"That's another thing. One esteems people for different reasons, and esteem means nothing. I always kept up an intimacy for the girls' sakes, but I cannot endure her very abrupt manners. She is very offensive."
"My dear Gertrude, you must manage your own affairs: you formed the intimacy, to my great astonishment."
"I never receive assistance from you, Sir John. Never mind how or why I formed the intimacy; it is sufficient that I wish to escape her society at Julia's wedding; can I manage it?"
"I think not."
"I must then endure her. I see Mr. Pynsent, Tom I mean, riding up the park; I must seek Anna Maria." Lady Wetheral hastily quitted the apartment.
Tom Pynsent arrived, and was ushered into the sitting-room, where Lady Wetheral was seated alone; she was apparently startled by his entrance.
"My dear Mr. Pynsent, there is an old saying, and not a very refined one, which has been exemplified in myself at this moment. I was thinking of you, and wishing to see you, as you entered."
"I am much obliged, Lady Wetheral; I am sure I am very much honoured by your thoughts; but where are the ladies?"
"Lady Ennismore has chaperoned some of the party in a drive to Shrewsbury. Lewis's shop has so many attractions for young people!"