It may well be conceived that Mrs Dale herself said nothing on the subject.

And, indeed, it may be conceived, also, that the squire, let his intentions be what they might, would not divulge them to Mrs Dale.

This was uncomfortable, but the position was one that was well understood between them.
Bernard Dale was still at Allington, and had remained there through the period of Crosbie's absence.

Whatever words Mrs Dale might choose to speak on the matter would probably be spoken to him; but, then, Bernard could be quite as close as his uncle.

When Crosbie returned, he and Bernard had, of course, lived much together; and, as was natural, there came to be close discussion between them as to the two girls, when Crosbie allowed it to be understood that his liking for Lily was becoming strong.
"You know, I suppose, that my uncle wishes me to marry the elder one," Bernard had said.
"I have guessed as much." "And I suppose the match will come off.