not refrain
giving an answer herself in his behalf--thus doing the duty of
an adversary with all the zeal of an advocate.

CHAPTER X.

Mr. Sandford finding his friend Dorriforth frequently perplexed in the
management of his ward, and he himself thinking her incorrigible, gave
his counsel, that a suitable match should be immediately sought out for
her, and the care of so dangerous a person given into other hands.
Dorriforth acknowledged the propriety of this advice, but lamented the
difficulty of pleasing his ward as to the quality of her lover; for she
had refused, besides Sir Edward Ashton, many others of equal
pretensions. "Depend upon it then," cried Sandford, "that her affections
are engaged; and it is proper that you should know to whom." Dorriforth
thought he did know, and mentioned Lord Frederick; but said that he had
no farther authority for the supposition than what his observation had
given him, for that every explanation both upon his and her side had
been evaded. "Take her then," cried Sandford, "into the country, and if
Lord Frederick should not follow, there is an end of your suspicions."

"I shall not easily prevail upon Miss Milner to leave town," replied he,
"while it is in the highest fashion."

"You can but try," returned Sandford; "and if you should not succeed
now, at least fix the time you mean to go during the autumn, and be firm
to your determination."

"But in the autumn," replied Dorriforth, "Lord Frederick will of course
be in the country; and as his uncle's estate is near our residence, he
will not then so evidently follow her, as he would if I could induce her
to go now."

It was agreed the attempt should be made. Instead of receiving this
abrupt proposal with uneasiness, Miss Milner, to the surprise of all
present, immediately consented; and gave her guardian an opportunity of
saying several of the kindest and politest things upon her ready
compliance.

"A token of approbation from you, Mr. Dorriforth," returned she, "I
always considered with high estimation--but your commendations are now
become infinitely superior in value by their scarcity; for I do not
believe that since Miss Fenton and Mr. Sandford came to town, I have
received one testimony of your esteem."

Had these words been uttered with pleasantry, they might have passed
without observation; but at the conclusion of the period, resentment
flew to Miss Milner's face, and she darted a piercing look at Mr.
Sandfor