And perhaps Sir Ratcliffe would have followed her example, only it so happened that as he was returning home one morning, he met his son in Grosvenor-square.
‘Why, Ferdinand, we never see you now,’ said Sir Ratcliffe.
‘Oh! you are all so gay,’ said Ferdinand. ‘How is my mother?’
‘She is very well. Katherine and herself have gone to see the balloon, with Lord Montfort and Count Mirabel. Come in,’ said Sir Ratcliffe, for he was now almost at his door.
The father and son entered. Sir Ratcliffe walked into a little library on the ground floor, which was his morning room.
‘We dine at home to-day, Ferdinand,’ said Sir Ratcliffe. ‘Perhaps you will come.’
‘Thank you, sir, I am engaged.’
‘It seems to me you are always engaged. For a person who does not like gaiety, it is very odd.’
‘Heigho!’ said Ferdinand. ‘How do you like your new horse, sir?’
‘Ferdinand, I wish to speak a word to you,’ said Sir Ratcliffe. ‘I do not like ever to interfere unnecessarily with your conduct; but the anxiety of a parent will, I think, excuse the question I am about to ask. When do you propose being married?’