 Section 56 of Mysteries of London, Volume 4. This is a Libriox recording. All Libriox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Libriox.org. This is read by Brittany Rill. Mysteries of London, Volume 4 by George W. M. Reynolds. Laura and Rosalie. Yes, it was a great triumph for Laura Mortimer, a triumph all the greater in as much as she knew that the agitation and rage of her husband could not speedily pass away, and that when his friends had leisure to observe his emotions and seek an explanation, he would not dare to afford the mini. She had, moreover, made statements to the young Castile C. Caland, which he would doubtless repeat to Charles Hatfield, whom they were well calculated to mystify relative to her future proceedings. For the reader scarcely requires to be told that she had not the slightest intention to repair Vienna, nor to visit Italy. In every respect, she had ample reason to be well satisfied with the results of the scheme she had devised in the morning, and so effectively carried out in the afternoon. A scheme so wild and having so many chances against its success that none save the entrepid, resolute, far-seeing Laura could have possibly hoped to conduct to a triumphant issue. Having proceeded to the end of the avenue, she ordered the coachman to retrace his way and return home, but she was not destined to reach the room on the board without experiencing another adventure, which may, for the moment, seem trivial, but which was nevertheless destined to exercise no mean amount of influence upon her future career. As the carriage was emerging from Champs-Elysées, two gentlemen on horseback just entering the fashionable lounge were about to pass by, when one of them, recognizing Laura, suddenly pulled up and made her a low bow. She immediately ordered the carriage to stop, for it was her courteous and obliging friend, the Professor of Music, who had thus saluted her, and she was anxious to express to him the delight she had experienced from the perusal of the translations he had sent her the preceding evening. After the exchange of the usual complimentary remarks, the Professor, turning towards his companion, said, My Lord, permit me to introduce you to one of my fair pupils. My fairest pupil I should rather observe, he added, in a good-tempered manner. Miss Laura Mortimer? The Marquis of Delmoire. Laura was startled for an instant at finding her music master in such an aristocratic society, and as she inclined gracefully acknowledgement of the nobleman's courteous salutation, she observed that his lordship was an elderly, if not actually an old man, but that his countance was far from disagreeable. A brief conversation ensued, and although the Marquis had no opportunity of speaking more than a dozen words, and even those on common topic, Laura nevertheless saw enough of him to be convinced that his manners were of polished elegance, and that his disposition was frank and unassuming. It was not, therefore, without emotions of secret pleasure that she heard herself thus addressed by the Professor of Music. Miss Mortimer? His lordship and myself are old acquaintances, and he permits me to call him my friend. His lordship will honor my humble abode with his presence tomorrow evening. There will be a musical soiree of the same unpretending kind that which you yourself graced with your company the evening before last. My wife will doubtless send you a formal card, but may I, in a less ceremonial fashion, solicit you to favor us with your presence? Laura signified the pleasure that she would experience in accepting the invitation, and all the time she was listening to the Professor and replying to him, she had the agreeable consciousness that the Marquis was gazing upon her with an admiration which he could not repress. She, however, affected not to be in the slightest degree aware that she was undergoing such an impassioned survey, and when she turned towards his lordship to make the parting bow, it was with the formal reserve and yet graceful dignity of a lady with whom a stranger has only just been introduced. The carriage rolled on in one direction, the horsemen pulled their way in another, and while the Marquis of Delmoire was putting innumerable questions to his friend relative to the whoree who they thus met, Laura was on her side resolving that Rosalie should, without delay, institute all possible inquiries respecting of the position, fortune, and character of that nobleman. We should here remind the reader that the Professor of Music was a man eminent in his special sphere of high respectability and great moral worth, and moreover, he was a native of a country where talent is prized and looked up to instead of being merely tolerated and looked down upon. It is not therefore extraordinary if we find him moving in the best society and having his entertainments attended by the elite of the residents or visitors in the gay city of Paris. On her return home to the splendid apartments in the Rue Monthebore, Laura was immediately awaited upon by her ladies maid, and while the mistress was changing her attire and preparation for dinner, the dependent explained the means by which she had induced Charles Hatfield and the two Italian officers in the suite of the Grand Duke to repair to the Champs Elysees and company at the hour specified by Laura. When you first mentioned your desire to meet this morning, Mademoiselle, began Rosalie, I must confess that I was somewhat embarrassed how to accomplish the scheme, although I did not despair. When I saw the paragraph in the paper and ascertained the hotel at which the Grand Duke and his suite had taken up their temporary abode, I suddenly remembered that a day or two ago, I met a young woman who had formally been my fellow servant, and that she was now feeling a situation in that very hotel. The circumstance inspired me with a hope of success, and we French women look upon an entry as being good as carried out successfully when it affords a hope to encourage us. Therefore, I did promise you so confidently, and I lost no time in proceeding to the hotel. I soon found my friend, who is a chambermaid there, and I told her just sufficient, without however mentioning your name or even alluding to you, Mademoiselle, to induce her to afford me her assistance. Some of the officers of the Grand Duke suite were lounging in the courtyard of the hotel at the time, and my friend pointed them out to me one by one, naming each as she proceeded. I resolved to choose the two youngest and handsomest to be Mr. Charles Hatfield's companions, Mademoiselle, because, continued Rosalie with an arched smile, I tolerably well understood the entire nature of the project which you had in contemplation. You are marvelously sharp-witted and keen-sighted, Rosalie, said Laura, laughing good humorously, but pray proceed, what step did you adopt next after having thus passed the Grand Duke suite in review of which they were, however, unconscious? I must confess, Mademoiselle, resumed Rosalie, that I was somewhat puzzled how to act, but suddenly an idea struck me, and, however ridiculous the plan may now appear to you, your own lips can proclaim whether it succeeded or not. In fact, I calculated upon the romantic disposition which the Italians are known to possess, and I also reflected that Mr. Charles Hatfield, whom I likewise saw at the hotel, though he not saw me, appeared pensive and thoughtful. He would embark on any adventure that promised to wean his thoughts from their melancholy mood and that offered some excitement of novel character. I accordingly penned a note addressed to Mr. Charles Hatfield, Captain Barthelma, and Lieutenant de Ponte. What was the name of the taller and handsomer of the two officers who accompanied Charles? Asked Laura, with a slight kindling of sensual feeling as she recalled to mind the pleasing features of the Italian who picked up her parasail, and with whom she had exchanged the few complementary observations already recorded. That one is Captain Barthelma, answered Rosalie. Proceed, said Laura. You were telling me that you penned a note? To the three gentlemen collectively, added the ladies made, and, as nearly as I can remember, the contents ran thus. To Mr. Charles Hatfield, Captain Barthelma and Lieutenant de Ponte, an unhappy Spanish refugee ventures to address himself, having certain excellent reasons for being well aware that they will not refuse to listen to his sad tale and interest themselves in his behalf. But, as he is an object of suspicion to the French government, he dares not to make his appearance at the hotel where a prince, who is known to be the redresser of wrongs, has taken up his abode. He will, therefore, walk this afternoon from four to five on the right hand of the central avenue of Champs-Élysées. And if the three