Page:The Castle of Wolfenbach - Parsons - 1854.djvu/172

 in a conspicuous point of view, that may reflect honor on all who are connected with her, either by blood or friendship."

"You are romantic, my dear madam, (said Mrs. Courtney, with a smile;) but suppose we go to your young favorite, and see how the poor thing does after her heroics."

This was said with so little feeling, that the Marchioness was surprised; and a sudden idea darting into the mind of the Marquis, he could not suppress a smile, whilst Lord Delby looked offended with his sister's light manner of speaking.

Under these different impressions they entered the dressing-room, and found poor Matilda reclining her head on the Countess, and both weeping. "Fie, fie, my good friend, (said Mrs. Courtney) is this the way to comfort the young lady, for the sacrifices she has made to honor and principle." "I adore your sensibility, madam, (cried Lord Delby, hastily;) in my opinion, whoever loves Miss Matilda does honor to their own heart"

Both ladies bowed to his lordship, though unable to speak; but endeavouring to recover themselves, the Countess said, "This dear obstinate girl proposes setting off the day after to-morrow." "Well, and if she is so determined, what hinders us from all taking a trip to Dover, previous to our Scarborough journey?" (said Lord Delby.)

Every one agreed to the proposal, after which they sought to amuse their minds, by talking on different subjects.

The Countess and Mrs. Courtney accompanied the Marchioness home to dinner, but Lord Delby excused himself, that he might attend to the Count. On his return to Cavendish-square he was informed his guest was in the library. He found him writing, and would have retired; the Count requested he would sit down: the conversation naturally turned on the recent occurrences in Harley-street. "Don't think