"Indeed! Who is it?"
"Miss Murray. Elizabeth Murray, to whom your cousins' estates have gone."
"What sort of a person is she?"
"Young, beautiful, rich. A little older than yourself, but not much. You would make a fine couple, Hugo. She came to see me the other day, and you would have thought she was a princess."
"I should like to see her," said Hugo, thoughtfully.
"Well, you must just go and call. And then you can think the matter over and let me know. I'm in no hurry for a decision."
"You are very good, Aunt Margaret."
"No. I am only endeavouring to be just. I should like to see you prosperous and happy. And, while you are here, you will oblige me by considering yourself the master of the house, Hugo. Give your own orders, and invite your own friends."
Hugo murmured some slight objection.
"It will not affect my comfort in the least. I kept some of the horses, and one or two vehicles that I thought you would like. Use them all. You will not expect to see very much of me; I seldom come downstairs, so the house will be free for you and your friends. When you have decided what you mean to do, let me know."