"I should think not," mentally ejaculated Dame Swan, "seeing that she is just about to be wedded to another."
"But I vow that I will be so," cried Juliana. "If a certain person, whom we both detest, and who interferes with our happiness, should only be removed, you will return at once, will you not?"
"There is very little chance of his removal, I fear," said Careless, with a profound sigh. "His success has been too complete of late."
"But something unexpected may occur," said Juliana. "He may not be long in our way."
"I hope not," said Careless. "But his present position appears secure."
"Still, I do not think he can long maintain it," said Juliana. "He must fall soon."
"The announcement of his death will be my summons to return," said Careless. "If some sure hand would only strike the blow."
"At a crisis like the present, when such great interests are at stake, that hand is not likely to be wanting," said Juliana.
"Great heavens! She is planning the poor young man's destruction, before she has married him," thought Dame Swan. "'Tis fortunate I have overheard the dreadful design, and can therefore prevent it. Hist! hist!" she cried.