They were convinced that the attachment between their child and their guest was advancing rapidly, and a day came when Sir Richard sought his wife with a very happy expression of countenance.
"Well, wife, the doubt will shortly be at an end.

Sir Robert has spoken openly at last." "Spoken of his love for our Kate ?" "Not in these words, but the meaning is the same.

He has asked me if I am willing to entrust one of my daughters to his keeping." "One of our daughters ?" repeated Lady Frances.

"And did he not name Kate?
He cannot love them all." "He spoke of Cecilia and Kate both," answered Sir Richard.

"Sir Robert is not a hot-headed youth, full of the fire of a first passion.