Emmeline smiled, and shook her head.
“Well, whoever wins him will have good reason to congratulate herself,” said Lady Thicknesse.
“We shan't quarrel about him, that's certain,” said Emmeline. “I'm quite ready to retire from the field in your favour.” she added to Mildred. “I should like nothing better than to see you Lady Courland!”
“I fear we are getting on a little too fast, dear girls,” said Lady Thicknesse, who was not pleased by the turn things seemed taking. “I have raised expectations that may never be realised. I really don't think Lord Courland is a marrying man.”
“I entertain quite a different opinion, aunt,” said Emmeline. “Within a week I feel sure he will have proposed to Mildred.”
“I hope Miss Calverley won't take what you say seriously,” observed Lady Thicknesse. “She may be disappointed.”
“No, indeed, I shan't,” said Mildred. “I have no idea of catching this young lord. I am not dazzled by his rank, though not insensible to it. I am charmed with his affability and good nature, but that is all. You won't find a rival in me, dearest Emmeline.”
“Never mind me, Mildred,” said Emmeline. “You know very well I am out of the question. I ask you plainly, wouldn't you like to be Lady Courland?”
“I can't tell,” replied the other. “I haven't thought about it.”
“Then we'll talk it over, and I'll give you my reasons,” said Emmeline.