r him a speedy prospect of a Regiment, and that I think
he had better not leave the army."

"And say that by next post Hamercloth's bond for the six thousand shall
be paid off, and let him send me a note of any other large sum he owes."

"And above all things, no more delays. I must leave this for England
inevitably, and as the ladies will probably prefer wintering in Italy--"

"Oh certainly," said my uncle, "the wedding must take place."

"I scarcely can ask you to come to us on the occasion, though I need not
say how greatly we should all feel gratified if you could do so," said my
Lord.

While this cross fire went on from both sides, I looked from one to the
other of the speakers. My first impression being, that having perceived
and disliked my attention to Lady Jane, they adopted this "mauvaise
plaisanterie" as a kind of smart lesson for my future guidance. My next
impression was that they were really in earnest, but about the very
stupidest pair of old gentlemen that ever wore hair powder.

"And this is all," said I, drawing a long breath, and inwardly uttering a
short prayer for patience.

"Why, I believe, I have mentioned everything," said Lord Callonby,
"except that if anything occurs to yourself that offers a prospect of
forwarding this affair, we leave you a carte blanche to adopt it."

"Of course, then," said I, "I am to understand that as no other
difficulties lie in the way than those your Lordship has mentioned, the
feelings of the parties, their affections are mutual."

"Oh, of course, your cousin, I suppose, has made himself agreeable; he
is a good looking fellow, and in fact, I am not aware, why they should
not like each other, eh Sir Guy?"

"To be sure, and the Elton estates run half the shire with your
Gloucester property; never was there a more suitable match."

"Then only one point remains, and that being complied with, you may
reckon upon my services; nay, more, I promise you success. Lady Jane's
own consent must be previously assured to me, without this, I most
positively decline moving a step in the matter; that once obtained,
freely and without constraint, I pledge myself to do all you require."

"Quite fair, Harry, I perfectly approve of your scruples," so saying, his
Lordship rose and left the room.

"Well, Harry, and yourself, what is to be done for you, has Callonby
offered you anything yet?"

"Yes sir, his Lordship has most kindly offered me the under secretaryship
in Ir