"I am glad to hear it," said the mother, coldly. "I rejoice that my daughters are too well brought up to love any one—that is—of course—till they are engaged; during that short interval, it is right enough—in moderation; though, even then, it is much more comfortable to continue perfectly indifferent. Persons of feeling are always vulgar, and only fit for clergymen's wives."
"But Sir Stratford, mamma"——
"Has twenty thousand a-year, and is in very good society. He almost lives with the Rosleys. The Duke has been trying to get him for his son-in-law for a whole year."
"And Lady Mary so beautiful, too?"
"I believe, my dear, Lady Mary's affections, as they are called, are engaged."
"Indeed?" enquired the daughter, for curiosity in such subjects exists even in the midst of one's own distresses.
"May I ask who has gained Lady Mary's heart?"
"I believe it is that young Mr Lawleigh, a cousin of the Duchess—old Lord Berville's nephew; you've seen him here—a quiet, reserved young man. I saw nothing in him, and I understand he is very poor."
"And does—does Mr Lawleigh—like—love—Lady Mary?" enquired Alice with difficulty.
"He never honoured me with his confidence," replied the Countess—"but I suppose he does—of course he does—Sir Stratford, indeed, told me so—and he ought to know, for he is his confidant."