"
"If she cared about being married, I suppose she could be a peer's
wife to-morrow."
"But I don't think she cares about being a peer's wife. A needy peer
might perhaps win her in the way that I propose to you; but then
a needy peer would not know how to set about it. Needy peers have
tried--half a dozen I have no doubt--and have failed, because they
have pretended that they were in love with her. It may be difficult,
but your only chance is to tell her the truth."
"And where shall I do it?"
"Here if you choose; but her own house will be better."
"But I never can see her there--at least not alone. I believe that
she never is alone. She always keeps a lot of people round her in
order to stave off her lovers. Upon my word, Harriet, I think I'll
give it up. It is impossible that I should make such a declaration to
her as that you propose."
"Faint heart, Nat--you know the rest."
"But the poet never alluded to such wooing as that you have
suggested. I suppose I had better begin with a schedule of my debts,
and make reference, if she doubts me, to Fothergill, the sheriff's
officers, and the Tozer family."
"She will not doubt you, on that head; nor will she be a bit
surprised." Then there was again a pause, during which Mr.
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