as she kept her composure.After offering more apologies and exchanging a few more pleasantries with Elijah, she excused herself, pleading fatigue, and retired
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