Ratcliffe watched them sharply and grew more and more absorbed in his own thoughts as the boat drew nearer and nearer the shore.
Carrington was in high spirits.

He thought he had played his cards with unusual success.

Even Miss Dare deigned to acknowledge his charms that day.
She declared herself to be the moral image of Martha Washington, and she started a discussion whether Carrington or Lord Dunbeg would best suit her in the role of the General.
"Mr.Carrington is exemplary," she said, "but oh, what joy to be Martha Washington and a Countess too!".