"You do not flatter us with a very long stay," pursued Mrs.
Evelyn.

"Quite as long as I expected — longer than I meant it to be,"
he answered, rather thoughtfully.

"Mr. Carleton," said Constance, sidling up in front of him. "I
have been in distress to ask you a question, and I am afraid —
"

"Of what are you afraid, Miss Constance?"

"That you would reward me with one of your severe looks, which
would petrify me; and then, I am afraid I should feel
uncomfortable" —

"I hope he will!" said Mrs. Evelyn, settling herself back in
the corner of the sofa, and with a look at her daughter which
was complacency itself — "I hope Mr. Carleton will, if you are
guilty of any impertinence."

"What is the question, Miss Constance?"

"I want to know what brought you out here?"

"Fie, Constance," said her mother. "I am ashamed of you. Do
not answer her, Mr. Carleton."

"Mr. Carleton will answer me, Mamma — he looks benevolently