"To London!--and are you going this morning?"

"Almost this moment."

"This is very unfortunate. But Mrs. Smith must

be obliged;--and her business will not detain you from

us long I hope."

He coloured as he replied, "You are very kind, but I

have no idea of returning into Devonshire immediately.

My visits to Mrs. Smith are never repeated within

the twelvemonth."

"And is Mrs. Smith your only friend? Is Allenham the only

house in the neighbourhood to which you will be welcome?

For shame, Willoughby, can you wait for an invitation here?"

His colour increased; and with his eyes fixed

on the ground he only replied, "You are too good."

Mrs. Dashwood looked at Elinor with surprise.

Elinor felt equal amazement. For a few moments every one

was silent. Mrs. Dashwood first spoke.

"I have only to add, my dear Willoughby, that at

Barton cottage you will always be welcome; for I will not

press you to return here immediately, because you only

can judge how far THAT might be pleasing to Mrs. Smith;

and on this head I shall be no more disposed to question

your judgment than to doubt your inclination."

"My engagements at present," replied Willoughby,

confusedly, "are of such a nature--that--I dare not flatter

myself"--

He stopt. Mrs. Dashwood was too much astonished

to speak, and another pause succeeded. This was broken

by Willoughby, who said with a faint smile, "It is folly

to linger in this manner. I will not torment myself

any longer by remaining among friends whose society

it is impossible for me now to enjoy."

He then hastily took leave of them all and left