Page:The Castle of Wolfenbach - Parsons - 1854.djvu/186

 you proposed staying three months, we have only been here a little better than one." "Wherever my friends are, (replied Lord Delby) is to me the desirable place; I have no local attachments without their presence; and I dare answer for my sister, she has no objections, as I think the air of Scarborough has been of little use to her health." "You judge very right, my Lord, I shall certainly accompany our friends, (said she, in a languid tone, adding) their happiness must constitute mine."

The Count, who took every thing literally which betrayed generosity of sentiment, could not help saying, 'Tis impossible to doubt Mrs. Courtney's concurrence in every scheme productive of pleasure to those she honors with her esteem." This compliment made her eyes dance with pleasure.

Their women were called and desired to set about packing immediately. Every thing was hurried on, and at five the next morning they were all on their return to London.

About a week previous to this Matilda received a letter from an unknown hand, and without a name, signifying that the Count De Bouville was paying his addresses to Mrs. Courtney; that he was extremely fond of her, but that she hesitated on account of his vows to Matilda, which made him very unhappy.

She read this letter with composure,—she felt some pangs at her heart,—she tried to overcome them: "Why should I be uneasy, (said she) have not I wished the Count might make a suitable alliance?—did I not release him from his vows? Alas! I have neither claims nor expectations,—let him marry, I can then renounce the world, and settle here for life,—when lost to him I have only this asylum to bury myself in for ever." The tears would flow, but she quickly dried them. "From whence this sorrow, (said she again) had I any hopes? O, no! all is despair and bitterness on my side, but I will rejoice in the happiness of the amiable Count, whatever befalls myself.