"I have not seen her since the morning," said the young man, after
having delivered the order, and returned to the sofa. "She looks
harassed and ill, poor girl."

"I am sorry we have been so precipitate in this affair, Walter," said
Mrs. Jerrold, fuming. "After all, this eccentric old person may change
his mind, and it will be so awkward to break off the match, for you
cannot afford to marry a poor woman."

"I do not apprehend any thing of the kind, mother. Helen's beauty and
accomplishments are dower enough," he replied, calmly.

"Walter, I will never consent to this marriage if Helen is
portionless," exclaimed the lady.

"My dear mother, you sometimes forget, do you not, that I have reached
the mature age of thirty-one? Really, where my happiness is concerned,
I shall submit to no control," he said, calmly.

"Happiness!" repeated the lady, scornfully.

"The carriage is at the door, madam," said a servant, at the door.

"Very well. Tell Rachael to bring down my bonnet and wrappings."

Soon accoutred for her drive, Mrs. Jerrold took her son's arm, and went
down to her carriage. He handed her in, and stepped in after her.

"Why do you go, Walter?" she asked, looking annoyed.