"You did not inform me of this arrangement, Julia," remarked the Countess; "I was not aware of the intended pleasure of another visit into Shropshire."
"I did not answer for you, dear mother. I was not aware at that time of your intention to reside at Bedinfield. I only assured Penelope, Lord Ennismore, and myself, would swell her train."
"You have changed your resolution, of course," said the Countess, in a dry tone of voice.
"No, indeed: I should like to surprise Penelope. Papa, we will return with you to Wetheral, if my lord has no objection."
"No plan can give me greater pleasure, my love. Let us return together, if you please. If your ladyship will add your society, Wetheral will be proud to receive you. Lady Wetheral will rejoice to see you."
"Oh! let us all return with papa," exclaimed Julia, turning to her lord with eagerness; "let us all return with papa to dear Wetheral!"
"I am sensible of Sir John's politeness," returned his lordship, "more particularly as change of air is beneficial to every constitution. I shall with pleasure revisit Wetheral, if the Countess-dowager has no engagements to prevent her quitting Bedinfield."
"My dear mother, you are not engaged? You will accompany us, won't you?" said Julia, affectionately and eagerly.
"I am grieved that it is out of my power to accept Sir John's polite invitation," replied the Countess, with much suavity.
"Oh! I am so sorry! but, my lord, you will take me to Wetheral; you will return with me into Shropshire," continued Julia, anxiously watching the stolid face of her dull lord. "You have no engagement, Augustus?"