He was then regularly introduced to Anne and
Elizabeth; and upon Mr. Turner making his appearance, they arranged
themselves for the walk to the Mechanics' Institute. Mr. Turner, a
fat silent old gentleman, very ceremoniously offered his arm to Miss
Merton, who, though by this time exceedingly amazed and disgusted by
all she saw and heard, could scarcely refrain from laughing at the
airs and graces of her squire, or at the horror she plainly perceived
in Elizabeth's face, when the talking Mrs. Turner exclaimed, 'Now,
Augustus, I must have you take Miss Woodbourne--I know you will be
such friends!'
Little did Mrs. Turner suspect, as in the overflowing of her pride
and delight she bestowed upon Elizabeth the hero of the night, the
mingled feeling of shame and repugnance which the poor girl had to
encounter as she placed her hand within the offered arm of Mr. Mills,
almost groaning at her own folly, and vainly seeking some possible
means of escape. Mrs. Turner followed with Harriet; and Katherine
and Wilhelmina brought up the rear.
'You are very fond of study, I believe, Miss Woodbourne?' said Mr.
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