The two young ladies kissed cheeks and parted.

General Sherwin raised his hat, and was astonished to see Mrs.Culling join Miss Denham in accepting the salute, for they had not been introduced, and what could they have in common?
It was another of the oddities of female nature.
'My name is Mrs.Culling, and I will tell you how it is that I am interested in Captain Beauchamp,' Rosamund addressed her companion.

'I am his uncle's housekeeper.

I have known him and loved him since he was a boy.

I am in great fear that he is acting rashly.' 'You honour me, madam, by speaking to me so frankly,' Miss Denham answered.
'He is quite bent upon this Election ?' 'Yes, madam.