Of this speech, Mrs. Stafford, who believed he did not know her, took very little notice; and turning towards Emmeline, who had in the mean time been listening in trembling apprehension to the ardent declarations of Delamere, said it was time to return home.
Delamere, without attending to her hint, renewed his importunities for her friendship and interest with Miss Mowbray; to which, as soon as he would allow her to answer, she said very gravely—'Sir, as Miss Mowbray seems so much alarmed at your pursuing her hither, and as you must be yourself sensible of it's extreme impropriety, I hope you will not lengthen an interview which can only produce uneasiness for you both.'
'Let us go home, for heaven's sake!' whispered Emmeline.
'They are determined, you see, to follow us,' replied her friend; 'we will however go.'
By this time they were near the door; and Mrs. Stafford wishing the two gentlemen a good morning, was hurrying with Emmeline into the house; but Fitz-Edward took hold of her arm.
'One word, only, madam, and we will intrude upon you no farther at present: say that you will suffer us to see you again to-morrow.'
'Not if I can help it, be assured, Sir.'
'Then, madam,' said Delamere, 'you must allow me to finish now what I have to say to Miss Mowbray.'
'Good heaven! Sir,' exclaimed Emmeline, 'why will you thus persist in distressing me? You are perhaps known to Mrs. Watkins; your name will be at least known to her; and intelligence of your being here will be instantly sent to Lord Montreville.'