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 give us the pleasure of your company till to-morrow; but if you cannot conveniently do so, our carriage is quite at your service, and Mary will be pleased with the opportunity of seeing your sister.’

This was precisely what Emma had longed for, and she accepted the offer most thankfully, acknowledging that as Elizabeth was entirely alone, it was her wish to return home to dinner. The plan was warmly opposed by their visitor—

‘I cannot suffer it, indeed. I must not be deprived of the happiness of escorting you. I assure you there is not a possibility of fear with my horses. You might guide them yourself. Your sisters all know how quiet they are; they have none of them the smallest scruple in trusting themselves with me, even on a race-course. Believe me, added he, lowering his voice, you are quite safe—the danger is only mine.’

Emma was not more disposed to oblige him for all this.

‘And as to Mrs. Edwards’ carriage being used the day after a ball, it is a thing quite out of rule, I assure you—never heard of before. The old coachman will look as black as his horses—won't he, Miss Edwards ?’

No notice was taken. The ladics were silently firm, and the gentleman found himself obliged to submit.

‘What a famous ball we had last night,’ he cried, after a short pause; ‘How long did you keep it up after the Osbornes and I went away ?’

‘We had two dances more.’