"If he suited Lucia, very well.

His taste and hers differed: but it was her concern, not his"-- was a very easy way of freeing himself from all anxiety on the matter: but not so with Major Campbell.

He saw all this; and knew enough of human nature to suspect that the self-seeking which showed as moroseness in company, might show as downright bad temper in private.

Longing to know more of Elsley, if possible, to guide and help him, he tried to be intimate with him, as he had tried at Aberalva; paid him court, asked his opinion, talked to him on all subjects which he thought would interest him.

His conclusion was more favourable to Elsley's head than to his heart.