“Yes; for I thought, my dear, that you would wish it.”
“I wish it!—Oh! if you knew how I wish to be alone!”
“Then, as no one is yet come, I can still shut my doors, and order them to say that I am not well enough to see company—I am sure it is true. Shall I?”
“No, my dear, it is too late,” said Vivian: “I am afraid it is impossible for you to do that.”
“Not impossible, if you wish it.”
“Well, do as you please.”
“Which is most for your interest? I have no other pleasure.”
“You are too good to me, and I fear I shall never have it in my power to show you any gratitude——”
“But decide which is best to be done, my dear,” said Lady Sarah.
“Why, my dear, I believe you judged rightly—see your friends, and make the best of it: but I can appear only for a moment; I have business of consequence—letters—papers—that must be finished to-night; and I must go now to my study.”