And so far the spirit of aristocracy was strong within her.

All this she had, as may be imagined, learnt in early years from her uncle; and all this she was at great pains to teach Beatrice Gresham, the chosen of her heart.
When Frank declared that Mary had a right to give him an answer, he meant that he had a right to expect one.

Mary acknowledged this right, and gave it to him.
"Mr Gresham," she said.
"Oh, Mary; Mr Gresham!" "Yes, Mr Gresham.

It must be Mr Gresham after that.

And, moreover, it must be Miss Thorne as well." "I'll be shot if it shall, Mary." "Well; I can't say that I shall be shot if it be not so; but if it be not so, if you do not agree that it shall be so, I shall be turned out of Greshamsbury." "What! you mean my mother ?" said Frank.
"Indeed, I mean no such thing," said Mary, with a flash from her eye that made Frank almost start.