"Well, Miss Millar, there's a good opportunity to-night," said Mrs. Watson, "for we have, amongst our visitors, a young and single man, who, I believe, is quite ready for any one who takes the trouble of catching him; so if you think him worth the trouble—"
"He must be very different from any man I ever saw yet," interrupted Annie. "Do you mean your charming young clerk, Mr. Alfred Frivolous, as I call him."
"Oh, dear, no," cried Mrs. Watson; "a very different person—he is very well off—has large property in Suffolk—quite a grand estate there—with no near connections—no sisters to be in your way—a most beautiful house—respectable family—I believe quite one of the first families in the county—and bears a high character."
"And may I ask the name of this desirable individual?" enquired Miss Millar, assuming an appearance of intense interest.
"Grant, Mr. Henry Grant—I am sure you will be charmed with him."
"Describe him—I am rather particular as to appearance."
"Why, I cannot say that he is absolutely handsome, but very dark—dark and genteel—quite genteel, I assure you."
"Lively?" enquired Annie.
"Perhaps he may be—but I do not know that I have heard him speak."
"Charming!" cried Annie; "dine with you, and yet not address you—his must be the very refinement of good manners—the very cream of gentility indeed—tell me some more about this delightful personage. Does he like ladies?"