"The Earl of Knocknacoppul's daughter has sent me word that she must refuse, because her own marriage will take place first. She would have put it off, as she is only going to marry an Irish baronet, and because she is dying to have her name down as one of the bevy, but he says that if she delays any longer he'll go on a shooting expedition to the Rocky Mountains, and then perhaps he might never come back. So there is a vacancy."
"I hardly like to make a promise so long beforehand. Perhaps I might have a young man, and he might go off to the Rocky Mountains."
"That's just what made me not put down your name at first. Of course you know we've heard about Mr. Roden?"
"I didn't know," said Lady Frances, blushing.
"Oh dear, yes. Everybody knows it. And I think it such a brave thing to do,—if you're really attached to him!"
"I should never marry any man without being attached to him," said Lady Frances.
"That's of course! But I mean romantically attached. I don't pretend to that kind of thing with Llwddythlw. I don't think it necessary in a marriage of this kind. He is a great deal older than I am, and is bald. I suppose Mr. Roden is very, very handsome?"
"I have not thought much about that."
"I should have considered that one would want it for a marriage of that kind. I don't know whether after all it isn't the best thing to do. Romance is so delicious!"
"But then it's delicious to be a Duchess," said Lady Frances, with the slightest touch of irony.