CHAPTER XXXV.
BOUGHT WITH A PRICE.
Ellen Carley was not allowed any time to take back the promise given to her father, had she been inclined to do so.

Mr.Whitelaw made his appearance at the Grange early in the evening of the 2nd of January, with a triumphant simper upon his insipid countenance, which was inexpressibly provoking to the unhappy girl.

It was clear to her, at first sight of him, that her father had been at Wyncomb that afternoon, and her hateful suitor came secure of success.

His wooing was not a very romantic episode in his commonplace existence.

He did not even attempt to see Ellen alone; but after he had been seated for about half-an-hour in the chimney-corner, nestling close to the fire in a manner he much affected, being of a particularly chilly temperament, given to shiver and turn blue on the smallest provocation, he delivered himself solemnly of the following address:-- "I make no doubt, Miss Carley, that you have taken notice for some time past of my sentiments towards yourself.