CHAPTER VI.
The Rev.Samuel Saul During Harry's absence in London, a circumstance had occurred at the rectory which had surprised some of them and annoyed others a good deal.
Mr.Saul, the curate, had made an offer to Fanny.

The Rector and Fanny declared themselves to be both surprised and annoyed.

That the Rector was in truth troubled by the thing was very evident.

Mrs.Clavering said that she had almost suspected it--that she was at any rate not surprised; as to the offer itself of course she was sorry that it should have been made, as it could not suit Fanny to accept it.

Mary was surprised, as she had thought Mr.Saul to be wholly intent on other things; but she could not see any reason why the offer should be regarded as being on his part unreasonable.
"How can you say so, mamma ?" Such had been Fanny's indignant exclamation when Mrs.Clavering had hinted that Mr.Saul's proceeding had been expected by her.
"Simply because I saw that he liked you, my dear.