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122 usual glow of his countenance being replaced by an almost ashy paleness; and not one word or look of his accustomed gallantry escaping him. Melliphant spoke little, but in his unassuming address and manners seemed, as ever he had been wont to appear, the mild, the worthy, and sensible Melliphant! Little did she imagine how well, by his bland expressions and gentle mien, he could insinuate himself into the favour of the unsuspecting.

As if suddenly recollecting himself, Sir Howard started from his seat.

"I do not intend, Mrs. De Brooke," said he, "to bid farewell at present, but shall call again, when I trust I shall also have the happiness of seeing the General;" and, making a hasty bow, he abruptly left the room.

After a few minutes the servant entered, with a message from him, desiring to see Mrs. De Brooke in the parlour, having something to communicate which had escaped him. Mrs. De Brooke descended; when Melliphant was put into possession of that moment so anxiously desired, so much sought for by him.

He seemed at first like one confounded and bereft of every faculty, but, from the urgent pressure of the interval, he suddenly recovered himself. He first spoke to Rosilia in vindication of himself relative to the works he had recommended to her perusal; when, after some further preliminary remarks, he rose and approached Rosilia, taking a small paper packet from his pocket.