gentlemen, to whom he now addressed his humble but earnest application, will be at the place and time appointed, the unhappy writer of this petition will make himself known to them and will explain his business frankly, and will indicate the means by which he can restore to wealth and happiness. Those means consist in one word which will be for his sovereign highness, the grand duke, to speak, and which can only be spoken at the instigation of the three gentlemen to whom this letter is addressed. Upon my word, I give you credit for your stratagem, exclaimed Rosalie laughing heartily. I have no doubt that Charles sees through it now, but he would not dare to give any explanations to his friends, she added in a musing tone. They will imagine that they have been duped by a humorous person, and he will affect to fall into the same way of thinking. Or else the two Italian gentlemen will suppose that the poor refugee was prevented by some misadventure from keeping the appointment, observed Rosalie, now giving way to her mirth to such a degree that tears came into her eyes. Well, make an end of your story, said Laura, who had nearly completed her toilette. For although she expected no one that evening, she nevertheless made it a rule to dress herself with the utmost care in case of a visit on the part of any of those persons whose acquaintances she had recently formed. I have little more to tell you Mademoiselle, responded Rosalie. My friend, the chambermaid, left the note which was duly sealed and properly addressed to the three gentlemen upon the table of Captain Barthelma's private apartment, and soon afterwards that officer went into his room. I waited at the hotel in hope of ascertaining the effect that the billet would produce, and in a short time the captain returned in haste to his companions, who were still lounging in the courtyard, some of them giving direction to their grooms and other smoking cigars. From the window of my friend's chamber I beheld Captain Barthelma draw Mr. Charles Hatfield and Lieutenant de Ponto aside and show them the letter. They evidently pursued it with great attention, and I felt assured by their manner that they treated the affair seriously. I now requested my friend to hurry downstairs and traverse the yard as if in pursuance of her avocations, but to pass as near to the little group as possible and endeavor to catch any remarks they might be exchanging at that moment. This she did, and she heard quite enough to convince her that the appointment would be kept. I then retraced my way homeward and was happy in being able to give you the assurance, Mademoiselle, that your wishes would be fully gratified so far as the result depended upon me. You are a good girl, Rosalie, said Laura, and I shall not be unmindful of the service you have thus rendered me. But now I require your aid in another matter. Speak, my dear lady, I am entirely at your disposal. Observe the dependent, who, in proportion as she obtained a further insight into the character of her mistress, felt the more certain of the reaping a fine harvest of rewards, bribes, and hush-money. There is, in Paris, at this moment, an English nobleman concerning who I am desirous that you should obtain as much information as you can possibly glean without creating any suspicion or in any way compromising me. I allude to the Marquis of Delmore, continued Laura, but I know not where he is residing, nor can I offer the least suggestion to guide you in instituting your inquiries. Leave all that to me, Mademoiselle, said Rosalie. There is no time to be lost, observed Laura. This evening, or in the course of tomorrow, I must have this information which I seek. I am not in the habit of letting the grass grow beneath my feet, replied the French dependent with an arch-smile. The moment you have sat down to dinner, Mademoiselle, I will sally forth, and I shall not return until a somewhat late hour. No matter, interrupted Laura, I shall know that you are employed in my interests, unless indeed, she added, laughing, you possess a lover whose company may prove more agreeable to you than the task which I have entrusted you. I have no lover in Paris, at present, Mademoiselle, observed Rosalie. Then you admit that you have had a lover in your lifetime? That's Laura. Oh, certainly Mademoiselle, exclaimed the pretty French woman, and, to speak candidly, I could not without some trouble reckon the number of those who have proclaimed themselves my admirers. The name of your lovers is legion, then, cried Laura, again laughing, but it was the natural sensuality of her disposition which impelled her to thus interrogate her servant. For a licentious woman experiences a voluptuous enjoyment in learning that another is admirously inclined or as downright abandoned as herself. And now that Laura's spite against Charles Hatfield was for the time appeased, she had leisure to ponder upon the handsome counten and elegant figure of Captain Barthelma. Her imagination was becoming inflamed and wanton ideas and aspiration rose up in her brain. Oh, Mademoiselle, exclaimed Rosalie, with an archness of expression that made her counten particularly interesting at the moment. You must think me very vain and very silly for having made the remark which fell so inconsiderably from my lips. Not at all, observed Laura, you are pretty enough to have captivated many hearts. And now tell me, my dear girl, have you passed through such an ordeal without leaving your virtue behind? Franklin candid, I wish to know you thoroughly that I may determine how far I can trust you. I dare say, Mademoiselle, that you can form a tolerably accurate guess in that respect, said Rosalie, in a low tone with a blushing counten. Were I to tell you that I am pure and chaste, you would not believe me, Mademoiselle, and you would be right. Suppose, then, that you had suddenly conceived a great fancy from a very handsome young man, Rosalie, said Laura, her bosom heaving voluptuously as she gradually approached the aim and object of the present conversation. I should take great care to let him perceive that if he chose to solicit, it would not be in vain. Answered Rosalie, who already comprehended that her mistress was not giving the discourse this turn without some definite end in view, and you would be deeply grateful, continued Laura, in a low but significant tone. To any friend who might assist you in the management of intrigue, decidedly, Mademoiselle, replied the Frenchwoman, the more so that I myself should delight in rendering my aid when and where the services so humble of being as I am could prove available. Those services may be made available this very evening, said Laura, a voluptuous glow spreading over her fine countens while her eyes became soft and melting in expression. You must aid me, Rosalie, in gratifying an ardent longing which has sprung up within my bosom during the last few minutes, and which I may vainly struggle to subdue, but the intrigue requires so much delicate management. I can anticipate all that you would say, Mademoiselle, interrupted Rosalie, then in a significant tone added, Captain Barthelma is decidedly one of the handsomest men I have ever saw in my life. You have conjectured rightly, said Laura. You have penetrated my thoughts, can you? Will you serve me in the gratification of this caprice of mine? But remember, I must not be compromised in respect to a living soul save Barthelma and yourself. You know, Mademoiselle, that you can trust my fidelity, sagacity, and my prudence, said Rosalie. At what hour shall the handsome Italian visit you? At nine this evening, answered Laura. Then, referring to her watch, she added, it is already six, and you have plenty of work upon your hands. I will neglect nothing, observed the ladies made in a tone of confidence. Would it not be prudent to send the cook out of the way this evening? For as the man's servants are on board wages and sleep elsewhere, and the cook is therefore the only dependent who could possibly observe your proceedings, Mademoiselle. I leave this to you, Rosalie, and erupted Laura. And now that we have nothing more to say to each other for the present, order the dinner to be served up at once, and then you must hasten to fulfill the commissions with which you are charged. Having thus given her parting instruction, Laura repaired to the dining room where an elegant repast was steadily spread upon the table, and a glass of sparkling champagne soon enhanced the brilliancy of the voluptuous woman's eyes to the rich glow that surfused her countants. When the meal was over, a choice dessert was served up, and Laura was now left alone. She was almost sorry that she had gone so far in respect to the intrigue, which was to bring the handsome Castile C. Colan to her arms. She had admitted Rosalie too deeply