"Cadets of our best Lancashire and Cheshire families are constantly apprenticed, so there is nothing in that," remarked Jemmy. "I repeat my conviction that Atherton is a gentleman born. Dr. Byrom is of the same opinion."
"Dr. Byrom may be influenced by partiality. I fancy he would like the young man as a son-in-law," said Monica. "Beppy Byrom certainly would not object to the arrangement," she added, with a significant smile that conveyed a good deal.
"Is Beppy Byrom pretty?" asked Constance.
"Decidedly so—one of the prettiest girls in Manchester," rejoined Monica.
"And is Mr. Atherton Legh insensible to her attractions?" inquired Constance, as carelessly as she could.
"That I can't pretend to say," returned her cousin. "But I should scarcely think he can be so."
"At all events, he pays her very little attention," remarked Jemmy.
Constance cast down her magnificent eyes, and her countenance assumed a thoughtful expression that seemed to heighten its beauty.
While she remained thus preoccupied, Monica and her lover moved towards the window and looked out, or appeared to be looking out, for it is highly probable they only saw each other.
Presently Constance arose, and saying she desired to be alone for a few minutes, left them together.