He had the good sense, however, never to encourage her in her expressions of dislike to Mr.Mulready, and even did his best to combat her impression, knowing how essential it was for her to get on well with him.

Ned himself did not often see Mr.Mulready during that time.

The first time that they met, Ned had, on his return from school, gone straight up into the drawing room, not knowing that Mr.Mulready was there.

On opening the door and seeing him he paused suddenly for a moment and then advanced.

For a moment neither of them spoke, then Mr.
Mulready said in his frankest manner: "Ned, you have heard I am going to marry your mother.