Resuming a more erect posture, she said earnestly:
"Tell me, Mr. Lambert, would you ever consent to perform a marriage—quietly—very quietly—say, with the knowledge of only the contracting parties and witnesses?"
"If there were good and sufficient reasons. Of course, if the young lady's parents were living, I should wish to be assured of their consent first."
"Oh!" murmured Miss Fitzgerald.
"But, in your own case, if you really wished it, though it seems unnecessary, I could make some such arrangement as you suggest, because no one would be affected but yourself, though if a large estate or title was involved it would be a very different matter."
His companion thought long and deeply; then, looking up at him, she said:
"Would you, would you, dear Mr. Lambert, accept my word for it that silence is necessary?"
"I—yes. I suppose so. But, Mrs. Roberts?"
"I can assure you that Mrs. Roberts approves of my marrying; but——" and she laid her finger on her lips.
"Well, as you please; but remember the responsibility rests with you; then there would have to be witnesses."