“How considerate!” said Mrs. Dalrymple.
“How perfectly just his idea is!” said the major.
“We’ll then, in his presence, avow our present and unalterable determination as regards your fair daughters; and as the time is short—”
Here I turned towards Matilda, who placed her arm within mine; Sparks possessed himself of Fanny’s hand, while the major and his wife consulted for a few seconds.
“Well, O’Malley, all you propose is perfect. Now, then, for the captain. Who shall he inquire for?”
“Oh, an old friend of yours,” said I, jocularly; “you’ll be glad to see him.”
“Indeed!” said all together.
“Oh, yes, quite a surprise, I’ll warrant it.”