And if he admires her, why should they not come together ?" "But she is so young, Bell." "She is nineteen; and if they were engaged, perhaps, they might wait for a year or so.

But it's no good talking in that way, mamma.

If you were to tell Lily not to give him encouragement, she would not speak to him." "I should not think of interfering." "No, mamma; and therefore it must take its course.

For myself, I like Mr Crosbie very much." "So do I, my dear." "And so does my uncle.

I wouldn't have Lily take a lover of my uncle's choosing." "I should hope not." "But it must be considered a good thing if she happens to choose one of his liking." In this way the matter had been talked over between the mother and her elder daughter.