your blushes had a cause within, though not without, for Lord Meersbrook thinks nothing of you now; and it may be as well for you not to disgust him by your forwardness, or otherwise by exhibiting your weakness. Go away, I beseech you; I cannot bear the sight of indecent young women, even if they are my daughters!"
The marquis called on the morrow, but he saw only that Georgiana was unwell, and that the furtive glances she gave him indicated that either mind or body was more disordered than Lady Anne would allow. He had become really fond of her as a gentle and interesting girl, and the tones of his voice, and the pity in his eyes, really called forth so much of gratitude and esteem, that she wished for nothing so much as an opportunity to tell him how sincerely she thanked his intentions, and how much she was grieved that she could not accede to his wishes. But these wishes had never been expressed; nor could she refer to a preference to another, since that other was not heard of. That letters, and callers, and presents, even individuals on matters of business, had arrived at the house both sisters knew; but such good care was taken, either from good-will or ill, to prevent them from knowing who gave the presents, who wrote the notes, who made the calls, that both sisters remained in utter ignorance of circumstances which perpetually excited their curiosity and anxiety, because connected with
