It was
clear from his letter that he was much in earnest. Of course there
was no reason why the dinner should not be eaten. Only the
specialty of the invitation to Lord Popplecourt must not be so
glaring that he himself should be struck by the strangeness of it.
There must be a little party made up. Lord Nidderdale and his wife
were therefore bidden to come down, and Silverbridge, who at first
consented rather unwillingly,--and Lady Mabel Grex, as to whom the
Duke had made a special request that she might be asked. This last
invitation was sent express from Lady Mary, and included Miss
Cass. So the party was made up. The careful reader will perceive
that there were to be ten of them.
'Isn't it odd papa wanting to have Lady Mabel,' Mary said to Lady
Cantrip.
'Does he not know her, my dear?'
'He hardly ever spoke to her. I'll tell you what; I expect
Silverbridge is going to marry her.'
'Why shouldn't he?'
'I don't know why he shouldn't. She is very beautiful, and very
clever. But if so, papa must know all about it. It does seem odd
that papa of all people should turn match-maker, or even that he
should think of it.
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