"Then let us proceed on our little tour to-morrow."
Christobelle was caught in her own mesh. She had assuredly made no engagement—no actual engagement; but there was an implied consent on her part to Lord Farnborough's hope of finding her at home. She had not courage to confess this to Sir John Spottiswoode—and why was she guilty of evasion? She must now relinquish all thought of meeting Lord Farnborough at Fairlee. Christobelle sat meditating her disappointment for some moments.
"Miss Wetheral," said her companion, after a short silence, "did you ever see Lord Farnborough before the meeting of this morning?"
Christobelle started at the sound of Lord Farnborough's name, but she answered truly, "Never."
"Are you acquainted with his lordship's character?"
"No, indeed; my only knowledge of Lord Farnborough began, and may perhaps end, in this morning's interview."
"Lord Farnborough's character at college was designated as fair and false," observed Sir John Spottiswoode.
"Was it!"
"A fellow-collegian of his lordship's, Beverly, resides near Alverton. He gave me the character I now describe to you."
Christobelle felt uncomfortable at Sir John Spottiswoode's information. It is always painful to hear depreciating accounts of those we admire, or from whom we have received kindness. She knew nothing of Lord Farnborough—his lordship was nothing to her; but she regretted so agreeable a person should prove otherwise than estimable. Could Mr. Beverly's testimony be depended upon? Character should not be lightly treated: if Lord Farnborough's character was at the mercy of Mr. Beverly, it was but fair to ascertain Mr. Beverly's claims to belief. Under this impression, Christobelle hastily uttered her thoughts, after a second pause.