into her confidence, placed herself too completely in the power of her dependent. Even while she was conversing with the wily French woman, she had perceived and felt all of this, but her sensuality triumphed over the prudence. Her lavacious temperament carried her on with force which she could not resist, much less subdued. After all, she now reasoned with herself, wherefore should I not follow my incantations in this respect? I am freed act accordingly to the impulses of my passions and the prompting of my desires. The night that I have passed with Charles, that one night of love and bliss, has revived those ardent longings, those burning thoughts that demand gratification. Besides, Rosalie will be trustworthy so long as she is well-paid, and I shall take care to keep her purse well-filled. Sooner or later, she must have obtained a complete insight into my character, and why not then, at once as well as hereafter? And the more firmly I bend her to my interest, the less shall I need the services of my crafty, selfish old mother. What that I could manage my affair and execute my plans without my parents' aid altogether. And who knows, but that even this consummation may be reached. Something tells me that the Marquis of Delmore and I shall yet be more intimately equated. He is old, but that is of little consequence. Wealth and a proud position are my aims, and I care not by what means they are acquired. Oh, the happiness of possessing such beauty as wherewithin I am endowed, a beauty which can never fail to crown me with triumph from all my schemes and all my projects. She now regarded her watch and discovered that it was eight o'clock. In another hour he will be here, she thought within herself, and her bosom heaved voluptuously. Yes, in another hour that handsome Italian will be in my presence, at least if Roseleaf fulfill her task with her wanted sagacity and prudence. What will he think of me? Oh, let him obtain any opinion that he may. I will bind him to secrecy by the most solemn oaths, and I read enough in his countenance to convince me that he is a man of honour. In the strain did the lovely but wanton creature pursue her reflections until it was nearly nine o'clock. Then she rose from her seat and repaired to the kitchen, which was on the same floor as her suite of apartments. The cook was not there, and Laura was consequently satisfied that Roseleaf had not forgotten this precaution herself had suggested. The siren now proceeded to the drawing room, where, with her own fair hand, she had arranged the wine, fruits and cakes upon the table. She then drew the curtains over the window, lighted the wax candles upon the mantle, and scattered drops of delicious perfume upon the carpet and the drapery. Scarcely were these preparations completed when the bell of the outer door of the suite rang as if pulled by a somewhat impatient hand, and Laura hastened to answer the summons. She opened the door, and Captain Barthelma, the handsome castles he callan, appeared upon the threshold. Is it possible that this can be true? He exclaimed, his joy amounting to a delirious excitement as his eyes fell upon the heroin of this afternoon adventures in the Champs-Élysées. Laura smiled artily as she placed her finger upon her lips to impose silence, at least until he should have entered her abode. And, having closed the door carefully, she conducted him into the drawing room. End of Section 56 Recording by Brittany Rill Section 57 of Mysteries of London, Volume 4 This is a Libriox recording. All Libriox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Libriox.org. Recording by Brittany Rill Mysteries of London, Volume 4 by George W. M. Reynolds Laura Zamor Seating herself upon the sofa, Laura motioned the Italian to place himself by her side, an invitation which he obeyed with a species of enthusiastic aclarity. But all the time he was unable to take his eyes off her, as if he still doubted whether it was indeed a fact that his good fortune had conducted him into the presence of her, whose image had never once been absent from his mind since he first beheld her that afternoon in the Champs-Élysées. Is it possible he again ejaculated after a few moments' silence? The young woman promised me that if I were discreet I might expect the happiness of seeing you. Yes, you sweetest lady again. But I confessed that I doubted her and I came that I might not throw away a chance at felicity, rather the swanguin hope of attending it. And when you have leisure for reflection, said Laura, casting down her eyes and blushing, you will despise me for my imprudence, my indelicacy of conduct and thus sending to invite a stranger to visit me. Adorable woman! exclaimed the impassioned Italian. I shall think of you with gratitude, with devotion, with love, and never lightly, oh, be assured of that, and seizing her hand he conveyed it to his lips and covered it with kisses. Nevertheless, you must be surprised in my boldness in directing my servant to seek you. And to make this appointment with you, pursued Laura, her bosom heaving, so as almost to burst from its confinement, and she felt the warm mouth of the castell-see-calan glued to her hand which she did not attempt to withdraw. I am only surprised at my own happiness, observed the young officer, sweetest Laura, for I now know your name. Tell me how I have thus been deemed worthy of a favour of which a prince might envy me of the enjoyment. An accident threw us together for a few minutes this afternoon, said Laura, and I was struck by your personal appearance, your manners, your conversation, and, oh, how profoundly I was impressed by the magic of your beauty, Laura, interrupted the art in Italian. How earnestly I longed to hear once more the music of that melodious voice, to look again into the depths of those magnificent eyes, to contemplate that glorious countenance, that admirable form, and now, oh, now the desire is realized and no human language has words powerful enough to convey to you an idea of happiness which I experience in this moment. As he thus spoke, he threw his arms around her waist and drew her towards him. Charming creature, he exclaimed after a few moments' pause, during which he gazed upon her with a rapture which can only be conveyed and not explained. How can I make thee comprehend the extent of my love, my adoration, my worship? I have traveled much, I have seen beauties of all climbs and of all varieties of loveliness, but never did my eyes settle upon one so transparently charming as thou. When I parted from thee this afternoon in the Champs Elysees, it was if I were tearing myself away from someone whom I had loved all my life and whom I was never to see again. I was a second Adam, expelled from another Eden, and now, now I behold thee once more, I am seated in thine presence. Thou smileest upon me, O it is heaven, it is heaven. And as if in transparent of fury so impassioned was his soul, he drew her still closer towards him, and literally seizing her head within both of his hands glued his lips to hers, sucking in her very breath. Intoxicated with sensual happiness, Laura offered no resistance to the adore of the handsome young man, but ere she completely yielded herself up to him. She remembered that something was due to prudence as well as to the delights of love. Accordingly withdrawing herself from his embrace, though still permitting his arm to encircle her waist, she said, I can refuse you nothing, but first swear, by all you deem most sacred, that you will never betray me. Never, never, ejaculated Barthelma, I take God to witness that my lips shall never breathe a word injurious of your honor. On the contrary, he cried in a tone of deep sincerity. Should I ever hear a man speak lightly of you, I will provoke him to a duel that shall terminate only in the death of one, if not both. And should a woman dare to mention your name irreverently, I will fabricate a tale injurious to her honor. That I may avenge you. Thanks. A thousand thanks, my generous friend, murmured Laura, one of her white hands playing with the long, dark, curling hair of the Castel Seacalan. But may you not, in an unguarded moment, with carousing perhaps with your brother officers, may you not inadvertently allude to the adventure which happened to you in Paris, and then be unconsciously drawn out under the influence of wine to make a revelation which will prove the ruin, the utter ruin of the week, but the confiding woman who trusts so much of your honor to this night. May my tongue blister, may lightning strike me. May I be cast down a corpse at the feet of those to whom I ever open my lips to speak irreverently or ungrateful to thee, exclaimed the Italian with terrible energy. No, my adored Laura, you have not the slightest ground for apprehensions of that nature. I am a man