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Rh, and was about consigning it to the ground, when Sir Howard, with his usual gallantry of gesture, begged of her the boon; dreading the request might be granted him, Melliphant, trembling with agitation, involuntarily stepped forward and demanded the same favour; in anxious expectation, contending for the prize, the hands of each were outstretched.

Melliphant was the victor! Emotion ran through his brain; he bowed lowly, expressive of the grateful sense he entertained for the gift conferred upon him; and in the secret gladness of his soul it was deposited in his bosom.

Mrs. Belmour offered to convey Mrs. De Brooke and her daughter home in her own carriage; and previous to taking her leave, requested the pleasure of seeing them at a small party she purposed giving shortly, in which they acquiesced; and she was soon after set down at her own house.

Melliphant stepped in almost immediately upon her entrance, and she invited him to sup with her. The conversation turned naturally upon the De Brookes: Melliphant was unusually elated. The circumstance of the flowers he had received from the hands of Rosilia, in preference to Sir Howard, had forcibly impressed his imagination; transmitted to his bosom, from that seat where they had previously rested, he felt flattered and transported beyond measure. The first favour received at her hands! what encouragement for his future perseverance!

The subject was warmly discussed with Mrs.