"Yes, and of his own accord. They are nothing in themselves; but he has been allowed too much money, has had little warning, and his title was against him too. So if we can break off the habit of extravagance, there is no great harm done. After all, you know, he is very young, and there is plenty of time to form his character. I am sure he has good dispositions of every kind, and if he has but resolution, he will be sure to do well,"
"I think there is resolution in his temper. Nothing shakes him when his mind is once made up."
So Marian was very well satisfied on the whole about her brother, and she might justly be so by Edmund's account. There was nothing to disturb her happiness, and she only doubted whether she should be able to sleep for it. Her brother restored, as well as everything else!
When bed-time came, Mrs. Lyddell looked at her, as if expecting something more to be said than "good night," but nothing came,—nothing but the dancing light in the eyes. Clara followed her to the room, and stood gazing at her. "Why, Marian," at last she said, "can't you tell me anything about it?"
"No; not till to-morrow."
"O, that is too bad, Marian, when you heard all I had to tell directly."
"I can't help it; I am not at liberty to tell other people's affairs."
"Don't look so grand, Marian, pray. I am sure I thought this was your own."
"So it is in a way."
"In a way? Why, Marian, what an extraordinary girl you are! not your own affair! Well, if you are impenetrable, I can't help it; but it is not kind, when we all want to congratulate you."