of honor, and I would rather shed the last drop of my blood to serve thee than raise a finger to harm thee. Beautiful creature, adorable woman, who that possesses a spark of human feeling could do ought to bring a tear to thine eye or chase away the smile from thy lips. I am thy slave, Laura, and I rejoice in wearing the change which thy magic loveliness has cast around me. In this impassioned strain to the Italian pour forth his adoration, and as Laura gazed upon him with eyes swimming with very wantoniness, she thought that he was far more handsome than she ever fancied him to be in the afternoon, and even that when he first appeared before her in that evening. He, too, on his part, found the siren a thousand times more witching, more beauteous, more attractive than she ever seemed in her carriage, and yet, even then, he had been ready to fall down and worship her. Now he beheld her in the light of the evening toilette, with naked neck and naked arms, no scarf, not even the most transparent gauze veiling her shoulders of alabaster whiteness, with hair dressed in massive curls instead of high-perion ringlets. Now, too, he could perceive by the underlations of her tire that her limbs were turned with a symmetry that was elegant and yet robust, admirable in shape, though full in their proportions. I thank you most sincerely for the assurances of secrecy which you have given me, said Laura in the sweetest, most melting Candice of her delicious voice. Likewise, for the chivalrous professions which you have coupled with them, you declare yourself to be my slave, she added, but it will be for this night only. And she hid her countenance on his breast as if ashamed of the invitation which her words implied, an invitation that welcomed him until the morning. In one sense, I understand you, my charmer. He said, kissing her beauteous head as it lay reclining on his bosom, and that alone ought to be happiness sufficient for me, but I am greedy, I am covetous, and I demand more. Listen, adored Laura, grant me your patience for a few minutes. She raised her head and gazed tenderly into his animated countenance as he spoke. I am not a rich man, he continued, but I possess a compendency, nay a handsome compendency, and I care not how soon I abandon the service of even so good an excellent prince as his sovereign highness, in order to devote myself wholly and solely to you. I know not who you are, I only know that you are the loveliest creature on the face of God's earth, and that your name is Laura Mortimer. Neither do I seek to know more, but I am ready and anxious to join my fortunes with yours, to marry you if you will accept me as your husband, to become your slave, your meanel. Tell me, if not then, if we must part tomorrow, all let me remain with you, my charming Laura, until death shall separate us. It cannot be my handsome Barthelma, murmured Laura, but let me call you by your Christian name. Lorenzo, said the Castelsi Callan, you are then my handsome Lorenzo for this night, and this night only, continued Laura, throwing her warm plump, exquisitely mottled arm around his neck, pressing her lips to his glowing cheek. Cruel, cruel Laura, he exclaimed, returning the ardent caresses. Oh, would that the circumstances permitted? No circumstances can separate us if you should decide that we should remain together, interrupted the Castelsi Callan, in an impassioned tone. Alas, you know not. If you are already a wife, I will kill your husband, cried Lorenzo, again speaking with vellment eruptness. If you are engaged to wed one whom you dislike, I will dare him to rest you from my arms. If you have relations, father, or brothers whom you imagine yourself bound to consult, you may rest well assured that in preferring my love to that of Kynth and Kin, you will be receiving the purest gold in exchange for our comparative dross. Dear Lorenzo, I must seal your eloquent lips with kisses, said Laura with an arched playfulness that was so full of wantonness. Yes, I must seal those red, moist lips, she murmured after having pressed her mouth to his. You will persuade me to give an affirmative answer to your endearing solicitations, and that would only be record a promise tonight, which I would most break tomorrow. Are you, then, my angel, the mistress of some man whose wealth you are dependent, or in whose power circumstances have placed you, demanded the impassioned Italian with more fervid frankness than considerate delicacy? I am not. I was never, and I shall never be a pensioned mistress, Lorenzo, answered Laura, her manner becoming suddenly haunty. Pardon me. Oh, I implore you to pardon me, my angel, exclaimed the young officer straining her to his chest. Not for words I would offend you, not even to save my soul from predetition would I wrong you by word or deed. Tell me, Laura, tell me, Laura, tell me. Am I forgiven? She raised her countenance towards his own, and then when their lips met, she sealed his pardon with a long, burning kiss. And now, she said, do not ask me again to do that which is impossible. I cannot marry you, although I am not married. I cannot be your mistress, although I am not the mistress of another. I cannot hold out any hope to you, although I am pledged to none other. You are as enigmatic as you are charming. You are as mysterious as you are beautiful, exclaimed Lorenzo, contemplating his fair companion with the most enthusiastic rapture. And it is not now for you to mar the pleasure of which we enjoy in each other's society by seeking to render me less enigmatic or less mysterious, observe the siren, at the same time I cannot be otherwise than flattered by the proposals you have made to me in the generous manner which you have expressed yourself on my behalf. Come, let us drink a glass of champagne to enhance the happiness of the moment and drown our careful reflections. Be it so, my charmer, said Lorenzo, and if I know more torment you with my entreaties, if I resolve to be content with myself in the amount of bliss which you have promised me, nevertheless, my dearest, ever-dearest Laura, I shall take leave of you tomorrow morning with the fervent hope that we shall shortly meet again. You told me this afternoon you proposed to visit Montoni in the course of the ensuing autumn. Yes, I have no doubt that I shall be enabled to fulfill that promise, interrupted Laura, by way of changing the topic of discourse, and now that you have given me to understand that you will not revive the useless, but flattering and in some sense agreeable proposals you have made me just now. Let us think only of the enjoyment of the present. It shall be as you say, my angel, return Lorenzo, and he forthwith filled a glass with sparkling champagne, which he handed to his fair companion. She quaffed it at a drought, and the flood of light seemed to surface her entire countance, and render her eyes more brilliant as diamonds, her lips too moist with the generous juice acquired a deeper red, and her bosom panted with amorous longing. Lorenzo beheld the effects of the rich liquid and hastened to fill the glass again. Then, ere he drained it of its contents, he studiously placed to his lips the side which Laura's mouth had touched. You had two friends with you this afternoon in the Champs-E-Lose? said the siren interrogatively, when they were once more seated, half embraced in each other's arms upon the sofa. Yes, one was a fellow countryman of mine, the other a native of your land might be loved, answered Lorenzo, but I must tell you the singular adventure that occurred to us, and indeed, he held with a smile, I am deeply indebted to a certain anonymous correspondent, for if it had not been through him, I should not have had this day visited the scene where I was fortunate enough to encounter you. A singular adventure, exclaimed Laura, with an admiral affectation of the most ingenious curiosity. Judge for yourself, my angel, replied Lorenzo, then taking Rosalie's letter from his pocket, he handed it to Laura, who, consuming the strong desires though she were, could scarcely suppress a laugh as she pursued the billet, which the contents of which she was already so well acquainted. And did you see the poor man who addressed you and your friends with this wild romantic style? She asked, restoring him the note. He did not make his appearance, responded Barthelma, but even if that letter were the production of some mischievous wag or a crazy person, I could not possibly feel otherwise than rejoiced to having been made the dupe of either a humorist or a madman. For, as I just now observed, the anonymous letter led to my meeting you. But doubtless, your two companions found more difficulty in consoling themselves for the disappointment, said Laura. Faith, dear lady, exclaimed Lorenzo. They spoke but little on the subject. For, to