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48 which, in the first instance, she had ungraciously denominated "odious," improved upon acquaintance. Not exactly like a hamadryad emerging from the trunk, but stepping very gracefully from behind it, Sir George Kingston made his appearance. "Desperate circumstances," exclaimed he, "justify desperate conduct. Poets lay it down as a rule, that deities are not to extricate a hero from his embarrassment unless there remain no human method of extricating him. Now, nothing short of a divinity can aid me. May I appeal to her aid?"

"At all events." replied Lady Marchmont, "my curiosity is engaged on your side; and if only one-half of what is said of women be true, that is quite enough to decide in your favour." "I take you for my confidant at once." replied Sir George: "but, do you know that it will entail upon you, at least, ten minutes' patient listening?" "I feel equal to the exertion," said Henrietta. "Will you then allow me to offer you my arm?