"I wish you would let me ride with you; I am sure you do not know half the country about Wetheral. I suppose I may escort you, Miss Wetheral?" Tom Pynsent began to feel great stoutness of heart, in proportion as Anna Maria grew timid and embarrassed.
"I shall be happy—we shall feel——." She hesitated.
"To be sure; well, then, I shall be at Wetheral to-morrow, and, if you are not fatigued, I will show you a monstrous fine view."
"But your hunting-day is to-morrow, Mr. Pynsent."
"Never mind hunting for a day or so, Miss Wetheral; I don't mind being laughed at. I want very much to show you that view, so mind we are engaged to-morrow."
How lightly did Miss Wetheral's heart beat at that moment! how was she repaid for months of miserable feeling!
It was during the bustle of breaking up, that Miss Wycherly glided towards Julia, and unbosomed her feelings.
"My dear soul, I am the most wretched woman existing; that creature has vexed me to the soul with his flirtation, and my only hope is that I have given him a tweak in return."
"Take care, Penelope!"
"Oh, I shall care about nothing but repiquing. As long as Spottiswoode flirts with Lady Anna, so long I shall flirt with that half spoony Tyndal junior, if my heart breaks under it. How happy you are, Julia, and how miserable am I! You have chained your lover, whereas, mine bounds away at a touch. Now, there, look at him, cloaking Lady Anna, as if she was made of spun glass, and bringing her just under my very eyes. I will bear that man's insult with perfect gaiety—watch me now—good night!"