She knew very well that even when the estate
was sold, at the highest estimate, Eleonora would have the barest
maintenance, and that he could hardly expect what the creditors now
allowed him, and she made him understand that she knew this, and
that she had a right to make conditions, since Frank, like her other
sons, could not enter into possession of his share of his father's
fortune unless he married with her consent.
And when he spoke of breaking off the engagement, she was callous,
and said that he must do as he pleased, though after young people
were grown up, she thought the matter ought to rest with themselves.
She did not wish her son to marry till his character was more
confirmed.
He went home very angry, and yet crest-fallen, sought out Eleonora,
and informed her of his command, that her engagement should be
broken off.
"I do not know how that can be done, papa," said Eleonora. "We have
never exactly made an engagement; we do not want to marry at once,
and we could not help loving each other if we tried."
"Humph! And if I laid my commands on you never to marry into that
family?"
"I do not think you will do that, papa, after your promise to
Camilla.
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