"I can understand that such a question concerns him," said Margaret, with a faltering in her voice; "and, therefore, if you please, you can tell him I am free in that respect; but if I am free, uncle, I need not choose a person whom I do not like." "The idea of not liking Hubert Gage!" said Mr. Grey. "I do like him, uncle, as an acquaintance, and shall do so, if he does not teaze me; but, as a suitor--why, Uncle Grey," said Margaret brightening up, "he will forget all about me now, before I forget him, though he does profess a regard for me that I cannot return." "Well, my love," said Mr. Grey, "you shall act exactly as your feelings dictate; but it is an awkward business I can tell you, all this proposing and rejecting." "Thank you, dear uncle," said Margaret leaning forward, and kissing him on the forehead. "But--I may have the carriage all the same, Sir, may I not, to go for my guitar string?" "Oh! poor Hubert Gage," said Mr. Grey leaning back, as Margaret left the room, and looking very much exhausted. "If she can think of her guitar string at such a time, I am afraid there is a remarkably small chance for the young gentleman." CHAPTER XVI. But woo her, gentle Paris, get her heart, My will to her consent is but a part; An she agree, within her scope of choice Lies my consent and fair according voice. SHAKESPEARE. Which when he heard, he inly touched was With tender ruth for her unworthy griefe; And having cheered her, thus said; Faire Dame In evils, counsell is the comfort chiefe, Which though I be not wise enough to frame, Yet as I well it meane, vouchsafe it without blame. SPENSER.