tell you the truth, your beauty had not failed to produce a very sensible effect on them as well as upon myself. Flatterer, cried Laura, playfully caressing the handsome Italian. Oh, you know that you are lovely, transcendently lovely, he exclaimed, in an ardent tone. And you can well believe me when I assure you that my true friends escaped not the magic influence of your charms, but how different were the effects thus produced. Da Ponte, that is the name of my fellow countrymen, was enthusiastic and rapturous in your praise. Whereas Charles Hatfield, the Englishman became gloomy, morose, and sullen. A singular effect for the good looks of a woman to produce, cried Laura, laughing, while her heart beat with the joy of a proud triumph. Such, nevertheless, was the case in this instance, my angel, said Lorenzo. You firmly believed that Hatfield was jealous of me and being the happy mortal who perceived the loss of your parasel, and had the honor of restoring it. Yes, jealous, my dear lady, because that happy accident introduced me to your notice and privileged me to address you. Your English friend must be very weak-minded young man, observed Laura, and I am truly delighted that it was not he whose acquaintance I was destined to make this day. Nevertheless, he is very handsome, said Lorenzo, gazing upon the siren with a playful effectation of jealousy. Not so handsome as you, my Barthelma, replied Laura with simulated enthusiasm, and in order to dispel the partial coldness which a discretion from an enumerous topic had allowed to creep over her, she cast her arms around Lorenzo's neck and fastened her lips to his. Then the blood began again once more to circulate like lightning in her veins, and her voluptuous bosom panted against the young Italian's chest. Here we shall leave the enumerous pair. For after a little tender diligence in another glass of the exciting juice of appernay, they retired to the chamber whose portal we must not pass to follow them. At eight o'clock in the morning, Lorenzo Barthelma took his departure and shortly afterwards, Rosalie entered Laura's room. The Frenchwoman, who was as discreet as she was and adept to intrigue, wore the usual calm and respectful expression of countance, and not even by a sly smile nor an arch-look did she appear as if she devoted a thought to the manner in which her mistress had passed the night. Did the captain depart unperceived, inquired Laura, who, although she had given no instructions to that effect, was nevertheless well assured that her intelligent Abigail intended the egress of the handsome Italian. Entirely unobserved, Mademoiselle, was the answer. I amused the porter and his wife in the lodge for a few minutes while Barthelma slipped out to the street. Three persons alone were acquainted with last night's adventure. You, the captain, and myself. Good, exclaimed Laura. Then, drawing aside the curtain of the bed in which she was voluptuously pillowed, she said, My dear Rosalie, give me an account of your proceedings relative to the Marquis of Delmore. I have learnt but a few facts, Mademoiselle, was the reply. Those, however, are some of importance. He is enormously rich, very generous, bears an excellent character. Is he married? demanded Laura hastily. Yes. But he has been living apart from his wife for many years. And respecting the cause of their separation, there is great mystery which not even his best friends can penetrate, which, therefore, a casual inquirer like myself could not attain the least insight. And that is all you could ascertain concerning him? asked Laura interrogatively. Did you not think of asking if he had any family by his wife? I did not forget to make that inquiry, Mademoiselle, answered Rosalie, and I was assured that his lordship is childless. You are a good and faithful creature, observed Laura, and your services will prove invaluable to me. That purse, which lies on the toilet table, contains no insignificant sum and gold. It is yours, a recompense for the work of yesterday. But as you know more of me than you did before, and as in a few short hours I permitted you to obtain a deeper reading of my secret soul than you could possibly have acquired, and that I shut myself up in a studied reserve, it is well that you should understand me thoroughly. I mean this, Rosalie. I can be a good friend or an impassable enemy. I shall never provoke your enmity, Mademoiselle, observed the Abigail. I do not think you will, Rosalie, resumed Laura. But as I said here now, it is well that you should comprehend my character in all its details, in all its phases. You will benefit yourself by serving me faithfully. You would only injure yourself by playing me false. When once I have set upon this subject all that I mean to say, I shall not again refer to it. But the better we understood each other, the more permanent will be our connection. Wreck and then, on my friendship so long as you deserve it, deceive me, and I will risk my very life to be avenged. All Mademoiselle, exclaimed Rosalie, absolutely frightened by the vellements with which her mistress spoke. Have I done anything to render you suspicious of me? You have done all you could to serve me, and you see that I have not forgotten to reward you. But within the last 12 or 18 hours, I have permitted you to read all the weaknesses of my soul. And now it is requisite that you should understand its strength. I have made you my confidant, but I deemed it prudent to convince you that I know how to punish treachery. That is all Rosalie. I have no more to say upon the subject. And now, let me see your pretty face cheer up and wear a smile. The French woman was reassured by these last words, and finding that her mistress had only intended to give her a sultry warning and not upgrade her for any actual misconduct, she speedily recovered her wanton gaiety and good spirits. End of Section 57. Recording by Brittany Rill. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Lyndon Godsell. The Mysteries of London by George W. M. Reynolds. Lord William Trevellen. The scene changes to the residents of Lord William Trevellen in Park Square. It was evening, and the young nobleman was pacing up and down in an elegantly furnished parlor, which was lighted by means of a brilliant gas jet enclosed in a pale red glass globe, so that the luster, which filled the room, was of a rosy at hue. The curtains, sofa, and cushions of the chairs were of a rich crimson, and the paper on the walls was of a kindred colour and splendid pattern. In each corner of the apartment stood a marble jar filled with flowers, recently gathered and rendering the atmosphere cool. Lord William was tall and handsome. His complexion was somewhat dark, giving him the appearance of a Spaniard rather than of an Englishman. And yet the ruddy hues of health were upon his cheeks. His hair was black as jet, silky, as that of a woman. And parted of the room, as that of a woman. And parted above a brow high, intellectual and expressive of a noble mind. His eyes were large and dark and full of the fire of genius. And there was something peculiarly pleasing almost winning in his smile. In disposition, Lord William was amiable in manners unassuming. His character was unimpeachable and his political opinions were of the most liberal tendency. His charity was extensive, but entirely unobstentious. His dependence revered him as a good master and his acquaintances loved him as a sincere friend. He was in his twenty-fourth year and, until he had set eyes upon Agnes Vernon, he had never experienced the influence of the tender passion. But one day, while on a visit to a friend at Norwood, he was strolling alone in the vicinity and accident led his footsteps towards the cottage in the garden belonging to which he beheld the beauteous creature whose image had ever since filled his soul. Truly had he said to Mrs. Mortimer that he adored the fair recluse of the cottage, that he worshipped the very ground upon which he trod, his love amounted almost to an idolatry and yet he had never exchanged a word, scarcely even a look with the object of his affection. It could be no world contaminated heart that entertained such a passion as this, no selfish soul that could cherish such a pure and holy attachments. But it was a generous, upright, noble-minded young man who was now anxiously waiting the arrival of the woman with whom he had made an appointment for the evening in question. Were the English aristocracy to be judged generally by such nobles as the Earl of Ellington and Lord William Trevellan, the terms of its existence would now perhaps be within the range of prophecy. But as matters now stand, as the aristocracy is corrupt, selfish and cruel, self-sufficient and ignorant, proud and intolerant, unprincipled, profligate and tyrannical, it is not difficult