CHAPTER X.
FASHIONABLE FRIENDSHIP.
Lord Glenmore's marriage soon became the subject of general conversation. The day of the nuptials was already named, and the ceremony was to be in the most splendid style. In compliment to Lord Glenmore, several of his acquaintance were invited. Amongst these was Lady Tilney and Lady Tenderden; the Comtesse Leinsengen of course; and Lady Ellersby, who on her mother's side was related to the family of the Melcombs. The parties named expressed themselves annoyed at the idea of forming part of what they called the Melcomb mélange; but a secret wish to retain an influence with Lord Glenmore, whose marriage it was intended should not, without a trial of Miss Melcomb's aptitude for ton, banish him from their circle.
The whole affair, however, was sotto sugezione in the opinion of Lady Tilney and her friends. "The strangest thing of all is," exclaimed the former, as she was conversing on the subject with Lady Tenderden and the Comtesse Leinsengen, "that the marriage takes place in church."
"In church! quelle idée, vraiment on mourra de froid."
"And pray how must one be dressed?" inquired Lady Tenderden.
"Oh, en costume de traineau, I presume, since it is in von of your cold church; but vat sinifies how von dresses for it?"
"If it rains I really must send my excuse," said Lady Tilney, who wanted to be on a level at least with the Comtesse in impertinence. "Have you seen the trousseau?" she added.
"Yes, I have," replied Lady Tenderden. Lady Tilney looked blank; she could not bear that others should precede her even in the inspection of a trousseau. Lady Tenderden, continued:—"Madame Duval brought me every thing that was worth seeing; the laces are magnificent, and the corbeille de noces, and every thing is in good taste. But here is Lady Ellersby," exclaimed Lady Tenderden, glad to break off from a subject which had been disagreeable to her, "I do not suppose she will approve of the programme of this ceremony."
"My dear Lady Ellersby," the ladies all exclaimed, running up to her, "why did you not exert your influence with Lady Melcomb to prevent this baroque fancy of being married in church; surely your relationship would have authorized your good advice on the occasion." Lady Ellersby looked surprised, and asked an explanation.