Overjoyed by the success of his negotiation, and mightily amused within
himself, Mr Chester conducted her downstairs in the same state as
before; and having repeated the previous ceremony of salutation, which
also as before comprehended Dolly, took his leave; first completing the
conquest of Miss Miggs's heart, by inquiring if 'this young lady' would
light him to the door.
'Oh, mim,' said Miggs, returning with the candle. 'Oh gracious me, mim,
there's a gentleman! Was there ever such an angel to talk as he is--and
such a sweet-looking man! So upright and noble, that he seems to despise
the very ground he walks on; and yet so mild and condescending, that
he seems to say "but I will take notice on it too." And to think of
his taking you for Miss Dolly, and Miss Dolly for your sister--Oh, my
goodness me, if I was master wouldn't I be jealous of him!'
Mrs Varden reproved her handmaid for this vain-speaking; but very gently
and mildly--quite smilingly indeed--remarking that she was a foolish,
giddy, light-headed girl, whose spirits carried her beyond all bounds,
and who didn't mean half she said, or she would be quite angry with her.
'For my part,' said Dolly, in a thoughtful manner, 'I half believe Mr
Chester is something like Miggs in that respect.
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