well what I mean, and when all the town knows as well as myself."

Cecilia then seriously enquired whether she had really any meaning at
all.

"Lord yes," answered she, "you know I mean about Sir Robert Floyer:
for I'm told you've quite refused Lord Derford."

"And are you also told that I have accepted Sir Robert Floyer?"

"O dear yes!--the jewels are bought, and the equipages are built; it's
quite a settled thing, I know very well."

Cecilia then very gravely began an attempt to undeceive her; but the
dancing beginning also at the same time, she stayed not to hear her,
hurrying, with a beating heart, to the place of action. Mr Monckton
and his fair partner then followed, mutually exclaiming against Mr
Harrel's impenetrable conduct; of which Cecilia, however, in a short
time ceased wholly to think, for as soon as the first cotillon was
over, she perceived young Delvile just walking into the room.

Surprise, pleasure and confusion assailed her all at once; she had
entirely given up her expectation of seeing him, and an absence so
determined had led her to conclude he had pursuits which ought to make
her join in wishing it lengthened; but now he appeared, that
conclusion, with the fears that gave rise to it, vanished; and she
regretted nothing but the unfortunate succession of engagements which
would prevent her dancing with him at all, and probably keep off all
conversation with him till supper time.