to dine with Lady Ashby and Sir Thomas, which would be rather awkward—at least, not awkward, but rather—a—you know what I mean—I thought you mightn't like it so well—especially as we may have other ladies and gentlemen to dine with us occasionally."
"Certainly," said I, "I would much rather have it as you say; and, if you have no objection, I should prefer having all my meals in this room."
"Why so?"
"Because, I imagine, it would be more agreeable to Lady Ashby and Sir Thomas."
"Nothing of the kind!"
"At any rate it would be more agreeable to me."
She made some faint objections, but soon conceded; and I could see that the proposal was a considerable relief to her.
"Now, come into the drawing-room," said she. "There's the dressing-bell; but I won't go yet; it's no use dressing when there's no one to see you; and I want to have a little discourse."
The drawing-room was certainly an imposing apartment, and very elegantly furnished; but I saw its young mistress glance towards me
