"When Mr. Howard has reached my age, my dear, and felt half the pain that I do, from gout and dyspepsia, he will be very glad to set his daughter to talk for him, my dear; so I beg you will stay."
"I wish I enjoyed the prospect of realizing your picture, my dear sir; a daughter exactly like Miss Emma Watson would be indeed a treasure."
"But remember it is to be purchased at the expense of gout, and you must not look for it these thirty years, Mr. Howard," said Emma laughing. "When the sacrifice is complete you will talk in a very different strain."
Mr. Howard looked very incredulous, but said nothing more on that subject.
Emma then mentioned the note she had received; her father began to murmur.
"The Osbornes will all turn all your heads with their balls and their visits, child," said he pettishly. "I wish you had never known them."
Emma looked down.
"I am sure I do not wish to go, if you dislike it," said she, in a voice which rather trembled.
It was evident to Mr. Howard that she did wish it very much.
Mr. Watson began again.