She said: 'One of our miseries is that we can't find a gentleman who will grapple with the hideous difficulties of Falkland.' Of course I soothed her.

Of course I said: 'I've got the gentleman, and he shall grapple immediately.'-- 'Oh heavens! who is he ?'--'Mr.Francis Clare.'-- 'And where is he ?'--'In the house at this moment.'-- 'Will you be so very charming, Miss Vanstone, as to fetch him ?'--'I'll fetch him, Miss Marrable, with the greatest pleasure.' I left the window-seat--I rushed into the morning-room--I smelled cigars--I followed the smell--and here I am." "It's a compliment, I know, to be asked to act," said Frank, in great embarrassment.

"But I hope you and Miss Marrable will excuse me--" "Certainly not.

Miss Marrable and I are both remarkable for the firmness of our characters.

When we say Mr.So-and-So is positively to act the part of Falkland, we positively mean it.