Col. Anglesea engaged Mr. Force in conversation to draw off his attention from Mrs. Force, who seemed to have some difficulty in maintaining her self-possession.
After tea his host proposed a game of whist, and the party of four grown people sat down to a rubber.
Col. Anglesea and Mrs. Force played against Mr. Force and Miss Meeke.
The colonel and the hostess beat the rubber. And soon afterward the circle separated and retired to rest.
It was just after breakfast the next morning when Col. Anglesea said to his host:
“Force, can you give me a few moments private conversation before you go away this morning?”
“Certainly. Come in here,” said the master of the house, leading the way to the vacant drawing room, and wondering much what Anglesea could possibly have to say to him in private.
“You will be very much surprised, and, I fear, very much displeased at what I am about to say to you; and yet, Force, I must say it. No other course is open to me, as a man of honor!” began Col. Anglesea, when the key was turned in the door and both men were seated.
“Whatever can you have to say to me that requires such deep solemnity of introduction?” demanded Mr. Force, with a light laugh, and yet with some uneasiness.
“It is this, then. Do not be offended. But I cannot help it—I love your daughter!” said the colonel, with that affectation of bluntness he had determined upon.