‘Perhaps,’ said Jane, ‘since it was in love that she spoke, you would like to have her for our reprover for ever, and I can assure you more unlikely things have happened. I have heard it from one who can judge.’
‘Let me hear no more of this,’ said Emily, ‘it is preposterous and ridiculous, and very disrespectful to papa.’
Jane for once, rather shocked at her own words, went back to what had been said just before.
‘Then, perhaps, you would like to have Eleanor back again?’
‘I am sure you want some one to put you in mind of your duty,’ said Lily.
‘Eleanor and duty!’ cried Emily; ‘you who thought so much of the power of love!’
‘Of Emily and love, she would say, if it sounded well,’ said Jane.
‘I cannot see what true love you or Jane are showing now,’ said Lily, ‘it is no kindness to encourage her pertness, or to throw away a friendly reproof because it offends your pride.’
‘Nobody reproved me,’ replied Emily; ‘besides, I know love will prevail; for my sake Jane will not expose herself and me to a stranger’s interference.’
‘If you depend upon that, I wish you joy,’ said Lilias, as she left the room.