His recollection of Harriet, and the words which clothed it, the "beautiful little friend," suggested to her the idea of Harriet's succeeding her in his affections.

Was it impossible ?--No .-- Harriet undoubtedly was greatly his inferior in understanding; but he had been very much struck with the loveliness of her face and the warm simplicity of her manner; and all the probabilities of circumstance and connexion were in her favour .-- For Harriet, it would be advantageous and delightful indeed.
"I must not dwell upon it," said she.--"I must not think of it.

I know the danger of indulging such speculations.

But stranger things have happened; and when we cease to care for each other as we do now, it will be the means of confirming us in that sort of true disinterested friendship which I can already look forward to with pleasure." It was well to have a comfort in store on Harriet's behalf, though it might be wise to let the fancy touch it seldom; for evil in that quarter was at hand.

As Frank Churchill's arrival had succeeded Mr.Elton's engagement in the conversation of Highbury, as the latest interest had entirely borne down the first, so now upon Frank Churchill's disappearance, Mr.Elton's concerns were assuming the most irresistible form .-- His wedding-day was named.