CHAPTER XVIII

"I hope I shall soon have the pleasure of introducing my son to you," said Mr.Weston.
Mrs.Elton, very willing to suppose a particular compliment intended her by such a hope, smiled most graciously.
"You have heard of a certain Frank Churchill, I presume," he continued--"and know him to be my son, though he does not bear my name." "Oh! yes, and I shall be very happy in his acquaintance.

I am sure Mr.
Elton will lose no time in calling on him; and we shall both have great pleasure in seeing him at the Vicarage." "You are very obliging .-- Frank will be extremely happy, I am sure .-- He is to be in town next week, if not sooner.

We have notice of it in a letter to-day.

I met the letters in my way this morning, and seeing my son's hand, presumed to open it--though it was not directed to me--it was to Mrs.Weston.She is his principal correspondent, I assure you.

I hardly ever get a letter." "And so you absolutely opened what was directed to her! Oh! Mr.
Weston--( laughing affectedly) I must protest against that .-- A most dangerous precedent indeed!--I beg you will not let your neighbours follow your example .-- Upon my word, if this is what I am to expect, we married women must begin to exert ourselves!--Oh! Mr.Weston, I could not have believed it of you!" "Aye, we men are sad fellows.