Chetwynd Calverley by William H. Ainsworth

On that morning, as previously intimated, Sir Bridgnorth Charlton had offered to drive Lady Thicknesse to Brackley Hall; and as Mrs. Calverley did not make her appearance, and no other arrangements were made, in consequence of Mildred's illness, she accepted the proposal with delight, secretly hoping that a proposal of another kind might follow. Her ostensible purpose was to spend the day with her sister, Lady Barfleur, and return to dinner.

Everything promised well. The weather was propitious, and as Sir Bridgnorth assisted her to her place in front of his well-appointed and well-horsed mail-phaeton, he squeezed her hand in a manner that seemed to proclaim his intentions.

But his deportment and discourse when they had started on the drive left her in no doubt. He lowered his voice, and bent down his head when he addressed her, so that what he said could not be overheard by the two grooms behind.

For an elderly gentleman, he acted the part of a suitor very creditably. If his looks were not impassioned, his manner was devoted. Lady Thick-nesse was pleased, and with good reason, for the match, if it took place, would be satisfactory in all inspects.

A better _parti_ than Sir Bridgnorth could not be found. He had the recommendation of an excellent social position, rank, and wealth. Moreover, he was extremely good tempered.

Though somewhat of an invalid, Lady Thicknesse was a most charming companion, and a great deal more amiable than so-called charming people usually are. Besides being very rich, very well bred, and very agreeable, she had a special recommendation to Sir Bridgnorth -- she had no family. He had resolved never to marry a widow with incumbrances.

Lady Thicknesse looked remarkably well that morning. Her pale and delicate complexion was a little warmer than usual, and her eyes rather brighter; but she was not in high spirits. Indeed, she never was in high spirits; her manner being always subdued. She questioned Sir Bridgnorth about Charlton, and seemed delighted with his description of the place.

"I hope you will see it ere long," he said, with a peculiar smile, that made her heart flutter, and caused her to cast down her eyes.

Now seemed Sir Bridgnorth's opportunity.

After clearing his throat he remarked:

"It appears to me that such a residence as Charlton, with a large park attached to it, and a house in Belgrave-square, would form a remarkably nice combination of town and country. What does your ladyship think?"

"As a rule I am not very fond of the country," she replied. "But I fancy I could be happy anywhere, under certain circumstances."

"Under what circumstances? " he asked, bending down his head.

"Don't ask," she replied, avoiding his ardent gaze. "But I am particularly anxious to know," he said, "my own happiness being dependent upon the answer. Could you contrive to spend six months at such a dull place as Charlton?"

"Yes, very well," she replied, raising her eyes, and looking him full in the face, "provided you will agree to pass the other six months in Belgrave Square."

Sir Bridgnorth could scarcely believe what he heard.

"Is that a bargain? " he exclaimed joyously. "If so, let us conclude it at once."

"With all my heart," she replied. "I am quite satisfied with the arrangement."

"And I ought to be, and am," said Sir Bridgnorth. "I am sure I have got the best of it."

"You say so now," she rejoined with a smile. "But you may alter your opinion after six months' experience of Belgrave Square."