“You flatter me!” said her ladyship, evidently pleased.
“When I beheld you together on the lawn this evening,” pursued Mrs. Calverley, “and especially when I saw you together in the dance, I was rejoiced that the meeting had taken place, as I knew how it must end. And now, good night, and pleasant dreams!”
Teresa entered her own room in a very lively mood, and continued so as long as Laura stayed with her, and diverted her with her chat.
The lady's-maid had nothing but what was satisfactory to say of Lord Courland. He had produced a most agreeable impression upon the household, and his good-natured deportment in the dance had carried all the suffrages in his favour.
“Even old Norris is pleased with him,” said Laura; “and if to-morrow goes off as well as to-day, everybody will be enthusiastic. Do you think we shall have another dance, ma'am? Monsieur Zephyrus is so anxious to try the polka with me! I said I'd ask you.”
“We shall see,” replied Mrs. Calverley. “I can't make any promises. I hope you're not falling in love with Zephyrus, Laura? I thought he seemed very attentive to you!”
“There was nothing particular about him, I assure you, ma'am,” replied Laura. “It's his way!”
“But you seemed to encourage him.”
“Well, there's no choice between him and Tom Tankard, and I can't bear that forward young man. Would you believe it, ma'am, the vain little fool flatters himself you are struck by his appearance?”
“I think him a most ridiculous object,” said Mrs. Calverley. “But now, before you go, I have an order to give you, and I wish particular attention paid to it. Should Mr. Carteret come to-morrow morning, I wish him to be shown at once to my cabinet.”