"No;—at least,—not directly. I perhaps spoke more harshly about him than I should have done. The truth is I had expected a line from him, and it had not come. Now it is here; but I do not suppose I shall ever see much of him. My intimacy was with her. But I would not wish you to remember what I said just now, if—if—"
"If what, Mrs. Finn? You mean, perhaps, if I should ever be allowed to call myself his son-in-law. It may seem to you to be arrogant, but it is an honour which I expect to win."
"Faint heart,—you know, Mr. Tregear."
"Exactly. One has to tell oneself that very often. You will help me?"
"Certainly not," she said, as though she were much startled. "How can I help you?"
"By telling me what I should do. I suppose if I were to go down to Richmond I should not be admitted."
"If you ask me, I think not;—not to see Lady Mary. Lady Cantrip would perhaps see you."
"She is acting the part of—duenna."
"As I should do also, if Lady Mary were staying with me. You don't suppose that if she were here I would let her see you in my house without her father's leave?"
"I suppose not."