‘Come to the East India Docks to-morrow to visit my ship, the Childe Harold?’
‘“My ship!”’ echoed my uncle.
‘At what hour?’ said Captain Butler.
Some talk went to this scheme; it was presently settled that Will and Captain Butler should dine at my house next day, and afterward we should visit the Childe Harold.
This was the merriest evening I had ever spent in my life. I sat at supper between Captain Butler and Will, and had never felt happier. My spirits were in a dance. I laughed even at poor old Mr. Lorrimer’s jokes. After supper Captain Butler sang a song, and I liked it so well that I begged him to sing another. Then I sang. The old people sat down to whist in a corner. Captain Butler, Will, and I chatted, and so slipped that evening away; till I was startled on lifting my eyes to the clock to see that it was almost eleven.
How should I get home? Should I walk or drive? I stepped to the window and parted the curtains and saw the stars shining.
‘It is a fine night,’ said I. ‘Will, give me your company, and I’ll walk. I hate your coaches.’
‘Your way is my way, I believe,’ said Captain Butler. ‘May I accompany you?’
I went upstairs to put on my bonnet. My aunt accompanied me. She lighted candles beside a looking-glass, and I saw that my cheeks were red and that my eyes shone like diamonds.
‘I believe that you have made a conquest to-night, my dear,’ said my aunt.