CHAPTER XXVI.
PLOT THICKENS.
"Mother," said Antonia, two days after the events mentioned in the last chapter, "I think we have been quite long enough at the Grange."
Mrs. Bernard Temple was taking a walk by herself round one of the lawns when Antonia swept up to her and made this remark.
"I thought you would be saying something erratic of this sort," replied her parent, a good deal of annoyance in her tone. "We have not been at the Grange a week yet and, as it is to be the future home of both of us, it does not seem at all inconsistent to spend a fortnight here now, particularly when we are enjoying ourselves so much."
"Pray speak for yourself with regard to the enjoyment, mother," responded Miss Bernard Temple. "I must say that dreariness is no word for this place as far as I am concerned. These trim parterres, those undulating velvet lawns are abhorrence to me; but I am not thinking of myself at all when I say that I think it would be well for us to return to our rooms in town. I wish to do so for quite another motive. In the first place, I have got to take care of you, mother; you must not make yourself too cheap."
"Oh, my dear Antonia, what a horrid expression! I hope I understand what is due to my own dignity."
"Frankly, mother, you don't—not on all occasions; but now to revert to the more important business. I am anxious to be back in town because I want this matter with regard to the Towers to be carried into effect as soon as possible. By the way, have you spoken to Sir John Thornton on the subject?"
"Yes, oh, yes! for goodness sake don't you interfere, my dear."
"Of course I won't if you have done your duty. What did you say?"