"You are doubtless surprised at this call, Mrs Brandon," he said, "for we are not acquaintances, and our homes are far removed; but I will be frank with you. You have a young lady here as governess--a Miss Bedford?" "Yes," said Mrs Brandon quietly, as she waited to see what course she ought to pursue. "I come to ask your permission for an interview with that young lady," said Sir Philip. "It was unnecessary, Sir Philip Vining," said Mrs Brandon, rising. "I will at once send Miss Bedford to you." "Stay, stay a little, I beg of you," said Sir Philip; and Mrs Brandon resumed her seat. "I must tell you, in the first place, that my son--my only son--has formed a most unfortunate attachment in that quarter--an attachment which it seems to me will blight his prospects in life. Mind, madam," he added hastily, "I make no attack upon the lady, who may be one of the most estimable of women; but it would grieve me sorely if such an alliance were to be formed. It may seem to be weak, but I have a certain pride in our old pedigree, and it is the earnest wish of my heart that my son should marry well." He paused for a moment. "I was aware of this," said Mrs Brandon quietly. "Indeed!" said Sir Philip. "But I need not be surprised: Miss Bedford has, perhaps, confided to you my son's offer." "Yes," said Mrs Brandon, "and so did your son." "He was here a week ago," said Sir Philip. "Has he been since?" "I expect him this afternoon to ask my cooperation; and I confess I am much troubled thereby." "Your cooperation," said Sir Philip; "but I see, the lady is perhaps coy. Mrs Brandon, I must ask your aid on my side. This marriage is impossible--it would be an insane act, and can never take place. Will you ask that Miss Bedford may be sent here?" "Will you see her alone?" "No, no! I would rather you were present, Mrs Brandon. You know all; and perhaps, as a mother, you may be able to sympathise with another parent." "Sir Philip Vining, you are placing me in a most difficult position. How am I to divide sympathies that are with all of you? But I will ring. Let us have Ella here; and I tell you candidly that I am glad to be free from a responsibility that threatened to fix itself upon my shoulders." "Ask Miss Bedford to step this way," said Mrs Brandon as the man appeared. And five minutes after, very pale, but quite collected, Ella was ushered into the room. Mrs Brandon advanced to meet her, and led her to Sir Philip, who saluted her gravely, and then placed for her a chair. Then for a few minutes there was an embarrassed silence, broken at last by Sir Philip Vining.