' The other
two will take the hint and make love a good way off; and Zoe will go
greater lengths, with another woman in sight--but only just in sight, and
slyly encouraging her--than if she were quite alone with her _mauvais
sujet."_
Vizard was pleased with the old lady. "This is sagacious," said he, "and
shows an eye for detail. I recognize in your picture the foxy sex. But,
at this moment, who can foretell which way the wind will blow? You are
not aware, perhaps, that Zoe and Fanny have had a quarrel. They don't
speak. Now, in women, you know, vices are controlled by vices-- see Pope.
The conspiracy you dread will be averted by the other faults of their
character, their jealousy and their petulant tempers. Take my word for
it, they are sparring at this moment; and that poor, silly Severne
meditating and moderating, and getting scratched on both sides for trying
to be just."
At this moment the door opened, and Fanny Dover glittered on the
threshold in Cambridge blue.
"There," said Vizard; "did not I tell you? They are come home."
"Only me," said Fanny gayly.
"Where are the others?" inquired Miss Maitland sharply.
"Not far off--only by the riverside.
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