No pecuniary considerations made it necessary, in this case, to wait for a favorable time.

Horace was an only son; and he had succeeded to his father's estate with an ample income to support it.

On both sides alike there was absolutely nothing to prevent the two young people from being married as soon as the settlements could be drawn.

And yet, to all appearance, here was a long engagement in prospect, with no better reason than the lady's incomprehensible perversity to explain the delay.

"Can you account for Grace's conduct ?" asked Lady Janet.