Незнакомка из Уайлдфелл-Холла. Уровень 2 / The Tenant of Wildfell Hall

Boarham came upon me. In vain I attempted to drive him away, his presence was disagreeable. A gentleman stood by, who was watching me for some time. At length, he withdrew, and went to the lady of the house to ask an introduction to me. Shortly after, they both came up, and she introduced him as Mr. Huntingdon, the son of a late friend of my uncle's. He asked me to dance. I gladly consented, of course. I found my new acquaintance a very lively and entertaining companion. There was a certain graceful ease and freedom about all he said and did.

“Well, Helen, how do you like Mr. Boarham now?” said my aunt, as we took our seats in the carriage and drove away.

“Worse than ever,” I replied.

She looked displeased, but said no more on that subject.

“Who was the gentleman you danced with last?” asked she, after a pause.

“It was Mr. Huntingdon, the son of uncle's old friend.”

“I have heard of young Mr. Huntingdon. They say, 'He's a fine lad, that young Huntingdon, but a bit wildish.

“What does 'a bit wildish' mean?” I inquired.

“It means destitute of principle, and prone to every vice that is common to youth.”

“That is no matter to me, as I am not likely to meet him again.”

It was not so, however, for I met him again next morning. He came to my uncle. After that I often met him; sometimes in public, sometimes at home.

One day I looked from my window and beheld Mr. Boarham. Soon my aunt entered the room with a solemn countenance, and closed the door behind her.

“Here is Mr. Boarham, Helen,” said she. “He wishes to see you. He is here on a very important errand – to ask your hand in marriage of your uncle and me.”

“I hope my uncle and you told him it was not in your power to give it.”

“Helen!”

“What did my uncle say?”

“He said if you liked to accept Mr. Boarham's offer, you – ”

“And what did you say?”

“It is no matter what I said. What will you say? That is the question.

“I shall refuse him, of course; but you must tell me how. I want to be civil. When I've got rid of him, I'll give you my reasons afterwards.”

“But, Helen; sit down a little and compose yourself. I want to speak with you. Tell me, my dear, what are your objections to him? Do you deny that he is an upright, honourable man?”

“No.