“His affection, Miss Tallant, threatens to become a serious embarrassment.”
“Nonsense! I am sure you must be fond of him, or you would not take him out with you!”
“If that is what you think, ma’am, you can have no idea of the depths to which he can sink to achieve his own ends. Blackmail is an open book to him. He is well aware that I dare not deny him, lest I should lose what little reputation I may have in your eyes.”
“How absurd you are! I knew, as soon as I saw how well you handled him, that you know just how to use a dog. I am so glad you have kept him with you.”
She gave Ulysses a last pat, and stepped back on to the flag-way. Mr. Beaumaris said: “Will you not give me the pleasure of driving you to your door?”
“No, indeed, It is only a step!”
“No matter, send your maid home! Ulysses adds his entreaties to mine.”
As Ulysses chose this moment to scratch one ear, this made her laugh.
“Mere bashfulness,” explained Mr. Beaumaris, stretching down his hand. “Come!”
“Very well—since Ulysses wishes it so much!” she said, taking his hand, and climbing into the curricle. “Mr. Beaumaris will see me home, Maria.”