"Miss Oriel was saying so much in praise of you before you came out," said Margaretta, "that I began to think that her mind was intent on remaining at Greshamsbury all her life."
Frank blushed, and Patience laughed. There was but a year's difference in their age; Frank, however, was still a boy, though Patience was fully a woman.
"I am ambitious, Lady Margaretta," said she. "I own it; but I am moderate in my ambition. I do love Greshamsbury, and if Mr Gresham had a younger brother, perhaps, you know—"
"Another just like myself, I suppose," said Frank.
"Oh, yes. I could not possibly wish for any change."
"Just as eloquent as you are, Frank," said the Lady Margaretta.
"And as good a carver," said Patience.
"Miss Bateson has lost her heart to him for ever, because of his carving," said the Lady Margaretta.
"But perfection never repeats itself," said Patience.
"Well, you see, I have not got any brothers," said Frank; "so all I can do is to sacrifice myself."