It was almost a relief to him when Mrs. Calverley and Emmeline were seen approaching.
“How provoking!” exclaimed the captain, who, however, was secretly pleased by the interruption.
Had he thought proper, he might have moved on; but instead of doing so, he turned round and met those who were coming towards them.
Mrs. Calverley, who had very quick sight, had seen what took place, but did not of course make the slightest remark until she found herself shortly afterwards tête-à-tête with the captain, the others having walked on.
“I think I explained to you, Captain Danvers, what my intentions are in regard to Mildred?” she said.
“Yes, I perfectly recollect,” he replied. “You said you meant to give her a marriage portion of thirty thousand pounds; and I thought it exceedingly handsome.”
“But you did not quite understand me, I fancy,” said Mrs Calverley, regarding him steadfastly. “I ought to have added that she will have this sum on her marriage, provided I approve of her choice.”
“Ah! that proviso makes all the difference!” exclaimed the captain. “The money may not be given, after all.”
“I shall never withhold it unless I see some decided objection to the match,” she rejoined. “Think over what I have told you.”
No more was said; but the caution thus given him produced the effect intended on Captain Danvers. He saw that Mildred was completely in her step-mother's power, and that the latter would do nothing if offended.