“It appears to me that such a residence as Charlton, with a large park attached to it, and a house in Belgrave-square, would form a remarkably nice combination of town and country. What does your ladyship think?”
“As a rule I am not very fond of the country,” she replied. “But I fancy I could be happy anywhere, under certain circumstances.”
“Under what circumstances?” he asked, bending down his head.
“Don't ask,” she replied, avoiding his ardent gaze. “But I am particularly anxious to know,” he said, “my own happiness being dependent upon the answer. Could you contrive to spend six months at such a dull place as Charlton?”
“Yes, very well,” she replied, raising her eyes, and looking him full in the face, “provided you will agree to pass the other six months in Belgrave Square.”
Sir Bridgnorth could scarcely believe what he heard.
“Is that a bargain?” he exclaimed joyously. “If so, let us conclude it at once.”
“With all my heart,” she replied. “I am quite satisfied with the arrangement.”
“And I ought to be, and am,” said Sir Bridgnorth. “I am sure I have got the best of it.”
“You say so now,” she rejoined with a smile. “But you may alter your opinion after six months' experience of Belgrave Square.”