syllable, though he conjures up every possible objection to a change of
abode, and will not (perhaps, poor dear, cannot) see what we intend doing
in the world. Now, you know that rich men invariably make the question
of the cost their first and loudest outcry. I know that to be the case.
They call it their blood. Papa seems indifferent to this part of the
affair. He does not even allude to it. Still, we do not progress. It
is just possible that the Tinleys have an eye on beautiful Besworth.
Their own place is bad enough, but good enough for them. Give them
Besworth, and they will sit upon the neighbourhood. We shall be invaded
by everything that is mean and low, and a great chance will be gone for
us. I think I may say, for the county. The country? Our advice is,
that you write to papa one of your cleverest letters. We know, darling,
what you can do with the pen as well as the sword. Write word that you
have written."

Wilfrid's reply stated that he considered it unadviseable that he should
add his voice to the request, for the present.

The ladies submitted to this quietly until they heard from their father
one evening at dinner that he had seen Wilfrid in the city.

"He doesn't waste his time like some young people I know," said Mr. Pole,
with a wink.

"Papa; is it possible?" cried Adela.

"Everything's possible, my dear."

"Lady Charlotte?"