Thus the talkers in the room were divided into two principal groups, over one of which Maltravers may be said to have presided; over the other, Florence. As the former broke up, Ernest was joined by Cleveland.
"My dear cousin," said Florence, suddenly, and in a whisper, as she turned to Lumley, "your friend is speaking of me—I see it. Go, I implore you, and let me know what he says!"
"The commission is not flattering," said Ferrers, almost sullenly.
"Nay, a commission to gratify a woman's curiosity is ever one of the most flattering embassies with which we can invest an able negotiator."
"Well, I must do your bidding, though I disown the favour." Ferrers moved away, and joined Cleveland and Maltravers.
"She is, indeed, beautiful: so perfect a contour I never beheld: she is the only woman I ever saw in whom the aquiline features seem more classical than even the Greek."
"So, that is your opinion of my fair cousin!" cried Ferrers, "you are caught."
"I wish he were," said Cleveland. "Ernest is now old enough to settle, and there is not a more dazzling prize in England—rich, high-born, lovely, and accomplished."
"And what say you?" asked Lumley, almost impatiently, to Maltravers.
"That I never saw one whom I admire more or could love less," replied
Ernest, as he quitted the rooms.