"Yes; and the attachment I believe to be mutual."
"Would not Flora, at your suggestion, seek to draw her gradually forth from her seclusion?"
"We have talked together on that subject several times," replied Mrs. Markland, "and are now trying to do the very thing you suggest."
"With any prospect of accomplishing the thing desired?"
"I believe so. There is to be company at Mr. Willet's next week, and we have nearly gained Fanny's consent to be present."
"Have you? I am indeed gratified to learn this."
"Flora has set her heart on gaining Fanny's consent, and will leave no influence untried."
"Still, Fanny's promise to go is withheld?"
"Yes; but I have observed her looking over her drawers, and showing more interest in certain articles therein than she has evinced for a long, long time."
"If she goes, she will require a new dress," said Mr. Markland.