It was beautifully situated in the vicinity of the New Forest, Hampshire.
There Edward was to take his bride, considering the whole estate, his uncle declared, already as his own, as he did not mean to be a fixture there, but live alternately with his sister and his nephew.

Oakwood should see quite as much of him as Beech Hill, and young people were better alone, particularly the first year of their marriage.

Vainly Edward and Lilla sought to combat his resolution; the only concession they could obtain was, that when their honeymoon was over, he and Ellen would pay them a visit, just to see how they were getting on.
"You must never marry, Nelly, for I don't know what my sister will do without you," said Lord Delmont, laughing.
"Be assured, uncle Charles, I never will.

I love the freedom of this old hall much too well; and, unless my aunt absolutely sends me away, I shall not go." "And that she never will, Ellen," said Lilla earnestly.

"She said the other day she did not know how she should ever spare you even to us; but you must come to us very often, dearest Ellen.