"Papa knows best. I am very fond of the Rectory," said Lady Alice, blushing at being so publicly addressed.
"And you understand the beauty of obedience," said Errington, with grave approval.
"Now, if you intend to see the whole 'fun of the fair,'" said Mrs. Burnett, "you had better be going, young people. The carriage is to come back for us after setting you down at the theatre. Who are going? My girls, Lady Alice, and Mrs. Liddell? Who is to be their escort? Colonel Ormonde?"
He glanced across the table. Mrs. Liddell sent no glance in his direction; she again devoted her attention to Kirby.
"No, thank you. To be intensely amused from two to six is more than I can stand; besides, I hope to meet you at Lady Maclean's this afternoon."
"I have an engagement, a business engagement at three," said Errington; "but I shall be happy to call for these ladies and see them home."
"You need not take that trouble," said Mrs. Burnett. "My son will be in the theatre later, and take charge of them; but there is still a place in the box. Will you go, Mr. Kirby?"
"Oh, pray do!" cried Mrs. Liddell. "You will be sure to be amused; a matinee of this kind is great fun. There is singing and dancing and acting and recitations of all kinds." She spoke in her liveliest manner and her sweetest tones.
"You are very good. I have not been in a theatre since I arrived; so if you really have a place for me, I shall be most happy to accompany you."
"That's settled. Go and put on your hats, my dears," said Mrs. Burnett; and her daughters, with Lady Alice, left the room.