Margaret's interest became very deep at this crisis.
Harriet threw her curls off her forehead, and went on.
"He admired my riding and my eyes, and, in fact, every thing I said and did. My uncle was contented; Captain Gage was pleased; we were said to be too young, and the affair was put off for a year or two. Never do that, by the way, if you care about the man. I like to mix a little useful advice with my tale, you observe."
"Why, I think," said Margaret, "that if his love would not last any time, it had better go before than after marriage."
"I thought," said Harriet, "that he had enough love to last to all eternity; but I was mistaken. And if he thought the same of me, he was mistaken too."
At these words she drew herself up proudly, and again scattered her short curls.
"He went off to his regiment; and the next thing I heard of him was that he was at the feet of a married woman—a lady famous for detaching men from their lawful allegiance, whether as husbands or lovers. This Mrs. Max—but we will not mention names."
"Mrs. Maxwell Dorset!" exclaimed Margaret starting up in her chair.
"What, you have heard of her?" said Harriet, "I believe she enjoys a pretty extensive reputation. Is your head worse? I have been talking too much for you, I am afraid."
"Not at all," said Margaret, leaning back again, "pray go on; and will you give me another cup of coffee?"