to predict its speedy downfall. Therefore, it is that we boldly proclaim our conviction that monarchy and aristocracy will not exist ten years longer in Enlightened England, but that a republic will replace them. The Heditary Principle, either in monarchy or aristocracy, is the most detestable idea that ever entered the brains of names or was adopted by fools. In respect to monarchy, we are gravely assured that the principle of the Heditary succession guarantees a nation against the civil wars that may arise from the pretensions of numerous claimants to the supreme power. But the history of every monarchical country and world gives the lie to this assertion. Crowns have been bones of contention from time immemorial and will continue to be so until they be crushed altogether beneath the heel of republicanism. Take the history of England, for instance. That England where the Hereditary Principle is said to be admirable and efficacious beyond all question. Thirty-three kings or queens and two miners have reigned in this country since the conquest by the Norman Ruffian. And during that period, we have had eight civil wars and nineteen rebellions. The laws of God moreover bear testimony against monarchy. What said the prophet Samuel when the Jews insisted upon having a king? I will call unto the Lord and he shall send thunder and rain that you may perceive and see that your wickedness is great which you have done in the sight of the Lord. In asking you a king. So Samuel called unto the Lord and the Lord sent thunder and rain that day and all the people greatly feared the Lord and Samuel and all the people said unto Samuel pray for their servants until the Lord thy God that we die not for we have added unto our sins this evil to ask for a king. Either the Bible is true or false if true as assuredly it is then is the institution of monarchy a positive crime tolerated by an entire nation and no wonder that heaven itself should protest against the system which is nothing more nor less than setting up an idol for the millions to worship an idol as useless as an Indian Pagod but often is terrible and slaughterous in its baleful influence as juggernaut in its fatal progress. Never did Satan contrive a scheme more certain of promoting idolatry than the raising up of kings and queens as rivals to the majesty of heaven for the root of monarchy is in hell the laws of God denounce the institution as a sin and the history of the whole world proclaims that blood inevitably attends upon it all men were originally equal and in no country therefore could any privilege of birth give one family a right to monopolise the executive power forever neither can one generation find that which is as yet to come the existing race of human beings has no propriety in the one unborn we of the present day have no right to assume the power of enslaving posterity and on the same principle our ancestors had no right to enslave us if those ancestors chose to make one set of rules for themselves we can institute another code for our own government but of course such a change as this can only be made by the representatives of the people and in order that the people may have a fair representation the following elements of a constitution become absolutely necessary universal suffrage vote by ballot no property qualification paid representatives annual parliament and equal electoral districts give us these principles accord us these institutions and we will vouch for the happiness, prosperity and tranquility of the kingdom the French now stand at the head of the civilisation of Europe they are on the same level as the fine people of the United States of America and England occupies an inferior grade in the scale alas that we should be compelled to speak thus of our native land but the truth must be told as yet almost every country in Europe has demanded and obtained something of its rulers in consequence of the French Revolution whereas England has yet obtained nothing in the shape of reform oh shame, shame what has become of our national spirit are we all willing slaves and shall we not agitate morally but energetically agitate for our rights and liberties the aristocracy and the men in power treat the people's assemblies with ridicule and denominate the working classes when so assembled as a mob they will not discriminate between honest politicians and the respectable working classes on the one hand and the ragamuffinery of society on the other they confound us all together in the sweeping appellation of the mob the insensits do they not reflect that if ten or fifteen thousand persons meet for the purpose of discussing some grand political question some five or six hundred pickpockets and mischievous boys are certain to introduce themselves into the assemblage why? black sheep even find their way into the houses of parliament yay and into the very sweet of royalty itself but after recording all the above observations we must once more declare that we do not recommend violence we insist upon the necessity of grand moral agitation an agitation which shall pervade the entire country as an ocean is roused by the storm into a mass of mighty waves the people must assume an imposing attitude and let the memorial words of Lafayette be repeated by every tongue for a nation to love liberty it is sufficient that she knows it and for a nation to be free it is sufficient that she wills it and oh my fellow countrymen let not this glorious thesis be used in vain by the misery and starvation which millions are be endure by the hopeless entombment to which the poor law Bastille's condemn me when work fails by the denial of an honest recognition of the rights of labour which is insolently persisted in by the spectacle of your famished wives and little ones by the naked walls of the wretched hovels in which the labouring population dwells by the blinding toil of the poor seamstress by the insults heaped on E by a rapacious aristocracy and an intolerant clergy by the right which a despicable oligarchy usurps to hold the reins of power by the limited suffrage which leaves the millions unrepresented by the oppressive weight of taxation laid upon the productive classes by the sorrows which the hardworking operative endures throughout his virility and the misery that attends upon his death-recruits by the badge of pauperism that the sons and daughters of Toille are compelled to wear in the accursed union houses by all your wrongs we adjure E not to remain at rest not to endure the yoke which he can cast off in a moment not to stand still and gaze listlessly while all the rest of the civilized world is in motion returning from this digression to the thread of our narrative we will suppose that Mrs Mortimer has at length arrived at the house in Park Square and that she is already seated with a young nobleman who little suspected the infamous character of the woman whom he had admitted to his confidence I've been looking forward with much impatience and anxiety to your coming said Lord William but even now that you are here I know not in which manner you can assist me faint heart never won fair lady my lord returned the old woman and you must take courage the maxim which I quoted is a good one I do not despair madame said the young nobleman and yet I seem as if I were involved in a deep mist through which I cannot even grope my way alone and unassisted I cannot hope to obtain access to the charming creature and if assisted I will do nothing that shall violate the respect due to one so pure of heart as I believe her to be I should have proposed to become the bearer of a letter from your lordship to Miss Vernon remarked Mrs Mortimer coldly but perceiving beforehand that your scruples are over nice and your notions somewhat of the most fastidious I really do not see how I can serve you I am afraid to write to her she would perhaps be offended to an extent that might be irredeemable exclaimed Lord William a prey to the most cruel bewilderment and yet your lordship once endeavored to bribe the servant girl to become the bearer of your amatory epistle said Mrs Mortimer in a tone of sarcasm almost of disgust now you are offended with me cried the nobleman it is true that I did pen a letter to Agnes telling her how much I loved her and how honourable were my intentions imploring her likewise to grant me a few moments interview and to pardon the means that I thus adopted of accosting her having no other mode of procuring an introduction such a letter I did indeed write continued Trevelyan but it was in a fit of despair of madness, of incident recklessness I know not how to explain myself the servant refused to deliver that note and my eyes were immediately opened to the impropriety of the proceedings which I had adopted and therefore declined to entrust me who I am well