VI. MRS. CALVERLEY RENDERS CHETWYND AN IMPORTANT SERVICE.
Next morning while the party were assembled at breakfast, Captain Danvers announced his intention of terminating his visit, which he declared had been most agreeable; and, though pressed to stay by Mrs. Calverley, he declined.
“I have promised to spend a few days with Lady Barfleur before my return to town,” he said, “and must not disappoint her. I have written to tell her she may expect me at dinner to-day.”
“Then you really mean to leave us?” said Mrs. Calverley. “This is a very short visit. I hoped you would spend at least a week here. But you won't be far off, and can come back again if you are so inclined. I shall be very glad to see you.”
Mildred did not say a word. If she had spoken, he would have assented.
“You are very good,” he rejoined; “but it is possible I may be summoned to town.”
“It is quite certain you will find Brackley very dull after this lively house, Charles,” said Emmeline. “Take my advice and stay where you are.”
“A little solitude will suit my present mood,” he rejoined. “If I feel very, very lonely, I'll ride over here.”
“Well, we offer you our society,” said Mrs. Calverley.