"Here's the heir himself," said Mr.Green.
"What heir ?" "Will Belton;--the heir of the property which Mr.Amedroz holds." Captain Aylmer had soon explained that he was not personally acquainted with Mr.William Belton; but, having heard much about him, declared himself anxious to make the acquaintance.

Our friend Will, therefore, was ushered into the room, and the two rivals for Clara's favour were introduced to each other.

Each had heard much of the other, and each had heard of the other from the same person.
But Captain Aylmer knew much more as to Belton than Belton knew in respect to him.

Aylmer knew that Belton had proposed to Clara and had been rejected; and he knew also that Belton was now again going down to Somersetshire.
"You are to spend your Christmas, I believe, with our friends at Belton Castle ?" said the Captain.
"Yes;--and am now on my way there.

I believe you know them also,--intimately." Then there was some explanation as to the Winterfield connection, a few remarks as to the precarious state of the old squire's health, a message or two from Captain Aylmer, which of course were of no importance, and the Captain took his leave.
Then Green and Belton became very comfortably intimate in their conversation, calling each other Will and Joe,--for they were old and close friends.