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Rh had promised him his assistance, and by such promises had redeemed a considerable portion of his lost money. Thus purchased over to his interests, he could not refuse to assist him.

Having accordingly arranged their plans, he and Sir Howard proceeded together to the De Brookes about that time in the evening when the General was usually absent upon a visit to Dr. Lovesworth. Instead of ascending with him to the drawing-room, he had instructed Sir Howard to remain in the parlour, and to send up the servant with a message to Mrs. De Brooke, requesting a moment's conference with her; she accordingly descended, and while thus engaged, Melliphant, seizing the auspicious moment, bounded up the staircase; but on entering the apartment where he expected to find Rosilia alone, he found himself also in the presence of Dr. Lovesworth. He attempted to conceal his chagrin by an air of unconcern. Rosilia was occupied in the perusal of the "Scottish Minstrel," for the loan of which she was indebted to him. He spoke to her of the work with ease and fluency, pointing out to her observation those passages most worthy of note. Dr. Lovesworth spoke not, but his penetrating look threw upon his words and actions a restraint the most intolerable. The letter he had brought with him, for the purpose of delivering to her, remained in his pocket; he had no possibility of conveying it to her in such a manner as to escape detection from the Doctor.