"No, no," I answered. "We are going to have a jolly evening of it, with nobody present who will make you either anxious or annoyed. Mr. Blackstone,"—he wasn't married then,—"Miss Clare, I think,—and"—
"What do you ask her for?"
"I won't if you don't like her, but"—
"I haven't had a chance of liking or disliking her yet."
"That is partly why I want to ask her,—I am so sure you would like her if you knew her."
"Where did you tell me you had met her?"
"At Cousin Judy's. I must have one lady to keep me in countenance with so many gentlemen, you know. I have another reason for asking her, which I would rather you should find out than I tell you. Do you mind?"
"Not in the least, if you don't think she will spoil the fun."
"I am sure she won't. Then there's your brother Roger."
"Of course. Who more?"