Mr.Buxton only thought of hurrying on the departure; but he could not refrain from expressing his approval and admiration of Maggie whenever he came near her.
Before he went, he called her aside.
"My dear, I'm not sure if Frank can do better than marry you, after all.
Mind! I've not given it as much thought as I should like.

But if you come back as we plan, next autumn, and he is steady to you till then--and Edward is going on well--( if he can but keep good, he'll do, for he is very sharp--yon is a knowing paper he drew up)--why, I'll think about it.

Only let Frank see a bit of the world first.

I'd rather you did not tell him I've any thoughts of coming round, that he may have a fair trial; and I'll keep it from Erminia if I can, or she will let it all out to him.

I shall see you to-morrow at the coach.