As for Bertram’s affair itself, under the manipulation of St. Aldegonde, it began to assume a less anxious and more practicable aspect. The duke was desirous to secure his son’s happiness, but wished nothing to be done rashly. If, for example, in a year’s time or so, Bertram continued in the same mind, his father would never be an obstacle to his well-considered wishes. In the mean time, an opportunity might offer of making the acquaintance of the young lady and her friends. And, in the mean time, the world went on dancing, and betting, and banqueting, and making speeches, and breaking hearts and heads, till the time arrived when social stock is taken, the results of the campaign estimated and ascertained, and the question asked, “Where do you think of going this year?” “We shall certainly winter at Rome,” said Lady St. Jerome to Lady Clanmorne, who was paying a morning visit. “I wish you could induce Lord Clanmorne to join us.” “I wish so, too,” said the lady, “but that is impossible. He never will give up his hunting.” “I am sure there are more foxes in the Campagna than at Vauxe,” said Lady St. Jerome. “I suppose you have heard of what they call the double event?” said Lady Clanmorne. “No.” “Well, it is quite true; Mr. Bohun told me last night, and he always knows every thing.” “Every thing!” said Lady St. Jerome; “but what is it that he knows now?” “Both the Ladies Falkirk are to be married! And on the same day.” “But to whom?” “Whom should you think?” “I will not even guess,” said Lady St. Jerome. “Clare,” she said to Miss Arundel, who was engaged apart, “you always find out conundrums. Lady Clanmorne has got some news for us. Lady Flora Falkirk and her sister are going to be married, and on the same day. And to whom, think you?” “Well, I should think that somebody has made Lord Carisbrooke a happy man,” said Miss Arundel. “Very good,” said Lady Clanmorne. “I think Lady Flora will make an excellent Lady Carisbrooke. He is not quite as tall as she is, but he is a man of inches. And now for Lady Grizell.” “My powers of divination are quite exhausted,” said Miss Arundel. “Well, I will not keep you in suspense,” said Lady Clanmorne. “Lady Grizell is to be Duchess of Brecon.” “Duchess of Brecon!” exclaimed both Miss Arundel and Lady St. Jerome. “I always admired the ladies,” said Miss Arundel. “We met them at a country-house last year, and I thought them pleasing in every way—artless and yet piquant; but I did not anticipate their fate being so soon sealed.” “And so brilliantly,” added Lady St. Jerome. “You met them at Muriel Towers,” said Lady Clanmorne. “I heard of you there: a most distinguished party. There was an American lady there, was there not? a charming person, who sang, and acted, and did all sorts of things.” “Yes; there was. I believe, however, she was an Italian, married to an American.” “Have you seen much of your host at Muriel Towers?” said Lady Clanmorne.