"Why surely with half an eye any one may see how much they are together—you cannot deny it."
"No, or that you are likewise a great deal with him," said Lady Gordon, calmly.
"Or how much she talks to him," persisted Fanny.
"Not more than you do, I think," retorted her friend.
"Were you aware of the long interview they had last night in the dark in the conservatory? She was sitting in the corner, and he almost leaning on her lap."
"I am glad you put in the almost, it makes an important difference, Fanny."
"Do you know what they were talking of, Rosa?"
"No, do you?"
"A great deal of it was complaints of you, he was saying he could not manage you, and she was giving him advice on the subject. Then they said a great deal more about another subject, which I shall just tell you. You are of course aware that she intends to marry your brother."
"No, indeed, I am no such thing."