Nobody, however, knew but himself, that, when that was done, he meant to join the brother and sister on part of their Canadian journey, and that he hoped thereby to become better acquainted with Elizabeth Merton than was possible--for a man at least of his sensitiveness--under the eyes of an inquisitive neighbourhood.
For this step Lady Merton's consent was of course necessary.

He had accordingly written from Boston to ask if it would be agreeable to them that he should go with them through the Rockies.

The proposal was most natural.

The Delaines and Gaddesdens had been friends for many years, and Arthur Delaine enjoyed a special fame as a travelling companion--easy, accomplished and well-informed.
Nevertheless, he waited at Boston in some anxiety for Elizabeth's answer.

When it came, it was all cordiality.