“Well, madam,” replied the captain, “I will be candid with you; I do not think that a clever girl like Miss Amelia is likely to be happy as the wife of my good friend Mr Flat—still there is nothing against his character, madam; I believe him harmless—very harmless.”
“He’s a very fine-looking young man, Captain Bridgeman.”
“Yes; nothing to be found fault with in his appearance.”
“Very good-natured.”
“Yes; he’s not very quick in temper, or anything else; he’s what we call a slow-coach.”
“I hear he’s a very correct officer, Captain Bridgeman.”
“Yes; I am not aware that he has ever been under an arrest.”
“Well, we cannot expect everything in this world; he is handsome, good-tempered, and a good officer—I cannot see why Amelia does not like him, particularly as her affections are not otherwise engaged. I am satisfied with the answer you have given, Captain Bridgeman, and now I shall point out to Amelia that I expect she will make up her mind to accept Mr Flat.”
Here Captain Bridgeman hesitated.
“Indeed, madam, if her affections are not otherwise engaged—I say—are not engaged, madam, I do not think she could do better. Would, you like me to sound Miss Amelia on the subject?”