had of his own; how far five, or even ten,
thousand would go in enabling them to marry, or whether it was available
in her father's lifetime; but she thought this prospect might smooth the
way to the avowal of their attachment, as effectually as his promotion;
she reckoned on relief from the weary oppression of secrecy, and fully
expected that it would all be told in the favourable juncture, when her
parents were full of satisfaction in Amy's marriage. Gratitude to Guy
would put an end to all doubt, dislike, and prejudice, and Philip would
receive him as a brother.

These hopes supported Laura, and enabled her to take part with more
appearance of interest in the consultations and arrangements for the
marriage, which were carried on speedily, as the time was short, and Mr.
Edmonstone's ideas were on a grand scale. It seemed as if he meant
to invite all the world, and there were no limits to his views of
breakfast, carriages, and splendours. His wife let him run on without
contradiction, leaving the plans either to evaporate or condense, as
time might prove best. Guy took Amy out walking, and asked what she
thought of it.

'Do you dislike it very much?' she said.

'I can hardly tell. Of course, as a general rule, the less parade and
nonsense the better; but if your father wishes it, and if people do find
enjoyment in that way, it seems hard they should not have all they can
out of it.'

'Oh, yes; the school children and poor people,' said Amy.

'How happy the Ashford children will be, feasting the poor people at
Redclyffe! Old Jonas Ledbury will be in high glory.'

'To be sure it does not seem like merit to feast one's poor neighbours
rather than the rich. It is so much pleasanter.'

'However, since the poor will be feasted, I don't think the rich ones
will do us much harm.'

'I am sure I shall know very little about them,' said Amy.

'The realities are so great to us, that they will swallow up the
accessories. There must be the church, and all that; and for the rest,
Amy, I don't think I shall find out whether you wear lace or grogram.'

'There's encouragement for me!' said Amy, laughing. 'However, what I
mean is, that I don't care about it, if I am not obliged to attend, and
give my mind, to those kind of things just then, and that mamma will
take care of.'

'Is it not a great trouble for her? I forgot that. It was selfish; for
we slip out of the fuss, and it all falls on her.'

'Yes,' said Amy; 'but don'