"I beg of you to do nothing of the kind. I can send it by William, when next he goes for a message."
William was a very diminutive, and much overworked, page-boy.
"Thanks," said Antonia; "but I prefer to go myself."
She left the room, shutting the door rather noisily; and Mrs. Bernard Temple looked for sympathy to the two girls.
"Is not she trying?" she repeated. "With my mind so preoccupied with thoughts of my approaching marriage, and of dear Sir John, and those sweet girls, Hester and Nan; it is really too much to be worried by Antonia's whims."
"Oh, but she means everything splendidly," said Annie. "I admire her beyond anything. If you will let me, Mrs. Bernard Temple, I will go out with her."
"Oh, certainly, my dear. I see you are under her spell, so I have nothing to say. Dear Nora and I will try to make ourselves happy together."
Annie left the room, and met Antonia in the hall.
"Wait one moment, Antonia," she said; "I'll go with you."