Had marriage simply been of itself a thing desirable, he could doubtless have disposed of himself to better advantage.

His prospects, present fortune, and general position were so favourable, that he might have dared to lift his expectations, in regard both to wealth and rank, very high.
The Aylmers were a considerable people, and he, though a younger brother, had much more than a younger brother's portion.

His seat in Parliament was safe; his position in society was excellent and secure; he was exactly so placed that marriage with a fortune was the only thing wanting to put the finishing coping-stone to his edifice;--that, and perhaps also the useful glory of having some Lady Mary or Lady Emily at the top of his table.

Lady Emily Aylmer?
Yes;--it would have sounded better, and there was a certain Lady Emily who might have suited.

Now, as some slight regrets stole upon him gently, he failed to remember that this Lady Emily had not a shilling in the world.
Yes; some faint regrets did steal upon him, though he went on telling himself that he had acted rightly.