“I think, my Lord,” said Sandford, “it was very lucky that you were not there.”
“Had Lord Elmwood been with us, we should not have had occasion for the assistance of any other,” said Miss Milner.
“Lord Elmwood has been with you, Madam,” returned Sandford, “very frequently, and yet—”
“Mr. Sandford,” said Lord Elmwood, interrupting him, “it is near bed-time, your conversation keeps the ladies from retiring.”
“Your Lordship’s does not,” said Miss Milner, “for you say nothing.”
“Because, Madam, I am afraid to offend.”
“But do not you also hope to please? and without risking the one, it is impossible to arrive at the other.”
“I think, at present, the risk would be too hazardous, and so I wish you a good night.” And he went out of the room somewhat abruptly.
“Lord Elmwood,” said Miss Milner, “is very grave—he does not look like a man who has been passing the evening with the woman he loves.”
“Perhaps he is melancholy at parting from her,” said Miss Woodley.