Lady Brereton bowed, and agitated all her feathers, while the honourable daughter took no notice whatever of the courteous salutation of the master of the house.
“You are well lodged here, sir,” remarked Lord Brereton. “I hear it is his Majesty’s intention to create a baronetcy for you.”
“His Majesty is very gracious,” replied Learmont.
“I think it judicious,” added the lord; “wealth should never be allowed to remain in the hands of untitled persons. Either they, if fitted, should be raised to rank, or the wealth should be by some means taken from them.”
“There is much sound philosophy in what your lordship says,” answered Learmont.
“It is my opinion,” said Lord Brereton, with affected dignity.
“Certainly,” added Learmont; “and that should be sufficient to settle the question for ever, my lord.”
Lord Brereton bowed stiffly.
Learmont now cast his eyes around the saloon, and fancying he saw an air of satiety creeping over his guests, he resolved upon opening the ball-room, which he felt sure would give an impetus to the flagging spirits of the company, who were really getting tired of the incessant glitter of all around them.