Page:Jane Eyre (1st edition), Volume 2.djvu/42

34 and the return. Miss Ingram, as before, was the only lady equestrian; and as before, Mr. Rochester galloped at her side: the two rode a little apart from the rest. I pointed out this circumstance to Mrs. Fairfax, who was standing at the window with me:—

"You said it was not likely they should think of being married," said I, "but you see Mr. Rochester evidently prefers her to any of the other ladies."

"Yes; I daresay: no doubt he admires her."

"And she him," I added; "look how she leans her head towards him as if she were conversing confidentially! I wish I could see her face: I have never had a glimpse of it yet."

"You will see her this evening;" answered Mrs. Fairfax. "I happened to remark to Mr. Rochester how much Adèle wished to be introduced to the ladies, and he said: 'Oh! let her come into the drawing-room after dinner; and request Miss Eyre to accompany her.

"Yes—he said that from mere politeness: I need not go, I am sure," I answered.

"Well—I observed to him that as you were unused to company, I did not think you