'Declined!'
'Yes.'
'It is all through that hateful Mary Innis!' exclaimed Miss Thorne, reddening with rage. 'I know it. I am sure of it. Yes, I see through it all—all.'
'I dare say,' returned Mrs. Bennett. 'I can't believe it either,' she continued. 'He is not so easily influenced. But, Arabella, my dear, think no more of the matter. You will like Mr. Meeker, I know, when you do meet, and all the more for any little obstacle at the beginning. I was just thinking how I could bring you together. What do you say to dropping in at—no, that won't do. I have it; come round this very evening and take tea with us. Mr. Meeker is almost sure to come in. He has not been here this week.'
'Arabella' had her little objections.
'Nonsense, my darling. I am determined you two shall become acquainted before Mrs. Jones's party, and that is next Thursday. Don't forget how fond you are of waltzing, and there Cousin Hiram is superb.'
'I know it,' said Miss Thorne, with a sigh. 'But won't it look strange?'
'Look strange to do what you have done so often, my darling! Now, Arabella, I won't take 'no' from you.'
'I consent,' said Miss Thorne, languidly. 'He won't be rude to me, will he?'
'Rude! why, Arabella, what do you take him for?'