‘I do believe that must be it!’ cried Georgina. ‘She would be a dear old woman if she would only do it!’
‘And you see it would be fatal for Theodora to appear as a fashionable young lady, given to races, and the like vanities.’
‘I shall seem nothing but what I am.’
‘She would find Mrs. Martindale sighing at her inability to keep you out of bad company. So sorry to trust you with us. She did her utmost. No, no, Theodora; you must stay at home, and the good lady will be charmed.’
‘I do not intend to be turned from my course.’
‘No! Now, Jane, you should not have spoken in that way,’ said her sister. ‘You will only make Theodora more resolved to come with us; and, indeed, I had rather she did not, if it is to do her any harm.’
‘I shall leave you to settle it between you,’ said Jane, with apparent carelessness. ‘I shall go home to appease for a little while the unfortunate dressmaker, whom we are keeping so long waiting. Make the most of Theodora, while you can have her.’
She would not have gone, had she not believed her work done.
‘I have made up my mind,’ said Theodora, as the door closed.
‘Theodora! I do beg you will not,’ cried Georgina, in an agitated voice, fully meaning all she said. ‘You will vex and displease them all. I know you will, and I could not bear that! Your happiness is not wasted yet! Go, and be happy with your Percy!’