Brownlow would have many conscientious scruples
about the property, and Allen would be in utter despair."
"Though, of course, all this would be far better than exposing that
tropical-natured Spanish butterfly to meeting the subject of a grand
passion too late," said Mr. Ogilvie.
"Yes; of course that must be in his mother's mind, though I don't
suppose she expresses it even to herself. Miss Evelyn is coming out
too, and is to be presented, which reconciles the younger ones to
putting off all their schemes for working at Belforest, after the
true Fordham and story-book fashion. Besides, Mrs. Brownlow always
feels that she has a duty towards Elvira, even apart from Allen."
"And what do you think of Allen? He seems very pleasant and
gentlemanly."
"That's just what he is! He has always been as agreeable and nice as
possible all these eight years that I have been with them, and has
treated me entirely as his mother's old friend. I can't help liking
Allen very much, and wondering what he would have been if-—if he had
had to work for his living-—or if Elvira had not been such a little
tormenting goose—-or if, all manner of ifs-—indeed; but they all
resolve themselves into one question if there be much stuff in him!"
"If not, he is the only one of the family without, except, perhaps,
Jock.
Pages:
480
481
482
483
484
485
486
487
488
489
490
491
492
493
494
495
496
497
498
499
500
501
502
503
504