‘Very. Lord Rotherwood will be a popular man; but my congratulations refer to something nearer home. I think you owe us some thanks for having brought them into the neighbourhood.’
‘Report is very kind in making arrangements,’ said Lily, with something of Emily’s haughty courtesy.
‘I hope this is something more than report,’ said her partner.
‘Indeed, I believe not. I think I may safely say that it is at present quite unfounded,’ said Lily.
Mr. Carrington, much surprised, said no more.
Lily did not believe the report sufficiently to be annoyed by it during the excitement and pleasure of the evening, and at present her principal vexation was caused by the rapid diminution of the company. She and her brother were the very last to depart, even Florence had gone to bed, and Lady Rotherwood, looking exceedingly tired, kissed Lily at the foot of the stairs, pitied her for going home in an open carriage, and wished her good-night in a very weary tone.
‘I should think you were the fiftieth lady I have handed across the hall,’ said Lord Rotherwood, as he gave Lily his arm.
‘But where were the fireworks, Rotherwood?’
‘Countermanded long ago. We have had enough of them. Well, I am sorry it is over.’
‘I am very glad it is so well over,’ said Claude.