Let us talk over this matter more coolly." "It is what I anxiously desire, my lord," said Sir William Ashton, eagerly.

"Lady Ashton, we will not permit my Lord of A---- to leave us in displeasure.

We must compel him to tarry dinner at the castle." "The castle," said the lady, "and all that it contains, are at the command of the Marquis, so long as he chooses to honour it with his residence; but touching the farther discussion of this disagreeable topic----" "Pardon me, good madam," said the Marquis; "but I cannot allow you to express any hasty resolution on a subject so important.

I see that more company is arriving; and, since I have the good fortune to renew my former acquaintance with Lady Ashton, I hope she will give me leave to avoid perilling what I prize so highly upon any disagreeable subject of discussion--at least till we have talked over more pleasant topics." The lady smiled, courtesied, and gave her hand to the Marquis, by whom, with all the formal gallantry of the time, which did not permit the guest to tuck the lady of the house under the arm, as a rustic does his sweetheart at a wake, she was ushered to the eating-room.
Here they were joined by Bucklaw, Craigengelt, and other neighbours, whom the Lord Keeper had previously invited to meet the Marquis of A----.

An apology, founded upon a slight indisposition, was alleged as an excuse for the absence of Miss Ashton, whose seat appeared unoccupied.