Meadows. Such injunctions from such a quarter had infused new life
into Maria; and in the course of the afternoon, Albinia met the
Captain with the mother and daughter, one on each arm, Maria in
recovered bloom and brilliancy, and Mrs. Meadows's rheumatism
forgotten in the glory of exhibiting her daughter engaged.
For form's sake, secrecy had been mentioned; but the world of Bayford
had known of the engagement a fortnight before took place. Sophy had
been questioned upon it by Mary Wolfe two hours ere she was
officially informed, and was sore with the recollection of her own
ungracious professions of ignorance.
'So it is true,' she said. 'I don't mind, since Arthur is not a
girl.'
Mr. Kendal laughed so heartily, that Sophy looked to Albinia for
explanation; but even on the repetition of her words, she failed to
perceive anything ridiculous in them.
'Why, mamma,' she said, impressively, 'if you had been like Aunt
Maria, I should--' she paused and panted for sufficient strength of
phrase--'I should have run away and begged! Papa laughs, but I am
sure he remembers when grandmamma and Aunt Maria wanted to come and
live here!'
He looked as if he remembered it only too well.
'Well, papa,' pursued Sophy, 'we heard the maids saying that they
knew it would not do, for all Mr. Kendal was so still and steady, for
Miss Meadows would worret the life out of a lead pincushion.'
'Hem!' said Mr.
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