Page:Paul Clifford Vol 2.djvu/230

222, there issued any allusion to Lucy Brandon, the Chief replied, "I fear, Tomlinson, that I am already suspected by the old Squire! all of a sudden, he avoids me, shuts his door against me, Miss Brandon goes no where; and even if she did, what could I expect from her after this sudden change in the father?"

Tomlinson looked blank and disconcerted: "But," said he, after a moment's silence, "why not put a good face on the matter? walk up to the Squire, and ask him the reason of his unkindness?"

"Why, look you, my friend; I am bold enough with all others, but this girl has made me as bashful as a maid, in all that relates to herself. Nay, there are moments when I think I can conquer all selfish feeling, and rejoice for her sake that she has escaped me. Could I but see her once more—I could—yes! I feel—I feel I could—resign her for ever!"

Humph!" said Tomlinson; "and what is to become of us? Really, my Captain, your sense