It was not till the end of the month that she took her to a party, given by Mrs. Stephenson, of Ashley Park. Emma had no sooner entered the drawing-room, and before ever her eyes had rested on his tall figure, than she was aware of the presence of Mr. Howard. Following Elizabeth, she was slightly screened by her, and although they passed within no great distance of him, as he appeared to be looking the other way, she was able to persuade herself, for a short time, that he had not observed her. But it was impossible she should long continue in this belief. The moments were as hours to her, when, presently, as he was conducting a lady into the room beyond, he was obliged to come quite close to her, and recognition was inevitable. He merely bowed and passed on. Emma had never sought to disguise her feelings from herself, but how deeply her heart was engaged she had not realised until that moment, when she felt that it must break. A minute or two later Mr. Howard grew aware of a sudden commotion, and then heard it said that a lady had fainted. Instinctively he knew that it was Emma--and almost immediately, he knew not how, had reached her side. Motioning everyone away, he raised her in his arms, and carried her out to the hall, where there was a couch, but just before he laid her down she opened her eyes, and there was no mistaking the look of deep joy which flashed into them, as she saw him bending over her. "Emma--my dearest Emma!" He could say no more, as they were instantly joined by Mrs. Stephenson and Elizabeth; other guests--some impelled by solicitude, and some by curiosity--quickly following. These, however, were quietly got rid of by their hostess, who at the same time directed the servants to bring restoratives, and soon Emma was able to sit up. She remained so pale and shaken, however, that Mrs. Stephenson begged her to remain all night; but this was steadily opposed by Elizabeth, who was anxious to bring her back with her, and as Emma herself joined in begging to return, the carriage was sent for. At this moment Henry, who had just heard of Emma's indisposition, came hurrying up, and assisted in conveying her home. On the following morning Mr. Howard rode over to Wickstead, and, meeting Emma in the shrubbery, declared his passion. She could not speak, but she laid her trembling hands in his. CHAPTER XIX The engagement created not a little stir, and many and various were the comments. Mr. Curtis composed a pretty speech, for the edification of his patients, to the effect that had he been some forty years younger, when he had had the honour of meeting with Miss Emma, his bachelorhood would have been seriously imperilled. It is said that when this was reported to Mr. Howard, he vowed he would have imperilled it still further for him.