“Is there?”
“I have been thinking that this is a somewhat rash step of the Marquess; this throwing himself into the arms of his former bitterest enemy, Cleveland.”
“You really think so?”
“Why, Mrs. Lorraine, does it appear to you to be the most prudent course of action which could have been conceived?”
“Certainly not.”
“You agree with me, then, that there is, if not cause for regret at this engagement, at least for reflection on its probable consequences?”
“I quite agree with you.”
“I know you do. I have had some conversation with the Marquess upon this subject this very morning.”
“Have you?” eagerly exclaimed the lady, and she looked pale and breathed short.
“Ay; and he tells me you have made some very sensible observations on the subject. ‘Tis pity they were not made before Mr. Cleveland left; the mischief might then have been prevented.”