"Good news, I hope," replied Mr. Robert Hazlehurst.
"May I not have my share of it?" asked Mrs. Hazlehurst, whom
Harry had not observed.
"Certainly; it is a piece of good fortune to your humble servant, in which I hope you will both be interested."
"Why, really, Harry," said his sister-in-law, "there is a touch of importance, with a dash of self-complacency and mystery in your expression, that look a little lover-like. Have you come to announce that you are determined to offer yourself to some belle or other before we sail?"
"The deed is already done," said Harry, colouring a little; as much, perhaps, from a mischievous satisfaction in the disappointment he foresaw, as from any other feeling.
"No!" said his brother, turning towards him with some anxiety. "Offered yourself—and accepted, then; or, of course, you would not mention it."
"Pray, tell us, Harry, who is to be our new sister," said Mrs.
Hazlehurst, kindly, and with some interest.
"I have half a mind to tease you," he replied, smiling.
"I never should guess," said Mrs. Hazlehurst. "I had no idea you were attached to any one—had you, Robert?"
"Not I! It must be somebody at Longbridge—he has been there more than half his time lately. Come, tell us, Harry, like a man; who is it?" asked Robert Hazlehurst, naturally feeling interested in his younger brother's choice.