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Mrs Dashwood's visit to Lady Middleton took place the next day, and two of her daughters ith her; but Marianne excused herself fro pretext of employment; and her hby the night before of calling on her while they were absent, was perfectly satisfied with her re at hohby's curricle and servant in waiting at the cottage, and Mrs Dashas convinced that her conjecture had been just So far it was all as she had foreseen; but on entering the house she beheld what no foresight had taught her to expect They were no sooner in the passage than Marianne came hastily out of the parlour apparently in violent affliction, with her handkerchief at her eyes; and without noticing them ran up stairs

Surprised and alarmed they proceeded directly into the roohby, as leaning against the mantel-piece with his back towards the in, and his countenance shewed that he strongly partook of the e the matter with her?" cried Mrs Dashwood as she entered--"is she ill?"

"I hope not," he replied, trying to look cheerful; and with a forced smile presently added, "It is I whounder a very heavy disappointment!"

"Disappointe exercised the privilege of riches upon a poor dependent cousin, by sending me on business to London I have just received my dispatches, and taken my farewell of Allenham; and by way of exhilaration I am now cooing this ?"

"Almost this moment"

"This is very unfortunate But Mrs Sed;--and her business will not detain you fro I hope"

He coloured as he replied, "You are very kind, but I have no idea of returning into Devonshire immediately My visits to Mrs Smith are never repeated within the twelvemonth"

"And is Mrs Shbourhood to which you will be welcohby, can you wait for an invitation here?"

His colour increased; and with his eyes fixed on the ground he only replied, "You are too good"