Theobald echoed Mrs Allaby's sentiments with warmth, but still,
though he visited the Rectory two or three times a week, besides coming
over on Sundays--he did not propose. "She is heart-whole yet, dear Mr
Pontifex," said Mrs Allaby, one day, "at least I believe she is. It is
not for want of admirers--oh! no--she has had her full share of these,
but she is too, too difficult to please. I think, however, she would
fall before a _great and good_ man." And she looked hard at Theobald,
who blushed; but the days went by and still he did not propose.
Another time Theobald actually took Mrs Cowey into his confidence, and
the reader may guess what account of Christina he got from her. Mrs
Cowey tried the jealousy manoeuvre and hinted at a possible rival.
Theobald was, or pretended to be, very much alarmed; a little rudimentary
pang of jealousy shot across his bosom and he began to believe with pride
that he was not only in love, but desperately in love or he would never
feel so jealous. Nevertheless, day after day still went by and he did
not propose.
The Allabys behaved with great judgement. They humoured him till his
retreat was practically cut off, though he still flattered himself that
it was open.
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