better make him understand that it is quite out of the question.
I have told him so, and you had better repeat it.' So saying, Mr
Wharton went upstairs to dress, and Everett, having received his
father's instructions, went away to the club.

When Mr Wharton reached the drawing-room, he found Mrs Roby
alone, and he at once resolved to discuss the matter with her
before he spoke to his daughter. 'Harriet,' he said abruptly,
'do you know anything of Mr Lopez?'

'Mr Lopez! Oh, yes, I know him.'

'Do you mean that he is an intimate friend?'

'As friends go on London, he is. He comes to our house, and I
think that he hunts with Dick.' Dick was Mr Roby.

'That's a recommendation.'

'Well, Mr Wharton, I hardly know what you mean by that,' said Mrs
Roby, smiling. 'I don't think my husband will do Mr Lopez any
harm; and I am sure Mr Lopez won't do my husband any.'

'I dare say not. But that's not the question. Roby can take
care of himself.'

'Quite so.'

'And so I dare say can Mr Lopez.' At this moment Emily entered
the room. 'My dear,' said her father, 'I am speaking to your