"I supposed he would," said Grace, shrugging her shoulders.
"And I do hope, Grace, you will treat him kindly."
"I shall treat him politely, Aunt Caroline, if that is what you mean. That is my duty, since he is to be our guest."
"Major Ashton could marry brilliantly."
"Let him, then."
"Everybody considers him an eligible parti."
"Then there is little cause for me to pity him. There are plenty who will have compassion on him, and console him for my coldness."
"You must admit that he is a thorough gentleman, Grace."
"My dear aunt, I am rather tired of Major Ashton as a topic of conversation. Suppose we drop him. I am ready to admit everything you desire—he is elegant, a good match, fascinating, if you will, but he will need to carry his fascinations to another market."
"She seems resolute," thought Mrs. Sheldon, "but she may change her mind after all. Who was it said it is always best to begin with a little aversion?"