"It is so shabby that I did not like to offer it, and now it is too late—I am very sorry I did not think of it, but it is too late now you know," she said, seeing the gathering storm on Caroline's lowering brow. "We are keeping the horses waiting, come along," she added, hurrying to the door, "do come."
Hargrave quietly seated himself.
"I am not coming," he said, "I cannot go and leave that poor pale girl, at home."
"Oh, there are Lucy, and papa, and mamma," cried Maria, "I will ask mamma to take her to the Pump-room."
"Lucy never rides now," said Hargrave, "or we would not consent to leave her at home, either. The Pump-room on such a day as this—it makes my head ache to think of it." So saying, he threw down his gloves and whip, laid aside his hat, and took up the paper.
The party were at a stand still. Hargrave looked seriously annoyed, and Caroline verging upon a storm.
"What shall I do?" said Selina, in a perplexed tone, looking from one to the other.
"Go and find your habit," said Hargrave.
"But it is so shabby," she said, looking fearfully at Caroline.
"You know Miss Lesly is above such trifles, besides, she can decide that."