'Very likely,' said Mrs. Hamblin quietly. 'Then you acknowledge that I was right in all I said--you have been fascinated by this young lady, and the impression she has produced is likely to be a lasting one?'
'Frankly, yes,' said Spiridion, who was delighted to find matters going apparently so smoothly. 'I do not think I ever saw a young lady who pleased me so much.'
'You have not proposed to her?' said Mrs. Hamblin quickly.
'No, O no!'
'But you have let her see that you are very much taken with her?'
'Scarcely even that,' said Spiridion. 'I have merely paid her the ordinary attentions of society; but her sister--'
'Ah, yes, her sister, Mrs. Chadwick--clever managing woman that; you have talked with her about it?'
'Not in so many words; but from certain hints which she has given me, I am led to believe that the alliance would not be disagreeable to her.'
'I should think not,' said Mrs. Hamblin. 'Well, now that we have had this frank talk, you must make me acquainted with your idol, and avail yourself of any help I can give you towards winning her.'
'Margaret,' said Mr. Pratt, springing up and seizing her hand romantically, 'you were always generous and--'