"Well, well," returned Lady Marchmont, whose patience was fairly exhausted, "at least you will allow me to judge for myself. I purpose leaving London to-night."
"Leaving London to-night!" ejaculated her husband—are you mad? Why, we dine at the prince's to-day."
"What do I care for the prince?" cried Henrietta: "I must and will go to my uncle."
"Must and will, Lady Marchmont, are words which my own proper sense of my authority cannot permit you to use. I beg to state, definitely, that I cannot permit you to leave London at present. It is very obvious how much his royal highness admires you; and court favour is too fleeting not to be made the most of while it lasts."
"But think how anxious my poor uncle is to see me!" said Henrietta, in a most pleading tone.
"It is fortunate that you have a calmer judgment to direct you than your own!" replied Lord Marchmont. "I have an idea"
