But of course it will be a pleasure added if it be there." The Duchess complimented him, and told him that this was exactly as it should be.
But there was some delay as to the seat for Silverbridge.

Mr.Grey's departure for Persia had been postponed,--the Duchess thought only for a month or six weeks.

The Duke, however, was of opinion that Mr.Grey should not vacate his seat till the day of his going was at any rate fixed.

The Duke, moreover, had not made any promise of supporting his wife's favourite.

"Don't set your heart upon it too much, Mr.Lopez," the Duchess had said; "but you may be sure I will not forget you." Then it had been settled between them that the marriage should not be postponed, or the proposed trip to Italy abandoned, because of the probable vacancy at Silverbridge.