acquainted with Agnes to deliver a similar letter in her hand your lordship is wrong in thus refusing to be guided by me continued the crafty old lady think you that with one so innocent so artless as Agnes I cannot prepare the way to render your letter acceptable at least to prevent it from producing a sudden shock to her notions of maidenly propriety much as I should be rejoiced could you accomplish that aim said Trevelyan I should be ten thousand times happier were you able to procure me an interview with her this is madness exclaimed the old woman can I not more easily introduce her to read a letter from a stranger than to receive that stranger in person is not the letter the first and most natural step to the visit trust me my lord I know the disposition of Agnes I understand affairs of this nature and I am also well aware that love blinds you to the ways of prudence be it then as you propose said lord william after a long pause during which he reflected profoundly I will write the letter this evening will you call for it early tomorrow morning I will answered the old woman and in less than twenty four hours I will undertake to bring you tidings calculated to encourage hope or I am very much mistaken she added emphatically you do not believe you have no reason to suppose that the father of Agnes already destines her to become the bride of some person of his own choice as Trevelyan now for the first time shaping in words an idea that had haunted him for some days past because he continued speaking with the rapidity of excitement I cannot possibly comprehend wherefore he compels her to dwell in that strict seclusion I do not believe that you have any such cause for apprehension said Mrs Mortimer in a tone of confidence as if she were well able to give the species of assurance which she so emphatically deconvade there is a mystery a deep mystery attached to the fair recluse and what that mystery is I am myself completely ignorant but that the father of Agnes has no such intention as the one you imagined and that Agnes herself has as yet never known the passion of love these are facts to which I do not hesitate to pledge myself most solemnly oh then there is indeed room for hope he exclaimed Lord William his countenance brightened up and joy flashing in his eyes a nobleman in your position blessed with wealth and a handsome person endowed with agreeable manners and a cultivated mind said Mrs Mortimer need not despair of winning the love and excuring their hand a maiden dwelling in utter obscurity and totally unacquainted with the world I would rather that she should learn to love me for my own sake Madame observed Lord William in a serious tone than for any adventurous advantages of rank or social position that I may possess well my lord we shall see said Mrs Mortimer rising to depart tomorrow morning I will call for the letter and I shall proceed straight over to the cottage in the afternoon or evening I will do myself the honour of waiting upon your lordship again I shall expect you with impatience Madame returned Travellian as he politely hastened to open the door for her Mrs Mortimer took her leave and the young normal man sat down to pen a letter to Agnes Byrne but this was not so easy a matter as he had anticipated sheet after sheet of paper did he spoil a hundred times did he commence and as often did he throw aside his pen and despair now he fancied that his style was too bold then he conceived it to be too tame and vague now he imagines himself to be complementary in his language towards one possessing a mind so chaste and pure then he felt assured that he was acting indiscreetly to write at all in the course of an hour he was swayed by such an infinite variety of conflicting sentiments and impressions that he was almost inclined to throw up the task in despair at length however he made a beginning which pleased him and his pen then ran fluently enough over the paper until the letter was composed in the following manner pardon a stranger who dares to address you beautiful Miss Byrne in a strain that might give you a fence were he not sincere in his language and honourable in his intentions pardon me I implore you and refuse not to read these few lines to the end he who thus writes is the individual that you have observed occasionally in the vicinity of your dwelling and you will perceive by the signature to this letter that he is not a man without our sensible guarantees for his social position that his character is unimpeachable he can proudly declare and that he will not address you Miss Byrne a single word which he will fear to repeat in your father's presence he solemnly declares let me however speak of myself in the first person again let me assure you that your beauty has captivated my heart and that if anything were waiting to render me your slave the description with the bearer of this letter has given me of your amiable qualities would be more than sufficient I am rich and therefore I have no selfish motive in addressing you even if you be rich also but I would rather that it were otherwise with you so that my present proceeding may appear to you the more disinterested had I any means of obtaining an introduction to you beautiful Miss Byrne I should not have adopted a measure that gives me pain because I tremble less it should wound or offend you but mine is an honest, a sincere and a devoted attachment and I shall be happy indeed if you will permit me to open a correspondence with your father on the subject were he to honour me with a visit I should be proud to receive it but if in the meantime you seek to know more of me if I might venture to solicit you to accord me an interview of only a few minutes you cannot divine out fervently I should thank you how delighted I should feel let this interview take place in the presence of Mrs Mortimer if you will I have nothing to communicate to you that I should hesitate to say before your father or your friends oh how can I convince you of my sincerity how can I testify my devotion how can I prove the extent of my love I beseech you to reflect Miss Byrne that my happiness depends upon your reply am I guilty of an indiscretion in loving you love is a passion beyond mortal control he who knows no other deity deserves not blame for worshipping the sun because it is glorious and bright and my heart which knows no other idol adores you because you are beautiful and good treat not my conduct then with anger let not your pride be offended by the proceeding which I have adopted in order to make my sentiments known to you and scorn not the honest the pure the ardent affection with an honourable man dares to profit you I do not permit punishment because I love you and your silence would prove a punishment severe and undeserved indeed again I conjure to you remembered that the happiness of a fellow creature depends upon you your decision will either inspire me with the most joyous hope or plunge me into the deepest despair at the same time beautyous agnus the words those delightful words beautyous agnus are written now and I cannot will not erase them at the same time I say if your affections be already engaged if a mortal more blessed than myself have received the promise of your hand accept the assurance sweet maiden that nevermore shall you be molested by me never again will I intrude myself upon your attention for my love is united the most profound respect and not for worlds would I do ought to excite an angry feeling in your soul your ardent admirer and devoted friend William Trevelyan with this letter the young nobleman was satisfied he considered it to be sufficiently energetic and at the same time respectful he saw nothing in it against which the purest mind could take exceptions and in the sanguine confidence natural to his age and to the honourable candour of his disposition he already looked upon his aims as half accomplished his aspirations as half gained having sealed and addressed the letter he placed it upon the mantelpiece ready for Mrs Mortimer when she should call in the morning then fetching a portfolio from an inner room he opened it and from among several drawings in watercolours selected one which his gaze was immediately riveted with deep and absorbing interest for that painting executed by his own hand was a portrait of Agnes Vernon and even the most fastidious critic if acquainted with the original must have pronounced it to be a living likeness yes on that paper was delineated with the most perfect accuracy the fair countenance of the recluse of the cottage every feature, every linement drawn with a fidelity to which only a first rate artist or an amateur whose pencil was guided by the finger of love could have possibly attained there were the eyes of deep blackness and melting softness there was the high intelligent forehead