And now, thanking you for the pleasant evening I've passed, and your charming society, I'll take my leave.' 'I hope you'll not rob us of your company till you take a dish of tea,' said he, with well-feigned politeness.
'It's hard to tear one's self away, Mr.Kearney; but it's late already.' 'Couldn't we induce you to stop the night, Miss Betty ?' asked he, in a tone of insinuation.

'Well, at least you'll let me ring to order your horse ?' 'You may do that if it amuses you, Mathew Kearney; but, meanwhile, I'll just do what I've always done in the same place--I'll just go look for my own beast and see her saddled myself; and as Peter Gill is leaving you to-morrow, I'll take him back with me to-night.' 'Is he going to you ?' cried he passionately.
'He's going to _me_, Mr.Kearney, with your leave, or without it, I don't know which I like best.' And with this she swept out of the room, while Kearney closed his eyes and lay back in his chair, stunned and almost stupefied..