Of course Mr Grey cannot like you to travel with George Vavasor." "And why not, aunt ?" Alice, as she asked this question, turned round and confronted Lady Macleod boldly.

She spoke with a steady voice, and fixed her eyes upon the old lady's face, as though determined to show that she had no fear of what might be said to her.
"Why not, Alice?
Surely you do not wish me to say why not." "But I do wish you to say why not.

How can I defend myself till the accusation is made ?" "You are now engaged to marry Mr Grey, with the consent and approbation of all your friends.

Two years ago you had--had--" "Had what, aunt?
If you mean to say that two years ago I was engaged to my cousin George you are mistaken.

Three years ago I told him that under certain conditions I would become engaged to him.