Page:Francesca Carrara 1.pdf/48

44 he has not himself acted upon his principles, must create an invidious sentiment towards those who have. Alas, what slight cause will suffice to break up the friendship of years! First came the disputed opinion, next the angry, then the cold word. Gradually we sought to avoid meeting, silence became habitual, and the epithets 'fanatic' and 'malignant' took the place of friend and brother. Yet, though the faces of his children are turned away when we meet, I see how very fair they are. I never look to the turrets of Avonleigh Abbey without somewhat of the kindliness of former days; and I yet cling, Robert, to the thought of a union between one of those blue-eyed girls, and yourself."

"Not so, my father," replied the youth; and he hurriedly commenced his avowal. His voice grew firmer as he proceeded, he remembered the worthiness of the Italian maiden, and was encouraged by the affectionate interest with which his father listened to the narrative, which was only interrupted by a gentle sign of attention, or a kind look. A feeling of disappointment might arise in Sir Robert's mind as he heard this unexpected confession, but he was not one to weigh ambition against affection. He knew how, in his own case, the united heart had made the happy home; and