She was an accomplished and interesting young woman, and pleased Watson particularly; and it is but truth to say, that she was equally well pleased with him.
The father, who was present, saw, with a slight feeling of disapprobation, the lively conversation that passed between the young man and his daughter; and when an occasion offered, a day or two afterwards, made it a point to refer to him in a way to give the impression that he held him in light estimation.

Flora, that was the daughter's name, did not appear to notice his remark.

One evening, not long after this, as the family of Mr.Johnson were about leaving the tea-table, where they had remained later than usual, a domestic announced that there was a gentleman in the parlor.
"Who is it ?" inquired Flora.
"Mr.Mortimer," was answered.
An expression of dislike came into the face of Flora, as she said-- "He didn't ask for me ?" "Yes," was the servant's reply.
"Tell him that I'm engaged, Nancy." "No, no!" said Mr.Johnson, quickly.

"This would not be right.

_Are_ you engaged ?" "That means, father, that I don't wish to see him; and he will so understand me." "Don't wish to see him?
Why not ?" "Because I don't like him." "Don't like him ?" Mr.Johnson's manner was slightly impatient.
"Perhaps you don't know him." The way in which her father spoke, rather embarrassed Flora.