“The lawn itself is charming,” said Lord Courland; “but I don't like those two sombre cedars.”
“They were my father's especial favourites,” observed Chetwynd. “I hope your lordship will spare them.”
“I should consider it a sacrilege to remove them,” said Sir Bridgnorth.
“I don't carry my veneration for trees quite so far,” rejoined Lord Courland; “and, as I have no particular associations connected with the two cedars, I shall merely consider whether my lawn cannot be improved.”
“My lawn!” whispered Chetwynd to Captain Danvers. “He is master here already.”
“I will get you to walk round with me presently, Sir Bridgnorth,” said Lord Courland, “and favour me with your opinion on the general arrangements.”
“If I may venture to give your lordship my opinion, without walking round,” replied Sir Bridgnorth, “I would strongly advise you to let the gardens and grounds alone. It is allowed to be one of the prettiest places in the country, and I should be sorry if it was destroyed.”
“But I don't mean to destroy the place; I desire to improve it.”
“Such improvements as your lordship contemplates, I fear would destroy its character,” said Sir Bridgnorth; “and that is what I should regret.”
Just then the breakfast bell put an end to the discourse, and attracted the party to the house.