It was not well, however, to argue the case against Eleanor in her own drawing-room, and so they both walked forth and discussed the matter in all its bearings under the elm-trees of the close.

Mr.Harding also explained to his son-in-law what had been the purport, at any rate the alleged purport, of Mr.Slope's last visit to the widow.

He, however, stated that he could not bring himself to believe that Mr.Slope had any real anxiety such as that he had pretended.

"I cannot forget his demeanour to myself," said Mr.Harding, "and it is not possible that his ideas should have changed so soon." "I see it all," said the archdeacon.

"The sly _tartuffe_! He thinks to buy the daughter by providing for the father.