Page:Romance & Reality 3.pdf/188

186 "Positively," exclaimed Madame de Ligne, "I will admit no more of these divided councils—I am tired of monsieur votre mari, because he is tired of me. Mr. Spenser looks sad, and Mr. Brande stupid; Miss Arabin is in an attitude which there is no one to admire, excepting my husband, who is asleep. The saloon is lighted; and I heard some visitors come in as I left it." Lady Mandeville rose, and drew Emily's arm within her own; she felt it tremble, and press hers convulsively. It was but a moment; the Countess caught Emily's hand, and said, "Come with me, ma mignonne: I have a fancy to-night de faire des tableaux vivans, and your services will be invaluable."

"I shall bring more willingness than ability," replied Emily; "but I will promise to do my best." The whole party, excepting the two, adjourned to the saloon, which showed sign of the Countess's preparations by a large picture-frame, before which was hung a curtain. In a very brief space the curtain was drawn aside, and showed what seemed a tent. The subject of the picture was Roxelana receiving a present of the Sultan from a young Greek girl. The