fear that, by thus acting, I was making a fool of myself."
"An alarm as unnecessary, as the alarms our friends entertain on our account generally are. A friend is never alarmed for us in the right place. But how did you manage to convince Sir Robert that you were in your sober senses?"
"Why, I did what I always do," returned his uncle, "to a man for whom I have a respect,—I told him the truth. I frankly avowed that I took an interest in Miss Churchill, and on your account."
Norbourne coloured, from mixed sensations; still hope was the predominant one.
"I believe that the whole business," continued his uncle, "is now settled. I do not think that you will regret Mrs. Churchill being obliged to remain in town for some time to come; and if the fine does dip somewhat deeply into the old lady's hoards, it matters little; for whoever you marry will be unto me as a daughter."
Norbourne could only look at his uncle
