“No, I did not promise. I only smirked and bowed, and said the word 'happy.' There was no promise.”

“But you must go, Charles. It would be unpardonable to fail. We were asked on purpose to be introduced. There was always such a great connexion between the Dalrymples and ourselves. Nothing ever happened on either side that was not announced immediately. We are quite near relations, you know; and Mr Elliot too, whom you ought so particularly to be acquainted with! Every attention is due to Mr Elliot. Consider, my father's heir: the future representative of the family.”

“Don't talk to me about heirs and representatives,” cried Charles.

“I am not one of those who neglect the reigning power to bow to the rising sun.