He went to see Madame Merle on the morrow, and to his surprise she let him off rather easily.

But she made him promise that he would stop there till something should have been decided.

Mr.Osmond had had higher expectations; it was very true that as he had no intention of giving his daughter a portion such expectations were open to criticism or even, if one would, to ridicule.

But she would advise Mr.Rosier not to take that tone; if he would possess his soul in patience he might arrive at his felicity.

Mr.Osmond was not favourable to his suit, but it wouldn't be a miracle if he should gradually come round.