Page:The Castle of Wolfenbach - Parsons - 1854.djvu/251

 'Tis impossible to describe the transports which her letter occasioned. They lost no time in setting off, and that very same evening their names were announced, Lord Delby and the young Count restraining their impatience 'till the following day.

The mutual joy, congratulations and expressions of obligation which took place on their meeting may be easier conceived than described. The Countess Berniti was never weary of pouring forth her acknowledgements to the friends and preservers of her child, whilst they, on the other hand, could not help admiring the wonderful chain of events which had gradually led the way to such a happy discovery, both for her and the Countess of Wolfenbach,

"To-morrow, (said the Marquis) we shall beg leave to introduce our friend Lord Delby, and the young Count, my sister's son. I assure you, (said he, addressing Matilda) when we first heard of your being forced from the convent, our young Frederic, though only sixteen years old, had the gallantry to offer himself as your champion, to pursue and deliver you."

"Can I wonder at his generosity and heroism, my dear sir, (answered she) born of such a mother, and possessing doubtless the virtues of his family? No; am already prepossessed in his favour; I know he must resemble my charming Countess."

She forbore speaking of Lord Delby, that she might not be obliged to ask for the Countess, his sister, as she concluded the marriage must have taken place long ago.

They spent a most delightful evening together, and engaged to accompany the Countess of Wolfenbach to her seat, in three days from the present; that lady next day sending orders to prepare for the reception of her noble guests.

Matilda longed to see young Frederic, and her ideas of him were all confirmed when she beheld him: his elegant form and polished manners, in some measure, reconciled her to his late father, for having done his