The mention of him made Lenore blush to the ears, and
say, "Dear Lady Susan, you are always so kind to me that I ought to
be open with you. Don't fancy--"
"I understand, I understand, my dear," broke in Lady Susan. "You
shall not be teased. Do not the girls and I care for you for your
own sake?"
"I hope so."
The elder lady sprang up and embraced her. Affection was very
pleasant to the reserved nature that could do so little to evoke
caresses. Yet Eleonora clasped her Rockpier charm in her hand, and
added, "I must tell you that so far as I can without disobedience, I
hold myself engaged to Frank Charnock."
"To Frank Charnock?" repeated Lady Susan, startled at this positive
statement. "My dear, are you quite sure of his ways?--since he has
been in town I mean."
"I know him, and I trust him."
"I'm sure he is a fine-looking young man, and very clever, they say;
dear Julia Poynsett's son too, and they have all turned out so
well," said honest Lady Susan; "but though you have been used to it
all your life, my dear, a taste for horses is very dangerous in a
young man who can't afford to lose now and then, you know.
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