there was the raven hair silken and glossy and seeming to flow luxurantly even in the very picture and there was the rich red mouth wearing a smile such as mortals behold upon the lips of angels in their dreams how charming was the entire countenance how amiable how heavenly the expression that it wore and no wonder that likeness was so striking so accurate so faithful for the young nobleman had touched and retouched it until he had delineated on the paper the precise counterpart of the image that dwelt in his mind hours and hours had he devoted to the labour of love on each occasion when he returned home after contemplating from behind the green barrier of the garden the idol of his adoration he addressed himself to the improvement of that portrait at one time he had beheld the maiden to greater advantage than another and then he studied to convey to the cardboard the last most pleasing impression thus made upon his mind until he produced the likeness so faithful that not another touch was required no further improvements could be effective and like Pygmalion with his galatia how Lord William Trevelyan worshipped that portrait no the smile is incorrect because the sculptor learned to adore the statue that was cold and passionless whereas the young nobleman was blessed with a conviction that there was a living original for the image he had so faithfully traced upon his paper and it was that living original whom he made the goddess of his thoughts the clock had struck ten and Lord William was still bending over the portrait that lay upon the table when a footman entered the room to announce that a lady who declined to give her name solicited an interview with the young nobleman Lord William hastily closing the portfolio desired that she might be immediately shown into his presence had domestic vowed and retired in a few minutes he returned ushering a well-known visitor who wore a veil over her accountants but the moment the footman had withdrawn she raised the veil and disclosed a face that was strikingly handsome though pale and care-worn she was apparently about 36 or 37 years of age with dark hair, fine hazel eyes and good teeth tall and well-formed her figure which was rather inclined to embomb point was set off to advantage by the tasteful indeed elegant style of her dress and in her deportment there was an air of distinction denoting the polished and well-bred lady Lord William received her with becoming courtesy requested her to be seated and then awaited an explanation of her business Your lordship is doubtless surprised to receive in a visitor at so unreasonable an hour and on the part of a complete stranger began the lady in appeasing the mournful tone of voice but I know not to whom else to address myself for the information I now see and if you cannot afford it to me I shall be unhappy indeed Madame said Lord William somewhat astonished at this mysterious opening of the conversation if it be in my power to serve you I shall render that service cheerfully You are very well acquainted I believe my lord with Sir Gilbert Heathcote observed the lady somewhat abruptly as she bowed her head thanks for the assurance that the young nobleman had given her So Gilbert Heathcote though much older than I is an intimate friend of mine observed Trevelyan Do you know where he is? What has become of him demanded the lady in a still more anxious tone than before I really do not Madame was to reply Merciful heaven she explained clasping her hands together in a paroxym of sorrow I have not seen him for this week continued Trevelyan but are you ill Madame? Can I offer you anything? Shall I summon assistance? And as he spoke the nobleman rose from his seat and approached the bell pole No, no my lord cried the lady Do not ring, do not call your servants I shall be better presently but pardon me if I could not control my feelings The lady started wiping the tears from her eyes The young nobleman in spite of the adoration to the contrary hastened into the adjoining room and speedily returned with a decanter of spring water and a tumbler He then filled the glass and presented it to his afflicted visitor whom thanked him for his delicate attention with a look expressive of gratitude the words that she would have uttered being stifled in her throat Refreshed with a cooling beverage she said after a short pause My lord, have you the slightest conception where your friend Sir Gilbert Heathcote is? Did he intimate to you his intentions to leave London? Did he hint at the probability of his departure from England? Oh, I conjure you to tell me all you know for you cannot divine how much how deeply I love him Trevelyan was struck with astonishment at these last words words that were uttered in a tone of such convincing, such profound serenity that he could not for an instant question their import and yet, though since the days of childhood Trevelyan had known Sir Gilbert Heathcote he had never heard that the baronet was married on the contrary he had invariably understood him to be a single man if this lot of belief were the true one then was the lady now in his presence the mistress of his friend? for assuredly she had not spoken with the confidence of a cisper but with the hesitation of one who reveals a fact that is in some way associated with shame the lady perceived what was passing in the mind of Trevelyan and in a low but fully audible tone said my lord, circumstances compel me to reveal myself to you as your friend's mistress yes, though I love him more than ever wife could love yet am I only his mistress for alas I am the wife of another and now my lord she added with deep feeling you may spurn me from you you may command your liqueur to trust me from your dwelling but I implore you to give me tidings of Sir Gilbert Madame, exclaimed Trevelyan the moment he could recover from the bewilderment into which this impassioned address blunged him not for worlds could I do or say ought to augment year affliction much less to insult you I declare to you most solemnly that I have neither heard nor seen anything of Sir Gilbert Heathcote for a week I called at his chambers in the Albany the day before yesterday and was simply informed that he was not at home I left my card without thinking to make further inquiries not suspecting that his absence had been for days instead of hours oh yes, upwards of a week has elapsed since I saw him, exclaimed the lady with difficulty subduing a fresh outburst of grief each day I have been to the Albany and still the answer is the same he has not returned no, he has not returned she added, clasping her hands together and he has not written to me oh God, I fear that some fatal accident has befallen him do not give way to such a distressed belief cry to Trevelyan feeling deeply for the unfortunate woman whose grief was so profound and so sincere shall I make inquiries immediate inquiries concerning him perhaps I may learn more than a lady possibly can generous hearted nobleman exclaimed the visitor how can I ever repay you for this kindness towards an utter stranger remember also Madame, said Trevelyan that apart from my readiness to serve you or any lady whom affliction is overtaken I begin to experience some degree of anxiety on behalf of a gentleman who has ever shown a sincere friendship towards me not another minute will I delay the inquiries which alike for your sake and his I now deem it necessary to institute the speaking the young nobleman rose from his chair my lord said the lady rising also and speaking in a tone indicative of deep emotions may I hope to receive a communication from you as early as possible my suspense will be great it is even now intolerable and she burst into tears Madame interrupted the young nobleman profoundly touched by her affection which was evidently most unthame you can either accompany me or remain here until my return perhaps the latter will be the more desirable at least if you can restrain your impatience so natural under the circumstances for a couple of hours but perhaps he added an idea striking him perhaps you live at some distance I am the occupant of a house in Kentish town said the lady and therefore my dwelling is not very far from your lordships if you see no impropriety in it if there be no one here whom my presence would offend she continued speaking in a subdued and almost timid tone I would rather oh much rather wait until you return by all means Madame exclaimed the generous hearted young noble should you require anything during my absence the servants will obey your summons and they will receive my orders ere I depart to pay you every attention I shall not trouble them my lord was the reply but I return you my deepest sincerest thanks for the kind consideration with which you treat me Trellion bowed and then quitted the room End of chapter 58