"I will cut them now," said William. "Will you come?" he asked, holding out his arm to Henry.
"No," replied Henry, sitting down on the shrubbery bench, "I must digest this shock first. You two will be enough to cut them, I dare say."
They walked away towards the flower-garden. But ere they had gone many steps he called out; and they turned.
"Mary! before you tie yourself up irrevocably, I hope you will reflect upon the ignominy of his being nothing on earth but a manufacturer. A pretty come down, that, for the Lady Marr who might have been!"
He was in one of his most ironical moods; a sure sign that his inward state was that of glowing satisfaction. This had been his hope for years—his plan, it may be said; but he had kept himself silent and neutral. As he sat there ruminating, he heard the distant sound of the pony carriage; and, taking a short cut, met it in the park. Mr. Ashley handed the reins to his groom, got out, and gave his arm to Henry.
"How are you by this time?"
"Better, sir. Nothing much to brag of."
"I thought William would have been with you. Is he not come?"
"Yes, he is come. But I am second with him to-day. Miss Mary's first."
"Oh indeed!" returned Mr. Ashley.