He called at the house every Saturday with the declared object of going over to the club that was held that evening in the parlour at the Bush, whither Mr.Masters also always went.

It was understood at home that Mr.Masters should attend this club every Saturday from eight till eleven, but that he was not at any other time to give way to the fascinations of the Bush.

On this occasion, and we may say on almost every Saturday night, Mr.Twentyman arrived a full hour before the appointed time.

The reason of his doing so was of course well understood, and was quite approved by Mrs.Masters.She was not, at any rate as yet, a cruel stepmother; but still, if the girl could be transferred to so eligible a home as that which Mr.Twentyman could give her, it would be well for all parties.
When he took his seat he did not address himself specially to the lady of his love.

I don't know how a gentleman is to do so in the presence of her father, and mother, and sisters.