"Why should we quarrel, then, my dear, when we are both of one mind? Now do me the favour to sit down, and talk the matter over quietly. What is it that you require?" "First, then, Mr Rainscourt, an acknowledgment on your part, that I am a most injured, and most ill-treated woman." "Granted, my dear, if that will add to your happiness; I certainly have never known your value." "Don't sneer, sir, if you please. Secondly, a handsome allowance, commensurate with your fortune." "Granted, with pleasure, Mrs Rainscourt." "Thirdly, Mr Rainscourt, an extra allowance for the education and expenses of my daughter, who will remain under my care." "Granted, also." "Further, Mr Rainscourt, to keep up appearances, I wish one of the mansions on your different estates in England to be appropriated for our use. Your daughter ought to be known, and reside on the property of which she is the future heiress." "A reasonable demand, which I accede to. Is there anything further?" "Nothing of moment; but, for Emily's sake, I should wish that you should pay us an occasional visit, and, generally speaking, keep up appearances before the world." "That I shall be most happy to do, my dear, and shall always speak of you, as I feel, with respect and esteem. Is there anything more, Mrs Rainscourt?" "There is not; but I believe that if I had been ten times more exorbitant in my demands," replied the lady, with pique, "that you would have granted them--for the pleasure of getting rid of me." "I would, indeed, my dear," replied Rainscourt; "you may command me in anything, except my own person." "I require no _other_ partition, sir, than that of your fortune." "And of that, my dear, you shall, as I have declared, have a liberal share. So now, Mrs Rainscourt, I think we can have no further occasion for disagreement. The property in Norfolk, where Admiral De Courcy resided, is a beautiful spot, and I request you will consider it as your head-quarters. Of course you will be your own mistress when you feel inclined to change the scene. And now, as all may be considered as settled, let us shake hands, and henceforward be good friends." Mrs Rainscourt gave her hand and sealed the new contract, but, ill-treated as she had been,--at variance with her husband for years,-- and now convinced that she had been outraged in the tenderest point, still her heart leaned towards the father of her child. The hand that now was extended in earnest of future separation, reminded her of the day when she had offered it in pledge of future fidelity and love, and had listened with rapture to his reciprocal obligation. She covered her face with her handkerchief, which was soon moistened with her tears.