As the child died, I believe he thinks it his duty to marry again.

But he hates it.

He's rather dull, and he can't bear women fussing about and wanting to be made love to." They went over the visiting-book and discussed people and dates seriously.

The list was made and the notes written before Emily left the house.

It was not until she had got up and was buttoning her coat that Lady Maria bestowed her boon.
"Emily," she said, "I am going to ask you to Mallowe on the 2d.